Logistics in transition: an overview of the five most important trends

1. Digitalization and automation

The focus of logistics processes is generally on increasing efficiency and reducing costs. In order to meet the growing demands of the markets and remain competitive, logistics companies are using innovative technologies relating to IoT (Internet of Things), artificial intelligence and automation. Fully automated warehouse solutions and AI-controlled robots contribute to increased speed and more precise execution and monitoring of logistics processes.

As part of IoT, avitea Industrieservi's warehouse and logistics solutions feature, for example, networked devices that enable better control of the supply chain and sensors that provide real-time data on the location, condition and environment of goods. Our logistics center in Recklinghausen also uses AI-controlled robots for warehouse management and production line supply.

2. Sustainability

In view of the increasing importance of environmental protection and the growing regulatory requirements of climate policy, logistics companies will not be able to avoid concepts for a sustainable approach in the future. The topics of green logistics and the circular economy will take center stage. As part of green logistics, companies will increasingly rely on environmentally friendly practices such as the use of electric vehicles, biofuels and the optimization of transport routes to reduce their CO2 emissions. In terms of the circular economy, concepts relating to the reuse of materials and packaging will play a decisive role.

The focus here will be on minimizing the ecological footprint. At the same time, more and more logistics companies will use the newly developed measures to assume their social responsibility and position themselves competitively in the long term.

3. E-commerce and omnichannel logistics

The e-commerce boom of the last decade has drastically changed the logistics industry and presented companies - particularly in the B2C sector - with new challenges. In particular, the speed of delivery and returns has increased significantly and will continue to do so in the coming years. The demand for same-day and next-day delivery is growing all the time. To ensure customer loyalty and reduce costs, the focus here is also on fast processing and effective handling of returns. The ability to offer a seamless omnichannel experience will be crucial to the success of logistics companies in both the B2C and B2B sectors.

4. MTM (Methods-Time Measurement)

The term MTM (short for “Methods-Time Measurement”) describes a standardized procedure for the analysis and optimization of work processes. It aims to precisely determine and improve the time required for each work step. The work processes are broken down into individual movements, which can then be standardized.

Especially in times of same-day deliveries and extremely high competition in the logistics environment, it is important for companies to make each individual process step as efficient as possible and reduce costs. MTM is particularly advantageous here, as it can quickly contribute to optimization. The method not only supports the integration of automation solutions and networked systems, but also contributes to a reduction in energy consumption through process optimization and thus plays a key role in more sustainable processes.

5. Crisis management and resilience

The coronavirus crisis has proven worldwide that the logistics industry needs to be better prepared for crises. Developments in recent years have made it clear that coping with crises, be they natural disasters, pandemics or geopolitical tensions, is becoming a key task for logistics companies. The logistics sector is responsible for the transportation of important goods such as medicines, food and relief supplies in times of crisis and should position itself accordingly. Fast and efficient logistics solutions are essential for this.

In order to better withstand future disruptions and ensure the continuity of business activities, flexible and resilient supply chains need to be established.

Conclusion

These five core topics will be the focus of modern logistics processes and will have a significant impact on the logistics industry in the coming years. Only those companies that focus on future-oriented trends will be able to remain in the market in the long term and offer their customers the best possible logistics services.