In recent years, reshoring—the process of bringing manufacturing back to the U.S.—has gained momentum. Companies are reevaluating their offshore supply chains, driven by rising costs, geopolitical risks, and supply chain disruptions. For smaller manufacturers, this shift also presents a unique opportunity to position themselves as key players in the rebuilding of domestic supply chains.

This article introduces key insights and strategies that we explore in our latest white paper, “How U.S. Manufacturers Can Take Advantage of Reshoring.” Here are some of the topics in that paper.

Making the decision to reshore

Deciding to bring production back home is a big step. It requires careful consideration of cost, supply chain reliability, and potential risks. The first chapter of the white paper dives into the factors that can influence your decision, from assessing global disruptions to evaluating the growing demand for shorter supply chains. You’ll gain valuable insight into how reshoring can help your business mitigate risk, enhance resilience, and capitalize on trends in technology and domestic manufacturing.

Finding domestic suppliers

Once you’ve made the decision to reshore, the next step is ensuring you can find reliable, high-quality domestic suppliers. We explore how reshoring companies can connect with domestic suppliers, reducing lead times and increasing control over production. With the right connections and an understanding of companies’ capabilities and capacities, you can discover new, domestic partners that help streamline your operations.

Filling gaps in the supply chain

Even with reshoring, challenges remain. As companies bring manufacturing back to the U.S., it’s critical to address emerging gaps in the supply chain. We show you how to develop a road map to tackle these challenges. Whether it’s expanding your capabilities, working with new partners, or integrating technology, you’ll learn how to fill those gaps and build a more agile supply chain.

Building value-driven relationships

Reshoring isn’t just about shifting production—it’s about building stronger relationships with your suppliers and customers. In the paper, we discuss how reshoring can be an opportunity to foster deeper, value-driven partnerships. We’ll help you understand how aligning with like-minded companies that prioritize quality, transparency, and sustainability can create long-lasting benefits for your business. Reshoring companies are increasingly looking to build regional supply chains to shorten lead times and reduce risk. By strengthening relationships with nearby suppliers and customers, you can offer a more flexible, responsive service.

Becoming a supplier of choice

In a competitive marketplace, being the “supplier of choice” is key to sustaining growth. We’ll walk you through how small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) can adjust their strategy to stand out. From improving customer service to investing in technology, you’ll discover practical ways to become the go-to supplier for your clients.

Ready to dive deeper?

To explore these strategies and learn how you can successfully capitalize on reshoring opportunities, download our white paper. It offers practical insights on how smaller manufacturers can thrive in this changing landscape and become essential partners in the reshoring effort.

Published Feb. 18, 2025, in the NIST Manufacturing Innovation Blog.