Leaders

NextGen Supply Chain Conference Seeks Industry Leaders for 2025 Event

The NextGen Supply Chain Conference, scheduled for October 22-24, 2025, at the W Hotel, is actively seeking industry leaders for speaking engagements. This prestigious event, organized by Peerless Media, aims to illuminate future trends and foster collaboration among supply chain executives.

Industry Context and Emerging Trends

Recent developments in the supply chain sector highlight a rapidly evolving landscape. Gartner predicts that artificial intelligence agents could assume up to half of supply chain tasks by 2030, underscoring the urgency for industries to adapt to technological advancements. In line with this, Uber Freight has introduced an AI-powered TMS platform, advancing logistics efficiency.

Significant transactions have characterized the logistics technology domain, such as WiseTech's acquisition of e2Open for $2.1 billion. This acquisition represents a pivotal shift, consolidating technological resources to streamline operations.

The TIA has applauded the Senate Commerce Committee's passage of freight fraud legislation, which aims to uphold integrity within freight operations. Meanwhile, economic indicators, such as declining spot market load-post volumes and rates reported by DAT, reflect ongoing adjustments within the industry. The EIA notes a continuous decline in the national diesel average, suggesting shifts in operational costs.

Conference Objectives and Opportunities

The NextGen Supply Chain Conference is a platform for executives to share innovation, transformation, and measurable success stories within the supply chain landscape. The event will cover a breadth of topics, including lift trucks, transportation, air freight, motor freight, ocean freight, rail & intermodal, parcel express, ports, TMS technology, and modern materials handling.

Speaker proposals and sponsorship inquiries are currently open, providing organizations with opportunities to connect with decision-makers and establish themselves as leaders in the field. Sponsorship packages offer visibility and engagement with a targeted audience, fostering long-term business relationships.

Logistics and Technological Innovations

Logistics operations face a human capital crisis, challenging performance and competitiveness. The 2023 Logistics Salary Survey reveals strong salary figures, indicative of the growing demand for skilled professionals. This demand aligns with the industry's expansion, as evidenced by DHL Supply Chain's acquisition of IDS Fulfillment to enhance e-commerce logistics offerings.

Innovations continue with Veritiv's adoption of Tennant's T16AMR robotic scrubbers, which have automated over 470 million square feet of warehouse space. Advanced 3D cube cartonization technology is also reducing shipping costs and minimizing packaging waste, optimizing supply chain efficiency in e-commerce-driven logistics.

Kenco has expanded its North American reach through the strategic purchase of Canadian 3PL Drexel Industries, strengthening logistics capabilities. Similarly, Averitt has added Best Overnite Express to its network of vetted partner carriers, enhancing service offerings.

Logistical Challenges and Legislative Developments

Logistics operations are navigating complex challenges, such as the removal of the de minimis exemption impacting U.S.-China e-commerce logistics operations. Additionally, the CIT's ruling on the illegality of Trump-era tariffs, temporarily reinstated by a federal appeal, continues to affect global trade dynamics.

The EPA's reevaluation of the Clean Trucks Plan, with freight industry stakeholder support, reflects ongoing regulatory adjustments impacting the sector. Furthermore, the U.S. infrastructure received a 'C' grade in the 2025 ASCE Report Card, underscoring the need for substantial improvements to support growing logistics demands.

Amidst these challenges, industry leaders are called to contribute insights and solutions at the upcoming NextGen Supply Chain Conference, fostering dialogue and innovation for a resilient future.