Exploring the Future of Supply Chains at ProMat 2025: A Recap from AIM

This week, I had the incredible opportunity to attend ProMat 2025 at McCormick Place in Chicago, where manufacturing and supply chain professionals from around the world gathered to explore the latest trends, technologies, and innovations shaping the future of the industry. As a representative of AIM, it was exciting to see firsthand how automation, robotics, and AIDC technologies are converging to drive greater efficiency, accuracy, and visibility across supply chains.

Connecting with AIM Members

One of the highlights of my visit was meeting with many of our AIM members who were exhibiting at the show, including:

It was great to catch up with these industry leaders and see the latest advancements in RFID, barcode technology, and track-and-trace solutions. Many of our members are beginning to integrate robotics, more advanced OCR and even machine learning into their offerings; creating more seamless, intelligent supply chain solutions. This growing synergy between AIDC and robotics is a clear indicator of where the industry is headed—toward greater automation, real-time data insights, and enhanced operational efficiency.

With over 1,100 solution providers showcasing cutting-edge technologies, ProMat 2025 was a hub of inspiration. From RFID solutions improving real-time asset tracking to AI-powered barcode verification systems enhancing accuracy in distribution centers, the event underscored the rapid evolution of automation and data-driven decision-making in supply chain management. Beyond the exhibit floor, keynotes and seminars provided insights into emerging trends such as digital twins, AI-driven supply chain optimization, and the role of AIDC in sustainability efforts. These discussions reinforced the importance of data accuracy and interoperability, areas where AIM and its members continue to drive progress through standards and innovation.

I also wanted to send a thank you to DecisionPoint Technologies for hosting a fantastic post-show networking event on Monday evening. It was a great opportunity to connect with industry peers, share insights, and discuss the exciting developments we saw throughout the day. Events like these are invaluable for strengthening relationships and fostering collaboration among supply chain leaders, and it was great to see several of our members at this event collaborating and networking.

As ProMat 2025 comes to a close, one thing is clear: the future of AIDC, automation, and robotics is more interconnected than ever. AIM remains committed to supporting our members and the broader industry as we navigate these exciting advancements.

If you attended ProMat and want to continue the conversation about how AIM can support your business, feel free to reach out. We look forward to continuing being a resource to drive the industry forward.

Be Recognized for Solving Your Customer’s Traceability Challenges; Enter the Case Study Competition

Each year, AIM recognizes industry leaders who develop and implement innovative solutions in digital technology. The AIM Case Study Competition highlights groundbreaking applications in AIDC, Blockchain, IoT, and RFID, showcasing how the appropriate solution was selected, the deployment issues they overcame, and the benefits they achieved. Since its inception over a decade ago, the competition recognizes the leaders in digital technology transformation and fosters adoption of these technologies by highlighting the best deployments and product offerings. I always recommend to our members and non-members alike to submit a case study, as the benefits of your innovations is numerous.

Participating in the competition provides a unique opportunity to gain industry recognition, enhance visibility, and showcase real-world applications that drive efficiency and innovation. Winners are honored at major industry events and receive media exposure, helping to elevate their company’s profile and create new business opportunities. The competition serves as a platform for sharing success stories and advancing the adoption of digital technologies worldwide. The winning submissions are always featured in the resource hub and routinely become some of our most downloaded documents for the year.

Submissions should clearly outline the business challenge addressed, the technical solution applied, and the measurable benefits achieved. Judges look for compelling case studies with quantifiable results, such as increased accuracy, cost savings, and improved operational efficiency. IoT and Blockchain entries should also highlight deployment maturity and scalability. Remember to make sure these are all clearly highlighted in the submission and study itself to enhance your opportunity to score well with the judging panel!

The AIM Case Study Competition is open to all, and membership is not required to participate. To enter, review the guidelines, complete the application, and submit your case study by Friday, March 14, 2025. Do not miss this opportunity to gain recognition for your innovative work and contribute to the advancement of automated data capture technologies.

