# A3 Business Forum 2025

Palmer Jones

The **A3 Business Forum**, hosted by the Association for Advancing Automation, has wrapped up in Orlando, FL. **Mark Boedecker** and **Palmer Jones** represented LogistiVIEW and had the privilege of connecting with partners like [BlueSkye Automation](https://blueskye.com/) and other automation leaders shaping the future of supply chain innovation.

## **The State of Automation in Supply Chain**

One standout statistic that resonated throughout the forum: **only 20% of U.S. warehouses currently have any form of automation**. This striking figure highlights the vast untapped potential in the supply chain sector and the critical role of solutions that can enable automation in new industries.

[Warehouse Execution Systems (WES)](https://www.logistiview.com/wes-warehouse-execution-system/) like LogistiVIEW are sure to play a big part in both standing up new greenfield sites and retrofitting existing brownfields, especially as WMS customizations become cost prohibitive.

## **A Continued Shift to Online Fulfillment**

A recurring trend we observe is traditional brick-and-mortar businesses **transforming their warehouses to accommodate online fulfillment**. While physical changes to the facility and implementing new technology are critical, they represent only half the battle. Often overlooked are the challenges of **integrating existing systems**, such as a WMS, with one or multiple new automation solutions. Additionally, **prioritizing change management with the workforce** is essential for a smooth transition.

The success of these projects often hinges on finding a **flexible, experienced partner** who can seamlessly bridge the gap between legacy systems and cutting-edge technology. This partner must also navigate **demanding time constraints** to ensure the facility remains operational during its transformation.

## **Expert Insights**

The forum also delivered impactful insights from leading thinkers in the field:

- **Alan Beaulieu (ITR Economics)**: Shared a positive outlook for U.S. economic leadership and manufacturing, while emphasizing the importance of navigating global trends like onshoring and AI-driven energy demands.
- **Rodney Brooks (Robust.AI)**: Highlighted the immense potential of warehouse automation and underscored the importance of updating infrastructure to fully realize these benefits.
- **Ayanna Howard (The Ohio State University)**: Delivered a compelling message about keeping end users at the heart of automation design, emphasizing trust, transparency, and maintaining human autonomy in human-robot interactions.

## **Inspiration and Looking Ahead**

**Leland Melvin**, the former NFL player turned NASA astronaut, gave an inspiring keynote. His stories about the importance of having “people in your corner” struck a chord and reminded us why it’s important to strive for **partnerships** with our Customers, not just pursuing transactional relationships.

As we look ahead to the [Automate Show in May](https://www.logistiview.com/events/), we’re excited to continue these conversations and share our vision for supply chain innovation. Let us know if you’d like to [touch base with our team](https://www.logistiview.com/contact/) **in Detroit.**

_Thanks again to A3 for putting on an exceptional event!_

## Author

-

[Palmer Jones](https://www.logistiview.com/author/palmer-jones/ "Palmer Jones")

[Email](mailto:palmer.jones@yourdomain.com)