Manifest 2025: 6 Insights to Stay Ahead in Logistics

Manifest 2025 brought together the brightest minds in logistics, supply chain, and technology to share insights, innovations, and strategies shaping the future of the industry.

Here’s what stood out from this year’s event.

1. Optimization, transparency, and visibility: more than just better business

Optimization, transparency, and visibility are no longer just about operational efficiency—they’re about delivering superior customer experiences. As Chelsea Morris from Dollar General highlighted, these elements directly translate into better service and a more seamless end-customer experience.

In an era where customer expectations are higher than ever, businesses that prioritize visibility across their supply chain can create meaningful, trust-based relationships with their customers.

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2. Data alone doesn’t matter—insights do

The buzz around big data continues, but the real differentiator isn’t the volume of data collected; it’s the ability to extract actionable insights. Raw data without context or clarity is just noise. The companies leading the way are those investing in tools and talent to turn data into decisions that drive growth and efficiency.

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3. Flexibility over standardization: embrace data diversity

Waiting for standardized data formats is no longer a viable strategy. The complexity and variety of data streams require dynamic flexibility. As Dave Jones from Auger put it, companies should aim to be like a “garbage disposal for data”—capable of ingesting, processing, and utilizing diverse data sources in real time.

The ability to adapt to various data formats gives businesses a competitive edge in a fragmented ecosystem.

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4. Point solutions vs. platforms: finding the right fit

The debate between point solutions and all-in-one platforms continues. While specialized, niche solutions remain valuable for specific problems, platforms that serve a well-defined segment of the market can offer significant advantages.

The key takeaway: you can’t be everything to everyone, but you can be everything to someone.

Companies that identify their core niche and build tailored, comprehensive solutions for that audience will continue to thrive.

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5. Founder-market fit is critical

Logistics is a nuanced industry that requires deep domain knowledge. Founder-market fit remains essential, particularly when it comes to early customer adoption. Founders with experience in the industry often have a clearer understanding of customer pain points and can more easily secure their initial customer base.

As a litmus test, ask yourself: can you name the first 5-10 customers who will use your product? If not, it may be time to rethink your positioning.

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6. Subject matter expertise: the secret to great products

The best products in logistics often come from those who have lived and breathed the problems they aim to solve. Success lies at the intersection of subject matter expertise and the capability to execute. When those who deeply understand the challenges take ownership of the solutions, the results are often more practical, impactful, and enduring.

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Final thoughts

Manifest 2025 made it clear: the logistics industry is at a crossroads. Those who can blend innovative technology with industry know-how, operational flexibility, and a customer-centric mindset are poised to lead the way.

The future belongs to companies that don’t just collect data but transform it into better services, better experiences, and ultimately, better businesses.