How to Pitch a Journalist – A CHARLIE PESTI Event at Manifest

Pitching to journalists can be a difficult task. With several platforms at your disposal, the question is not about sending emails to journalists, but rather, how to approach them. Journalists of good standing receive dozens of pitches a day and across different platforms, slimming the chances of your story being seen or read. Even if the message does get the initial eyeball, catching the journalist’s interest requires a convincing story. At Charlie Pesti, we know a thing or two about these challenges, so we put together an expert panel to talk about the best practices and the nitty-gritties of pitching, with renowned journalists presiding on the panel – after all, what better than to hear it from the horse’s mouth?

How to Pitch to the CEO and Board

Do you struggle to influence your stakeholders? Or perhaps you face issues getting your point across? Executive attention span is short. You either capture it or risk boring a critical audience. Find out how the #CHAIN (CHAIN = Collaborative, Holistic, Adaptable, Influential, Narrative) model can help you have the most impact as a supply chain leader, what it takes to influence the C-suite. and how to present a vision in a way the CEO and board will buy into it.

The Vital Role of Intelligent Infrastructure for the Logistics Industry

The Intelligent Infrastructure market is expected to grow from $97 billion in 2021 to $434 billion by 2028. But what is"Intelligent Infrastructure" and why is it important to the logistics industry? For starters, it is crucial to several of the technologies in the logistics space including EVs and AVs. As the amount of devices connected to the internet increases, the environment continues to become more complex. This session will explore how public & private stakeholders can acquire and share data responsibly, help enable the seamless development of applications and position itself for the future of smart cities.

ION: Building Supply Chain Technology

Vizion is hosting its first annual workshop to kickoff Manifest 2023 in Las Vegas. Titled “ION: Building Supply Chain Technology,” this workshop will include in-depth discussions on the evolution of end-to-end visibility and real-talk on teaming up with the right players to achieve it.

Geared toward a technical audience, this workshop will feature sessions on data quality and accessibility, a panel discussion on how supply chain technologies increase efficiency while reducing costs, plus demos and presentations that highlight the value of logistics tech partnerships and integrations.

Agenda:
1:00pm - 1:05pm: Opening Remarks with Kyle Henderson & Tyler Hughes, Co-Founders, Vizion

1:10pm - 1:30pm: Keynote: The Role of Container Tracking, Data Quality & Accessibility for Improved Visibility - by Kyle Henderson, CEO, Vizion

1:35pm - 2:05pm - Roundtable Panel: What is End to End Visibility & Are Supply Chains Achieving It?

- Moderator Peter Jorgensen, Partner, Maersk Growth
- Corey Bertsch, VP Solutions Management, Slync.io
- James Coombes, CEO & Co-Founder, Raft
- Kyle Henderson, CEO & Co-Founder, Vizion
- Hannah Testani, CEO, Intelligent Audit

2:15pm - 3:20pm - The Value of LogTech Partnerships & Integrations with Overhaul, Bluebox, & Hellmann Worldwide Logistics

3:30pm - 4:35pm - Vizion's API in Action: Container Tracking With 3rdwave & Zeus Logics

4:35pm - 4:50pm - Q&A

4:50pm - 5:00pm - Closing Remarks with Vizion CTO Tyler Hughes

Current State of the Maritime Industry

A slowing economy, retailers reducing purchases, inflation and high fuel costs are all factors that shippers and maritime players have been experiencing over the past year, where does the industry currently stand? What are some lessons learned post COVID, post negotiations and post regulatory shifts? This session will address all of the above and provide an overview of where the global shipping market.

Logistics With Purpose® – Actionable Sustainability Measures

The word "sustainability" likely has come to mean different things to members of the supply chain space, but one fact cannot be ignored: there is now demand for it, whether it be from regulators, investors, customers or the end consumer. How can greater steps towards a more sustainable supply chain be taken and what does it mean to set tangible targets and execute sustainability projects more effectively? Join this session to learn all of the above!

The Intersection of Intelligent Infrastructure & Logistics

The Autonomy Institute argues that Intelligent Infrastructure advances city services, resilient and carbon-free economies, closes the technology divide, enables autonomous systems, and most important; secures data for people, cities, and governments. These are all issues that hit home for the logistics & supply chain community, and this panel will explore how government, academia and industry players can collaborate to accelerate critical infrastructure deployments.

Visibility & Data-Sharing – How Do We Do It?

There is alarmingly little visibility into the U.S. supply chain, one of the biggest reasons for this is due to it containing so many stakeholders, from maritime carriers, ports and rail companies to manufacturers, distributors, shippers, brokers and more. How can more visibility across this entire ecosystem be achieved? Where are we today months removed from the U.S.' announcement of the FLOW initiative? Join this session to hear directly from some of the participants of FLOW as well as pioneers that are spearheading the way.

Sustainable Supply Chains: Ensuring Buy-in and Transparency Across the Entire Organization

For some, balancing profits and ESG efforts are one in the same, and for others the efforts are far too costly. This is what makes the gap between leaders and laggers in sustainability grow even wider. According to reports from Kearney, the leaders exist because they integrate sustainability into every aspect of decision making. How can more organizations ensure everyone is held accountable and emissions targets are clearly defined? This panel will discuss key issues from the point of view of companies that view sustainability not only as a benefit to the greater environment, but as a huge business opportunity.

What Does a Digital City Look Like?

From testing intelligent intersection control systems to analyzing data from connected vehicle fleets, efforts to achieve "smarter" cities are already in play. This panel will share actions that cities and companies are taking to shift infrastructure towards a connected future - enabling autonomous & connected vehicles, EVs, drones and physical sensors around cities.

Role of Big Data, AI & IoT

One of the biggest challenges for supply chain executives is to reach an "efficient" and "sustainable" global supply chain. What technologies are helping spearhead this initiative and how can the global maritime industry digitalize? How are end users incorporating next generation technologies into their operations and what are some of the drawbacks of such technologies? This panel features next generation digitization companies who will share insight on their experiences and recent collaborations.

Fleet Autonomy and Electrification – What Goes Into a Connected and Sustainable Supply Chain?

Automation technologies are often implemented to improve efficiencies, increase productivity and reduce variabilities in the supply chain, but how are they tied in with emissions reduction? How are leading shippers and fleets reducing their carbon footprint while minimizing supply chain disruptions? This panel gathers a mix of fleets and OEMs who will explore key connectivity challenges across the entire supply chain, from yards and warehouses to the last mile.

Implementation of 5G Networks in Logistics & Supply Chain

What exactly is 5G, and what does it mean to the logistics and transportation space? 5G isn't just smartphones and mobile handsets. There are potential use cases for it across different areas such as autonomous trucks and asset tracking. In this session we will address the benefits that 5G can bring to the supply chain and logistics industries - and how ports and technology players are piloting the technology in their businesses.

Manifesting Port Innovations

Digital technologies, drones, AVs, EVs, fuel cell, automation... these are all being applied or tested in some way, shape or form at ports. But why? What challenges will they will help remedy? How can collaboration be built despite competing interests? This panel hosts some of the biggest ports and drayage players in the world who will share their thoughts on digitization and how we can combat current disruptions while preparing for the future.