Did you wake up one day and realize that you work in the “AIDC industry” – an industry that you had never even heard of before getting the job? Not to mention, what is AIDC? Unfortunately, our industry is neither well known nor widely taught in our schools. This is absurd when you consider that you interact with barcodes, RFID and other AIDC technologies multiple times every single day. Yet here you are, right in the middle of this industry by some fluke of destiny. If you would like to finally get the basics cleared up so that you can better help your customers and advance your career, then this course is for you.

Chris Brown

TSC

Attending the AIDC 101 Workshop provides the tools and knowledge to leverage barcodes, RFID, and global standards, enabling businesses to enhance efficiency, improve traceability, ensure regulatory compliance, and build resilience into their supply chains. By mastering these technologies, organizations can future-proof their operations, adapt to evolving industry demands, and strengthen their ability to navigate challenges with confidence and agility.

Jeanne Duckett

Avery Dennison - Identification Solutions, North America

AIM Chapter Meeting Recap: A Collaborative Future for 2025

Last month, AIM chapters from around the world gathered virtually for a dynamic and insightful meeting. This event was a testament to AIM’s unwavering commitment to advancing the automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) industry through collaboration, innovation, and strategic planning.

The meeting kicked off with updates from various AIM chapters, each bringing a unique perspective on their regional challenges and successes. Here’s a glimpse into the key highlights:

Peter Altes, Managing Director for AIM – D e.V., provided a candid overview of the current market in Europe. Peter shared optimism of further growth as he discussed upcoming events like the their Track and Trace Theatre at LogiMat and the Transport Logistics 2025 event, which will invigorate industry collaboration.

Jeanne Duckett from AIM North America shared several exciting developments, including board activities and pivotal food safety initiatives. Notably, AIM North America has been actively engaging with the US House Committee on Energy & Commerce and the FDA to enhance food traceability, demonstrating AIM’s influence on critical industry regulations. You can read those comments here.

Sanjive Mehta of AIM India highlighted the chapter’s successful webinars that have attracted significant attention, along with the addition of Zebra Technologies as a new member. This growth is a testament to AIM India’s expanding community.

Grigory Slusarenko from AIM Russia spoke about their integral role in the national traceability system. Collaborating closely with GS1 Russia, AIM Russia is providing expert support on implementing AIDC technologies such as UHF RFID and DataMatrix for a wide range of products, further cementing their leadership in the field.

Masaki Ehara from AIM Japan delivered exciting news about strategic partnerships and the successful ‘AIDC Connect Asia’ event orchestrated by Anna Lau of AIM Asia .

Anna Lau from AIM Asia sent notes about the successful ‘AIDC Connect Asia’ event. With over 120 attendees, this event showcased AIM Asia’s strategic alliances with organizations like LogiMat, the Thai International AIOT Association, and IEEE Macau Chapter. The event featured industry forums that focused on retail, logistics, and supply chain, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

Looking ahead, AIM and its global chapters outlined a robust strategic plan for 2025, underscoring their commitment to growth and innovation. Key initiatives include the formation of ad hoc teams to address specific challenges and the launch of new programs like the AIDC 101 Workshop.

Inclusivity and professional growth are also at the forefront of AIM’s agenda, with the introduction of the Young Professionals of AIDC and Women of AIDC initiatives. These programs aim to foster a more inclusive industry, providing opportunities for growth and networking across all AIM chapters.

Membership development remains a top priority, with plans to enhance AIM’s membership package to attract new members and retain existing ones. By adding new benefits and focusing on member engagement, AIM aims to solidify its community and drive further growth.

This meeting underscored AIM’s dedication to fostering collaboration and innovation across its global chapters. With a clear strategic vision and numerous initiatives planned, AIM is well-positioned to lead the AIDC industry into 2025. The future looks bright as AIM continues to drive growth, embrace innovation, and ensure continued success for its members worldwide.

If you would like to get more insight into the work of AIM and our worldwide chapters, contact chapter liaison Michael Allen.