Utrecht, 16 October 2025 - This year, the ICT&Logistics and Logistica Next trade shows will focus on international robot firsts, pioneering AI innovations, geopolitical challenges and digital resilience. From Tuesday 4 to Thursday 6 November, over 300 exhibitors, 150 speakers and 10 knowledge institutes will present the latest trends and future-oriented solutions for the logistics sector at Royal Jaarbeurs. The central theme 'Say yes to Future Logistics' emphasises how technology, cooperation and knowledge sharing are indispensable for a resilient, efficient and sustainable logistics chain of tomorrow.
Exhibition manager Corien den Ouden of Koninklijke Jaarbeurs emphasises the importance of innovation and collaboration within the sector: “The logistics sector faces major challenges, but it is precisely by sharing knowledge and innovating together that we are taking important steps towards a future-proof supply chain. At ICT&Logistiek and Logistica Next, we’ll be bringing stakeholders together to jointly build a resilient and sustainable logistics system for everyone.”
International robotics firsts: a half-marathon-running robot from China and a FaceTime robot
This year, the ICT&Logistiek and Logistica Next 2025 trade fairs are opening with a world first: a Chinese humanoid robot that has independently completed a half-marathon and attracted a great deal of attention worldwide. Corien den Ouden: “It is no coincidence that we have chosen this for the opening. This innovative robot marks the start of a technological revolution in the logistics sector, where human collaboration with machines is becoming increasingly important. Its achievements underscore the enormous progress made in the fields of autonomous systems, mobility and artificial intelligence – precisely the technologies that are now finding their way into logistics applications.” In addition to this first, visitors from all over the world can participate live via a mobile FaceTime robot and engage directly with exhibitors. “This makes the trade fair more accessible and more international than ever,” said Den Ouden.
Logistics sector must remain alert to geopolitical developments
Current affairs take centre stage this year, with speakers addressing the major challenges and opportunities within the logistics sector. During the trade fairs, former AIVD officer Eric Schouten will highlight the importance of geopolitical vigilance for supply chains and security: “In an industry full of uncertainties, it is essential that the logistics sector remains alert to geopolitical developments, as disruptions elsewhere can have direct consequences for our supply chains and security.” Remy Gieling, an AI tech watcher, will also take to the stage and emphasise: “AI is fundamentally transforming logistics. What seemed like science fiction yesterday is reality today. Companies that invest in AI now will reap the benefits of a more efficient and resilient supply chain tomorrow.”
Lieutenant-General Maas: logistics as the lifeline of the armed forces
Lieutenant-General Maas of the Ministry of Defence will give a presentation during the trade fairs on ‘Logistics as the lifeline of the armed forces’. He will emphasise how civil-military cooperation in logistics significantly enhances the resilience and security of the Netherlands and NATO. In this context, the Ministry of Defence is making a strong appeal to civilian transport and logistics companies to collaborate within the Logistics Ecosystem project. Strengthening digital supply chain collaboration within the logistics sector is also a key focus.
Digital transformation leaves the logistics sector vulnerable
One of the speakers at the trade fairs, Heino Kempers, ICT Director at Jan de Rijk Logistics, explains during his session: “Digital transformation has advanced logistics, but it has also made it more vulnerable. Today, every process in the supply chain depends on IT: a system failure can bring route planning to a standstill or halt order picking in the warehouse.” Lodi Hensen of Eye Security also emphasises the importance of this: “Logistics is one of the most attractive targets for cybercriminals: large amounts of data, high time pressure and often few digital backups.”
ICT&Logistiek and Logistica Next 2025: knowledge, networking and innovation
From 4 to 6 November 2025, the ICT&Logistiek and Logistica Next trade fairs at Jaarbeurs Koninklijke Jaarbeurs will provide a platform for technological innovation and collaboration. Under the theme ‘Say yes to Future Logistics’, over 300 exhibitors, 150 speakers and 10 knowledge institutions will present the latest developments in digitalisation, automation and zero emissions. Visitors will gain an up-to-date overview of trends and applications within warehouse management, the supply chain, AI and sustainability. The trade fairs focus on knowledge-sharing, networking and offering concrete solutions to current and future logistics challenges.
Free registration for both trade shows is available via www.ict-en-logistiek.nl and www.logistica-next.nl. Follow developments and the latest news via LinkedIn.