Optimized Yards & Logistics Buildings – Hold the Carbon

A report from the University of London shared that a staggering 13% of carbon emissions in logistics comes from warehouse buildings. While the industry strives to reduce the environmental impact of logistics it is becoming even more apparent that making smarter, greener choices inside and outside of warehouses are paramount. Join this session that will explore strategies to reduce carbon footprint within facilities, from solar panels and windmilles to automation technologies and zero-emissions systems.

Building Innovative Mobility Strategies

Innovative and sustainable logistics, intelligent transportation solutions, mobility technologies and more! It's all paramount to combat rising congestion, emissions and connectivity challenges in our cities. This session features mobility experts, investors and technology leaders who will share their experiences as they take part in driving the future of mobility.

Drayage Doesn’t Have to Suck – Solving Backlogs Through Collaboration

The Drayage market, which is already growing in size and becoming more fragmented, will likely experience a dynamic shift post ILWU negotiations and pending new laws at ports. How will it impact the U.S. supply chain? What shifts will take place at ports and how will BCOs respond? This expert panel will take a deep dive into the Drayage industry and what key areas industry players are pivoting to to cope with changes in labor, costs and inventory.

Scalable and Sustainable Shipping

In a recent survey conducted by Phononic, 7 out of 10 consumers stated that they would order more fresh and frozen food with their grocery delivery if they felt confident that these foods would arrive still fresh and frozen. These findings show that consumers have yet to fully trust retailers to deliver their most important fresh and frozen groceries. Even further, 70% of consumers say they care about sustainable offerings when it comes to groceries and grocery shopping. A majority of retailers still expect their online grocery operations to increase in the next year, which is why they see the clear need to provide the food quality, freshness, speed of delivery, and sustainability offerings that consumers want. Sit in and watch the panel discuss how cooling, heating and temperature controlled tecnologies are helping improve delivery operations and meet sustainability goals.

What Enables Connected Vehicles?

The global autonomous truck market is projected to reach $2 million by 2027, which is set to double from $1 million in 2019. But why are we seeing this increase, and why are cities revamping infrastructure to support autonomy? How far away are we from widespread accessibility and usage, and who owns the data that is being collected? This session will address all of the above!

Operational and Environmental Efficiencies Are One in the Same

To innovate maritime logistics or not to innovate maritime logistics... should that be a question? A common theme of interest among stakeholders is to increase efficiency of port operations and optimize the overall import process. But how are supply chain partners working together to improve coordination and what steps are being taken to decarbonize the industry? Both go hand in hand, and this panel will address some of the biggest factors executives of the industry need to consider over the next 2-5 years.

The S in ESG – Empowering Your Communities & Your Supply Chain

EPA shows that transportation is responsible for 50% of nitrogen oxide emissions in the United States, as well as 3.1% of CO2 emissions globally, and within transportation, heavy-duty trucks are the fastest-growing contributor to emissions. This is why the logistics industry is primed for ESG success. It is not only because of the obvious - which is to combat air pollution and adverse effects - but stakeholders such as employees, investors, customers and community members are increasingly interested in ESG issues. There is now a shift in how leading logistics providers think about solutions, collaborating with partners and customers alike to increase efficiencies around deliveries. Pooling freight shipments at scale, using platforms that allow for detailed and accurate counts of emissions, providing safe and supportive workplaces, helping build cultures of diversity & inclusion and smart risk-management practices are all becoming more common amongst the biggest players. This interactive discussion with some of the most reputable names of our industry will share how they are incorporating these ESG iniatiatives into their companies.

Supply Chain 4.0 – The Secret to Supply Chain Resiliency is Co-Opetition

The vision is a collaborative, beneficial supply chain. And that's just what Shekar Natarajan is building! A distributed fulfillment network that is shared by like-minded retailers to compete with the 'big guys.' Everyone has read the articles and heard the interviews but there is nothing better then hearing from the pioneer himself as he shares his ideas for a "frenemy network" of vertical logistics.

Supply Chain Mega Trends: Why an “All In” Approach to Innovation is Critical​

The supply chain has always been an essential part of everyday life, but two things have recently changed: 1. We are living in a time where everyone finally understands just how important the supply chain is and 2. Mega trends have quickly emerged, fundamentally changing the way the end-to-end supply chain works. This session will take a deep dive into how the supply chain industry has shifted, as well as provide an overview of how digitalization is taking center stage as shippers, technology providers and 3PLs respond and strategize for the future.

The Customer Journey – Empowerment With Tech and Partners

What do chocolates, breakfast, brunch and dinner options have in common? They're all getting ordered online, or in store or anywhere customers want them and our panelists are pulling out all the stops to get it to them! This session will define the customer journey, share how leading companies are using their supply chains to differentiate customer experiences and discuss the emerging technologies that are going to shape the next few years of the shipping experience.

Then to Now: Driving FedEx Custom Critical Onward

Shipping pharmaceuticals, industrial materials, tech and more throughout the busiest times of the shipping and logistics industry takes a village. Nobody does it with more grace - both effectively and efficiently all while maintaining profitability and seamless customer experience than FedEx. Rising from an entry-level position to becoming the first Black female CEO of a @FedEx operating company, Manifest is honored to have Ramona Hood share her experiences and lessons learned from the unprecedented business disruptions that have shaped the last few years.

Next Level Customer Experience

The technologies, the shippers and the logistics companies, are all on this panel discussing all-things customer experience! Hear how customer expectations have evolved over the past few years and how the industry has adapted to it. And don't miss the deep dive into newer trends such as flexible shipping solutions and the role of partners and technology that is driving the future of last mile & fulfillment.

Automated Micro Fulfillment & Autonomous Routing

With great power comes great responsibility. That's probably what consumers are saying to their favorite retailers while being accustomed to 3-day, 2-day, same-day and even 3-hour deliveries. This session will explore automation, delivery networks, micro fulfillment and the overall fulfillment journey of today so attendees can learn the actions that are being taken to meet their consumer demands - and how products are getting closer to customers all while firms do their best to maintain a resilient and reactive fulfillment operation.

Make It Make Sense! How Do We Vet the Technology Market Based on What Works for Us?

What do internationally recognized shippers, unicorns, startup incubators/accelerators and global logistics behemoths have in common? They're all on this panel, addressing the ins and outs of shipping & fulfillment technologies in the market today. With so much investment going into a large pool of technologies, this panel will help provide clarity on today's landscape and how companies should be navigating the market based on their needs.

The Many Layers of Visibility

There are too many factors to list that go into transparency surrounding the wharabouts and condition of goods. That not only applies to shippers but the entire supply chain & logistics ecosystem. In fact, in collaboration with several other visibility players - one of our panelists launched the Open Visibility Network - a consortium of supply chain, transportation, and logistics technology providers on a mission to optimize global supply chain efficiency via open visibility and collaboration. Transparency is even more paramount for perishable goods, medical equipment and devices. This panel will give attendees a chance to hear directly from companies who are striving to achieve end-to-end visibility across global supply chains, and how the industry can collaborate better to get there.

How Machine Learning Can Become Your Strongest Tool

Why Smartbrokers Will Win in 2023

The rise of SmartBrokers is changing the logistics landscape. They are making more money, elevating expectations, and pumping new life into our national supply chain infrastructure. What makes SmartBrokers different from the rest of the pack and how are they changing the industry?

