Logistics

Mideast market set to hit $66.3bn

Technology is enabling supply chain management

The Middle East region has been faring well in terms of transportation and logistical efficiencies and performance on the global scale with its logistics market set to reach $66.3 billion by the end of 2020, according to a new report. The report has been released by Swisslog Middle East, a global leader in robotic, data-driven and flexible automated solutions, ahead of Materials Handling Middle East, the region’s dedicated trade show for warehousing, intralogistics and supply chain solutions.

Running from September 3 to 5 at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the 10th edition of the biennial event will welcome more than 120 exhibitors from 20 countries.

Over the years, the event has evolved into a futuristic showcase of robotics and automation for its 2019 edition, as the 4th Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0, continues to reshape the region’s industrial landscape.

It will put spotlight on the latest automated solutions designed to improve operational and cost efficiency, increase production capacity, accelerate customer service and boost competitiveness within a rapidly-evolving logistics sector.

During the event, Swisslog Middle East will introduce highly-efficient robotised storage and order processing solutions for small parts and pallets that integrates into existing buildings.

“Several businesses in the UAE and globally have benefitted immensely from logistics automation and, particularly in the Middle East, we are seeing increasing demand for automated logistics solutions in industries ranging from e-commerce and retail, to F&B and pharma,” remarked Alain Kaddoum, the general manager of Swisslog Middle East.

On top of robotics, Kaddoum forecasts that digital transformation will majorly disrupt industry streams such as inventory management, cargo loading, order picking, and real-time monitoring of stocks.

“Technology is and will continue to be a truly disruptive force in how the modern supply chain is shaped, defined, and explored. From basic improvements like streamlining operations and increasing process efficiency to fully automating delivery trucks, technology is enabling much smarter and simpler supply chain management,” he said.