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.
Trade fair manager Corien den Ouden of Royal Jaarbeurs stresses the importance of innovation and cooperation within the sector: "The logistics sector faces major challenges, but it is precisely by sharing knowledge and innovating together that we take important steps towards a future-proof chain. During ICT&Logistics and Logistica Next, we bring parties together to jointly build resilient and sustainable logistics for everyone."
International robot firsts: half-marathon robot from China and facetime robot
This year's ICT&Logistics and Logistica Next 2025 trade fairs will open with a first: a Chinese human robot that independently ran a half marathon and attracted a lot of attention worldwide. Corien den Ouden: "We chose this opening for a reason. Indeed, this innovative robot marks the beginning of a technological revolution in the logistics sector where human cooperation with machines is becoming increasingly important. Its achievements underline the enormous progress in autonomous systems, mobility and artificial intelligence. Precisely the technologies that are now making their appearance in logistics applications." In addition to this first, visitors can participate live from around the world via a mobile facetime robot and interact directly with exhibitors. "This makes the trade fair more accessible and international than ever," Den Ouden said.
Logistics sector must stay alert to geopolitical developments
Current events take centre stage this year with speakers addressing major challenges and opportunities within the logistics sector. Former AIVD officer Eric Schouten highlights the importance of geopolitical alertness for supply and security during the trade shows: "In an industry full of uncertainties, it is essential that the logistics sector stays alert to geopolitical developments, as disruptions elsewhere can have direct consequences for our supply and security." Remy Gieling, techwatcher in the field of AI, also took the stage and stressed, "AI is fundamentally changing 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 lifeline for the armed forces
Lieutenant general Maas of the Ministry of Defence will give a presentation on 'Logistics as lifeline for the armed forces' during the trade fairs. He emphasises how civil-military cooperation in logistics significantly enhances the resilience and security of the Netherlands and NATO. In this context, Defence makes a strong appeal to civilian transport and logistics companies to cooperate within the Ecosystem Logistics project. Strengthening digital chain cooperation within the logistics sector is also central
Digital transformation makes logistics sector vulnerable
One of the speakers at the trade shows, Heino Kempers, ICT director at Jan de Rijk Logistics explains during his session: "The digital transformation has moved logistics forward, but also made it more vulnerable. Today, every process in the chain depends on IT: a malfunction can flatten trip planning or stop order picking in the warehouse." Lodi Hensen of Eye Security also underlines the importance of this: "Logistics is one of the most attractive targets for cybercriminals: lots of data, high time pressure and often little digital reserves."
ICT&Logistics and Logistica Next 2025: knowledge, networking and innovation
From 4 to 6 November 2025, the ICT&Logistics and Logistica Next trade fairs in Royal Jaarbeurs will be the stage for technological innovation and cooperation. Under the theme 'Say yes to Future Logistics', over 300 exhibitors, 150 speakers and 10 knowledge institutes will present the latest developments in digitalisation, automation and zero emission. Visitors will get an up-to-date overview of trends and applications within warehouse management, supply chain, AI and sustainability. The fairs focus on knowledge sharing, networking and offering concrete solutions for 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.
