How do you optimise transport, freight, and warehouse processes in a rapidly digitalising world? The logistics sector is evolving at lightning speed.
We spoke with Exhibition Manager Corien den Ouden about the challenges the industry is facing and what visitors can expect this year from Logistica Next and ICT&Logistiek. “This is the place where transport and logistics come together – to stay ahead and to lead the way,” says Corien.
Three days of innovation, inspiration and optimisation
“The global economy is under strain, margins are tightening, and demand is unpredictable. Add to that digitalisation, sustainability pressures and rising transport costs – the challenges facing logistics are considerable,” explains Corien.
That is precisely why Logistica Next and ICT&Logistiek will now take place annually. “It’s a deliberate choice,” she continues. “Technological progress in intralogistics is advancing so quickly that an every other year schedule is no longer sufficient. The market demands up-to-date knowledge, inspiration and networking opportunities. Following last year’s huge success, we decided to bring the two exhibitions together every year.”
From 4–6 November, Jaarbeurs Utrecht will become the hub for the future of logistics. With over 300 exhibitors, 200 speakers, hands-on case studies, and thousands of industry peers to connect with, the event offers a comprehensive snapshot of the sector today – and where it’s heading tomorrow.
Key themes: What’s driving the industry?
“When I talk to professionals in the field, I hear the same concerns time and again,” says Corien.
“How do we turn ongoing disruption and uncertainty – geopolitical tensions, rising fuel prices, economic volatility – into a driver of growth and innovation?
How do we make operations smarter, safer, more cost-efficient and more sustainable? And with shifting consumer expectations, labour shortages and rising material costs, global supply chains are under urgent pressure to adapt.”
These questions are reflected in the themes at the exhibitions. Visitors will discover how to manage warehouses more safely and efficiently, apply smart warehousing and automation, leverage robotics, implement zero-emission logistics, and harness digitalisation, AI, and hyper-automation to make supply chains more resilient and scalable.
Why annually? The industry demands speed
The move to an annual format is driven by clear signals from the market. “Advancements in AI, robotics, and data-driven logistics are so fast-paced that what is considered pioneering one year can quickly become standard practice the next. Broader adoption, however, depends on scale, resources, and willingness to change,” Corien explains.
“What was groundbreaking last year has now become the norm. By holding the exhibitions annually, we can respond to this pace of change and meet the increasing demand from both exhibitors and visitors. The Logistica Next exhibition floor is already fully booked – which says it all.”
Following last year’s edition, the response was overwhelming. “Visitors praised the atmosphere, the depth of knowledge on offer, and the variety of sessions. They left not only with information, but with practical tools and insights they could apply straight away.
This year, we’re building on that success to deliver another standout event – where knowledge, networking, and collaboration come together on the exhibition floor.”
Curious about the atmosphere? Watch the aftermovie from last year’s edition below:
A day full of insights and connections
Beyond exhibitors and knowledge sessions, the event is also the perfect place to meet peers. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, specific answers or a chance to exchange ideas on digitalisation, smart warehousing, or sustainability, you’ll find like-minded professionals facing the same challenges.
And why come alone? Invite a colleague and get even more out of your visit.
Practical information
Logistica Next and ICT&Logistiek bring the future of transport and logistics together under one roof. Will you be there?
- Where: Jaarbeurs Utrecht, The Netherlands
- When: 4, 5 & 6 November
- Registration: Free – sign up now via the website
One registration gives access to both exhibitions.
