Agenda

Combining tried and tested with new ideas, encouraging continuity with innovation, creating networks across company boundaries and value chains - despite geopolitical upheavals, national and ideologically influenced egoisms and (I can't stand hearing it anymore:) multi-crises. The current economic situation, the business climate and above all business expectations are once again cautious - across the board for both suppliers and consumers of logistics services. Do we dare to restart? Can we prove the connection between economic development and psychology?

Globalization and open markets have lifted billions out of absolute poverty and increased prosperity worldwide. However, geopolitical conflicts, trade restrictions and climate change are causing headwind for globalization. How will these factors shape global trade in the years to come? And what measures can logistics take to respond effectively to the challenges ahead?

Maximum productivity in the e-commerce business - especially behind the scenes, where a 3rd party system moves between ERP/host specifications and WMS reservation logics. Various data sources must be queried and classified using algorithms and AI to optimize routes, process loads and material flow control. A “Digital Twin Intralogistics” is created through simulation based on historical real data in comparison with the results of various algorithms and routines. This allows optimal solutions to be found using transparent data and know-how from operations.

Learning never ends. If you don't live this, you get rid of yourself – regardless of level. How do we create an environment in which challenges are seen as an opportunity to learn and grow? This session shows how companies can promote the willingness of their employees to learn at all levels. Especially in times of AI, continuous learning is essential. Learn how to create a culture of lifelong learning that motivates employees, maximizes the potential of everyone, and thus makes organizations more resilient.

Switching to alternative drive systems in the freight transport sector is the key to decarbonisation. However, the market availability of the technologies and the availability of the necessary infrastructure and energy sources stand in the way of decarbonisation goals and EU initiatives such as ‘Fit for 55’. For the carriers, the switch to alternative drive systems and energy sources is a drastic organisational and financial transformation and the composition of a sustainable fleet has never been so complex. The session offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of the discussion and highlights the perspectives of all relevant stakeholders to derive specific recommendations for action for the industry.

The Forum Spare Parts Logistics (FEL) provides an annual platform for dialogue in spare parts and aftersales logistics. This year, it will take place for the first time as part of the opening day of BVL Supply Chain CX. The focus will be on specialist presentations and discussions on current challenges for sustainable and resilient spare parts logistics and after sales management, as geopolitical challenges and the pursuit of increasingly sustainable logistics have led to a change in the global supply chain ecosystem in recent years. The Track FEL also has its own expo, as well as plenty of space for networking and dialogue with experts from spare parts and after-sales management. 

The logistics landscape has evolved significantly. Today, merely establishing a resilient supply chain network and running efficient logistics operations is no longer sufficient. Global companies with complex production and distribution networks must adopt a holistic approach, integrating design, production, and logistics functions to meet market demands effectively.

In our masterclass, follow the journey of a component from its creation in the product design phase, through production planning, transportation management and intralogistics, to its installation on the assembly line. Find out how AI-supported digital solutions enable robust and sustainable processes along your entire value chain.

Open innovation, the name says it all - opening the doors of your own company to others to develop solutions together based on a problem or idea and thus promote innovation in logistics.

The whole thing can take place in different forms, one of which is the Boostcamp organised by the Digital Hub in Hamburg. We want to take you with us and show you success stories from the past few years of how corporates or start-ups have cooperated and how great innovations can be created in just 3.5 days.

Moderated networking in small groups at our CX-Connect-Tables! On Wednesday and Thursday, participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussions on specific topics at over 20 themed tables, each usually hosting around eight people. The Connect Tables are facilitated by selected "Table Captains," who prepare the topics, moderate the discussions, and ensure everyone is involved. 

Participation is available with all ticket categories of the CX. However, spaces are limited. Therefore, please register in advance through the event app (available from October 12) to secure a spot at a Connect Table. 

Do you have an exciting topic and are you knowledgeable about it? Have you already purchased your CX ticket and would like to bring together other participants to discuss this topic? Then you, too, can become a Table Captain! We look forward to hearing from you at inhalte-wissen@bvl.de! 

