IMHX 2019 is set to be the biggest and most successful event in the long running IMHX series of materials handling exhibitions to date.

Over 400 exhibitors – including Dematic, Swisslog, Knapp, Vanderlande, Toyota, Crown, Doosan, Briggs and Hyster-Yale – will deliver live and dynamic demonstrations of the latest technological developments that are shaping the modern logistics industry.

IMHX 2019 exhibition director, Rob Fisher, comments: “IMHX is always a key diary date for logistics professionals. With the vastarray of equipment, solutions and technology on show this year, IMHX 2019 is no exception.

He continues: “Supply chain issues are at the top of every company’s agenda.  The relentless rise of e-commerce is forcing retailers, manufacturers and logistics operators to adapt the design of their facilities to keep pace with today’s consumers who demand ever-faster and more efficient delivery of goods.

“As a result, traditional storage warehouses are being transformed into massive technology-enabled high-volume order-fulfilment centres to ensure every square inch of the site is optimised.”

Developments in intralogistics systems are advancing more rapidly than ever before and many of the changes are, not surprisingly, being driven by developments in automation and robotics.

This ever-expanding role of AI, automation and robotics within the modern supply chain will be reflected at IMHX 2019.

“With over a third of exhibitors showcasing some form of automation, robotics, autonomous vehicles or new tech, visitors to IMHX will be able to see and feel this cutting-edge technology for themselves. What’s more is the opportunity to get a greater understanding of how it can be implemented and deliver the operational benefits they are looking for,” says Rob Fisher.

In addition to hundreds of product launches and demonstrations, the IMHX Technology Arena – new for IMHX 2019 – is likely to be of particular interest to visitors. This exciting new zone, which is being delivered by AMHSA – the leading trade association for logistics automation providers – will allow visitors to experience the evolution of picking technology that is enabling the rise of e-commerce.

AMHSA secretary, Dave Berridge, comments: “AMHSA will be provide an interactive feature that explains picking technological developments and demonstrates how automation brings speed and accuracy to the picking operation. AMHSA experts will be on hand to explain different picking technologies and provide professional advice on all aspects of logistics automation.”

Trade pavillions

One of the show’s many trade pavilions will be hosted by the United Kingdom Warehousing Association (UKWA) and will showcase the best Third Party Logistics (3PL) companies.

UKWA CEO, Peter Ward, says: “The UKWA Pavilion is going to generate a lot of interest among visitors. The increasing need for flexible and agile supply chains means that more and more companies are turning to third party providers and realising the benefits of sub-contracting supply chain activities to experts.”

Rob Fisher adds: “UKWA is a dynamic and vibrant trade association whose members include some of the most significant companies in the UK logistics industry. Third party logistics is growing at a significant rate and the UKWA Pavilion will be the place where IMHX visitors can meet some of the leading companies in the sector.”

Addressing the skills gap

Meanwhile, the skills gap remains high on the agenda at IMHX 2019. The dynamic Skills Zone will provide a unique opportunity for young people to participate in a range of interactive features that demonstrate the diverse career options that logistics offers. It is being delivered in partnership with The Big Bang Near Me – organiser of a programme of UK-wide events designed to encourage students to become interested in science, technology and engineering, and Think Logistics – a sector-led initiative that aims to redefine the image of working in logistics.  

In addition, the Skills Zone is being supported by a number of key industry bodies, including the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), NOVUS and the British Industrial Truck Association (BITA).

Visitors and exhibitors alike will also have access to four days of exciting educational content, completely free of charge. The compelling conference programme at IMHX 2019 will feature a roster of inspiring thought leaders from leading organisations who are changing the face of logistics. The seminar programme will also offer practical knowledge, strategic insights driven by real-life case studies, and further essential professional career development.

Registration is now open to attend IMHX 2019 on 24 – 27 September 2019. Visitors are encouraged to pre-register. To secure your free visitor pass that allows access to all areas of the show on any of the opening dates, visit www.imhx.net