When it comes to the manufacturing landscape, there were several stories from the last year that had a major impact on the industry. From natural disasters to major shifts in operational efficiency, there was much to talk about in 2013.

A recent series of articles from Manufactuting.net examined some of the major stories from the industry over the last year. Coming in at number two on the list is the seemingly sudden push to start "re-shoring" operations away from areas like China and setting up shop closer to home.

"Manufacturing.net has been covering the 're-shoring' trend for years, but in 2013, the trend finally hit mainstream, and became a real possibility for far more companies than previously thought possible," the article reads. "Re-shoring was discussed in the news and within important economic circles, and even the President mentioned it multiple times during the State of the Union and other key speeches."

The article mentions that there are several factors pushing this trend. These include fluctuating values of various currencies, labor rate inflation, concern over supply and operation interruption and improved energy and gas prices in the U.S. On top of that, the "Made in America" moniker is being attacked to products from local food to Mac Pro computers.

Bringing operations back to the United States is easier said than done. However, with the right manufacturing business software in place, pivoting operations from one country to another can be simpler because it streamlines overall operations and allows businesses to be more successful.