Supply Chains in 2035

A recent research initiative by Kühne Logistics University (KLU), conducted together with SAP Supply Chain Consulting, aims to understand how supply chain management will develop in the coming years. Led by Prof. Dr. Kai Hoberg, Professor of Supply Chain & Operations Strategy, the study involved around 660 supply chain experts and is currently being presented in a multi-part series in Deutsche Verkehrs-Zeitung (DVZ).

The study compares expectations from the mid-2010s with current developments in digitalization and artificial intelligence. At that time, many companies invested heavily in new digital concepts such as augmented reality, 3D printing, IoT, and autonomous logistics systems. However, progress has often been slower than anticipated. Key limiting factors included underestimated complexity, insufficient data readiness, and a shortage of qualified personnel.

The study shows that companies now approach digitalization more pragmatically. Technologies are introduced when benefits are clearly measurable – for example in delivery performance, resilience or planning accuracy. Successful digital projects tend to start small and scale only after proven value.

The external environment has reinforced this development. The pandemic, geopolitical instability and climate-related constraints have increased the need for resilient and flexible supply chains.

Across the study, several consistent conclusions emerge:

• Supply chains will become more networked and data-driven.
• Artificial intelligence will take over routine operational activities.
• Human roles will shift toward monitoring, exception handling and strategic improvement.
• End-to-end planning and integrated platforms will be central.
• High data quality and harmonized processes are essential foundations.

It is also mentioned, that planning will become a key competitive differentiator. Companies that do not achieve modern, integrated planning capabilities risk losing operational stability and market relevance.

The study highlights that artificial intelligence is set to become a strategic cornerstone in supply chain planning. More than half of the respondents expect generative AI and GPT-based models to significantly influence planning processes by 2035.

Used sources (accessed 10 November 2025):

• LOGISTIK HEUTE – Zukunftsstudie: Künstliche Intelligenz und die Lieferketten von 2035
• Kühne Logistics University – How supply chain management will work in the future
• Deutsche Verkehrs-Zeitung (DVZ) – Study Series Overview: Supply Chain 2035
• DVZ – So funktioniert das Supply Chain Management der Zukunft
• DVZ – Wie Daten, KI und Agenten die Supply-Chain-Planung verändern