The Future of Material Handling: Smarter, Faster, and More Efficient

The material handling world is evolving rapidly in 2025—and forward-thinking operations leaders know it’s not just about keeping up, but staying ahead. With smarter automation, tighter supply chains, and increasing customer expectations, the pressure to operate leaner, safer, and more efficiently has never been greater.

Let’s break down the trends that are delivering real, measurable results—and how they can work for you.

Boost Productivity and Safety with Smarter Automation

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are foundational to modern warehouse workflows. These technologies lighten the manual load, increase throughput, and allow your team to focus on higher-value tasks.

Key Benefit: Reduced labor strain, increased pick rates, and enhanced safety.

Werres, in partnership with Locus Robotics and The Raymond Corporation, offers tailored solutions that fit your operation’s layout and goals.

Make Smarter Decisions with Real-Time AI and Analytics

Predictive analytics and AI-driven tools help eliminate guesswork. Whether you’re optimizing inventory or forecasting maintenance, these technologies reduce delays and improve outcomes.

Key Benefit: Improved operational efficiency and data-driven decisions that reduce costs.

Raymond’s iWAREHOUSE® system and Werres’ connected platforms offer real-time insight into assets, operations, and performance.

Plan Confidently with Digital Twin Technology

With digital twin simulations, you can model workflows, layouts, and material flow—before committing to changes.

Key Benefit: Reduced risk and improved ROI on process changes and facility upgrades.

Speed Up Fulfillment with Micro-Centered Automation

Micro-fulfillment centers bring product closer to the end user while optimizing space and improving delivery times.

Key Benefit: Faster fulfillment, lower last-mile costs, and better customer satisfaction.

Werres provides right-sized automation including compact AS/RS systems and shuttle-based solutions.

Meet Sustainability Goals with Energy-Smart Equipment

Energy-efficient systems—like lithium-ion batteries and regenerative braking—deliver long-term operational and environmental value.

Key Benefit: Lower energy use, longer battery life, and support for sustainability goals.

Raymond’s Energy Solutions and Werres' integrations support scalable green upgrades.

Gain Visibility and Control with IoT Integration

IoT-enabled devices offer real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and automation to keep your operation running smoothly.

Key Benefit: Increased uptime, reduced waste, and data-backed strategic decisions.

Werres integrates iWAREHOUSE® and smart telemetry tools to create visibility across your warehouse.

Empower Your Workforce with AR and Wearables

Augmented Reality (AR) and smart wearables improve picking accuracy, reduce training time, and enhance worker safety.

Key Benefit: Faster onboarding, fewer mistakes, and higher productivity.

Ready to Lead in 2025?

Werres Corporation and The Raymond Corporation are here to help. From concept to execution, we work with you to deploy scalable, intelligent automation for today’s challenges and tomorrow’s growth.

Explore our automation offerings

Sources

This article reflects insights from Werres Corporation, The Raymond Corporation, and 2025 industry publications from Element Logic, Kardex Remstar, SIE Lift, and Supply & Demand Chain Executive.