MHI Industry News

2025 Supply Chain Recap: MHI Solutions’ Top Reads

December 2025 -- Top Story

As we look back at the most-read MHI Solutions articles of 2025, the focus is clear: supply chains are evolving through automation, intelligence, and resilience. From identifying what to automate in the warehouse and closing the talent gap to exploring agentic AI and achieving end-to-end visibility, these insights reflect the industry’s biggest priorities.

MHI Announces Top Supply Chain Trends of 2026 �

December 2025 -- MHI Updates

As global markets brace for another year of transformation and uncertainty, MHI has released its Top Supply Chain Trends for 2026. The ranking combines research and industry analysis from MHI’s Board of Governors and Roundtable to identify the trends and technologies that will have the greatest impact in shaping supply chains in the year ahead.

ProMat 2027 Exhibit Space Draw Sets New Record

December 2025 -- MHI Updates

The ProMat 2027 exhibit space draw attracted 930 exhibitors who reserved a record of 977 booths for a total of 653,600 net square feet of show floor space at the industry’s largest supply chain event. This record amount of space reserved represents 94% of the ProMat 2027 show floor and is a clear indicator that MHI members have a positive economic outlook for 2026 and beyond.

MHI Announces Leadership Appointments for 2026

December 2025 -- MHI Updates

MHI recently announced their 2026 Board of Governors and Roundtable Advisory Committee. The Board of Governors consists of the Officers and Board Governors of MHI plus the Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel of the corporation. The Board of Governors serves as the Board of Directors for MHI.

MHI Welcomes 216 New Members in 2025, Marking a Year of Strong Growth �

December 2025 -- MHI Updates

MHI is proud to announce the exceptional growth of its association in 2025, welcoming 216 new member companies into the largest supply chain community in North America. This year’s membership expansion reflects the accelerating pace of innovation across the supply chain ecosystem in such fields as robotics, automation, software, workforce solutions, and emerging technologies.

MODEX is Coming to Atlanta in 2026 �

December 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

If you want to see the latest supply chain innovation and tech in-person and in-action, you can't afford to miss MODEX. Offering over 200 educational sessions, 4 keynotes and 1,000 exhibits, MODEX will be the biggest supply chain event of the year. Make sure it’s on your calendar.

Upcoming MHI Tech Talk Focuses on The Impact of Automation on a Multigenerational Workforce

December 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

The modern warehouse is being shaped by two powerful forces: an experienced workforce seeking safety and sustainability, and a new generation demanding speed, technology, and purpose. In this December 22 MHI Tech Talk, industry experts will explore how human-centered automation powered by robotics, machine vision, AI, WES, and predictive maintenance is bridging that gap.

Are You Optimized? Why Your Warehouse Needs the Right WMS Software �

December 2025 -- Supply Chain Trends

Are you looking to take your manual warehouse to the next level? Introducing Warehouse Management Software (WMS) into your supply chain operation can help reduce labor costs, elevate inventory management, and provide innovative solutions for your facility’s desired business objectives and KPIs.

Innovate, Adapt, Thrive: Essential Supply Chain Tips for the New Year

December 2025 -- Supply Chain Trends

As the industry prepares for 2026, the episode of MHI cast features supply chain professionals and leaders as they discuss the most crucial tips for tackling challenges and opportunities in the new year.

Supply Chain Shakeups Could Benefit 2026 Economic Outlook

December 2025 -- Manufacturing

The U.S. push to advance economic self‑sufficiency, reindustrialization and a shift toward a wartime‑ready economic footing is setting the stage for long‑term capital investments in domestic logistics, supply chain infrastructure and material handling, manufacturing and services.

MHEFI 2026�2027 Scholarship Applications Deadline is January 31

December 2025 -- Education & Professional Development

Over 60 scholarships are available, ranging from $1,000 to $6,000 for students pursuing careers in material handling, supply chain, or logistics. Complete one general application to be considered for all available awards! Applications are open until January 31, 2026.

MHI & CICHME Recognize Winners of the 2024�25 Material Handling Capstone Design Competition � �

December 2025 -- Education & Professional Development

MHI and the College Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE) are proud to announce and celebrate the winners of the 2024–25 Material Handling Capstone Design Competition. This program highlights exceptional student projects and promotes collaboration between supply chain professionals and academia.

SupplyChainCareers.org Connects Talent with Opportunity

December 2025 -- Workforce

The MHI and WERC Supply Chain Career Portal at supplychaincareers.org offers a comprehensive suite for both employers and job seekers, including career, internship and apprenticeship opportunities.