Here are the benefits of the Connect Table format for you:  

• Networking, meeting new people, and exchanging expertise with like-minded individuals 
• Exclusive content and insights on relevant industry topics  
• Intensive discussions in small groups  
• No parallel main program in the congress area 

LOXXESS lives the generational conflict - in a positive sense. Cross-generational work, lifelong learning and the needs of different phases of life have a place at LOXXESS. Even before such buzzwords as "Gen Z", "labor shortage" or "new work" dominated the media landscape, the family-owned company was already focusing on the next generations and the development of young talents. As part of the ongoing strategy process, the contract logistics service provider is now implementing new ideas and tools to inspire the next generations in particular - but not only - for their own company and logistics.

Together with the NEXXT Gen Board, Ingo Brauckmann, CEO, sheds light on how LOXXESS is creating a long-term working environment in which all generations benefit from each other.

RIO offers an innovative supplier and carrier integration solution that helps companies manage their supply chains more efficiently. Our proven platform has been running successfully at major OEMs for years and already integrates several thousand suppliers and carriers.
Why RIO? Our platform enables simple and fast digital integration of your business partners, reduces IT effort and accelerates implementations. RIO integrates order processes with suppliers and order processes with carriers directly, which reduces effort and increases security of supply.

How can (young) people be attracted to a job in logistics? How can recruiting succeed in times of a shortage of skilled labour? And how can companies make their employer brand shine? Since 2019, the “Wirtschaftsmacher” have been working with around 100 participants to promote a better image of logistics. In the session, three companies will present their HR marketing activities, provide exciting insights from the world of recruiting and report on their experiences in the highly competitive market for top talent. 

How can an organization be structured in such a way that it – and thus the people in it – act flexibly, creatively, innovatively, and passionately? How can the balancing act between strengthening the existing business model and opening new business areas be achieved? Flat hierarchies and cross-functional teams are just two exemplary keys to direct communication and quick decisions. A "modern leadership" with more responsibility and freedom for employees promotes motivation and solidarity.  From this top-class panel, you will take away practical examples of how to reduce bureaucracy and other measures to strengthen your organization and build real resilience.

Join Alpega’s top experts for an insightful panel on integrating SAP ERP with Alpega TMS via SAP Fusion. Discover how Alpega TMS combines SAP R3, ECC or S/4HANA, delivering benefits to your business while minimizing impact on IT resources. With Alpega TMS and SAP Fusion, your business will have a TMS in place whether you use SAP R3, ECC or migrate to S/4HANA. This way, you can avoid operational disruptions to your business during your S/4HANA migration. Learn how this powerful integration automates processes, optimizes planning, drives significant cost reductions, and improves service levels. This session will provide valuable insights into technical and strategic benefits, showcasing how businesses can transform their transport management and maintain a competitive edge.

The Forum Spare Parts Logistics (FEL) provides an annual platform for dialogue in spare parts and aftersales logistics. This year, it will take place for the first time as part of the opening day of BVL Supply Chain CX. The focus will be on specialist presentations and discussions on current challenges for sustainable and resilient spare parts logistics and after sales management, as geopolitical challenges and the pursuit of increasingly sustainable logistics have led to a change in the global supply chain ecosystem in recent years. The Track FEL also has its own expo, as well as plenty of space for networking and dialogue with experts from spare parts and after-sales management. 

Experience an engaging panel discussion on the circular economy and the challenges of global supply chains. The discussion will cover the growing necessity and the pressures from politics, markets, and consumers. The participants will focus on the current state of research, the role of logistics, and ongoing projects supporting the circular economy. In addition, the experts from industry, research, and logistics will highlight different aspects and answer pressing questions. What will the circular economy look like in 2030 in industry, trade, and logistics? Join us to learn how sustainable practices can help secure the future and take away some valuable insights.

