Digital platforms, AI, sustainability pressures and changing customer expectations were at the center of the 3rd DVZ Future Commerce & Logistics Conference, hosted at Kühne Logistics University in Hamburg. Through the talks, panel discussions and excursions, experts explored how logistics is evolving to support modern commerce.
A highlight of the day were the excursions: participants experienced the Westfield Hamburg-Überseequartier firsthand and gained in-depth insights into startup innovation at the Digital Hub Logistics & Commerce.
Speakers emphasized the growing influence of Asian platforms and the structural shift toward platform-driven commerce. Market power increasingly lies in control of data, customer access and transactions. At the same time, parcel volumes are rising faster than revenues, placing pressure on logistics networks and costs.
KLU Professor Sandra Transchel highlighted the potential of circular logistics models, noting that reuse systems often fail not because of materials but due to fragmented return flows.
Companies are responding with new strategies, including local-for-local supply chains and more professionalized distribution structures. One key takeaway from the conference: success will depend less on delivery speed and more on the ability to manage data, volumes and system complexity.
Thank you to all speakers, partners and participants for a great exchange on how supply chains create competitive advantages across industries.
Read an article on Deutsche Verkehrszeitung (DVZ, in German)
