Critical Questions for Global Logistics and Supply Chains

PART I - Robotics & AI

PART II - Nearshoring & Urban Logistics

Miebach, the global integrated supply chain partner, addresses critical questions about the future of logistics and supply chain, derived from a qualitative Delphi study with 30 experts from diverse geographical regions.

Through interviews and in-depth discussions, the study delves into the multifaceted challenges and opportunities facing the logistics and supply chain industry, emphasizing the pivotal roles of technology, human collaboration, and sustainability in shaping its future.

How will companies react in the future? Some results of the study are summarized below.

Technological advancements as catalysts for transformation?

Advanced technologies are revolutionizing logistics and supply chain operations. From artificial intelligence and automation to digitalization and drones, these technologies are viewed as foundational pillars for enhancing operational efficiencies, optimizing routes, and ensuring the agility of supply chains to respond effectively to dynamic market demands. Examples such as machine vision for sorting and the utilization of drones for aerial delivery underscore the sector's transformation towards a technological-oriented logistics management.

Human-Tech synergy: How will humans and technology be working together?

Despite technology advancing quickly, experts emphasize the ongoing need for human expertise in managing logistics. They envision a future where humans and technology work "hand-in-hand", where advanced tools enhance human abilities rather than replace humans. This teamwork is seen in humans working alongside robots and using Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) to handle complex logistics tasks. This approach helps create a stronger and more adaptable supply chain system, where humans leverage the technological advancements at hand to foster a more resilient and responsive supply chain ecosystem.

Will Sustainability imperatives redefine industry standards?

Sustainability emerges as an essential issue within the study, with a strong emphasis on CO2 emissions reduction and the adoption of eco-friendly transportation modes. Beyond taking environmental responsibility, sustainability is increasingly recognized as a strategic differentiator in the global marketplace. Initiatives such as the widespread adoption of electric vehicles for reducing carbon emissions signify a profound realignment of supply chain strategies with the requirements of ecological sustainability and societal expectations, leading to a new era of green logistics.

Challenges and Opportunities on the Horizon

However, the journey towards embracing transformative technologies does not come without challenges. Experts report on implementation hurdles, including infrastructural inadequacies, cost considerations, and the imperative of systemic adaptability. Moreover, the study explores trends such as diversifying supply sources, addressing urban logistics challenges, and preparing for the demands of a growing global population. These trends once again highlight the necessity of agility, innovation, and collaboration in safeguarding against supply chain disruptions and fostering economic security in an increasingly interconnected world.

Strategic Planning as the Key to Resilience

In light of these insights, the Miebach study emphasizes the critical importance of strategic planning, investment in future-proof technologies, and collaboration between stakeholders for tackling future logistics and supply chain challenges.

Whether optimizing transportation routes through AI and digitalization or embracing sustainability as a strategic imperative, the study results underscore the importance of technology, human expertise, and sustainable practices to create resilient, efficient, and adaptable supply chains. But we should critically question whether the measures of the past and the currently foreseeable options for the future will be sufficient to be economically, ecologically, sustainably, and successfully in the long-term”, said Dr. Joachim Miebach, company founder and chairman of the advisory board, Miebach Group.

If you are interested in the study report, please contact Ralf Hoffmann (e-mail: hoffmann@miebach.com) or fill out the form on this page.