Discover how RAIN can help you transform your freight forwarding business for the future in just a few months. Our RAIN DANCE data platform enables you to automate your processes and scale your business at zero marginal cost - without the high risks and costs of traditional IT projects. With RAIN DANCE you can generate new value from your existing data: enriched by additional data sources, data quality is fundamentally improved. This makes new applications, products and services possible, enabling significant productivity gains for your existing business. In addition, you can open up new sources of revenue with services for your customers' supply chain management and create truly differentiating competitive advantages with the help of AI.

In today's companies and offices, four, sometimes even five generations work side by side, each with their own experiences and perspectives: one workforce, many worlds, different values. This diversity poses challenges, but offers also opportunities. The session focuses on the relationship between Baby Boomers and Generation Z. We do not want to serve general traditional roles or clichés, but rather explore together the potential and benefits of intergenerational exchange and cooperation in the workplace. Let's learn from each other and grow together. Let's Talk! 

The finalists selected by the jury get to the heart of the matter – they present their work in short pitches. After the pitches, the finalists will answer the questions of the Jury, whose members finally decide on the award winner of 2024.

You can find out more about the Science Award for Supply Chain Management here: https://www.bvl.de/en/sascm

It's unrealistic to expect a human to access endless scenarios within their supply chain and then analyze those scenarios to make an informed decision on how to drive greater revenues and profits for their business.

In this Masterclass, Blue Yonder’s Field CTO, Gabriel Werner will describe how generative AI can be used as an orchestrator to elevate supply chain roles. Enabling your teams to harness infinite intelligence to make swift, data-driven decisions — ultimately resulting in better customer experiences and greater revenues/profits.

Check out this session to understand how Blue Yonder is working collaboratively with our customers to build out specific end-user AI agents for key supply chain roles. Designed to understand the key issues and challenges they are facing today and how AI can help to solve them.

Focusing on Warehouse Manager, Transportation Planning, Supply Planning, Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management roles, find out how you can take advantage of generative AI, to unlock productivity.

How is sustainability changing supply chains? How can traditional supply chain models be adapted, innovative and sustainable solutions integrated at the same time? The transformation of supply chains affects all players in the market - industry, suppliers, logistics service providers, retailers - and will be felt even more intensely in the coming years.

Product changes, new sourcing structures, innovative business models and new logistics tasks are just a few examples of the factors driving change in supply chains. A lack of willingness to adapt can have considerable consequences.

Learn from the experts how they deal with these challenges and receive practical tips on how you can make your supply chains future-proof and sustainable.

It is difficult to keep up with the speed of technological developments in the field of artificial intelligence. The high hopes we have placed in this technology are facing enormous hurdles. A certain disillusionment is setting in, caused by regulatory requirements, culture, but also simply the fear of the unknown. How can organisations succeed in turning these challenges into opportunities? How must AI be strategically anchored in the company? How can management succeed in driving the necessary cultural change, setting up the organisation correctly and adapting processes to the new speed? We invite you to discuss these questions together.

Which skills, traits and qualifications are necessary to become a successful Supply Chain leader? How can you prepare yourselves for leadership in a rapidly changing business environment facing one crisis after another? Join us as we explore the essential competencies, educational pathways and appropriate strategies required to become an ambitious logistics executive. Let's engage in a dialogue with proven experts sharing knowledge, expertise and advice that will empower you to chart your course or that of your junior executives towards successful leadership in Supply Chain Management and Logistics.

In a world where efficiency, speed and resilience are key competitive factors, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the supply chain represents a revolutionary opportunity to rethink operational processes and take them to a higher level.
Our presentation aims to open up new perspectives and look at specific case studies that illustrate the transformative power of AI.
"built to win“ – „built for you”

Logistics and Supply Chain Management are an attractive professional field. But the industry still faces an unprecedented challenge in the battle for specialists and junior staff. 

What are the keys to overcoming the bottleneck? Employer branding has long since functioned as a strategic instrument for strengthening one's own employer brand. Does industry knowledge still have top priority? Isn't it more about key qualifications? We will tell you how to fill your vacant positions in the future in this panel of experts, who also dare to think outside the box.

