Conference shapes the future of the automotive logistics industry

The burning issues dominating the automotive logistics industry's agenda will be discussed at the ninth Automotive Logistics Global conference, held in the automotive hub of Detroit from 9 – 11 September 2008. Logisticians from major OEMs, tier one suppliers and logistics service suppliers will convene at the Ritz-Carlton hotel to debate issues including globalisation, capacity and the future sustainability of the industry.

Environmental concerns also continue to be a major focus for the sector and, for logisticians, the drive towards a more eco-friendly automotive industry poses real challenges. Environmentally-friendly solutions can often add significant expense to already costly processes and the sector's executives need to be able to stretch already-challenged bottom lines to accommodate a shift toward a greener industry. It is critical that logistics service providers continue to invest in strategies that are compliant with future environmental legislation and a greener future.

Increasing globalisation makes the twin challenges of cutting costs and reducing environmental impact even more difficult, yet this is the new reality that the automotive industry faces, prompting a period of unprecedented change throughout the industry. Previous Automotive Logistics Global conferences have helped to initiate the collaboration of the sector's leading players, and the conferences also facilitate the execution of decisions that will help the industry evolve into a more sustainable proposition.

The conference is supported by leading players in the industry such as gold sponsors Panalpina and premier sponsors Ryder. Tom Jones, SVP & general manager, US supply chain solutions of Ryder, which creates manageable and flexible inbound, aftermarket and lead logistics services to the automotive industry commented: “This is a very exciting time to be in the automotive logistics sector. Despite challenges, there is significant potential as the industry changes to satisfy the growing consumer appetite for fuel-efficient alternatives and meet increasing global demand in emerging consumer markets. Automotive Logistics Global is the ideal venue for industry leaders to collaborate and discuss these issues that will shape the future of automotive logistics.”

As in previous years, the conference will be divided into different sessions with a variety of issues including global supply chain management, global sourcing, capacity and a stream dedicated to finished vehicle logistics. Speakers include Frederiek Toney, executive director MP&L, Ford Motor Co and Peter Weiss, Director, Worldwide Transportation and Customs, Chrysler. There will also be an interactive roundtable event, which will offer an exclusive chance for delegates to discuss their most important day-to-day issues with their peers.