Today, Nortek Security & Control, a global provider of wireless security, home automation, access control and health and wellness technology, sent an email to its customers notifying them of possible supply chain delays related to the Coronavirus. 

“Many companies are experiencing supply chain delays and disruptions due to the Coronavirus outbreak,” wrote Steve Deblock, executive vice president of operations, Nortek Security & Control, in the Feb. 26 email. “It’s expected that the impact on shipping timelines around the world could range from days to weeks. We, too, are experiencing some delays in manufacturing and shipping from the affected regions and are writing to assure you that we’re closely monitoring the situation and its impact on our manufacturing partners.”

Deblock goes on to call the event terrible and unexpected, and says Nortek is working hard to minimize the disruption to customers with the following steps:

• Working with suppliers to prioritize production scheduling, the return of personnel and ensuring customers are supported to the best of Nortek’s ability.
• Actively managing any impacted product lines, offering substitutions where available and utilizing buffer/safety stock when they can.
• Working with long lead time suppliers to minimize the impact of raw material used to build products.
• Closely planning with key suppliers and partners as this will likely affect logistics, including container availability, driver availability and port congestion.

“We apologize for any delays this may cause you,” Deblock continued. “Rest assured that we have a watchful eye on manufacturing developments and its potential impact to your business. We believe open communication is key and we will keep you informed with regular updates.”

Deblock ended the email by encouraging those with questions to reach out to their sales manager. 

This isn’t the first instance of the Coronavirus affecting the security industry. Read about how the virus is affecting ISC West 2020 here.