In September 2024, Melbourne will host a gathering of supply chain leaders to deliberate on the future of the logistics industry.
The logistics sector is projected to make a MEGA move towards sustainability next year.
Recent global events have underscored the imperative of a sustainable supply chain. However, achieving this goal requires concerted efforts.
The attainment of a truly sustainable supply chain necessitates cutting-edge technology, pioneering initiatives, progressive businesses, and exceptional talent.
Leading professionals from various parts of Australia will convene at MEGATRANS to deliberate on the pivotal factors influencing the trajectory of the sustainable supply chain.
Sustainability
The MEGATRANS2024 expo will explore how traceability serves as the cornerstone for establishing an ethical and sustainable supply chain at every phase.
This segment of the conference will also feature insights from prominent retailers detailing their strategies and visions for the future of ethical sourcing practices.
Making supply chains more sustainable helps minimise the environmental footprint which can be achieved by reducing waste, conserving resources, and lowering emissions.
“We know that sustainability is a big issue in logistics, but also for most other industries. The show is designed to deliver solutions and foster the discussion on how we, as an industry, can make practices more sustainable,” said Lauren Chartres, MEGATRANS show director.
“We want to ensure that the longevity of the industry is secured. That’s really the focus for next year.”
Moreover, by using eco-friendly materials, optimising transportation routes to reduce carbon emissions, and implementing energy-efficient practices, industries can further minimise their environmental footprint.
From electric vehicles and charging stations to telematics solutions and fleet management software – all will converge in a single, MEGA location.
“We want to look at alternative fuels, ways where we can be monitoring the supply chain to reduce unnecessary trips or unnecessary travel. Ultimately, we want to ensure that those energy conservation systems are in place,” said Chartres.
This dedicated exhibition space also aims to provide fleet managers with a preview of the innovative solutions poised to shape their strategies for the upcoming decade.
The integrated event comprising a conference, exhibition, and jobs pavilion presents a unique chance for similar suppliers and key figures in the industry to convene.
Together, exhibitors and attendees can delve into the pivotal role of sustainability in shaping the future of supply chains and explore ways to actively engage in this
transformative journey.
From reducing carbon footprint to fostering diversity in the workforce, the event will scrutinise every link in the chain, spotlighting their potential contributions towards a
sustainable future.
MEGATRANS stands as an interactive expo exclusively showcasing companies that specialise in cutting-edge technologies and services, specifically categorised based on their impact on fostering a sustainable supply chain.
“MEGATRANS offers unparalleled access to decision makers from right across the industry,” said Chartres.
“We’re talking about major food producers and major retailers. It’s the decision makers from those businesses that that you’re able to meet with at MEGATRANS. It’s the people who are making buying decisions about supply chains, like logistics managers, and procurement managers.
“Those are the people that you can meet on site,” explained Chartres.
A shift in logistics
Based on Australian Bureau of Statistics findings, over a third of businesses (37 per cent) encountered supply chain disruptions in February 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Although this data indicates a decline from January’s figures, where nearly half of businesses (47 per cent) reported disruptions, the prevalence of these issues has remained high compared to April 2021.
The primary challenges faced by businesses revolve around delays in domestic and international deliveries (88 per cent), followed by supply limitations (80 per cent) and escalated prices (75 per cent).
After the disruptions caused by the pandemic, major logistics companies are redirecting their focus and investments towards sustainable practices, moving away from solely securing supply chains.
This shift towards sustainability is supported by the Federal Government’s recent budget allocation of over $4.5 billion for climate-related initiatives.
A portion of this budget, $20.9 million over five years, is dedicated to decarbonising transport and infrastructure.
With the sector currently contributing 46 per cent of national emissions, transportation is expected to become the country’s primary source of emissions by 2030.
Beyond environmental concerns, the logistics industry faces challenges in workforce stability and diversity.
Despite escalating market challenges, the Australian cold chain logistics sector is witnessing expansion driven by heightened demands for food items, meat, pharmaceuticals, and various goods necessitating controlled temperatures throughout the delivery process.
Additionally, the market is experiencing growth due to the demand for temperature-sensitive vaccines, necessitating precise temperature control from supply to citizen administration.
Cold supply chain transportation
Within the food and beverage sector, an intricate logistical system – the cold supply chain – plays a pivotal role in preserving the quality and safety of perishable goods.
This specialised process ensures that temperature-sensitive items, from farm produce to dairy and seafood, maintain their freshness throughout the supply chain.
“Cold chain solutions are vital to the food and beverage supply chain,” said Chartres.
Cold supply chain transportation involves the movement of temperature-sensitive goods across various stages of the supply chain while maintaining specific temperature conditions.
At its core, the cold supply chain relies on temperature-controlled storage facilities and refrigerated transportation. These components work in tandem to uphold product integrity, prevent spoilage, and uphold food safety standards.
Continuous temperature monitoring, facilitated by advanced technology like sensors and data loggers, remains central to this process.
This meticulous oversight guarantees compliance with strict safety regulations at every stage of the journey.
The projected size of the Australia cold chain logistics market is anticipated to increase from AUD 6.83 billion in 2023 to approximately AUD 8.20 billion by 2028, demonstrating a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.73 per cent over the forecast period spanning 2023 to 2028.
The burgeoning growth of the cold supply chain in Australia during a stage of industry transition exemplifies not only economic expansion but a relentless pursuit of excellence in preserving product quality.
This journey of adaptation is set to redefine the future of logistics, promising a world where every product, from farm-fresh produce to life-saving pharmaceuticals, reaches
consumers sustainably.
Whether you’re pioneering tech, unveiling logistics solutions, or showcasing the future of transportation, your stand at MEGATRANS2024 is an opportunity for your business to shine.
Join the league of industry leaders, innovators, and trendsetters converging under one roof today.