The DHL Logistics Trend Radar is published every two years, analyzing the most significant social, economic, and technological trends impacting the logistics industry. This year’s edition examines 40 key trends expected to influence global logistics over the next decade.
The report highlights the growing role of AI in logistics, with its full potential yet to be realized. Concepts like Generative AI, AI Ethics, Audio AI, Computer Vision, and Advanced Analytics are becoming increasingly prevalent, fundamentally transforming logistics processes.
“The pace of change in logistics continues to accelerate. In addition to the exciting possibilities AI offers as a driver of innovation and efficiency, the sustainability and resilience of supply chains will remain top strategic priorities for our customers,” says Klaus Dohrmann, Vice President and Head of Innovation and Trend Research at DHL Customer Solutions & Innovation.
AI’s ability to generate and analyze valuable data can, for instance, further enhance route planning and optimize inventory levels. Speech and voice recognition improve human-computer interaction, such as automatic translations. AI analysis of human or vehicle movements can also boost security in areas like warehouses, according to the report’s authors.
With the rise of AI, AI ethics is becoming a critical topic in public discourse. The report addresses the ethical implications of AI, emphasizing the importance of data protection and trustworthiness of algorithms, particularly in areas like route optimization. Ensuring security, fairness, and transparency in supply chain operations and the use of AI platforms is essential.
The legal framework will also need to adapt. The report predicts that the logistics industry will face increased regulatory scrutiny regarding AI ethics over the next five years.
Meanwhile, trends like robotics remain significant, while technologies such as blockchain, drones, and 3D printing are expected to gain wider adoption in five to ten years.
In the area of sustainability, the report highlights two key trends: renewable energy and sustainable fuel infrastructure. It underscores the growing need for renewable energy and the electrification of vehicles, noting that the biggest challenges lie in the lack of appropriate infrastructure and efficient energy management.
The report also sees great potential in Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, which enables bidirectional charging, allowing energy from electric vehicle batteries to be fed back into the power grid.
In the medium term, the report points to the increasing importance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) advocacy and the circular economy.
Among the social factors influencing supply chain management, the report specifically addresses the aging population. By 2030, the number of people over 60 years old worldwide is expected to rise to 1.4 billion. As a result, logistics must address the “silver economy” and the unique needs of older individuals. This includes the implementation of support and service technologies to assist older workers in physically and mentally demanding jobs.