In this article, we highlight 5 takeaways from ProMat 2025, along with insights from the Material Handling Institute’s (MHI) latest annual report.
1. Trade Shows Are Still Valued by the Industry
The ProMat trade show proved to be a resounding success, highlighting the unwavering importance of in-person interactions in the supply chain industry. With a record of over 52,000 attendees, 1,160 exhibitors, and an impressive 660,000 square feet of show floor, ProMat shattered records and reaffirmed the vitality of traditional trade shows. In an era dominated by digital communication, the event stood as a testament to the enduring value of face-to-face engagements. Its turnout serves as a reminder that in the world of supply chain management, personal collaboration is not just preferred—it’s indispensable.
2. Labor-Related Challenges Are Top on the List
The 2025 MHI Annual Report sheds light on a persistent trend shaping the supply chain landscape: labor-related challenges remain at the forefront of industry concerns. Topping the list of obstacles, “hiring and retaining workers” and “talent shortage” have been flagged as extremely or very challenging by 52% and 45% of respondents, respectively. These figures underscore the ongoing struggle to secure and retain skilled professionals in an increasingly competitive market. As businesses strive to build resilient supply chains, addressing these workforce challenges has become a critical priority.
3. Industry Relies on Technology to Overcome its Challenges
The challenges highlighted in the MHI’s report provide a clear rationale for why ProMat 2025 became a showcase of cutting-edge technological solutions aimed at addressing these pressing issues. Exhibitors unveiled an impressive array of innovations, ranging from industrial robotics and artificial intelligence to autonomous mobile robots and beyond. These technologies represent the industry’s proactive efforts to not only mitigate labor-related difficulties but also redefine efficiency and productivity in the supply chain.
Below is a graph comparing the main technologies identified as potential to disrupt or create competitive advantage in 2024 and 2025. We can notice that Robotics & Automation technologies had the biggest growth compared to the previous year, while Artificial Intelligence is the only other technology experiencing a growth.
Of course, Artificial Intelligence was a hot topic at ProMat. Not only are numerous robotics companies now incorporating AI in their solutions, but various other applications were showcased: WMS/WCS software, sensors, computer vision, data capture, wearables, fleet management, simulation, and many more.
4. Humanoid Robots Pursue their Development
Humanoid robots certainly grabbed attention at the show (as they always do!). That said, their real usefulness in an industrial setting remains to be seen. One interesting discussion we had was about the choice between integrating legs or wheels into robots. While legs allow for more human-like movement, wheels often offer greater efficiency and speed on smooth warehouse floors. Though these legged robots remain largely in the prototype stage, their development continues to push boundaries. The conversation around their potential and the best approach for industrial robotics is ongoing. Each option brings its own advantages and challenges. In any case, as robotics enthusiasts, we’re excited to see how humanoid robots will evolve in the future!
5. Rumors Are True
It is true… We confirm that Chicago is truly a windy, and weather-changing city! We experienced sunny and mid-70s one day, then around freezing point, to mild temperatures around 60 to snow the following day. Chicago is a place full of surprises.
To wrap up, our time in Chicago reaffirmed that ProMat continues to be an essential event for the supply chain industry. It’s a vibrant hub where professionals come together to explore and exchange the most cutting-edge trends and technologies shaping the future.
See you at MODEX 2026!
