Market Trends and Automation with experts from Consafe Logistics

1. What are the most significant trends currently shaping the storage and distribution sector?

SW: The storage and distribution sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by automation, digitalisation, and shifting consumer expectations. Warehouses are embracing automation, robotics, AI, and cloud-based WMS to boost efficiency, accuracy, and scalability, critical for navigating labour shortages and peak-season surges. The rise of e-commerce and omnichannel fulfilment demands faster, more flexible operations, often through micro-fulfilment centres and streamlined returns processes. 

Sustainability and cybersecurity have become strategic imperatives, with environmentally responsible operations and packaging now standard, and rigorous data protection measures essential amid expanding cloud and IoT integration. Resilience now underpins operations, with distributed warehousing, adaptive inventory, and flexible workforce models ensuring continuity amid disruption. 

Together, these trends are reshaping warehousing from a cost centre into a critical value driver—agile, connected, and ready for whatever comes next. 

2. What are the most common misconceptions the general public has about the logistics industry?

SW: The logistics industry is often misunderstood by the public. First, many assume it's purely about transportation, overlooking the complexity of warehousing, inventory management, and last-mile fulfilment that underpin supply chains. Second, there’s a belief that logistics is slow to innovate, when in fact it's at the forefront of automation, AI, and data-driven decision-making. Third, logistics is often seen as a low-skilled sector, despite its increasing reliance on advanced technology, strategic planning, and highly trained professionals. These misconceptions obscure the industry’s vital role in global commerce and its evolution into a sophisticated, tech-enabled field driving efficiency, resilience, and customer satisfaction. 

3. How are logisticians planning for and adapting to supply chain disruptions? 

LF: Resilience has really become the name of the game in logistics no matter what industry vertical you are serving. We're seeing companies diversify their supplier base, invest heavily in real-time digital tools, and build contingency plans for multiple scenarios. As we can see when working with our customers there's also a shift toward choosing automation vendors agnostically so you’re not locked into one ecosystem and can stay flexible as conditions change. But beyond tools and strategies, being a trusted partner is more critical than ever. That means showing up with transparency, being reliable, and truly collaborating across the supply chain. It's all about how we’re navigating both the disruptions we’re facing today and proactively guide our customers towards future proofing and being able to handle the challenges still to come.  

4. What emerging technologies are having the biggest impact on warehouse operations?  

LF: Emerging technologies are really transforming how warehouses operate. We’re seeing everything from Agentic AI, Generative AI for operations, AMRs, AGVs, cobots, wearables, drones, Industrial IoT and DT at scale playing a role in streamlining tasks and improving efficiency. But the real game-changer is how the ecosystem is orchestrated via for instance, Warehouse Execution Software that together with AI brings it all together efficiently. How we orchestrate the automation, optimise workflows, and help create smarter, more resilient, and scalable warehouse environments is the key. It’s not just about having the tech it’s about change management in relation to people, processes and technology and making it all work seamlessly together.   

5. How can SMEs develop an effective automation strategy?  

LF: As with any type of business, it starts with understanding the challenge you’re trying to solve, rather than jumping straight to the technology. For small and mid-sized enterprises, building a strong automation strategy doesn’t have to mean going all-in from day one. Starting with modular, scalable solutions allows you to grow at your own pace, layering in tools like Warehouse Execution Systems, automation, AI, and digital twins over time. This phased approach helps you optimise operations, stay agile in the face of change, and scale automation as the business evolves. Importantly, it also supports sustainability by reducing waste, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring resources are used more effectively since you only implement what you truly need and will use. It's about smart growth that balances performance, flexibility, and long-term impact.  

6. What role do predictive analytics and AI play in inventory management?  

LF: Predictive analytics and AI help us make smarter decisions in real time, from forecasting demand more accurately to optimising space and labour. With Astro, we’ve been able to improve inventory availability while reducing waste and manual interventions, which creates a smoother experience for both customers and staff.  

7. What is the role of industry events, like IMHX, in driving the logistics industry forward? 

SW: Industry events like IMHX play a pivotal role in advancing the logistics sector by fostering innovation, collaboration, and strategic growth. For exhibitors, it’s a prime opportunity to showcase cutting-edge solutions, gain market visibility, and connect directly with decision-makers. Attendees benefit from exposure to the latest technologies, insights from industry leaders, and the chance to benchmark best practices. Networking with peers helps shape future trends, share knowledge, and help accelerate the move to smarter and more resilient logistics strategies.