The decision between make or buy is of strategic importance in spare parts logistics. In-house logistics offers control, flexibility and fast response times, but requires high fixed costs and investment in infrastructure and personnel. Outsourcing enables cost efficiency, scalability and access to specialised expertise, but carries risks such as dependence on service providers and loss of direct control. In this session, the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches are analysed, practical examples of successful strategies are presented and decision-making criteria such as costs, service quality and flexibility are discussed. Legal and contractual aspects will also be analysed.

Tried-and-tested elements also find their place at the BVL Supply Chain CX: Once again this year, the German Award for Supply Chain Management will be presented. For many years, the award winner has been selected by an independent and expert jury chaired by Dr. Ursula Weidenfeld. The prestigious award honors unique and innovative solutions in supply chain management. From a large and diverse pool of applicants, the jury has selected four finalists. After an intensive on-site audit, they will finally be presented in Berlin. Look forward to an exciting award ceremony that recognizes and celebrates outstanding achievements in supply chains. As a congress attendee, you will be there live when this year's winner is announced! 

By the way, as part of a "Schulterblick" the winning project will be presented in a dedicated event. 

A new highlight of the program, exclusively for congress attendees. This event offers a unique opportunity, especially for top executives and corporate leaders, to make valuable connections. Immediately following the awards ceremony for the German Award for Supply Chain Management 2024, you will have the chance to meet with other leading figures in supply chain and logistics. 

The Networking Night provides exactly what other events are missing: networking in a relaxed atmosphere, among high-caliber participants, and in the pleasant setting of a lounge. 

The fascination with AI remains unbroken, but what concrete opportunities does this technology actually offer? What steps are required for implementation in companies? Can AI enable value creation in other areas in addition to digital business models? In this keynote speech, Prof Dr Antonio Krüger not only provides a fundamental classification of AI in an economic and social context, but also answers these key questions. 

The ESG goals have been in place for a long time. Many companies have their own sustainability strategy and are showing their willingness to go green. But the path from strategy to implementation is not easy. Are the obstacles just the hard factors such as profitability or is it also down to a change in behaviour? At all levels - from management to the shop floor. 

In this Real-Talk, the common showstoppers will be discussed and how gamification can be a playful way to sustainability success. Be inspired and take part in this interactive session. 

Todays and future supply chains are regarded as brittle, anxious, non-linear and incomprehensible. As supply chain professionals we are optimizing supply chains for cost effectiveness, performance improvements, sustainability and - pushed by the conditions above - agility. For that we must take action and it is necessary to apply a new way of thinking. From scalability, control, clear interfaces, segmentation and heuristics to the design of alternatives, visibility, concurrency, end-to-end and AI. Supply chain software providers are a major source of innovation. We will hear about his view on the future of supply chain management from John Sicard, CEO of Kinaxis. He and Arne Flemming, CSCO of Bosch, will exchange on the topic together with Kai Althoff, CEO of 4flow. 

This session is set to answer some important questions about keeping organizations on track during disruptive change and transformation. We'll also explore how to navigate the tension between the "tried and tested" and the "unpredictable" aspects of change.

Plus, we'll dive into what to do when the current business requires full concentration, but change is needed to stay competitive.

Here you can get best practice to take away! Listen to short presentations on great ideas or projects that have made a big difference in the company. And you can take part in deciding who presents here. First we collect ideas, then we vote.

1. AutoStore High Throughput Solutions
Customers from many industries benefit from AutoStore™ due to its density and flexibility combined with high scalability. Today, AutoStore™ is used in the order fulfillment of various logistics processes with particularly high throughput requirements. In this presentation at SCX, we will explain how AutoStore™ enables high throughput requirements and positions itself in the "High Performance" segment.

2. The basis for AI-driven process optimization of tomorrow: Valid real-time data (RTLS) in the warehouse!
From production to management: An increasing number of areas are being optimized by AI tools. The quality of the database is always crucial and has a significant impact on the results. Learn in Dr. Martin Welp's exciting pitch how valid real-time data (RTLS) from today's warehouse forms the basis for successful AI solutions of tomorrow. Technologies such as the Warehouse Execution System already enable the exact digital tracking and management of all goods movements in the warehouse and thus enable efficient and future-proof process planning. This innovation is suitable for all manufacturing industries and provides the essential data basis for AI-controlled optimization. Discover the benefits for your warehouse logistics!