The Future of Asset Visibility in the Global Supply Chain

What does the future of asset visibility look like? How will tracking technologies change the Modern Supply-Chain? In the past few years, we have witnessed the global supply chain undergoing unprecedented changes. Congestion in U.S. ports has set a record and asset dwell times have skyrocketed. These extreme challenges drove many operating companies to seek asset visibility and start implementing telemetry and tracking solutions in order to optimize, and better manage, their complex operations. Today, technologies that offer visibility are evolving faster than ever, from thin bluetooth tags, to Low-Power device networks, Low-Orbiting satellites, and a variety of sensors implemented in newly manufactured assets. Will this trend continue during the years to come? Can we expect customer demand for full supply-chain visibility to go down or continue? How can new technologies affect our lives, and how will they shape our industry? In this talk, we will cover some of the technologies that you can expect to see during the next 5 years, and discuss how these enable complete digitization of supply chain processes, connected fleet operations and item-level monitoring. We will also raise questions on the value and challenges in implementing such solutions.

Digitally Enabled Workforce of the Future – Taking a Holistic View

From automation technologies and telematics to remote operations & shared autonomy - these are the factors driving the future of the workforce. What can be done to help full-time associates be more productive so technology isn't "replacing" them? Part of the answer is reducing repetitive tasks and another part is combatting labor challenges. Learn what leading logistics companies and next-generation software providers think is transforming workspaces.

Intermodal: Increasing Visibility & Reducing Variability

Amidst ongoing economical whirlwinds and shipping delays, what is at top of mind for shippers currently and how are they navigating the goods movement market? This panel will discuss the nuances of intermodal freight - from data science, vision technology and control tower solutions to omnichannel fulfillment and timely transportation.

How To Automate Warehouses Without Disrupting Your Operations

Investing in warehouse automation is expensive, complex and potentially risky. But how does that weigh against the long term effects of manual processes within warehouses? The potentials of automation systems are plenty, from optimized inventory management and reduced operational costs to increased employee and customer satisfaction. This panel will address the complexity of implementing automation, and how warehouses can rethink costs associated with it. The session will also dive into the impact on workers, and how humans and automation tools can work in unison.

The Shipping Journey – How Do You Efficiently Utilize Your Network?

An all-shippers conversation! Flexibility, cost, service, speed, agility, resilience - all important features that bind these companies on the stage together and these characteristics are shaping the actions that they're taking today. Actions includes implementing transportation tools for better visibility, leveraging an array of stores and warehouses to fulfill across multiple channels and getting inventory as close to the customer as possible. We'll stop there and let the experts finish the conversation!

Revolutionizing Air Freight

Natilus was founded in 2016, to expand and democratize air cargo transportation with a new fleet of blended wing body (BWB) autonomous aircraft, purposefully designed to increase cargo volume and lower costs by 60%, while reducing carbon emissions by 50%. The Natilus fleet includes the Kona 3.8-ton short-haul feeder, the Alisio 60-ton medium/long aircraft, and the Nordes 100-ton long-range freighter. By using existing ground infrastructure and standard air cargo containers, Natilus will increase competitiveness and open new markets. Natilus has attracted more than $6 billion in order commitments and 440+ aircraft in pre-orders from major airlines and integrators.

Unblock Your Containers At the Port And Mitigate Late Fees!

Are you tired of receiving $100,000 accessorial bills from your truckers and Steamship lines? Do you need the documentation and track any holds, last free day, and demurrage fees? BlueCargo is a platform that helps you move containers in & out of the ports faster and gives you the tools you need to avoid and mitigate any late fees.

Reduce Enterprise Shipping Costs and Shrink Carbon Footprint With Data-driven, Cloud-based Technology

Global supply chains are complex and interconnected. Many companies miss opportunities to tackle inefficiency and reduce cost at the start of the supply chain – even before their suppliers have sent shipments. Products are packed without maximizing available space in their outer boxes, pallets and containers are partially empty, and transportation assets travel underutilized. Companies are paying for “packaged air” and inflating their carbon footprint – presenting a transformation opportunity with tremendous global impact. Let’s create a more efficient and greener supply chain together.

The Growing Reliance on Software-Defined Radar

In his presentation, Spartan Chief Technology Officer Tyler Rather pinpoints where today’s driver assistance systems are falling short and how software-defined sensors can help fill these gaps. With over the air updates, software turns radar into an upgradable and evolving application platform that can fulfill the needs of today’s advanced driver assistance systems as well as tomorrow’s autonomous vehicles.

Building Logistics Tech with APIs

Build smarter and better with logistics APIs to plan, assign and track work for the on-demand economy. How to build apps for all audiences of the new economy - operations teams, drivers and workers, and end consumers. Use cases powered by the APIs used by 300+ companies worldwide include live order tracking for customers with nearby notifications (much like DoorDash), dispatch orders to nearby drivers, assign orders with route optimization with ability to insert on-demand orders into current schedule, measure and improve fleet productivity, pay fairly based on ground truth and enable visibility for the ops teams.

Automating Yard Operations with AI-Powered Yard Management System (YMS)

Traditional yard operations are manual and error prone which leads to lost revenue and poor customer service. NavTrac’s AI-powered Yard Management System (YMS) reimagines yard operations through automation and data-driven optimization. NavTrac’s AI Multi-Camera Automatic Gate System (AGS) digitizes the arrival and departure of every trailer, container, tractor and chassis. Proprietary software analyzes this visual data for real-time inventory reporting and damage inspection. The data is then pushed via open API to empower decision making throughout the enterprise.

Supply Chain Resiliency- From Robotics & Automation to Visibility

From record-breaking surges in e-commerce during the peak of COVID, to fluctuating demand all through 2021 and 2022, retailers saw it all over the past 3 years. 2022's Black Friday hit historic levels, with consumers spending a record $9.12 billion on online shopping. Even more, thanks to those peak COVID times retailers are now needing to meet the customers wherever they are - this means in stores, in homes, even in the trunk of cars! Getting closer to the end consumer has never been more critical, ensuring warehouses that are fully optimized to manage inventory, handle peaks in orders and adjust to fluctuating throughput figures. Our panelists will give their take on customer focused innovations, describing how one can take a phased approach to automation and analyze the tradeoff between cost, labor, and efficiency.

Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is…

What are top investors seeing today when it comes to AI, machine learning, automation and digital technologies in shipping, warehouses, over the road and the last mile? What advice do they have for those looking to raise funding in the near future and what technologies and applications are they most excited about? Look no further than this session to find out!

A Tech Driven Supply Chain Ecosystem – Addressing the Cultural Evolution

Ex Amazonians... assemble! Former Amazon veterans - 2 of which are now leading next-gen supply chain technology platforms and 1 of which is leading supply chain operations for a subcription based furniture company - are taking the stage to share their experiences and discuss the cultural evolution in operations that's moving towards a tech driven supply chain. Hear how they are leveraging the shipping experience as a differentiator for their unique businesses - enabling speed, cost, and convenience.

Logistics Networks – How Do We Drive Value Across Different Players?

Keep on truckin' .... or not! Freight prices have drastically plummeted since their record peaks starting in 2021 anf going through Q1 of 2022. This is even despite consumer spending being at an all-time high. Freight is hard to come by and fuel prices are still relatively high. As a result, smaller trucking companies are having a hard time keeping up. Some would argue that there will be more consolidation, and those that embrace digitization will thrive. Truckers have to find new ways to be more efficient despite ongoing disruptions and this panel will give attendees the opportunity to hear how digital freight brokers, dynamic pricing software providers and logistics providers are using tools, technology and collaboration to combat disruptions while driving value for its partners.

