Dematic explores how labour shortages, rising operational costs and advances in AI are reshaping warehouse automation strategy across the UK.

This Vision Paper draws on insights from logistics providers, consultants, industry bodies and automation end users to examine how organisations are:

• Applying AI in warehousing without replacing human expertise
• Investing in brownfield and modular automation strategies
• Using digital twins to improve resilience and reduce risk
• Rethinking automation as a long-term business system – not just an engineering upgrade

Rather than focusing on individual technologies, the study examines the forces transforming the UK supply chain, and defines what leaders should prioritise over the next five years.

Download the full Vision Paper: https://www.dematic.com/en-gb/insights/downloads/vision-paper-2026/