1. ChatGPT & Beyond
Discover how large logistics companies in Europe are achieving over 30% efficiency improvements in customer service and sales using AI. Through real-world case studies, we'll demonstrate how these results can be achieved in just a few weeks, with AI solutions tailored to individual business needs. Learn how to address privacy and data protection concerns while integrating AI into your operations. This presentation is for logistics professionals aiming to leverage AI for rapid and significant operational gains.

2. AI in Spare Parts Management: Behind the Technology
Torsten Gruenzig, Sparrow's VP of Sales, will discuss the technology behind AI in spare parts management. His presentation will cover the use of computer vision to extract information from shipping or product labels, data analysis techniques, and effective AI strategies for managing spare parts demand. He will also highlight industries that are currently using AI for spare parts management and specific use cases addressed by their proprietary technology, Sparrow.

As a manager, how can you act systemically, shape teams, make attractive offers and inspire people for your company?
How can you also act in such a way that your existing employees are motivated and take responsibility for their own actions and thus also act as brand ambassadors? Two experienced coaches make ‘systemic leadership’ a direct experience: as a dialogue process with the participants on an interactively developed core issue on stage and then as a continuation for interested parties as part of an interactive workshop.
There you will have the opportunity to work with the experts and other managers in medias res on your currently relevant questions on the focussed core issue and to engage in a helpful collegial exchange.

Certainly, adapting to changing markets is crucial for logistics service providers. Here we discuss successful strategies for navigating the future:

• Digital Transformation: Embrace technology to optimize processes, enhance visibility, and improve customer experiences. Implement robust supply chain management systems, track-and-trace solutions, and predictive analytics.
• Sustainability: Address environmental concerns by adopting eco-friendly practices. Explore electric vehicles, alternative fuels, and efficient route planning to reduce emissions. Customers increasingly value sustainability, so it’s a competitive advantage.
• Collaboration: Partner with other logistics providers, e-commerce platforms, and manufacturers. Collaborative networks can optimize resources, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Supply Chain Resilience: Build robust supply chains that can withstand disruptions. Diversify suppliers, maintain safety stock, and have contingency plans in place.

Remember: Agility, innovation, and customer-centricity are key to thriving in the ever-evolving logistics landscape!

We all know that overcoming crises makes organizations more resilient. But why is it that some organizations manage change sustainably whilst others fail? Well, the good news is that transformation “health” can be learnt. So how can we encourage our employees to embrace change and continuously evolve to meet the speed and complexity they are confronted with in this ever-changing world?

In today's dynamic business environment, resilience and agility are pivotal for driving business performance. Discover how leading companies manage their complex supply chains amidst mounting challenges. In a cross-industry approach, we discuss suitable measures and successful solutions to effectively and efficiently steer supply chains. Explore strategies for transforming manufacturing processes while concurrently redesigning logistics, all while maintaining required performance towards customers. Learn how implementing necessary transparency allows for instantaneous decision-making supported by real-time simulation, prediction and optimization. Let's navigate the path to resilience in supply chain management together.

Discover with us the world of AI-supported processing of orders, invoices, freight documents and delivery notes. Learn how AI technologies not only improve efficiency, but also achieve measurable ROI by automating complex processes and eliminating sources of error. We will show you how AI systems seamlessly integrate with document management systems (DMS) and other logistics software to efficiently process logistics documents and reduce costs. Through real-world examples, we will illustrate the transformative power of AI to reliably put your document processing on autopilot.

Even when the initial hurdles of implementing an AI strategy are overcome, executing AI projects is far from trivial. The high expectations surrounding this 'universal technology' are often followed by disillusionment during implementation. But where does AI truly unleash its full potential? Which use cases create genuine added value, and which only lead to additional effort? Can AI-based products and applications be monetized, and how do you even sell AI? Using concrete use cases in intralogistics, we will delve into the world of AI and discuss practical solutions that enable real value creation. 

