Rapid technological advancements in AI and automation are transforming global supply chains, with predictive demand models and digital maturity reshaping transportation, manufacturing, and customer expectations for a more resilient and efficient future.
The future of the global supply chain is increasingly defined by rapid technological advancements, strategic integration, and evolving customer expectations. One of the most talked-about developments is the rise of “to...
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uchless forecasting,” an AI-driven method of demand planning that autonomously collects and analyses vast datasets with minimal human intervention. This approach aims to deliver accurate, real-time forecasts that can respond swiftly to market shifts, optimise inventory management, and liberate supply chain professionals to focus on strategic priorities and exception handling.
According to Gartner, by 2030, an estimated 70% of large organisations will adopt AI-based forecasting systems as part of their core technology strategies. Jan Snoeckx, Director Analyst in Gartner’s Supply Chain practice, emphasises that the value of these systems lies in improved strategic decision-making, faster responses to market changes, and enhanced collaboration. Gartner recommends a phased approach for adopting touchless forecasting, stressing the importance of defining a clear vision, establishing change parameters, expanding data strategies, investing in AI tools, and building trust through transparency.
Transportation management is undergoing a significant transformation, shedding its historic view as merely a cost centre and emerging as a crucial competitive differentiator. Descartes Systems Group’s 9th Annual Global Transportation Management Benchmark Survey reveals a record 81% of shippers and logistics providers now see transportation as integral to business growth and customer value. Despite this strategic importance, the survey exposes a digital maturity gap, only 17% of industry players have fully automated their transportation management systems (TMS). The disparity is stark: while half of high-performing companies have achieved full automation, only 5% of laggards have done so.
The adoption of AI within transportation management is widespread, with 96% of surveyed companies leveraging generative AI across multiple applications, including data entry, route and load optimisation, freight forecasting, automated load matching, and customer service chatbots. This underscores an industry rapidly embracing automation tools, though much room remains for broader implementation of fully automated TMS platforms. Investment intentions corroborate this trend, with 80% of respondents planning to increase IT spending, focusing on enhancing performance management, visibility, and fleet routing capabilities.
Manufacturers face equally pressing challenges as they approach 2026, contending with a volatile global economy and evolving market demands. A joint report by Xometry, Thomas, and Zogby Strategies highlights the necessity for manufacturers to enhance agility, integrate advanced digital tools such as AI, and develop resilient sourcing strategies. Executives surveyed from the US, UK, and Europe identify AI as a pivotal growth engine, with over 80% recognising its value and many already seeing significant returns on their investments. Furthermore, nearly half of the respondents are reshoring production to better respond to market demands and supply chain disruptions.
Consumer expectations are also reshaping supply chain dynamics, particularly as the holiday peak season approaches. Surveys from Kenco and Passport reveal shoppers are tightening budgets amid inflation concerns but demand greater convenience, transparency, and flexible delivery or return options. This results in a delicate balancing act for ecommerce brands, which must navigate tariffs, rising costs, and heightened service expectations to maintain profitability and customer satisfaction. Notably, many consumers prioritise free, slower shipping and easy returns over faster, paid options, signalling a shift in what constitutes value during peak seasons.
Looking ahead, the integration of AI is poised to expand beyond forecasting, with Gartner predicting that by 2030, half of supply chain management solutions will incorporate agentic AI capabilities, intelligent agents able to make autonomous decisions within supply chain operations, further enhancing efficiency and adaptability. Additionally, warehouse automation through cyber-physical systems like mobile robots is rapidly becoming commonplace, outpacing the adoption of drones and indicating a broader industrial trend towards automation.
In conclusion, the global supply chain landscape is being reshaped by advanced AI technologies, growing digital maturity in transportation management, and shifting manufacturing strategies aiming for agility and resilience. While these innovations promise significant improvements in efficiency and responsiveness, the transition presents challenges related to automation adoption, data governance, and change management. Industry leaders must prioritise strategic planning and transparent implementation to harness these technologies’ full potential, ensuring supply chains not only adapt but thrive amid ongoing disruption.
Source: Noah Wire Services
