AI, Automation, and Digital Transformation Take Center Stage

Manifest 2025 was a hub for the latest advancements in supply chain and logistics technology, drawing over 6,000 attendees—more than 50% growth from last year. The event highlighted the major trends shaping the industry, from the rise of AI-powered solutions to the evolving landscape of global trade.

Capstone Logistics was on-site, engaging with industry leaders and exploring how these innovations can drive better results for our partners. Here are our key takeaways:

Artificial intelligence dominated discussions, but the focus has shifted from theoretical potential to real-world use cases. AI is no longer just a buzzword; companies are implementing AI-driven solutions across warehousing, transportation, and inventory management to improve efficiency and decision-making.

• AI-powered camera technology for inventory management and inbound receiving is gaining traction, helping warehouses enhance visibility and reduce errors.
• AI agents are being explored to optimize dispatching and customer service, reducing manual workload and improving responsiveness.
• The affordability of AI-driven automation is improving, and adoption rates will likely accelerate over the next 24 months.

For logistics providers, the challenge is not just keeping up with AI innovation but identifying the right partners who can deliver tangible value. As one speaker noted, if a startup doesn’t “knock your socks off,” it may not be the right partner.

The cost of robotics and warehouse automation is decreasing, making these solutions viable for a broader range of businesses. Over the next three years, automation will shift from being a luxury to an industry standard.

• Warehouse robotics will help companies scale efficiently and mitigate labor shortages—as long as companies maintain expert oversight of automation systems.
• IoT sensors and digitization are key to improving asset tracking, demand forecasting, and operational efficiency.
• The cybersecurity risks associated with digital transformation are rising, making supply chain security a growing priority—especially in light of recent ransomware attacks like the one on Blue Yonder.

At Capstone, we work with countless automation solutions, and have helped our partners with smart integration of automation solutions without disrupting their existing infrastructure.

Tariffs and shifting trade policies were another major focus. While there’s growing momentum toward regionalized supply chains, experts emphasized that global manufacturing networks won’t be untangled overnight.

• Different regions are reacting differently to trade policy shifts, making adaptability key for supply chain managers.
• Nearshoring and localization of fulfillment—moving inventory closer to the customer—is a priority, especially in eCommerce and direct-to-consumer models.
• Each-based and case-based fulfillment are gaining traction, moving beyond traditional pallet-based systems.

For logistics providers, this reinforces the need for flexible and responsive supply chain strategies to navigate the evolving trade landscape.

Despite the rise of automation and AI, strong relationships remain critical. The best supply chains are built on trust, strategic alignment, and shared long-term vision.

• Manifest provided opportunities to connect with existing and potential partners, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in an increasingly tech-driven industry.
• Companies that successfully blend human expertise with technology will have the competitive edge.

At Capstone, we believe technology should enhance—not replace—strategic partnerships and human expertise.

The next major disruption may not be a pandemic, but supply chain volatility is inevitable. Companies that proactively integrate AI, automation, and digital visibility tools will be better positioned to adapt quickly and mitigate risk.

• The industry is focusing on resilience strategies—ensuring supply chains are flexible enough to withstand unexpected disruptions.
• Harnessing real-time data and predictive analytics will be critical to decision-making in uncertain environments.

Manifest 2025 reminds us that while technology is the enabler, execution is what truly sets companies apart.

🤖 AI, ⚙️ automation, and 💻 digitalization are driving the next evolution of supply chain management. Companies that embrace strategic partnerships, adaptability, and data-driven decision-making will lead the way.

At Capstone, we’re dedicated to transforming these innovations into real value—helping our partners optimize performance, reduce costs, and navigate an ever-changing logistics landscape.

Curious about how Capstone can future-proof your supply chain? Let’s connect.

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