Supply Chain Execs Flag AI as Top Disruptor for Logistics Sector

Attendees at MODEX heard that, despite the urgency around AI, it will be equally important to ensure that investments in the technology are targeted and strategic.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 4:38am

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A minimalist studio still life featuring a collection of sleek, geometric objects made from polished metal, glass, and wood, conceptually representing the abstract concepts of supply chain optimization, logistics automation, and data-driven decision making.As supply chain leaders increasingly turn to AI to navigate volatility, experts caution that a thoughtful, strategic approach is key to successful technology adoption.Atlanta Today

More than 70% of supply chain executives say that artificial intelligence will be the most disruptive technology over the next decade, while nearly a quarter believe that any disruptions created by AI will be transformational for the logistics sector. As a chaotic geopolitical environment has made it harder than ever to plan for the future, AI is widely viewed by supply chain leaders as an essential tool to mitigate those impacts.

Why it matters

The logistics and supply chain industry is facing unprecedented challenges due to global volatility, and AI is seen as a critical technology to help companies adapt and optimize their operations. However, experts caution that simply adopting AI without a clear strategy and operational foundation could lead to failed implementations.

The details

According to a survey of 500 supply chain professionals from MHI and Deloitte, 41% of respondents said that they've already adopted AI technology in some way, while another 47% said that they expect to adopt AI within the next five years. Thirty-three percent said that, within the next two years, they plan to use the technology for inventory optimization, while 30% are looking to improve predictive maintenance of equipment, and 27% are planning to automate operational decision-making.

  • The survey was conducted in April 2026 at the MODEX conference in Atlanta, Georgia.
  • MHI CEO John Paxton presented the survey findings during his keynote address on April 15, 2026.

The players

John Paxton

CEO of MHI, a trade association for the material handling, logistics, and supply chain industry.

Camille Blake

Regional director of logistics at Carvana, an online used car retailer.

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What they’re saying

“Supply chains can no longer be optimized at the edges. Only connected, intelligent and automated real-time networks will withstand the volatility and meet the future customer demands for speed and efficiency.”

— John Paxton, CEO, MHI

“Where we are struggling or getting it wrong is by trying to do the technology before we do everything else right. If you have a level of instability in your operations, you're not ready, and you have to be honest about that.”

— Camille Blake, Regional Director of Logistics, Carvana

What’s next

The MHI and Deloitte survey results will be further analyzed and discussed at upcoming industry events and conferences, as supply chain leaders continue to navigate the challenges of implementing AI and other transformative technologies.

The takeaway

The logistics and supply chain industry is under immense pressure to adopt new technologies like AI to stay competitive, but experts warn that a strategic and well-planned approach is crucial to successful implementation. Companies must first ensure their operational foundations are strong before investing in AI, or risk failed projects that don't deliver the expected benefits.