Beyond the Blind Spots: Building Smarter, Transparent and Connected Supply Chains
by John Paxton
Chief Executive Officer, MHI
In today’s global economy, supply chains are no longer just the backbone of commerce—they are the strategic battleground. As organizations face mounting pressures from geopolitical tensions, shifting tariffs and unpredictable disruptions, the need for end‑to‑end visibility and real‑time transparency has never been more urgent.
The Q4 issue of MHI Solutions explores how forward‑thinking companies are reimagining their operations to be not only resilient but also agile and insight‑driven, leveraging connected data as a competitive advantage.
However, with greater connectivity comes greater risk. As supply chains become increasingly digitized, they also become more vulnerable to cyberthreats that can cripple operations and compromise sensitive data. At the same time, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming everything from demand forecasting to logistics optimization—yet it creates its own set of challenges, including the energy and water demands of AI data centers. This issue explores how companies are striking a balance between innovation, sustainability and security. Key stories include:
–Building Disruption-Proof Supply Chains
–The End-To-End Supply Chain Visibility Mandate
–The Retail Supply Chain Leans on Resilience and a Heightened Focus on Customers’ Changing Behaviors
–Reindustrialization, Energy and Strategic Sustainability
–MHI—80 Years of Providing Solutions that Make Supply Chains Work
The supply chain, from every angle, including innovative technologies and the solutions necessary for resilient supply chains, will be fully showcased at our record‑setting MODEX trade show from April 13‑16, 2026. MODEX will feature more than 650,000 square feet of exhibits showcasing the latest manufacturing and supply chain technology, as well as four keynotes and 200 supply chain educational seminars. MODEX will be the largest supply chain event in 2026 and your best chance to learn and source leading solutions for your operations. It is a free training asset for your team. You can learn more and register to attend at modexshow.com.
This issue also celebrates MHI’s 80th year as the association representing the material handling industry—the industry that makes supply chains work. This industry has championed innovation from its inception, and that is even more true today as the pace of change accelerates.
By embracing the importance of data and innovation, you have an opportunity to differentiate your company in the marketplace, build trust and create more resilient, shock‑proof operations. Whatever your role in the supply chain, this edition of MHI Solutions offers the insights you need to stay ahead of the curve.