How To Supercharge Your Buyers By Fully Automating Purchase Order Management and Visibility

An overview and case study of how Leverage fully automates the manual work and time that manufacturers spend chasing down suppliers for purchase order updates, and key that information back into their ERP. The presentation will cover how this typically results in an average of 11x ROI in year one -- all without needing to replace any existing systems.

Automating Cross Border Supply Chains

A Look Inside a Tech-First Carrier

Capital investment, technological advancement and federal legislation have converged on the logistics industry in recent years. Rollzi is an asset-based carrier that is leveraging this convergence to develop an operational strategy that maneuvers the new landscape to achieve a result that is better, faster and cheaper. Take a look under the hood to see some of the tools we’ve selected, platform we’ve built and strategy we’ve adopted to move freight forward.

Your Future Warehouse: Top Trends, Opportunities, and Challenges of Warehouse Robotics presented by Exotec

Gain insight from industry and thought leaders on the current state and direction of the warehouse automation market. Panelists will hone in on subjects including key factors to consider while designing and implementing automated systems in the warehouse as well as how to compare traditional and emerging technologies within the industry. Join this lively panel for authentic takes on the most important things to consider for your future warehouse.

You Are Ready For Robots in the Warehouse presented by Mujin

The adoption of robotics in warehouse operations has become increasingly widespread in recent years. In this panel, industry experts and early adopters will discuss the state of the art in warehouse robotics, including the latest advancements in robotics technology, mobile robots, and robot arms. Attendees will learn which robotics applications are tested and proven in warehouse operations and gain valuable tips on successful implementation from industry experts. Whether you are new to warehouse robotics or looking to expand your existing robotic workforce, this panel is a must-attend for anyone in the logistics space.

Space Logistics: From Low Earth Orbit, to the Moon and Beyond presented by ZEBOX

As innovation and policy continue to drive the commercialization of space habitation and bring launch costs lower and lower, a new space economy is beginning to emerge. Human presence is the catalyst to bring a whole new financial ecosystem online. This panel will discuss key considerations regarding space cargo delivery, in space transportation, and other space logistics. All of which will show immense growth as more and more humans begin to live and work off-world.

Gone Are the Days of Tons of Paperwork, Redundant Processes and Unsatisfied Drivers

Back in 2020, the Consumer Brands Association launched a contactless delivery task force to study the impact of, and develop uniform standards for implementing contactless deliveries at scale throughout supply chains. Some of the biggest outcomes of the task force was optimizing driver workflows, moving companies away from manual touchpoints and helping them digitize their processes, leading to a seamless and safe experience for shippers, carriers and receivers across the supply chain. Members of that task force are taking the stage to share how they are now operating more efficiently than ever!

Rail, Reborn & Ready To Roll

Intramotev is focused on transforming the future of freight movement by developing self propelled, zero-emission rail vehicles. Intramotev’s solution will help decarbonize and improve asset utilization in the supply chain by reducing diesel used for the $700B worth of goods moved by rail annually in the U.S. They’re developing hardware and software to enable battery-powered railcars to make freight movements with or without a locomotive.

Designing a Tech-Powered Freight Network for the Modern Shipper

WARP optimizes the middle-mile for shippers by utilizing all strategies available and provides the insight to determine which works best and in what scenarios. Warp provides this level of control with a tech-connected network of cross-docks and carriers with sprinter vans, box trucks, and 53 footers that perform direct store deliveries, warehouse to warehouse transfers, and direct carrier injections into last mile providers like FedEx, UPS, USPS, and OnTrac.

Fulfillment & Last Mile Offerings Driven by the Customer

I want my package delivered, I want it on an electric vehicle, I want it delivered ASAP and... nevermind, I'll pick it up at a specified location: some and or all of which has been spoken by every customer of today. How are customer demands being met while managing carbon footprint, being agile, reducing costs and optimizing our workforce? Join a unique mix of investors and technology pioneers as they address how the end consumer is driving today's offerings.

Robust Reverse Logistics

A 2022 Q3 report from Loop showed that 96% of U.S. consumers believe retailer return policies directly reflect how much a brand cares about its shoppers. Given today’s economic and market uncertainty, consumers are paying even closer attention to said policies. Considering the customer journey beyond the point of purchase is now more critical than ever before. This panel provides insight from leading reverse logistics softwares and shippers who will discuss how the post purchase experience is being disrupted, ensuring visibility to products that are 'coming back'.

The Intersection of AI & Warehouse Automation

The dramatic shift toward e-commerce has prompted warehousing operations to embrace multi-channel fulfillment as a matter of urgency, leaving little room for error or inefficiencies. 3PLs and Shippers need to find new ways to cost-effectively handle widely different order sizes, improve visibility of inventory and rethink workforce deployment. This panel will address key topics such as as technologies that are being deployed across warehouses, the role of simulation and the implementation of automation inside warehouses.

Build vs Buy – Playing the Balancing Act Between In-housed Tech and 3rd Parties

To outsource or not to outsource... that is the question. For some, in-housing most of - if not all of your systems helps you maintain control of your entire supply chain. For others, outsourcing is the only option because resources are scarce, and existing infrastructures are too underdeveloped to compete in today's environment. Shippers from across multiple verticals - tires, home goods and automotives - all with distinctly different supply chains take the stage to share how they're navigating the decision making process when it comes to third parties.

Peer-to-Peer Fulfillment: The Prime Alternative

eCommerce fulfillment is broken, and merchants are paying the price. Consumers are demanding ever-faster delivery (for free, of course, thanks to Amazon Prime). Warehouse rents are at an all-time high, and you’ll be lucky if you can find leases in hot markets like southern California. Wages for warehouse workers have risen at an astounding rate since COVID. The net result is the BIG squeeze in merchants' profit margins. Enter Cahoot - a revolutionary peer-to-peer fulfillment network that combats these macro trends and enables SMBs to compete and win. Cahoot’s “power of many” network unlocks underutilized fulfillment capacity in the over 2 million merchant warehouses across the United States. Merchants on the Cahoot network can offer affordable, fast shipping by intelligently deploying inventory closer to end consumers. Come to this exciting session to learn how peer-to-peer fulfillment puts the power back in merchants’ hands and how you too can benefit.

DB Schenker Delivers Transparency and Trust with Avatour Shared Reality

DB Schenker is a world leader in applying technology to make logistics more efficient. But their worldwide footprint can make it difficult for managers, customers, and prospects to obtain full visibility into operations. Physical tours of facilities can be effective, but they're expensive and often impractical. Avatour's Shared Reality platform enables DB Schenker to deliver transparency and trust without physical travel. Deployed now in over 20 DBS logistics facilities around the world, Avatour's real-time 360° platform allows stakeholders to visit these locations virtually, using either a VR headset or a standard web browser. Avatour is employed for both business development and operational use cases, saving money and reducing carbon emissions.

Talentek by Hubtek

There are some processes that can be fully automated, but many require human interaction and involvement to ensure the proper levels of accuracy and oversight. Talentek is the synergy of human and automation process deployment. By mapping out the process to drive efficiency, Hubtek deploys the balance of tech-enabled human resources to support a focus on volume, speed and accuracy. The careful handoff of activity within the workflow handles the bulk of the process and allows for proper resolutions of exceptions and anomalies. Hubtek’s Drew Cherba will be outlining general and specific process workflows solved by Talentek.

