There are not many relevant events in the Netherlands such as ICT & Logistiek 2024, dedicated strictly to the logistics, software, and technology industries. This can certainly surprise many because, even though the Dutch are among the top players in this industry, there are not many events like this. However, we may suppose that they chose quality over quantity. Isn't it?
Adexin visited ICT & Logistiek this year in Utrecht, Netherlands between 5-7 Nov. The event aligned with our goals, so visitors discovered innovative solutions, and visiting that fair was a terrific way to end the year 2024. For us, it was also one of the significant events we visited this year, except SLUSH in Finland, where we're each year. We prepared a short overview and conclusion about the Dutch market, where we also have a logistics sector and supply chain customers. See more below.
What about ICT&Logistiek and Logistica Next 2024: let's see some highlights!
ICT & Logistiek goes along with the 2nd event, whose name stands for Logistica Next. Both events overlap, but as the name says, ICT is more directed at software solutions and high-tech, so it's plenty of subject for us at Adexin. ICT events are strictly related to problems that logisticians struggle with, and we can assist with finding a good solution that prevents them. This could be in a very short and below we get you a few highlights that have taken the event:
Display relevant information - date and location
The event took place in Utrecht on 5-7 November 2024. It is quite important to note that Utrecht is an amazing city with a brilliant history. Partially, the city's history involves the Second World War as the tight center is a cathedral with the tallest tower in the whole city. But, because of the events of the II War, it was partially destroyed, and today, the tower is set apart from Cathedra. We can walk on the square where the cathedra was in the past. There was an exciting feeling walking in this square. Utrecht is also very close to Amsterdam, which takes only 20 minutes by train.
Organizers
Event was hosted by Koninklijke Jaarbeurs Utrecht. They organize national and international trade fairs, conferences, and events, fostering valuable connections between people, markets, traders, and manufacturers. Its primary focus is building solid and sustainable brands in health, IT, logistics software, education, and beyond, driving innovation in sustainability and digitization.
Event Importance for the logistics sector
ICT&Logistiek and Logistica Next reaffirmed their status as leading trade fairs for the logistics sector. Both events offer fantastic networking opportunities, and people can enjoy coming into contact with potential customers. Personal contact helps us converse in a relaxed environment and show our products and developments in the industry.
Innovations showcased in supply chain management
The fairs featured the latest innovations. As we said above, this was a fantastic moment for creating opportunities for networking and advancing the market. Along with innovation comes new updates and information on recent developments and trends. It is the area that permanently outlines the future course of action in logistics and supply chain software development.
Collaborative agreement
Logistics chain stakeholders signed an intent declaration to establish a standard core set for primary data. There is no doubt that a common set of data allows stakeholders to communicate and collaborate more easily. This is the factual value of any software solution provided to the business to reduce errors and delays.
Facts about visitor numbers
There was a joint attendance of 10,500 visitors. It was quite a significant increase, over 10% compared to the previous edition. Logistica Next, exhibitors who attend ICT&Logistics annually emphasize the interaction between the two events. For visitors, it is worth noting that although the target audiences used to differ, logistics companies today have grown toward each other in recent years. It is even more evident, especially around robotization and AI trends, which we share below.
Technology, automation, and IT
As with every event of this format, we can meet companies from various sectors connected to logistics. These include those providing infrastructure for warehouses and distribution centers, automation solutions, and more. The scope is broad, even extending to real estate agents who can assist with building your warehouse from scratch.
However, when we talk about ICT and logistics, the focus is primarily on IT and software development for the logistics industry. From my experience at the event, it's clear that companies are still actively seeking these solutions:
Warehouse management systems (WMS). These systems optimize warehouse operations. We can include inventory management, order fulfillment, and labor management here.
Transportation management systems (TMS). TMS software helps manage the transportation of goods. So, we can talk about a TMS system that includes route optimization, carrier management, and load planning.
Supply chain management (SCM) software. SCM software provides end-to-end visibility and control over the supply chain, from procurement to delivery.
Internet of things (IoT) solutions. IoT devices can track and monitor goods in real-time. Plenty of sets can improve visibility and efficiency in logistics based on IoT.
Finale takeaway
It was for the second time at this event, and I was also surprised, even this time, by the organizers. The event, hosted in Utrecht, allowed me to explore nearby Amsterdam, which I like quite a lot. While the event catered primarily to traditional businesses seeking software or hardware solutions, it offered a diverse range of options from mainstream vendors and companies specializing in custom solutions. It was essential to me because this was our target at some point, and it confirmed that we went to the right place.
From my perspective, a notable trend was the continued focus on sustainability. However, one drawback was the low user engagement with the matchmaking tool, which limited opportunities for scheduled meetings. From my point of view, this suggests a potential area for improvement by the organizers in the view of the future.
The following editions of ICT&Logistiek and Logistica Next are scheduled for 4–6 November 2025. Can I advise you to visit the Netherlands at that time? Of course, I can, as the event presents a vast perspective for various leaders in logistics and ITC.
