| Editorial team
|
13.10.2024
On October 9th and 10th, 2024, the Logistics & Mobile Robotics Summit in Düsseldorf presented groundbreaking innovations and insights into the future of logistics. More than 170 exhibitors and over 1,000 visitors gathered at the Böhler site to discover current developments, innovative technologies and digital solutions for the transport, storage and distribution of goods.
The event served as a platform for experts and decision-makers to discuss the challenges and opportunities of the industry, which is particularly characterized by the increasing shortage of skilled workers, the transport transition and the demands for more sustainable supply chains.
Highlights of the event
A central topic of the summit was the increasing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in logistics. René Kessler led a master class that not only illuminated the potential of AI, but also cleared up common misunderstandings. The use of AI, such as computer vision to optimize warehouse processes or digital assistants based on large language models, offers enormous increases in productivity, especially in times of skilled labor shortages.
Autonomous mobile robots and the future of logistics
Another highlight was the presentation of autonomous mobile robots (AMR), which, together with manned vehicles such as the Human Driven Lifttrucks (HDL), are revolutionizing material flow management. This collaboration is intended not only to increase efficiency and operational transparency, but also to help counteract the shortage of skilled workers. This illustrates how automation can sustainably change the logistics industry.
Practical insights and success stories
The new fleet management system SCALAR von ZFpresented by Florian Modrich, impressed with real-time insights that make it possible to integrate the performance of BEV trucks and conventional vehicles into a fleet overview. An essential part of this system is collaboration with Shippeothe European market leader for Real-Time-Visibility. By integrating Shippeo’s leading real-time visibility platform, which provides precise and predictive insights into transportation status, SCALAR enables detailed and reliable monitoring of freight deliveries in real time.
This solution improves transparency along the entire Supply chain and helps companies to identify disruptions early, minimize delays and efficiently optimize their logistics processes.
The role of women in logistics
A key focus of the summit was the role of women in logistics, a career field in which they remain highly underrepresented. Under the title “Female Leadership in the Logistics Industry” moderated Lena Weigele an inspiring discussion group in which Theresa Gress (Schaeffler Group), Antje Becker (Rewe Group), Michelle Manon Friedrich (RANDOM Cytilogistics), Natalie Stich (ebm-papst) and Sonja Escherich (UPM Biochemicals) shared their experiences on opportunities and challenges in the industry. The participants acted as strong role models and showed how women can successfully overcome hurdles and reduce prejudices through self-confidence and competence. They emphasized the importance of networks and mutual support in order to sustainably strengthen the position of women in logistics.
Exciting keynotes and networking opportunities
Renowned speakers from leading companies such as Siemens, Badger, Huawei and Procter & Gamblewho presented their strategies for overcoming current challenges in logistics. The keynotes impressively demonstrated how leading companies implement innovative strategies to master today’s logistical challenges. Innovative startups, including SIRUM and Cargonexx, presented clever solutions that further advance the digitalization of the industry.
At the end of the first day of the event, the after-show lounge took place, where participants were able to network in a relaxed atmosphere. With a DJ, live act and beer pong tournament, the lounge not only offered space for conversations, but also for a successful mix of entertainment and networking.
Die Logistics industry is in the midst of a comprehensive transformation. The Logistics Summit 2024 offered valuable insights and practical solutions to effectively address current challenges such as the shortage of skilled workers and the growing demands for sustainability. In addition, it became clear that innovative technologies such as Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are crucial tools for optimizing logistics processes and positioning companies successfully in global competition.
