On October 17, 2023, we hosted Mr. Jonathan Dawley, the President and CEO of KION North America Corporation, the world's second-largest manufacturer of forklifts, for an engaging and insightful discussion on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation on global logistics.
For nearly a century, logistics and material handling have revolved around the unchanging presence of forklifts as the fundamental tools for moving goods. Many companies adhered to conventional material movement practices, emphasizing simplicity and tradition. Today, a dynamic shift in manufacturing and distribution compels firms to reevaluate their reliance on manual labor, seeking automated solutions. The scarcity of skilled labor, coupled with the pursuit of unmatched consistency and efficiency, drives this evolution.
This transformation transcends mechanical boundaries, shaping logistics into a fusion of software and advanced tech. As automation and AI infiltrate the logistics sector, warehouse operations undergo a revolutionary overhaul. Looking ahead to 2040, automation and AI will undoubtedly centralize warehouse operations.