As we move into 2025, MHEDA’s Executive Committee has pinpointed 15 crucial business trends that will significantly impact the material handling industry. Several trends hold particular importance for our organization and our valued customers.
- Cautiously optimistic economic outlook in specific regions and industry segments, with unpredictable recovery in other areas as the market normalizes.
- Integrating AI-driven technologies, such as autonomous robots, predictive analytics, and real-time supply chain visibility, will transform traditional processes and set new standards for operational excellence.
- Pressures from other market segments, with manufacturers’ capacities outpacing customer demand, are placing pressure on the storage and handling segment.
- There is a need for quick development of tech-driven solutions to integrate emerging technologies into traditional automation solutions.
- Continued impact on member sales and aftermarket operations from equipment electrification, mobile robots, and automated guided vehicles (AGV).
Strategic partnerships between manufacturers and distributors are becoming increasingly important as demand for direct consumer business rises. - Growing pressure on margins for distributors and manufacturers due to increased low-cost imported products.
