Product supply-chain traceability is a very important aspect in manufacturing as it contributes directly to product safety, quality, and, as an emerging trend, product sustainability and ethics.

In terms of safety, automotive manufacturers consistently announce product recalls to protect their customers from failure of faulty parts, as well as to protect themselves by being compliant and avoiding litigation. In a recent example, Rivian, an electric car company, recently issued a recall of all its vehicles due to a loose fastener for its steering.