Sina Khodaee, a third-year PhD student at the School of Management, recently joined a distinguished panel at the Inside Warehouse Logistics (IWLEX) 2024 conference.

As part of the conference’s session on the future of warehousing, Sina contributed insights alongside other experts, including leaders from DHL, UKWA and Baringa.

IWLEX is a two-day conference that serves as an essential platform for professionals within the internal logistics and warehousing sector, with a strong focus on industry wellbeing and sustainability. It is the UK's only dedicated warehouse operations exhibition.

Rapid changes

In the discussion, Sina provided valuable insights into the rapidly changing landscape of warehousing. He noted that while algorithms are essential in the development of automation, physical aspects are also poised for significant advancements. This dual focus on software and hardware will be key to driving efficiency.

Sina also explored the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in reshaping consumer behaviour and demand forecasting, suggesting that AI could soon predict consumer needs before they even arise, leading to more efficient inventory management and reduced waste.

He emphasised the importance of sustainability for the future, particularly with regard to the location of warehouses. He argued that as warehouses become more reliant on energy-intensive technologies, their proximity to renewable energy sources and population centres will be vital to optimise energy usage.

The human factor

Additionally, Sina discussed the future roles of humans in increasingly automated warehouses, highlighting that advances in technologies such as the Internet of Things and drones will enable workers to make more informed decisions. This will enhance both efficiency and safety in warehouse operations. Instead of being eliminated, Sina argued that human roles will shift to more skilled tasks, such as managing, engineering, and programming data-driven systems.

In closing, Sina stressed that while warehouses will undoubtedly undergo significant transformations, some foundational aspects will remain. One of the most important of these is industry-university collaboration, which he believes will continue to be crucial in driving innovation and ensuring that the warehousing sector adapts effectively to future challenges.