2025 NextGen Supply Chain Conference Seeks Industry Leaders for Digital Transformation Insights

The 2025 NextGen Supply Chain Conference is set to take place from October 22-24, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee. As the seventh iteration of this annual event, the conference aims to bring together industry leaders to discuss and explore digital transformation within the supply chain sector. With a specific focus on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and next-generation technologies, the conference organizers are reaching out to senior-level executives to share their experiences and insights.

AI and the Future of Supply Chains

A recent report by Gartner indicates that AI agents could potentially manage half of all supply chain tasks by 2030. This prediction underscores the importance of AI literacy among supply chain leaders. The conference will feature keynotes and panel discussions aimed at preparing executives for this new era, where human-machine partnerships will drive efficiency and innovation. Featured speakers include Victoria Wade from Eli Lilly, who will address the impact of AI in the industry, and Derek Dalmolin, who will discuss Regeneron's digital transformation journey.

The conference will not only evaluate how AI tools are improving forecasting and decision-making but also how they are being integrated into dynamic transportation management systems (TMS). For instance, Uber Freight will launch an AI-powered TMS platform designed to enhance transportation management capabilities.

Industry-Specific Insights and Innovations

The conference will delve into sector-specific insights with a focus on life sciences, 3PL/logistics, and food & beverage. This year, organizers are particularly interested in case studies from companies in the consumer packaged goods (CPG), 3PL, life sciences, and food & beverage/tobacco sectors. Ideal speakers are C-suite or senior executives who have successfully leveraged technology to drive innovation and transformation in their organizations.

Key sessions will include discussions on inventory management and product utilization, as well as strategies for building hyperlocal supply chains. The importance of modern racking solutions, which increase storage capacity and streamline order fulfillment, will also be highlighted. Additionally, the conference will explore advanced 3D cube cartonization technology that reduces shipping costs and minimizes packaging waste.

Strategic Collaborations and Legislative Updates

The role of 3PLs as strategic collaborators rather than commodities will be a central theme. Companies such as Uber Freight, RXO, and C.H. Robinson are set to headline the 3PL/logistics track. These sessions will provide insights into how logistics providers can enhance their strategic value in the supply chain ecosystem.

Moreover, the conference will address recent legislative developments, such as the U.S. Senate's decision to end California’s truck emissions rules and the passing of freight fraud legislation in the Senate Commerce Committee, which has been commended by the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA).

Focus on Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies

As supply chains increasingly rely on digital technologies, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has become more critical. The conference will feature guidance on strengthening cybersecurity with modern systems, ensuring that supply chain operations remain secure amidst growing digital threats.

Sessions will also examine the benefits and applications of emerging technologies, such as AI-powered chatbots and robotics. For example, Veritiv has adopted Tennant's T16AMR robotic scrubbers across over 20 locations, automating more than 470 million square feet of warehouse space to boost operational efficiency and cleanliness.

Attendees can look forward to a dynamic mix of keynotes, breakout sessions, and panel discussions, including a Friday panel at 9 am CT featuring Tatiana Freire, Liz Koziol, and Laura Wilkin, focusing on life sciences and healthcare.

With a comprehensive agenda covering AI literacy, nearshoring trends, and strategies to fill supply chain roles, the 2025 NextGen Supply Chain Conference promises to provide valuable insights and networking opportunities for supply chain leaders looking to navigate the evolving landscape.