Manifest reaffirmed its role as a premier annual event, bringing together over 6,000 leaders and innovators to explore trends and transformations shaping the future of the supply chain. Prologis was proud to join our customers, partners and Prologis Ventures portfolio companies at the event, exchanging ideas and uncovering solutions to pressing industry challenges.

From advancements in warehouse technology and sustainability to shifting global trade patterns and consumer demands, here are the central takeaways from Manifest 2025 that are top of mind for industry leaders.

Supply Chain Diversification: Preparing for the Future

Global trade continues to expand, but growth is expected to align more closely with global GDP rather than significantly outpace it, as we’ve seen in previous decades. Companies are actively diversifying their supply chains to mitigate risks and navigate a complex landscape. With broader networks and expanding touchpoints, agility and adaptability are critical.

One ongoing challenge is adapting to shifting market conditions. The need for resilient supply chains has never been greater, as companies look for ways to enhance their logistics strategies in response to evolving dynamics. For instance, Prologis Ventures portfolio company Flexe enables businesses to rapidly adjust their logistics footprint and optimize inventory. With flexible warehousing infrastructure, companies can store inventory closer to demand, shift port-of-entry strategies and minimize disruptions. 

Warehouse Innovation and Automation: The Future of Logistics Operations

Warehouse automation and next-level connectivity were hot topics at Manifest, with 93% of logistics companies planning to maintain or increase their technology investments over the next three years, according to a DHL survey presented at the event. As automation advances, the integration of physical and digital technologies is becoming essential for future-proofing operations.

Companies that invested early in automation are pulling ahead, gaining a competitive edge in efficiency and growth. Industry leaders are leveraging intelligent warehouse design, robotics and streamlined software integration to refine and modernize operations. As automation evolves, long-term success requires staying ahead of advancements like warehouse management systems (WMS), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and AI-driven infrastructure.

While automation adopters advance, others risk falling behind. Integration partners like SVT Robotics are helping bridge the gap for companies seeking to scale automation without disrupting daily operations. By embracing flexible, self-service automation models through features serviced by SVT, businesses can better adapt to shifting supply chain demands and scale without limitations.

Prologis Ventures portfolio companies are at the forefront of this shift, developing next-generation automation solutions that enable faster fulfillment, real-time optimization and greater operational efficiency. Logiwa’s AI-powered fulfillment management system (FMS), for example, streamlines picking paths, batches orders efficiently and enhances labor movement—all to minimize bottlenecks and maximize throughput.

As the logistics sector navigates ongoing changes, automation will be a defining factor in supply chain resilience and long-term growth. Prologis Ventures will keep working with innovators in this space to help shape its future. 

Sustainability: Your Strategic Competitive Advantage

Resiliency and efficiency emerged as central themes at Manifest. As expectations around emissions and accountability grow, consumers are demanding greater transparency from logistics providers. Today, sustainability is no longer just a consideration—it’s reshaping business strategy.

Prologis is committed to helping customers navigate the transition to fleet electrification, renewable energy adoption and carbon reduction strategies. Our Essentials Mobility and Essentials Sustainability teams consult regularly with customers to implement these solutions at scale.

The circular economy was also top of mind at Manifest, with leaders from the Circular Supply Chain Network and others discussing innovative business models focused on reimagining the logistics landscape. In alignment with our customers’ priorities, Prologis continues to prioritize efficiency in our property designs. Prologis Ports Newark in New Jersey, for instance, uses crushed glass in construction to offset concrete and carbon emissions. Meanwhile, Prologis Nexus in San Leandro, California, regional winner of the 2024 NAIOP Development of the Year Award, delivers a 45% reduction in embodied carbon emissions as a LEED Platinum-certified building.

Resilience in a Changing Market

Logistics leaders are navigating a rapidly shifting market landscape. According to a recent Prologis Research report with The Harris Poll, 66% of industry executives cite current market dynamics as a major concern. That’s why Prologis is working to turn challenges into opportunities. Through our Prologis Ventures portfolio companies, Essentials platform and innovative property portfolio, we are helping customers build resilient supply chains that can adapt to market fluctuations.

As we reflect on conversations at Manifest 2025, one thing is clear: The future of supply chain resilience lies in agility, technology, automation and sustainability. Prologis remains committed to supporting our customers, ensuring their businesses stay ahead as the industry evolves.

Let’s keep the conversation going. Connect with us to learn more about how we can help future-proof your supply chain.