In the supply-chain industry, conferences provide the opportunity to discuss the latest trends and innovations related to shipping, warehouse management, and logistics. Attending such conferences can be vital to remaining competitive and staying abreast of the latest developments in the ever-changing supply-chain landscape. With that in mind, here is a guide to some of the top conferences for logistics and supply chain executives.
CSCMP’s Annual Global Conference
Typically hosted in late September by the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP), this annual conference is considered a “must-attend” event. It features presentations from industry experts discussing the latest supply chain management knowledge, research, and industry developments.
Vision South Texas/North Mexico Economic Conference and Expo
A two-day economic conference and business expo representing interests in South Texas and Northern Mexico, this conference is devoted to discussing the future of energy and logistics. With roughly 40 logistics and energy firms representing both sides of the border in attendance, panel discussions relating to the transportation infrastructure in South Texas and Northern Mexico, are held. The discussions follow such themes as the “Importance of Creating Economic Clusters” and “Financing Projects and Export Initiatives.”
Supply Chain & Logistics Summit
Taking place in late October, this two-day summit is aimed at tackling trends and issues related to the supply chain industry across the U.S., Mexico, Canada and Latin America. Bringing together 200 decision makers, 40 commercial partners and 35 speakers, the conference incorporates over 40 sessions, networking evenings, breakfast briefings, lunches, social and digital hub, product showcases and more.
3PL Summit
This late June summit is billed as North America’s largest and most high-level gathering of logistics executives and their manufacturer and retailer supply chain counterparts. With 600 attendees, the 3PL Summit features speakers who are leaders in logistics and supply chain management, including representatives from companies like Walgreens, Uber, Office Depot and more.
APICS Conference
Hosted by APICS, the premier professional association for supply chain and operations management, this early October conference offers “relevant education, best practices and thought leadership to help attendees lead their organizations and reach these goals.” With “powerful” general sessions and networking opportunities, 2015’s keynote speakers featured former General Electric chairman and CEO Jack Welch; author and business commentator Suzy Welch; and futurist, author and innovator Jim Carroll.
Omni-Channel Fulfillment and Logistics
Aimed at giving retailers an opportunity to gather and network, this tightly-focused event is devoted exclusively to omni-channel fulfillment and logistics. Speakers from the most significant and successful retail organizations like Sears Holding Corporation, Godiva Chocolatier, Sports Authority Inc. and more will be there to discuss:
- Business strategies and their impact on the supply chain
- Inventory strategies, including ship from store and returns
- Order management and same-day fulfillment
- The last mile and same day/next day delivery
- Designing DCs for omni-channel
The Logistics & Supply Chain Forum
Hosting both an Autumn and a Spring conference, the Logistics & Supply Chain Forum is designed to is designed to help executives become more effective industry performers by opening doors to new perspectives and points of view. Autumn 2015’s keynote speaker Jake Wood–Co-founder and President of Team Rubicon and author of Take Command–spoke about “the how, when, and why of resolute, lead-from-the-front leadership,” and offers a set of principles to be drawn upon in any situation.
The key to success in supply-chain and logistics management is relevancy–ensuring your company remains on top of emergent trends, technology, and innovation. These conferences all aim to bring thought and business leaders together to share valuable insight into this fast-changing industry–and give executives the education and skills to grow their business.
If you need a partner to help you strategically manage and successfully move your products out of the port and onto their final destination, be sure to download our latest eBook — Speeding Time-To-Shelf and Cutting Costs — a must read for today’s Logistics Managers.