It's that time of year... so here's our 10¢ on major logistics trends for 2026. Taken from a very unscientific lunch time discussion. How many will prove to be correct?

1. Artificial Intelligence

After all the hype of the past two years, AI had to be on the list. Except now we expect it to move ever more quickly from talk to action. Helping to automate manual, repetitive tasks, improving forecasting and supporting decision making.

2. End to end visibility

Real time visibility across the whole supply chain, from production to delivery, will continue to develop. Control towers and digital twins will become more commonplace.

3. Sustainability

While it may not grab as many headlines as previous years, sustainability will be ever more embedded throughout logistics. Look for more electric / hydrogen vehicles, routes optimised for carbon efficiency, emissions measurement tools, regulations and stricter controls on compliance, energy efficient facilities and sustainable packaging.

4. Nearshoring

Geopolitical uncertainty will continue to prompt manufacturers and logistics providers to be more flexible and responsive to disruptions. Nearshoring projects and regional hubs will deliver diversified networks that reduce risk, shorten lead times and offer more options.

5. Last mile innovation

Customer demand for choice, speed and flexibility will continue to drive innovation and competition in the last mile. Watch out for more parcel lockers, other OOH networks, micro hubs / urban hubs, autonomous delivery vehicles and crowd sourced delivery solutions.

6. Digital platforms and API connectivity

Standardised digital platforms and API ecosystems will support integration and connectivity across carriers, freight systems, document flows and real-time data exchanges. This will automate manual processes, improve response times, drive productivity and reduce errors.

7. Cybersecurity

Increased trade, customs and environmental regulations plus continued digitalisation will require enhanced security systems and processes to minimise security breaches and disruption.

8. Tech talent

As logistics becomes more digital expect to see a growth in jobs requiring technical expertise; data analysts, supply chain architects and AI integrators.

That's it. What do you think? What are your thoughts and predictions for logistics in 2026?