Data Quality: Failures in Functionality and Framework Solutions

The poor quality of data in supply chains is not a new problem; the industry has been dealing with for a very long time. However, the idea of “dealing with it” has predominantly taken the approach of avoidance; and not resolution. Poor information leads to limitations in risk mitigation; planning and optimization; business development; and supply chain resilience and integrity. Solutions to bad data have led to patchwork information system add-ons and manual fixes that do not address the fundamental fact that poor data is causing the problems. It is an approach addressing the outcome, but not what is causing the failure. Actors in the supply chain focus on maximizing efficiencies in their own operations – focusing on increasing throughput and reliability. The effort to align the flow of information with the flow of the goods, often involves reworking data that other partners in the supply chain have already analyzed but not shared. This lack of collaboration fosters opportunities for errors, duplication of data, and a failure to have a single source of truth. The path to better operations and decisions in supply chain is better data. The ability to have better data is predicated on understanding that players in the supply chain – manufacturers, suppliers, ports, shippers, rail carriers – are part of a chain, a network. Data can lead to better decisions if we develop practices and solutions that build on our connections in the supply chain, that allow for collaboration, and that are less afraid of preventing the sharing of data. We need frameworks for quality data, that lead to an better, faster more effective supply chain.

Modernizing E-commerce Warehouses for a Robotics Future

With the surge in robotics and automation solutions entering the warehouse operations arena, operators and owners are often left with more questions than answers - How do I assess which automation solutions make sense for my operations? How much do I need to budget for given current economic conditions? What do I need to implement today vs. later? Rabot's CEO, Channa Ranatunga helps address these dilemmas.

Scaling Electric Fleets

With regulation, investors, consumers and the overall environment driving it - The EV revolution is unavoidable. With now over 30 companies globally entering the electric vehicle logistics segment, the industry is witnessing several players race to make their fleets and operations sustainable and reduce carbon footprints. But how can the logistics industry scale integration and the infrastructure needed to support it? This session will uncover the ins and outs of EV charging, infrastructure, cost, availability, commercialization and collaboration.

AI & Logistics – How Can We Connect It All Better & Combat Disruptions

Supply chain resiliency has almost become a 'buzz' word since COVID, but what does it mean to shippers and players in the logistics space? What role does dynamic planning, automation and AI play to connect the entire logistics chain globally? Is true connectivity amongst the ecosystem even attainable? See if your answers to these questions match that of our panel as they debate if supply chain resiliency is a flash in the pan trend or has staying power!

Go To Market – Driving a Clean and Efficient Transportation System

The autonomous truck pilots are still happening, 3PL leaders are still full-steam ahead towards their emissions goals and the road to full-scale commercialization is still very, very long. Despite the long road ahead, the companies on this session don't plan on stopping. They have all shared tremendous news in their own right during Q4 of 2022 - Daimler delivered e-trucks to Penske and Sysco, Kodiak inked major partnerships with IKEA and Werner, Waymo got the green light to provide driverless rides to passengers in San Francisco and J.B Hunt surpassed the emissions goal it announced back in 2020, effectively establishing a new goal to reduce company-operated emissions intensity by 32% by 2034. Join them for this session as they share their perspective on where are we today and what comes next for availability and infrastructure needs.

Hyper-Growth Done Right – From Physical Footprint to ROI, Visibility & Data

Beyonce once said "it's a billion dollars on the elevator," and we matched that, with $1.5 billion in total funding on this stage. Hear from DTC shippers and logistics companies that are in full hyper-growth mode. A lot goes into rapid growth - resourcing, workforce, physical infrastructure, data collection & usage, outsourcing operations and market analysis depending on the geo you're operating in. Join them to learn how organizations with plenty of funding are leveraging automation, data and partnerships to maintain flexibility and agility across their supply chains.

Office Hours

Open meetings with investors from top-tier Logistics tech VC firms, no appointments needed!

Harnessing Strategic Investments & Innovations Across the Supply Chain

What HAVEN'T you heard about Walmart? 4,700 stores located within 10 miles of 90% of the U.S. population. But wait there's more! There was the acquisition of Alert Innovation in October of 2022 followed by their first Next-Gen FC going live in November - all of which ultimately helps provide customers with what they want, when they want and where they want it, while enhancing the experience for their workforce. In terms of what's next for the leading retailer in the U.S, you get to hear directly from the person who's leading innovation and automation across Walmart's US business David Guggina!

From Natural Disasters to COVID to War – Where Do We Stand With Supply Chain Disruptions?

She's been on Supply Chain Digital’s list of “Top 100 Women in Supply Chain” and reached #12 on "Top 100 Leaders in Supply Chain" in 2022. She has been instrumental in propelling a multi-billion-dollar global supply chain to #8 or better for nine consecutive years in Gartner’s Supply Chain Top 25. You DON'T want to miss out hearing from Jackie Sturm, as she shares her experiences helping Intel cope with disruptions on top of disruptions over the last 3 years while still ensuring that it is well equipped for years to come.

It’s a Plane, It’s a Ship, It’s a Train! Keeping Goods Moving Through Disruptions & Bottlenecks

Ever had to reroute your shipments because of congestion up ahead? That was a rhetorical question.. because chances are, you have. And now, as you are viewing this session description there is a looming freight rail strike that could lead the industry to scramble to find more workarounds. Maintaining a responsive & reactive supply chain has never been more crucial to businesses, which is why we are seeing the topic become so mainstream over the past 2 years. Our panelists - one of which is a unicorn breaking grounds helping brands obtain new levels of visibility and control over their inventory, another which is a women supply chain officer for a retailer that manages 100s of physical stores and warehouses globally and lastly, a pioneer who has earned the #22 spot on the "Leaders in Supply Chain 2022" list, are all taking the stage to discuss how they are keeping the goods going - whether it be by ship, by plane, by rail or by truck.

Established Companies X Startups – Working Together to Advance Groundbreaking Technology

For incumbents and investors alike, trying to pick the "right" technology can get tricky to say the least.. And it gets even tougher when it comes to vetting startups. Fortunately, we have the privilege of listening in on a conversation between an established, renowned leader for supply chain, dedicated transportation and fleet management solutions company and a startup that it is very high on. This session features Ryder System's very own Karen Jones and Remora's Paul Gross as they share how their partnership came to be, what makes it a great success for both sides and what startups can do NOW to better equip themselves before approaching a company.

The Evolution of the Truck and the Impact It Has on Drivers

Maximize driver time & income, complement labor and potentially improve jobs... these are the keys to the kingdom! Leading logistics platforms, autonomous technology developers and carriers are hard at work to find ways to provide exceptional driver experiences no matter the haul. If one looks at the development and commercialization of fully autonomous trucks - it has proven to be a long journey - and yet there are now more than a dozen companies in the trucking industry who are dedicated to deploying them at scale. And then you have software that help put load booking and management at the fingertips of drivers, giving them more opportunities to earn. Hear from some of the leaders that are spearheading a new era of driver experience and satisfaction.

