The future of logistics: challenges and cautious optimism

The Future of Logistics: Challenges and Cautious Optimism LDGo General Director on Drones, Industry Situation, and COMvex 2025 Exhibition At the recent Comvex 2025 exhibition, Vladislav Baranov, General Director of LDGo Group, shared insights on logistics trends, industry challenges, and limitations of new technologies. His candid remarks revealed the realities transport companies face today. Drones: Prospects and Pitfalls Baranov noted that autonomous freight transport remains a niche solution: "Driverless vehicles can only operate within designated zones. If a factory or warehouse lies outside this coverage, a driver is still required, undermining the technology’s purpose. This system works well for large producers with closed-loop routes (e.g., between their factories and stores) or in regions with developed infrastructure (Moscow, St. Petersburg)." Key challenges identified: 1. Inflexible routes (e.g., shipments from Ufa to Vladivostok). 2. High integration costs. Conclusion: "Testing is viable, but mass adoption is premature." Industry Crisis: "Everyone Is Operating on the Edge" The CEO observed that the transport sector is struggling: "Companies lack actionable strategies to improve the situation. Many operate at a loss to retain staff and maintain operations. Profits have shrunk to 1–2%." Causes: 1. Rising fuel and spare parts costs. 2. Price dumping by small carriers. 3. Declining contract margins. Comvex 2025 and Other Exhibitions: Seeking Solutions After attending two industry exhibitions, Baranov assessed their value: "At Comvex 2025 and Logistika Expo, speakers and experts outlined the current state of the logistics market." Key discussion topics: 1. Local optimizations (e.g., digitalizing document flow). 2. Attempts to cut costs via "targeted" technologies. LDGo’s Forecast: A Strategy of Caution The company’s focus: 1. Stability — Retaining existing clients and staff. 2. Pilot projects — Testing innovations without risks. 3. Monitoring — Preparing for post-crisis adaptations. "Now isn’t the time for systemic overhauls. We must weather the storm and adapt gradually," concluded LDGo’s representative. Material prepared based on an exclusive interview.