Material Handling Business Trends

MHEDA’s Executive Committee has identified the top business trends shaping the material handling industry for 2025. Leverage these insights to navigate key industry challenges and opportunities and explore MHEDA’s resources to support your organization’s success in the months ahead.

2025 Business Trends Video

Ready to stay ahead of the curve in 2025? Dive into our comprehensive overview of the 15 Material Handling Business Trends shaping the future of the industry developed by MHEDA’s Executive Committee. From cutting-edge automation to sustainability initiatives, we’ve got the insights you need to thrive!

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2025 Material Handling Business Trends

Economy

The economic outlook presents a cautiously optimistic scenario in certain regions and industry segments while others continue to have an unpredictable recovery as the market normalizes.

Artificial Intelligence

The integration of AI-driven technologies, such as autonomous robots, predictive analytics, and real-time supply chain visibility, is transforming traditional processes and setting new standards for operational excellence.

Cash Flow

The industrial truck segment is experiencing cash flow pressure due to increased inventory, interest rates, tightening credit conditions, and extended payment terms along with a reduction in rental utilization and used equipment values.

Market Pressure

The storage and handling segment is experiencing pressures from other segments entering their market and manufacturers’ capacities outpacing customer demand.

Emerging Technologies

Emerging technologies are requiring members to quickly develop tech driven solutions and integrate them into traditional automation solutions.

Cyber Security

Heightened cybersecurity risks are impacting companies’ ability to safeguard sensitive data and to ensure customer trust, supply chain continuity and business stability.

Consolidation

Consolidation continues with acquisitions by private equity firms, manufacturers and distributors.

Corporate Governance

There are increased demands from customers and suppliers for members to adhere to environmental, social, and corporate governance requirements.

Health & Wellness

Employees are facing increased pressure and look to employers for financial and mental health services.

Requirements

Requirements continue to increase for permitting and engineering as well as contractor licensing and safety.

Electrification

Equipment electrification, mobile robots and automated guided vehicles (AGV) will continue to impact member sales and aftermarket operations.

Geopolitics

The volatile geopolitical environment creates risks to global markets and business operations.

Talent Gap

The talent gap continues to grow, increasing the challenge of hiring skilled employees for members.

Partnerships

Strategic partnerships between manufacturers and distributors are more important than ever as demand for direct consumer business increases.

Imported Products

There is an increase in low cost imported products putting pressure on margins for both distributors and manufacturers.

2025 Business Trends Infographic

Download our Material Handling Business Trends Infographic for a concise, one-page overview of the latest industry insights and trends, providing valuable data to help you stay informed and make strategic decisions for your business. It’s the perfect resource for a quick, impactful look at key market developments.

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