Last Mile Innovations – Ensuring Speed and Sustainability

Today's consumer expects next-day or same-day delivery with total visibility, which makes ensuring a superior customer experience a priority for logistics executives. According to a "List of Six Trends That Will Redefine Last-mile Delivery in 2023" released by DispatchTrack, the C-suite and boardroom are taking a keen, and direct interest in last mile delivery. Particularly, they are looking to find new ways to meet the customer where they want and ensure their delivery experience from purchase to returns is as seamless as possible. Learn how other executives are assessing last mile disruptions and how different technologies such as communications tools, electricification, alternative delivery modes and visibility tools are transforming delivery.

Today’s Challenges vs the Future – How Do We Balance Both and What Pivots Do We Need To Start Making?

Can you predict the next global crisis? Probably not, but can you future proof your supply chain JUST IN CASE there is one, hindering supply chains like COVID has? Yes, it's possible. We can't predict the future, but what we do know is e-commerce has grown like no other over the past few years - and by 2027 - online shopping revenue in the U.S. alone is expected to exceed 1.7 trillion dollars. The industry has cited similar issues globally from port congestion and shipment delays to labor and container shortages. In this session, attendees will get to hear shippers with vastly different supply chains share how they are projecting into the future - identifying pivots that are needed all while responding to today's challenges.

Seamless Integrations of Partners & Optimized Bill Management

Onboarding a diverse group of customers with different focuses makes the integrations process complicated. On one hand you have those who have their own systems requiring you to conform to their standards and on the other hand you have those whose systems are not as advanced. Maintaining the ability to connect to multiple systems while being nimble enough to offer guidance (to those who need it) is key especially given the evolution of machines and type of data that is being generated. Our panelists will describe what Bill Management means to them and how they are simplifying their processes with technology and partners.

Congestion, Emissions & Capacity – Using Technology To Unlock Underutilized Inland & Coastal Capacity

In 2021 alone, over 45,000 barge moves occurred empty on in the inland rivers, the equivalent of over a million trucks worth of capacity! With emissions, congestion, and capacity constraints being top of mind, it's time to utilize our nation's greatest transportation assets. Meet OpenTug! OpenTug provides instant digital access to the vast barge, terminal, and industrial storage capacity to help companies move cargo cheaper while reducing emissions by up to 95% for middle-mile transportation. With our intuitive platform, you can connect and book barge and storage capacity anywhere the water allows and gain visibility of your cargo from start to finish. OpenTug makes it easy to integrate the cheapest, greenest, and most efficient form of transportation into your supply chain and TMS.

Strengthen Your Supply Chain With Carbon Management

Resilient supply chains and sustainability are increasingly one and the same. Today’s top companies see improved sustainability as more than just a way to meet climate goals, but also a way to strengthen their supply chains. New data-driven technologies, like Gravity Climate, make it easy to manage both. Gravity’s carbon management software helps companies measure and reduce their carbon emissions in a way that saves money and improves operational efficiency –– making decarbonization a competitive advantage.

Supply Chain From Door to Door – Eliminate All Headaches With Technology, Real-time Information and Post-sales Services

First movers - a B2B customized Ecommerce platform for your supply chain. Forget about the product development issues, finding trustworthy factories, financing opportunities, the whole purchase process, shipment, customs clearance, and last-mile delivery. At Emonk, we take care of everything. You just need to buy the products through the platform, and then forget about the rest. You will see cost savings like never before in your supply chain, not only from products, but for the cost saving related to having a whole department dedicated to these processes. Differentiate your company with a strong supply chain partner, differentiate your company with Emonk.

Refueling Transportation To Reduce Emissions

Class 3 through 5 Blue Arc chassis and bodies being designed from the ground up, a portable EV charging solution recognized by Fast Company's "Next Big Things In Tech" list in 2022, powered trailers for the commercial trucking market launched in Q4 of 2022, a startup making its way to becoming a global hydrogen logistics and fuel services powerhouse and a technology leader who has been building sustainable solutions for the long-haul trucking industry since 2014 -you can hear from them all in one place as they take to the stage to discuss how they are helping transform the transportation space into becoming a more emissions-efficient ecosystem.

Micro Freight

It's no longer planes, trains and automobiles! It's a whole new world when it comes to package delivery. Cargo e-bikes, autonomous-delivery bots and robotics have been tested in the last mile for several years now, but the REAL use cases have only been discovered more recently. Rural locations, food delivery, and medical supplies are the game changers where this kind of delivery tech is being applied. Hear about practical use cases of different delivery modes, where they make sense most and what their cost & integration implications are.

Digital Transformation

Purpose-driven technology and innovations, they are the differentiators! Sure, that cool new technology can be piloted and applied - but for it to be sustainable long term - you need to rethink the why. Why is this technology important and what challenges does it help resolve? This panel features shippers and technology leaders who will address the keys to digitization, and the role that visibility, AI, machine learning and other technologies play for their organizations.

International Expansion of Operations & Supply Chain

Volatility with partners, currencies, costs, and global crisis are just a few challenges companies experience in international markets. Despite these pretty big hurdles many retailers are expanding globally - and the increase in inventory is, in some ways, helping since they can be repositioned. This panel will dive into the nuances of global expansion, and how companies can navigate complexities they experience in local markets.

Putting Shippers First: Overcoming Major Challenges With Modern Shipping

Feel like you are not being well-served by your shipping partners? Do you have control and visibility on rising costs, the ability to easily switch or add carriers and maintain visibility over your parcels in real time? Join this session as we put shippers first, by leaning in to help them overcome the biggest challenges with modern shipping.

Cyber Threats Against Vehicle Challenges Are Here – Operate Your Platforms Anytime, Anywhere Without Fear of Compromise

Protecting your drivers, vehicles, and businesses shouldn't wait until after an incident. Fleet Defender was born with a mission: enable our customers to operate their platforms anytime, anywhere without fear of compromise. Fleet Defender is a total platform intelligence system that provides real-time monitoring, detecting, and alerting on safety critical anomalies like cyber attacks, imminent maintenance issues, and unsafe operation of the platform ensuring your fleet and company are protected at all times. Fleet Defender delivers protection through both hardware and software solutions to work with your existing vehicle platforms at an affordable cost. Keep business moving without fear of compromise with Fleet Defender.

Slotting by Fulfilld Powered by Machine Learning & AI

In this session, attendees will learn about practical and easy to implement tools and techniques available as warehouse operators look to solve storage and consolidation challenges. During this session, attendees will experience live demos of machine learning (ML) models built specifically to drive warehouse efficiency. Moving beyond the demo, learn from customer uses cases including one customer’s manufacturing who contracted with a 3PL provider to store additional materials as they believed their internal capacity utilization was above 100%. Using machine learning Fulfilld helped solve this problem. Given dimensional data about products and the warehouse – Fulfilld can create optimization tasks for warehouse employees to complete throughout the day. Weaving these optimization tasks into the daily workload. Attendees will leave the session with a better understanding of some real world use ML cases and how Slotting by Fulfilld can help customer’s optimization product/component storage in the warehouse.

DATIVerse in 3D: The Industrial Metaverse for Ports, Terminals, and the Transportation Industry

Datifex’s immersive 3D virtual environments combine unlimited data sources, including simulation results and AI decision-making, into a “single pane of glass” for managing operations. These lightweight web applications only need Chrome, with no software to download, and can be used on any operating system, on any device, and from any location. Our work with GE Transportation, BNSF Railway, and the defence industry have established Datifex as the industrial metaverse leader for complex operations requiring improved situational awareness, command & control, training and simulation.