Reindustrialization, Energy and Strategic Sustainability

December 2025 -- Sustainability

A shifting policy landscape is pushing companies to rethink how they balance clean energy goals with economic security and industrial growth.

Contribute to the Report on Trends and Tech Shaping Supply Chains

November 2025 -- Top Story

MHI, in collaboration with Deloitte Consulting LLP, is asking industry professionals to contribute to the 2026 MHI Annual Industry Report Survey. MHI will gather these insights to identify key strategies for organizations to stay innovative and competitive. Time is running out to participate, get a copy of the final report and be eligible for a $500 gift card.

Material Handling Industry Fuels U.S. Economic Growth, MHI Report Finds

November 2025 -- MHI Updates

MHI and Oxford Economics release new insights into the material handling sector’s $266 billion GDP impact and its growing role in the national supply chain.

MHI Celebrates Industry Excellence at Its 2025 Annual Conference

November 2025 -- MHI Updates

At its Annual Conference in Tucson, Arizona, MHI celebrated five exceptional professionals who have shaped the supply chain. The honorees were recognized during Awards Night on October 14.

Supply Chain Super Bowl Coming to Atlanta

November 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

Every industry has its marquee event—the one gathering that sets the tone for innovation, networking, and strategy for the year ahead. For the supply chain, that event is MODEX and it’s often called “the Supply Chain Super Bowl.” And for good reason: it’s where the biggest names, boldest ideas, and breakthrough technologies converge under one roof.

As Digitization Outpaces Security, Lack of Supply Chain Visibility Increases Cyberthreat Vulnerabilities

November 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

Cybersecurity remains a critical concern for supply chain leaders as digitalization increases both connectivity and complexity across global networks. The growing number of digital touchpoints between suppliers, partners and enterprise systems has significantly expanded the attack surface for cybercriminals.

Optimizing Mixed-SKU Pallet Preparation

November 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

The efficiency of order pallet preparation plays a pivotal role in maintaining operational effectiveness. Various approaches to mixed palletizing are now available: semi-automatic, robotic single picking and robotic layer picking. Each method offers distinct advantages, and the choice between them depends on a variety of operational, financial, and logistical factors.

How ASRS Reduce Operational Costs and Optimize Warehouse Efficiency

November 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

Rising labor costs, limited warehouse space, and growing customer expectations for faster fulfillment require smarter supply chain solutions. Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems can be game changers for warehouses, delivering measurable cost savings, higher accuracy, and improved efficiency.

From Capture to Action: AI’s Role in Frontline Execution

November 2025 -- Supply Chain Trends

AI is transforming how frontline teams learn, adapt, and perform. In this MHI Tech Talk, you’ll learn how leading organizations are modernizing standard work—turning expert knowledge into instant, step-by-step guidance—and why this shift is the foundation for AI-powered execution on the frontline.

From Capture to Action: AI’s Role in Frontline Execution

November 2025 -- Supply Chain Trends

Webinar: The Warehouse Advantage: Protecting Customer Outcomes at the Source

November 2025 -- Supply Chain Trends

Differentiation no longer happens at the last mile: it’s won or lost inside the warehouse. This webinar explores how leading 3PLs are transforming through warehouse intelligence, moving from firefighting mode to proactive orchestration.

Leadership That Inspires Leadership: A 28-Year Journey of Vision and Tenacity � �

November 2025 -- Leadership

In this MHI CEO Network podcast, Kevin O’Neill, Chief Executive Officer of Steele Solutions, touches on the themes of patience, coaching, and putting people first when it comes to roles in leadership.

Family Business Meets Visionary Leadership: Moving the Legacy Forward

November 2025 -- Leadership

Join Steve Reige and guest, John Krummell, CEO of Advance Storage Products, for an inspiring conversation about leadership, vision, and the realities of running a family business.

The AI Challenge

November 2025 -- Sustainability

Discussions about the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the supply chain tend to focus on all the potential benefits it offers for improving operations. But those improvements come at a cost that is just now starting to receive more attention: Implementing AI places considerable demands on power and water resources.

Dock Safety: The Smartest Investment for Long-Term Performance

November 2025 --

Proactive dock-safety systems are foundational for reducing risk, driving efficiency, and protecting both people and profits in your industrial operations.

Synchronizing Cranes: Wireless Control for Tandem & Multi-crane Operations

November 2025 --

In heavy-lift and material handling environments, crane systems are often expected to perform in unison. Ensuring these cranes act as one system requires more than mechanical strength: it demands precise control, reliable communication and robust safety integration.