The world of sustainability regulations is changing. New reporting obligations and standards bring challenges, but also opportunities. Early and strategic implementation can create competitive advantages. However, a structured approach is required to utilise the potential:

• Gain clarity: Understand relevant regulations.
• Evaluate effort: Estimate cost and resource requirements.
• Leverage sustainability activities: Highlight existing initiatives.
• Develop new business areas: Develop offerings such as supplier scouting or sustainability consulting.

Companies can minimize risks and open up new opportunities by acting proactively. At the same time, they make a positive contribution to society and the environment.

Rail freight transport plays an important role in the supply chain so that goods can be transported sustainably from filling/loading to the customer. The aim of this session is to bring together stakeholders from the areas of wagon keepers, the Association of Freight Railways, and software for rail freight transport to highlight practical challenges and opportunities.

The shift of goods from road to rail is even a measurable goal in the coalition agreement of the German government. But how can this project be implemented? What opportunities and challenges does this mode of transport bring, and how is competition on the railways organised?

Recommendations for investors and corporates in the spotlight. Where are the European innovation hotspots? Which trend topics attract the largest investments? How do the investment strategies and focal points of corporate and private venture capital differ? In addition to these and other questions, the speakers will analyse the attractiveness of the German & European market from the perspective of international investors. The session is aimed at decision-makers from the supply chain, logistics, technology, venture capital and private equity sectors who are interested in investment opportunities and trends in Europe.

Moderated networking in small groups at our CX-Connect-Tables! On Wednesday and Thursday, participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussions on specific topics at over 20 themed tables, each usually hosting around eight people. The Connect Tables are facilitated by selected "Table Captains," who prepare the topics, moderate the discussions, and ensure everyone is involved. 

Participation is available with all ticket categories of the CX. However, spaces are limited. Therefore, please register in advance through the event app (available from October 12) to secure a spot at a Connect Table. 

Do you have an exciting topic and are you knowledgeable about it? Have you already purchased your CX ticket and would like to bring together other participants to discuss this topic? Then you, too, can become a Table Captain! We look forward to hearing from you at inhalte-wissen@bvl.de! 

Here are the benefits of the Connect Table format for you:  

• Networking, meeting new people, and exchanging expertise with like-minded individuals 
• Exclusive content and insights on relevant industry topics  
• Intensive discussions in small groups  
• No parallel main program in the congress area 

Immerse yourself in the future of intralogistics with TGW's ground-breaking SmartPocket pocket sorter! This revolutionary technology replaces traditional drag chains with autonomous mobile robots that move independently in a rail network. SmartPocket sets new standards in efficiency, scalability and reliability and is customised to actual requirements: with significant cost advantages both in the initial investment and in ongoing operation.

Find out how SmartPocket helps you to master the challenges of modern logistics and secure decisive competitive advantages. Be inspired by this pioneering solution and prepare yourself for the logistics of tomorrow!

Artificial intelligence has arrived - it's not just demos that count, but tangible results. The currency of progress? Euros saved and generated. In 2024, this is the ultimate indicator of the success of an AI strategy. In reality, most companies are still experimenting with small pilot projects and only a few live apps have left the lab into the real business world. In our session, we will give an overview of how the most advanced companies are creating business value with AI. Discover how the latest platforms are becoming the AI backbone for critical business processes, delivering results within weeks that directly impact business success.

Increasing complexity of sales channels requires strategic adaptation of logistics processing as “enabler” in the backend of omnichannel commerce. High logistics costs arise due to particular intensity of transportation, warehouse complexity and considerable flexibility requirements in order processing. However, service requirements of B2B and B2C customers in the various sales channels continue to increase. For retailers and wholesalers, this results in a conflict of objectives between necessary cost optimization and service expansions expected by customers. The session gives an overview on the current status of omnichannel logistics in wholesale and retail, examines logistics strategies, classifies current logistics challenges and ventures an outlook on logistically relevant developments.

