**Chicago**: The ProMat show, scheduled for March 2025, will highlight 1,200 exhibitors and unveil MHI’s annual report on industry advancements. Experts discuss the impacts of technology, economic uncertainty, and workforce challenges shaping the future of the sector.
The biennial ProMat show, an event at the forefront of the material handling industry, is set to take place in Chicago from 17th to 20th March 2025 at McCormick Place. Organised by the Material Handling Industry (MHI), the event will feature 1,200 exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations in the sector. In conjunction with the show, MHI plans to unveil its annual industry report, which typically highlights key advancements in material handling and automation.
In anticipation of ProMat, Supply Chain Xchange’s Managing Editor Diane Rand engaged in a discussion with industry expert Paxton about the significant trends affecting robotics and automation in the sector. During the conversation, Paxton underscored the ongoing investments in innovation within the material handling industry. He projected that by the end of 2025, there will be continued advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), collaborative robotics, and automation. “These technologies have evolved from specific product concepts to connected, integrated solutions,” Paxton stated, reflecting on how integrated solutions with data exchange are set to shape the future of supply chains.
The conversation further delved into the economic implications arising from the potential continuation of tariffs and new immigration initiatives associated with the second term of former President Donald Trump. Paxton noted that while the geopolitical landscape remains uncertain, this unpredictability could bring both risks and opportunities for companies within the industry. He explained that firms would need to benchmark costs and explore alternative sourcing scenarios while also reminding that local manufacturing could present a growth opportunity.
Addressing ongoing labour challenges exacerbated by expected immigration reforms, Paxton emphasised the need for proactive technology implementation to alleviate manual and repetitive tasks. He reiterated the importance of adapting to technological advancements to navigate the evolving landscape by 2025.
The discussions also touched on the economic climate, notably a mid-January inflation report that indicated potential shifts in interest rates. Paxton remarked that although concerns regarding economic sustainability persist, the underlying foundation of the U.S. economy remains strong. He anticipated a decrease in interest rates in mid-2025, which could encourage investments in robotics, automation, and other logistics solutions, thus reinforcing operational efficiency amidst potential labour challenges.
Looking ahead to the 2025 MHI Annual Industry Report, it will focus on the orchestration of end-to-end solutions for supply chains, with a significant emphasis on AI’s promise of real-time tracking and improved forecasting. In addition, the report is expected to highlight the critical need for high-quality data and increasing importance of cybersecurity as supply chains undergo digital transformation.
ProMat 2025 attendees can expect to see a wide array of innovative technologies on display. According to Paxton, there will be 234 submissions for the MHI Innovation Awards, highlighting burgeoning interest in AI, automation, robotics, and autonomous vehicles. He detailed that attendees are particularly keen on leveraging data and AI to enhance order picking, demand forecasting, and operational efficiency. Moreover, the integration of various warehouse technologies, including management systems and autonomous vehicles, promises to build smarter and more robust warehouse operations.
Additionally, collaborative and humanoid robots are garnering attention for their precision and adaptability, functioning closely with human workers. Wearable technology, including smart glasses and advanced wristwear, is also emerging as a vital asset in enhancing worker efficiency and safety within warehouses.
As the 2025 MHI Annual Industry Report delineates five pivotal trends impacting the sector—inflation, economic uncertainty, workforce and talent shortages, supply chain agility, and inventory challenges—MHI remains committed to creating programming that will aid its members in overcoming these challenges and seizing opportunities within the industry. The ProMat show is positioned as a central platform for these innovations and discussions, aiming to connect solution providers with the practitioners navigating these trends in real time.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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