Beyond the Blind Spots: Building Smarter, Transparent and Connected Supply Chains �

October 2025 -- Top Story

The Q4 issue of MHI Solutions explores how forward‑thinking companies are reimagining their supply chains to be resilient, agile and insight‑driven by leveraging AI, automation and connected data as a competitive advantage.

MODEX-The Biggest Manufacturing and Supply Chain Event of 2026 is Coming to Atlanta April 13-16

October 2025 -- MHI Updates

Secure your registration at the largest manufacturing and supply chain trade event of 2026—MODEX. When the event returns to Atlanta on April 13, it will include over 1,000 exhibitors from leading solution providers and a comprehensive Educational Conference. MODEX is the only event in 2026 where you can find thought leadership on leading trends plus exhibits featuring best-in-class solutions, emerging tech and game-changing innovation for manufacturing and supply chain operations.

Add Your Voice to the 2026 MHI Annual Industry Report Survey

October 2025 -- MHI Updates

MHI, in collaboration with Deloitte Consulting, is asking industry professionals like you to take the 2026 MHI Annual Industry Report Survey. This survey gathers insights on how innovation is shaping supply chains and helps identify key strategies for organizations to stay innovative and competitive. By participating, you’ll be contributing to research that guides business and supply chain leaders across the industry on enhancing their future operations.

Texas Warehousing Forum Coming to Grapevine, TX on October 23�

October 2025 -- MHI Updates

The Texas Warehousing Forum, hosted by WERC, is your chance to spend one powerful day focused on the innovations and insights shaping the future of the industry. The event will include expert-led sessions covering essential topics like TMS and WMS implementation, goods-to-person systems, and boosting labor productivity.

Omnichannel Fulfillment and Multi-modal Operations

October 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

Omnichannel fulfillment isn’t just about connecting more channels; it’s about making them work together as one seamless system. That integration is impossible without automation, which acts as the glue that binds distributed inventory, complex order flows, and diverse customer touchpoints into a single, reliable network.

From Manual to Robotic: The Rise of Robotics in Mixed Case Palletizing

October 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

Warehousing and distribution operations are undergoing a significant transformation. While manual processes have long been the backbone of these environments, the increasing complexity of tasks, labor shortages, and the demand for higher efficiency are driving a shift toward automation particularly robotics.

Enhancing Predictive Maintenance Through Component Feedback

October 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

This article explores the advantages of an emerging generation of components with built-in feedback capabilities. Together, they’re helping to make predictive maintenance less expensive, less complicated, and easier to integrate.

Warehouse Automation: Solutions for Damaged Goods and Improved Efficiency

October 2025 -- Supply Chain Trends

Damaged goods are a significant challenge in logistics, affecting both costs and customer satisfaction. This guide explores how warehouse automation technologies like automated pallet wrapping and robots minimize damage and streamline processes.

Breaking Language Barriers in Warehousing: WERC’s New Spanish Training Program

October 2025 -- Education & Professional Development

The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC), a division of MHI, recently launched a Spanish version of its popular e-learning course “Distribution Logistics Fundamentals.” Aimed at Spanish-speaking professionals in the warehousing and distribution sectors, the move seeks to provide more inclusive access to essential knowledge and skills in the industry.

Embracing Sustainability: Managing Resources and Environmental Concerns

October 2025 -- Sustainability

As we enter Q4 of 2025, it’s clear that circular economy practices aren’t just a passing trend. They’ve become a key part of the evolving material handling industry. Companies are increasingly adopting these practices to meet regulatory requirements and customer expectations, reduce costs, enhance sustainability, and foster innovation.

Why Low Rack Column Guards Matter in Warehouse Safety

October 2025 --

In a busy warehouse, accidents can happen fast—especially around the base of pallet racks. That’s where forklifts turn, pallets are loaded, and equipment constantly moves. That’s why many warehouses rely on low-profile column guards.

Overhead Hoists In Action: Case Studies From The Hoist Manufacturers Institute� � �

October 2025 --

When it comes to moving critical loads safely and efficiently, overhead hoists and cranes are the backbone of modern manufacturing. The following cases offer unique challenges. These solutions address issues ranging from limited headroom to seismic requirements and space constraints. All deliver improved safety, uptime, and ergonomic efficiency.

From Vision To Reality: Implementing Robotics In Modern Supply Chains

September 2025 -- Top Story

As robotics continues to revolutionize supply chain operations, successful implementation goes beyond simply acquiring the latest technology. It requires a phased and strategic rollout that aligns with business goals, workforce abilities, and operational needs. The 2025 MHI Annual Industry Report provides a roadmap for how organizations are navigating this transformation.

