The 2025 NextGen Supply Chain Conference, scheduled for October 22-24 at the W Hotel in Nashville, promises to reveal how artificial intelligence is transforming logistics when powerful computing meets the nerve endings of supply chains. This premier event will bring together industry leaders including RXO, Uber Freight, and C.H. Robinson to examine how AI, automation, and data-driven strategies are reshaping the logistics landscape.
Conference Highlights: Logistics Takes Center Stage
The carefully curated program features multiple thematic sessions, with logistics emerging as one of the most anticipated tracks. More than 50 senior executives and thought leaders from various industries will share insights on supply chain strategy and optimization. Beyond logistics, the conference will cover consumer goods, life sciences, food and beverage, along with general supply chain strategy and optimization.
Uber Freight: AI-Powered Logistics Transformation
The logistics session will commence with a keynote by Val Marchevsky, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Uber Freight, who will explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing logistics planning, execution, and cost control. In today's rapidly evolving business environment, companies face unprecedented challenges including rising transportation costs, increasingly complex supply chain networks, and growing demands for efficiency and transparency.
AI is providing disruptive solutions through machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision technologies that optimize transportation routes, predict demand fluctuations, automate warehouse operations, and enhance decision-making efficiency. Uber Freight, as an industry innovator, has been actively exploring AI applications in logistics. Marchevsky's presentation will share the company's latest practices and experiences in this field.
Industry Leaders Gather to Shape Logistics' Future
The conference will feature prominent logistics companies sharing strategies for navigating freight rate volatility, expanding warehouse networks, and delivering measurable results:
- RXO: The asset-light transportation platform will demonstrate how technology helps clients reduce costs and improve efficiency amid fluctuating freight rates.
- C.H. Robinson: The global 3PL leader will reveal strategies for maintaining market leadership and delivering exceptional service in a competitive environment.
- GEODIS: The end-to-end logistics provider will showcase digital solutions enhancing supply chain transparency and efficiency.
- Kenco: The 3PL specialist will present automation approaches addressing labor shortages and e-commerce growth in warehouse operations.
- Sysco: The food service distributor will explain its rigorous quality control systems ensuring food safety throughout its vast supply network.
- GreyOrange: The warehouse automation provider will demonstrate solutions boosting efficiency and throughput in e-commerce fulfillment.
Challenges and Opportunities in Modern Logistics
The logistics sector faces both unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Global economic uncertainty, trade tensions, and volatile freight rates coincide with e-commerce expansion and growing demand for personalized services. Additional pressures come from labor shortages, environmental regulations, and rapid technological change.
To address these challenges, logistics companies must embrace new technologies, optimize operations, enhance service quality, and strengthen partner collaboration. Key strategies include:
- Implementing AI and machine learning for route optimization, demand forecasting, warehouse automation, and decision-making
- Adopting IoT for real-time shipment tracking and supply chain visibility
- Utilizing blockchain for enhanced security and efficiency
- Leveraging cloud computing for IT infrastructure flexibility
- Building collaborative supply chain ecosystems
- Investing in workforce development and skills training
The 2025 NextGen Supply Chain Conference offers attendees a unique opportunity to engage with industry leaders, discover emerging technologies and best practices, and collectively shape the future of logistics. This gathering promises valuable insights for navigating market challenges and securing competitive advantage in an evolving industry landscape.