Performance, Attendance & Engagement – Tackle Your Hourly Workforce Issues With Insight and Automation

Finally - an incentive and performance platform built for the hourly workforce. Meet Denim! Denim takes your company-wide objectives and turns them into daily behaviors - delivering rewards, recognition and performance goals to employees wherever they are. Employees quickly become your competitive advantage with our fun and easy-to-use solution that puts points and rewards in their pocket when they do their very best work. Tackle your toughest challenges – from attendance to performance to culture - with actionable insights and an engaging mobile experience. Denim drives the results to power your workforce.

Transportation Is Broken: How To Fix It and Ensure Fulfillment

Brands and retailers today face extreme headwinds. Pressure is high to ensure inventory availability and meet demanding customers, while balancing costs and carbon footprints. Current transportation methods are fragile and inefficient. But what if you could ensure customer delivery with confidence and guarantee inventory availability? What if you could respond to surges and shifts without adversely impacting cost and budget? What does it take to achieve this state of re-defined transportation and fulfillment? Join SemiCab to find out.

Adaptive LiDAR Advances Autonomous Fleet Safety presented by AEye

As fleets accelerate autonomous trucking implementations to meet the demand for goods, they require technology that satisfies the unique performance, reliability and safety demands of long haul logistics. Lidar enables trucks to perform in all weather conditions, and tell with certainty if something is in a vehicle’s drivable path. Adaptive lidar goes a step further. By leveraging software to trigger customized performance modes, this next gen lidar enables trucks to see farther and react to objects sooner. In this session, a panel of industry experts will discuss how adaptive lidar is accelerating the rollout of key safety features needed for hub-to-hub autonomous trucking.

Unlocking Supply Chain Efficiencies Through Next Generation Freight Processing presented by Mastercard

Every business wants to do more with less in today’s turbulent economy. Opportunities to free up cash and reduce operational expenses may be hiding in plain sight. By digitally connecting all parties involved in freight transactions and leveraging technologies that enforce contractual business rules and deliver full transparency, buyers and service providers can cut waste and transform trading relationships. Join us as our panel of experts share their strategies for delivering the next generation of freight processing.

Closing the Automation Gap – Bringing Robots To Unautomated Warehouses presented by Dexterity

Currently, less than half of warehouse operators use robots in their operations. Cost, time to deploy and flexibility in applications have kept robots from reaching their full potential in supply chain operations. A new generation of game-changing robots will close the automation gap. What will it take to get these robots up to speed ? Join this session presented by Dexterity to learn how robots can be deployed faster, cheaper, and with greater capabilities than ever before.

The Future of Freight Is Agile Procurement presented by Uber Freight

After more than two years of volatility across the freight industry, shippers are finally seeing signs of stability. Freight rates are decreasing, capacity is expanding, and shipping demand is tapering off. While there is still some disruption (sparked by factors like driver shortages and fluctuating supply levels influenced by inflation) the new normal for shippers is no longer defined by a daily grind of having to react to an unpredictable freight market. In 2023, shippers have an opportunity to refine their supply chain operations so they’re well equipped to navigate any future disruption. It will be crucial to establish an agile procurement strategy – one that’s cost effective and unrestricted, and allows shippers to toggle their resources to address freight market issues (current and potential) impacting their network. In this session, executives from Uber Freight and shippers will share insights, reflections and predictions about the world of procurement in the modern era of logistics. Attendees will learn how procurement has evolved over the years and walk away with concrete strategies for embracing agile procurement strategies in 2023 and beyond.

Women’s Networking Lunch

This event is now over-booked.

Gartner research says that women in all supply chain roles dropped from 41% in 2021 to 39% in 2022, and at the most senior levels there was also a 2% drop. This is a worrisome trend in the opposite direction from previous years - where between 2016 and 2021 it rose from 35% to 41%. In their report “Diversity Wins” McKinsey & Company asserts that companies with greater gender diversity have higher likelihoods of positive financial performance. The report also asserts that the diverse perspectives of women can help challenge legacy-focused mindsets, embrace innovative automation technologies and adapt to shifting regulatory mandates and industry trends faster. Manifest's Women’s Lunch will welcome Katie Date who will discuss the importance of diversity in the supply chain and what she has learned talking to leaders of some of the largest supply chains in the world. Also joining the stage will be Alicemarie Geoffrion who was just named one of the Top 100 Women in Supply Chain by Supply Chain Digital, is a member of the World Economic Forum and will share her learnings.

No More Surprises: How a Marketplace Shines a Light on All Aspects of International Freight

Inventory and cost controls are top of mind for BCOs and importers for the first time since pre-Covid. Gone are the days of throwing money at capacity issues, but instead will be focused on weathering stagnation or a recession. FreightMango is one of the rare door-to-door ocean freight shipping solutions that puts control of shipping containerized freight directly in shippers and importers hands. With instant quotes, real-time-tracking, and accessorial cost controls management, we provide an end-to-end solution to get your freight from your manufacturer to your warehouse. So come see how you can easily book your shipments, control when you receive your freight, and at a cost that you can reliably expect to pay time-and-time again.

Recasting the Retail Store & the New Role of Logistics

In this session, Lincoln Cavalieri, CEO of Urbx will detail how stores are pivoting to micro-fulfillment spaces; and how real estate players & logistics players can optimize store locations, leverage store formats and embark on a new supply chain & network approach.

Orchestrating the Fragmented and Broken E-commerce Last-mile Market in Emerging Markets

In 2022 LatAm e-commerce was one of the fastest growing markets while shippers struggled to find the right last-mile partner to meet end-customer demands, where traditional carriers like DHL, UPS, or FedEx are non-existent. With 60% of the last-mile delivery market delivered by small and informal last-mile providers that lack technology, there is a big technological gap to be fulfilled. Meet Treggo! Treggo orchestrates the last-mile enabling shippers to connect with existing local providers powered by Treggo’s software and provide reliable local same-day deliveries. What if Treggo democratizes technology to thousand of local last-mile providers and can build the biggest network in the region? Join Treggo to find out.

Humanitarian Logistics

Unfortunately, global issues from pandemics to conflicts have become more prevalent in recent years, placing pressure on governments and humanitarian relief groups to develop adequate tools to ensure effective disaster response. Given the rise of technological advancements in the logistics industry, many changes are occuring in the handling of humanitarian logistics and the overall supply chain process. One of these changes is unprecedented levels of air movements in humanitarian logistics. Logistics is being handled differently today than it was ten years ago, and attendees will get to hear from members of this panel who represent non-profits and logistics companies that are handling supply chain with a purpose, ensuring the movement of essential goods no matter the volume is done as timely as possible.

Drone Deliveries

You don't want to miss joining the innovators and leaders that are making news for their efforts in testing, implementing and completing drone deliveries! From one of the largest drone delivery testing sites in the world to certain products already being delivered using drones in the States and abroad (ice cream that no longer arrives a melted mess), it's all being accounted for on this panel! None of the innovative work our speakers have done up until now would have happened without solid infrastructure and regulation supporting them. They will join the stage to address the current state of drone technology from development, availability and cost to implementation, integration and scalability.

