Event director Robert Jervis answers Packaging Scotland’s questions about Multimodal 2025, which returns to Birmingham’s NEC from June 17-19
Q) Why should people visit Multimodal 2025?
A) As the global supply chain continues to evolve, staying ahead requires access to cutting-edge solutions, vital connections, and a comprehensive understanding of industry trends. Multimodal addresses the full spectrum of logistics, from optimising supply chains to exploring technological advancements and staying informed on regulatory shifts. If you’re aiming to improve efficiency, discover new solutions, or network with key players, Multimodal is indispensable.
Multimodal 2025 offers a unique opportunity to engage with the forefront of logistics and trade. Attendees can connect with industry leaders, gain insights into future trends, and discover innovative solutions. This event is crucial for professionals seeking to navigate the evolving logistics landscape and drive their businesses forward.
Q) What’s the history of the event?
A) For 18 years, Multimodal has been a cornerstone of the UK logistics industry. What began as a focused exhibition has evolved into a comprehensive platform encompassing all modes of transport and aspects of the supply chain. Over the years, the event has adapted to reflect the changing needs of the industry, incorporating new technologies, addressing emerging trends, and expanding its scope to include a wider range of exhibitors and attendees.
This evolution has solidified Multimodal’s position as the UK’s premier logistics exhibition.
Q) Anything new for 2025?
A) Each year, Multimodal introduces new features and initiatives to enhance the attendee experience. New for 2025 will be an AI Clinic featuring interactive sessions and personalised consultations. These clinics are an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about how AI can transform their business. Whether you have a specific AI issue or just want to understand how it can help improve your supply chain operations, the experts from Problems Solved will be on hand to provide practical advice and clear answers.
Q) What are some of the latest trends and issues that you expect to be major talking points at the show?
A) A fundamental element of Multimodal is the free to attend conference sessions, extremely relevant to the whole multimodal community, and compiled in conjunction with the industry’s leading trade associations ensuring topics of importance to each genre are at the core of the discussions including Logistics UK, the Cold Chain Federation, the Rail Freight Group, The Chartered Institute of Transport and Logistics, the British International Freight Association, Institute of Export and International Trade, the United Kingdom Warehousing Association, and the Road Haulage Association.
Given the recent change of administration in the US, the 2025 programme will look at how global trade might be affected by tariffs. We will also be drilling down into AI and ML and how both can be fully harnessed in the logistics world. Topics up for discussion include Donald Trump, Ukraine, Red Sea, AI, sustainability, economic uncertainty, staff recruitment, development and retention.
Q) Any Scottish exhibitors?
A) Multimodal draws exhibitors from across the UK, and Scottish businesses represented include Malcolm Logistics, Russell Logistics, Forth Ports, CCL Logistics & Technology, Clyde Ports and Bullet Express. Hundreds of companies showcase the latest innovations in supply chain, including Malcolm Logistics, Kuehne+Nagel, Maersk, Freightliner, DP World, COSCO, Port of Tyne, Bristol Port Company, ONE, Maritime Transport, and Mediterranean Shipping Company.
Q) What can you tell us about the Multimodal Awards?
A) The Multimodal Awards, which celebrate excellence in rail, road, air, maritime, and freight forwarding services are open for nominations until March 28, with voting for the finalists opening from April 7 through to May 23. The categories are Rail Freight Company; Road Freight Company; Air Freight Company; Sea Freight Company; Port Company; and 3PL of the Year.
The written awards are also open for entries with the deadline of April 22, with finalists being announced on May 1 when the entries will be sent off to the independent panel of judges for their expert review. These awards include Best Warehouse Operation; Customs Technology Partner; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Company; Best Technology Company; Shipper/Partner of the Year; Sustainability Company; Young Logistics Professional; and Technology Company.
All Award Winners will be announced at the Multimodal 2025 Awards evening held at the VOX Centre on the NEC estate on 17th June.
