Summit of Logistics Experts: Resilience and Future Potential

In April, leading representatives from industry, trade, logistics services, science, and technology gathered at the spring summit of the “Logistics Experts” in Stromberg. The aim of the meeting was to provide a well-founded assessment of the current situation of logistics in Germany and to formulate forecasts and concrete action impulses for further development.

(Erlangen/Stromberg) The initiative for forecasting the logistics location Germany sees itself as an independent, interdisciplinary body. It combines scientific analysis with entrepreneurial practice and was founded in 2013 by Prof. Dr. Christian Kille and Markus Meißner. Two summits a year – in spring and autumn – form the rhythm of this location assessment. The central aim is to provide orientation to politics and business through fact-based analyses and strategic recommendations.

Cautious Outlook – The Economic Reality of 2025

The participants agreed that the logistics sector will not recover significantly by 2025. While a slight nominal growth can be expected, the real performance is likely to continue to decline slightly. The forecast for 2025 ranges from -0.5 to -0.8% (real) and +0.8 to +1.1% (nominal). This assessment is based on the overall weak economy, increasing uncertainty in global markets, and a lack of data, as many industry-specific detailed forecasts have now been discontinued.

A Differentiated Picture of Location Conditions

The analysis of the current situation paints a multifaceted picture. Germany is still considered one of the most efficient logistics locations worldwide. The spectrum ranges from internationally active corporations to medium-sized “hidden champions.” Logistics impresses with deep industry expertise, a robust transport infrastructure, high educational competence, and the strong brand “Made in Germany.” The implementation competence along complex value chains is as pronounced as the innovative strength in areas such as intralogistics and automation.

At the same time, the logistics experts see significant weaknesses that hinder the sector’s development. Bureaucratic hurdles and complex regulations complicate operational efficiency. Additionally, high energy and personnel costs, as well as tax and levy burdens, strain competitiveness. The sluggish digitization – particularly in the public sector – and a often risk-averse attitude in decision-making processes lead to innovation barriers. The lack of venture capital for disruptive developments further exacerbates this effect.

Potential for a Breakthrough

Despite these structural challenges, numerous opportunities have also been identified. Germany possesses significant technological competencies, particularly in the areas of automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The close interlinking of research, practice, and start-ups is seen as a viable foundation for future innovations. The ability to flexibly adapt complex supply chains to changing conditions is also one of the strengths of the location.

Additional momentum could come from the “special fund for infrastructure and climate protection,” which is intended to enable targeted investments in transport, energy, and digital infrastructure. However, strategic management of these funds is essential to achieve impact. Furthermore, the increasing importance of sustainable technologies and Germany’s role as a location for international skilled workers were mentioned as central levers for future viability.

A Package of Measures for the Logistics of Tomorrow

As part of the summit, a comprehensive package of measures was developed to strengthen Germany’s logistical competitiveness. At the center is the idea of a practical innovation program that specifically promotes projects in the areas of AI, automation, and platform economy. Instead of traditional funding mechanisms, a model-based capital allocation principle is to be established, which – similar to a venture capital model – gradually links financing to proven business cases.

Another focus is on networking: The cooperation of companies, science, start-ups, and public institutions is to be elevated to a new level. Open platforms, joint governance models, and cross-industry synergies (keyword “Coopetition 2.0”) are central components of this approach.

Culturally, a change in mindset is also to take place. A hunger for innovation, tolerance for mistakes, and enthusiasm for new ideas need to be more firmly anchored in the management levels of logistics companies. The goal is to establish the logistics location Germany not only as an efficient service provider but also as a globally recognized engine of innovation.

From Location Factor to Export Hit

Logistics in Germany stands at a crossroads. On one hand, structural weaknesses are evident that hinder growth. On the other hand, the sector offers outstanding conditions to profile itself internationally – provided that the framework conditions are actively developed. The spring summit of 2025 made it clear: The industry is ready for change. Now, political determination, entrepreneurial courage, and a culture of collaboration are needed to elevate German logistics to the next level.

Photo: © Logistikweise/Alexander Stoll / Image Caption (l.r.): Gerritt Höppner-Tietz, hagebau Logistik GmbH & Co. KG; Markus Meißner, AEB SE; Dr. Patric Spethmann, MARC O‘POLO SE; Patrick Wiedemann, Reverse Logistics Group; Michael Wegener, Commerzbank AG; Prof. Dr. Michael Sternbeck, dm – drogerie markt GmbH; Harry Seifert, Seifert Logistics GmbH; Berit Börke, PARTNER FOR PIONEERS GmbH; Arnold Schroven, Schroven Consulting GmbH; Ralf Busche, BASF SE; Wolfgang Lehmacher; Prof. Dr. Peer Witten, Otto Group; Kerstin Wendt-Heinrich, TOP Mehrwert-Logistik GmbH & Co. KG; Dr. Martina Niemann, DB Cargo AG; Marc Schmitt, LOXXESS AG; Antje Lochmann, GEODIS FF Germany GmbH & Co KG; Dr. Torsten Rudolph, Rudolph Logistik Gruppe GmbH; Prof. Dr. Alexander Nehm, DHBW Mannheim; Prof. Dr. Christian Kille, THWS; Dieter Braun, AUDI SE.