Innovation From the Yard to the 4 Walls

Automated trailer unloading, AI Robotics, patented storage structures, robotics shuttles and autonomous yard truck solutions... why do these technologies exist? Put simply, consumer behavior has changed rapidly with historic rises in demand for online orders, next-day or same-day fulfillment and delivery. The problem is, existing supply chains are woefully inadequate making it very difficult to fulfill orders effectively. The need to optimize workflows, increase productivity and streamline operations has never been more important. Join our panelists - pioneers of warehouse & yard technologies - as they share the real-world impact they are helping achieve with retailers and 3PLs alike.

Tech Savvy Fulfillment for Tech Savvy Customers

Remember a few years ago when certain retailers (who shall not be named) were offering in-home delivery services? Delivery person arrives to your front door, has an access code to enter your home and then is able to leave your groceries inside the fridge while you are away. Then there was trunk delivery, curbside pickup and the list goes on and on. Many of these offerings are still here to this day, and retailers are getting more creative! But the question is why? And are some of these offerings even necessary? Which ones are a must and which ones are "nice to haves"? This session will analyze today's customer, and why so many offerings are indeed necessary for customers that are far more versatile and technologically sound than years prior!

Digital Networking: Building Online Freight Forwarder Partnerships

Hundreds of thousands of freight forwarders around the world search daily for other freight forwarder partners in other countries to be able to transport their cargo. On Parnity, freight forwarders can find partners worldwide, manage partnerships, communicate, evaluate, and have access to thousands of deals in an exclusive marketplace. Parnity will soon offer freight forwarders access to payment, insurance, and credit solutions to facilitate partnerships.

Human-Free Trade

OpenEnvoy CEO Matthew Tillman reviews the impact AI is having on trade by helping large enterprises reduce headcount and increase cash flow. The cost to train and deploy complex neural networks has fallen dramatically. Legacy solutions transferred work through workflow or robotic process automation, both of which are dependent on human labor. Modern solutions will eliminate work entirely and create a sustainable global supply chain free from human error.

Cyber Threats – Navigating Challenges We Face as an Ecosystem

Gartner predicts 45% of organizations by 2025 worldwide will have experienced attacks on their software supply chains. In a new era of digital supply chains, there are several moving parts - from external vendors and suppliers to shippers, 3PLs and more. Critical infrastructures now operate in a digital environment that is internet accessible which makes it easy to compromise. Becoming more cyber secure, managing risks in real time, running scans to ensure infrastracture is airtight and centralising security whenever possible is going to continue being key for all parties involved in the supply chain space. This panel will address what it takes for you and your partners to navigate cybersecurity threats together.

Safe & Compliant Trucking

On the road again, just can't wait to get on the road again! Ensuring fair compensation, flexible hours, unique benefits and safe working environments are all key factors to differentiate yourself in today's volatile trucking market. But of course, it's easier said than done! Which is why there are technologies out there to help companies hit delivery metrics while maintaining real - time visibility and navigating complex compliance issues. The panelists on this session will educate attendees about the state of trucking, drivers and how technology is helping achieve a competitive advantage.

Scaling Shipping Offerings With Technology

In 2021, retail e-commerce sales amounted to approximately 5.2 trillion U.S. dollars worldwide, and this figure is forecasted to reach about 8.1 trillion dollars by 2026. Consumer preferences have evolved drastically since 2020, and shippers have to not only reach consumers whenever and wherever they want - they have to do it in a cost efficient manner. This session will highlight the technologies, partnerships and strategies that are helping transform the way goods are reaching the end consumer.

Cross Border Logistics – Where is it Now and Where Are We Headed?

An all-in-one digital platform for cross border trade, a platform for trusted networks on a shared source and... cargo drones?! Yes, it's all here, helping reshape cross border and logistics operations no matter the region or market. Attendees will get to hear from a variety of technology leaders as they discuss key issues such as how to enable compliant trade at the speed ecommerce, what you can do to ensure cross border logistics move smoothly and the impact that pricing has had on trade.

How AI-powered Robotics Empower People To Handle More

In this session, Jeff Mahler, CTO & Co-Founder of Ambi Robotics will discuss how AI-powered robots empower people to handle more in the warehouse and logistics industry. He will explain how solutions from Ambi Robotics automate repetitive and physically demanding tasks, freeing workers to focus on more challenging and interesting aspects of their jobs, made possible by a combination of Sim2Real technology and the interplay of mechanical components that handle a myriad of complicated tasks. He will also discuss the benefits of AI-powered robotics for the end-consumer, including faster and more reliable delivery, improved product quality and safety, and lower prices. Through real-life examples and data, Jim will demonstrate the value of AI-powered robotics, and will show why they are the future of the logistics industry.

Unparalleled Supply Chain Visibility & Value – The Power of Blume Maps

If ongoing supply chain disruptions taught leaders anything, it’s the need to utilize visibility and execution through the power of logistics technology solutions. Blume Global’s flagship product, Blume Maps, continues to provide customers with a unique set of services that go far beyond standard track and trace. The power of our patented technology—bringing together schedule intelligence, route intelligence, and location intelligence into one platform—along with our unrivaled network enable shippers to experience the Blume difference across every move, every mode, and every mile.

Maximizing Win Rate and Protecting Margins With Dynamic Freight Pricing

It's time to say goodbye to traditional pricing methods that contain backward-looking data and averages with extreme outliers. Greenscreens.ai supports brokers in an ever-changing market to accurately quote based on what is happening today, not last week. By leveraging aggregated market data and an organization's historical data with AI and Machine learning techniques, Greenscreens.ai predicts real-time rates tailored specifically to an organization's buy and sell power.

Airports & Air Cargo

Flying the (maybe) friendly skies! During the peak of COVID in 2020, air cargo volumes reached record levels and though they have declined drastically since then, demand is still 9% above pre-crisis levels according to IATA. The need to ship cargo quickly is primarily driven by customer expectations and the need to send items to their destinations ASAP but the main issue is that the air freight industry lags in digitization capabilities and ease of operations for air freight forwarders. Digitalization of air cargo is now changing the role of forwarders and we're seeing new innovations even at airports - from drones and AVs to hydrogen trucking. Join us for a discussion centered around what is happening at an airport or air cargo location near you.

Navigating Regulatory, Labor, Supply Chain and Transportation Hurdles; What is the Post Pandemic Outlook?

A world where driver shortages aren't an issue, labor challenges are non existent and fully autonomous trucks are on the road.. imagine that?! Though wins are wins, and the industry has developed by leaps and bounds when it comes to navigating hurdles, collaboration between stakeholders and new strategies are still lagging behind. This panel will explore the current regulatory environment across the supply chain ecosystem - and how industry players are developing new strategies and working in unison with the public sector.

From Process to Technology – Enabling Seamless & Efficient Logistics

Thanks to a plethora of startups - supply chain and logistics operations are being elevated to new heights. The use cases are endless - blockchain in document and data processes, software for efficient utilization of assets and more. Finding, testing and scaling these technologies can be a challenge for shippers and investors alike due to an overly saturated and fragmented market. Hear from technology leaders and investors who will address how the technology and venture world are evolving for a bright future.

Circular Economy

Companies are under pressure from investors, customers, and regulators to reduce their carbon footprint and become more sustainable. As a result, retailers and technology leaders are making a concerted effort to make the supply chain circular. This panel features some of those circular players, who are navigating the cost of logistics coupled with rethinking their last mile and product offerings to achieve true circularity. Don't miss it if you'd like to learn what they care about most, and what advice they would have for other corporations seeking the same goals.