At the beginning of 2027, a digital, distributed network is set to become operational across Europe, enabling logistics companies to provide freight transport information digitally during inspections. By then, EU member states must implement interoperable systems to be able to accept electronic freight transport information (eFTI). The objectives are greater efficiency in freight transport, digital connectivity with authorities, faster and more targeted inspections, up-to-date transport data, fewer language barriers through multilingual eFTI datasets, better enforcement of national and EU regulations, increased safety for emergency personnel, and more efficient operations, such as during hazardous material incidents. 
Is your future digital? Discuss with us! 

Innovation in logistics has a digital DNA, as logistics and digitalization have been closely interwoven for over a decade. Hardly any logistics process can do without a digital system landscape, no logistics innovation can do without IT or "tech". So we are no longer at zero when it comes to digitalization. What's next for Chief Digital Officers in logistics? What's next on the agenda? How is practice reacting to current digitalization needs? What are the directions of implementation? We will also touch on AI. We will explore all of this in our interactive discussion round. Questions are welcome. 

The aging medium-sized companies in logistics are facing challenging times. Buzzwords such as plurality and diversity have long since ceased to be new. 

What added value do innovative strength, flexibility and adaptability bring and how can the old hands in the logistics industry become fit for future challenges? 

In a mix of science and best practice, the speakers will discuss a thesis together with the plenary in three rounds. The aim of the session is to show different perspectives on the various aspects of diversity and intercultural management in logistics.

The digital transformation of supply chain is in full swing. Despite this, the system and technology landscape is grown, scattered and heterogeneous. In addition to ERP systems, many best-of-breed solutions have been designed to support digitization for specific areas in supply chain and logistics. By this, organizational silos have also become IT silos. Current initiatives aim to break down this siloed view of supply chain. New approaches and technologies are helping us to be more successful than ever before. How do successful supply chain architectures look? What is to be done and what is to be avoided? The session will cover case studies and an opportunity for discussion.  

What makes real leaders today who not only nurture their teams, but also inspire them to grow beyond their own limits in really difficult times?

What are the tried and tested prerequisites for a resilient leadership culture in which people like to achieve extraordinary things on their own?

In this special panel, we will first hear the personal understanding of leadership from experienced and successful leaders of different generations in keynote speeches. Afterwards, immerse yourself in an intensive and constructive dialogue with us, in which we question the theses together with you.

Simply saving CO2 in retail logistics is a thing of the past. The significant reduction of emissions is certainly still a key issue. However, sustainable developments in the retail supply chain also mean ensuring availability from traceable sources. The new Supply Chain Duty of Care Act sets the bar high for this. However, savings are also required in the area of product and transport packaging. National legislation and European regulations are paving the way for a higher reusable quota from production to the end consumer. This session will show you how companies are facing up to the challenge of sustainability in and with retail logistics.

Lean&Green Award Ceremony - During the session, participating companies in the ‘Lean & Green’ initiative in Germany will be honoured for their success in reducing their CO2 emissions in transport and logistics processes and for assuming ecological responsibility.

Does Europe’s industry have a future as a competitive economic region in the face of low growth, structurally higher energy costs, increasing Asian imports and excessive bureaucracy? What measures can we take to regain competitiveness and – at the same time - become sustainable? What role do renewable energies and technological innovations play in this? Discover which strategies and solutions could shape Europe's future and how we can successfully defend our leading industrial position. Let's discuss these critical questions concerning the future of European competitiveness. 

Many companies are faced with the challenge of modernising their established factory structures with pragmatic, innovative solutions. However, the integration of state-of-the-art infrastructure, hardware and software into a historically grown environment follows different rules than on a greenfield site. In this session, experts from industry and science will report on their solutions and experiences for the transformation of brownfield sites into future-proof smart factories.

As part of a pitch competition, our three speakers will compete against each other with smart use cases for the innovative factory. Your goal: to convince and inspire the audience with your solution. After all, you as the audience will ultimately decide on the best pitch and the smartest solution.