MHI Publishes 2025 Membership Directory and Reference Guide

September 2025 -- MHI Updates

This annual publication highlights MHI’s 1,000+ member companies, who are the leading suppliers of material handling and supply chain equipment and system and technology solutions.

2025 WERC Texas Warehousing Forum

September 2025 -- MHI Updates

Whether you are a seasoned veteran or just starting your journey in the warehousing and supply chain industry, the 24th Annual WERCouncil Texas Warehousing Forum on October 23 brings together the latest trends and innovations with one-stop access to the Texas region’s top supply chain thought leaders and solution providers.

Beyond Four Walls: The Future of Adaptive Warehousing � �

September 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

This MHIcast explores the future of warehouse management, where real-time data, robotics, machine learning, and autonomous AI agents work together to redefine the way warehouses operate, creating smarter, faster, and more adaptive supply chains.

Cobots Gaining Traction

September 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

Cobots are designed to work safely alongside humans in shared workspaces, Cobots can work 24‑7 and are better suited for lower-value, repetitive tasks.

Automation Isn’t All or Nothing

September 2025 -- Technology and Innovation

At its core, automation is not about jumping into complex systems. It’s about identifying opportunities to remove friction in your warehousing processes, starting with smaller, innovative improvements that build momentum over time.

The Benefits of Supply Chain Control Towers

September 2025 -- Supply Chain Trends

Warehouses have access to more data than ever. A supply chain control tower pulls that data from many sources, then turns it into actionable information that helps warehouse teams make faster, better decisions.

2025 Annual Industry Report Series: Actions That Drive Innovation�

September 2025 -- Supply Chain Trends

This MHI view video explores the actions leaders are taking to embrace technology covered in the 2025 MHI Annual Industry Report and drive supply chain innovation.

How Open Technologies Drive Warehouse Efficiency

September 2025 -- Education & Professional Development

In the race to modernize warehouse operations, one key factor often gets overlooked: standards compliance. From traceability solutions to device connectivity, industry standards unlock scalability, reduce integration headaches, and protect against vendor lock-in. Join the webinar on September 18 on how open technologies drive warehouse efficiency.

Second-chance Hiring of Formerly Incarcerated Individuals Helps Build the Supply Chain Workforce

September 2025 -- Workforce

More than 19 million Americans bear a felony conviction on their permanent record. Employers who haven’t yet explored this potential labor pool are missing an opportunity to benefit from workers who are productive, loyal and often highly motivated to change their life.

Where Fulfillment Centers Lost Money, One Box at a Time

September 2025 -- Sustainability

Poor packing decisions don’t just increase freight spend. They also drive up damage rates and returns, triggering expensive reverse logistics. For high-volume operations, that means millions in avoidable costs every year.

Understanding Flue Spaces: A Critical Factor in Warehouse Fire Safety

September 2025 --

In warehouse storage design, flue spaces are one of the most overlooked elements of fire protection. For warehouse operators and safety professionals, understanding and managing flue spaces is a key part of maintaining a fire-safe environment.

Tariff Turbulence: Navigating the New Trade Terrain �

August 2025 -- Top Story

This MHI cast episode explores how tariffs are reshaping the global supply chain landscape. From rising operational costs to sourcing disruptions and heightened trade uncertainty, tariffs are forcing businesses to rethink their strategies, including automation, supplier diversification, and localized production. Supply chains can not only weather these challenges but also emerge more agile and resilient.

We Want Your Feedback: Take the MHI Communications Survey

August 2025 -- MHI Updates

MHI is currently conducting a Communications Survey to get input on our online and print publications. We’d love to hear from you. Your insight is extremely valuable and will help us improve our online and print media in 2025 and beyond.

Hoist Manufacturers Institute: Elevating the Safety of the Supply Chain Industry

August 2025 -- MHI Updates

From providing materials such as fact sheets and tip cards to working with OSHA and examining dos and don’ts of hoist use at the user level, HMI makes safe working practices a consistent priority.

MHI Publishes 2025 Membership Directory and Reference Guide

August 2025 -- MHI Updates

This annual publication highlights MHI’s 1,000+ member companies, who are the leading suppliers of material handling and supply chain equipment and system and technology solutions. Readers can easily identify solution providers in categories such as automation, robotics, storage systems, software, third-party logistics and more.

4 Groundbreaking Supply Chain Solutions Receive Innovation Awards