You can look forward to an interactive session with a mixture of up-to-date expertise, industry-related hands-on examples and plenty of inspiration for quick implementation!

The Science Award for Supply Chain Management 2024 highlights the role of science and research at the BVL Supply Chain CX.

It was only on Wednesday that the finalists presented their work in a session, after which the jury made its decision. The winner will now we revealed, and the certificates will be presented.

Circly uses AI for sales forecasting, analysing sales data as well as external factors such as weather and seasonal trends. This enables Circly to recognise patterns, understand past sales and predict future sales data. The AI extracts key information such as sales figures and customer behaviour and recognises complex patterns through machine learning. By integrating external factors, Circly increases the accuracy of its predictions.

Circly is constantly improving through continuous learning, ensuring that its sales forecasts are up to date, helping manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers to optimise their resources and adapt to market fluctuations. The platform is fast, cost-effective and integrates seamlessly with existing systems, offering flexibility without the need for specialised programming skills.

This session will explore the latest advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence, featuring insights from leading experts in the field. Our distinguished lineup of speakers will provide an international perspective on groundbreaking progress, and future directions in AI and robotics. Attendees will benefit from impulses, some live demo, and engaging interactive Q&A segments, fostering a environment for knowledge exchange and networking afterwards. Join us to stay at the forefront of AI and robotics development globally.

In line with the principle of practical experience for practical application, this session will present the ‘CSRD for beginners’ guide. This guideline was developed in the BVL focus group ‘Sustainable Logistics’ and provides practical guidance for companies that fall under the new reporting obligation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). The guide offers a structured and easily adaptable best practice approach to fulfil the requirements of the CSRD and is therefore intended to serve as support for the logistics community. 

The BVL Supply Chain CX connects professionals, logistics enthusiasts, newcomers, and many more individuals who together form the supply chain community. And what is needed besides good content, an expo, intensive discussions, and networking during the day? Celebrating together! 

We invite you and all CX participants to this special mix of networking, entertainment with special acts, and a great atmosphere to celebrate the community and our shared enthusiasm for supply chains and logistics. 

Enjoy the unique atmosphere, drinks, snacks, and good music. Whether you want to dance, engage in conversations, or simply enjoy the moment: There's something for everyone at the CX Party. Let’s celebrate the day and supply chains together!

International e-commerce marketplaces and platforms are playing an increasingly important role in retail and wholesale. In the recent past, the growth and development of Asian marketplaces in particular have caused a stir worldwide. Many retailers are also developing holistic ecosystems with comprehensive service offerings and expanded business models. The session provides an overview of the current state of the platform market in international e-commerce, examines the business models of market-leading retailers, classifies critical regulatory requirements for platforms and ventures an outlook on future relevant trends and developments of e-commerce marketplaces and platforms.

We live in a time of political and economic tectonic shifts - visible in the EU, but also in the upcoming elections in the USA. What awaits us and how do we deal with it? Chief economist Carsten Klude will introduce the sequence from an economic perspective.

Two innovative, early-stage start-ups from the logistics and supply chain management sector present their ideas and business models. After a brief pitch, they will discuss live on stage with the regular guests of the Felgendreher & Friends podcast. 

Which start-ups will participate is still open. Interested in joining? Further information and registration here: www.bvl.de/startupsprechstunde

The focus is on how we can effectively use AI as a support in our daily tasks to increase productivity. By learning and applying the right prompts and techniques, we can maximise the capabilities of AI and use it as a valuable co-worker in different areas. This session offers practical tips and strategies on how to use AI tools to optimise work processes, find innovative solutions and gain more time for creative and strategic tasks. Immerse yourself in the world of AI and discover how you can make your working methods more efficient through the intelligent use of prompts.  

In this panel, opportunities are explored - the participants encourage and point the way forward, show solutions and best practices, provide impulses and food for thought: What can each and every individual entrepreneur and top decision-maker do to shape the future for their own company, but also for the business location. Not "just" within the framework of usual thought patterns, but breaking out of them.