Explore the 10 Latest Trends in Warehouse Management [2025]

The warehousing and storage market is projected to grow by USD 643.2 billion at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.2% from 2024 to 2029. Warehouse management is evolving as e-commerce expands, labor costs rise, and supply chains demand greater flexibility.

Technological developments, including artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and Internet of Things (IoT), are speeding up this transition by improving inventory control, increasing visibility, and simplifying operations. Monitoring these trends will allow industry leaders and innovation managers to maintain competitiveness and adaptability in a changing market.

What are the Top 10 Latest Trends in Warehouse Management?

1. AI Integration
2. Robotics and Automation
3. Mobile & Cloud-based Warehouse Management
4. Sustainable Warehousing
5. Warehouse Security
6. IoT & Real-Time Inventory Tracking
7. Demand Forecasting and Inventory Optimization
8. Immersive Training
9. Omnichannel & Micro Fulfilment Centres
10. Blockchain Integration

Methodology: How We Created the Latest Trends in Warehouse Management Report

For our trend reports, we leverage our proprietary StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, covering 7M+ global startups, 20K technologies & trends plus 150M+ patents, news articles, and market reports.

Creating a report involves approximately 40 hours of analysis. We evaluate our own startup data and complement these insights with external research, including industry reports, news articles, and market analyses. This process enables us to identify the most impactful and innovative trends in the warehouse management market.

For each trend, we select two exemplary startups that meet the following criteria:

• Relevance: Their product, technology, or solution aligns with the trend.
• Founding Year: Established between 2020 and 2025.
• Company Size: A maximum of 200 employees.
• Location: Specific geographic considerations.

This approach ensures our reports provide reliable, actionable insights into the warehouse management innovation ecosystem while highlighting startups driving technological advancements in the future of the warehousing industry.

Innovation Map outlines the Top 10 Emerging Trends in Warehouse Management & 20 Promising Startups

For this in-depth research on the future of warehouse management & startups, we analyzed a sample of 860+ global startups & scaleups. The Warehouse Management Innovation Map, created from this data-driven research, helps you improve strategic decision-making by giving you a comprehensive overview of the latest trends in warehouse management & startups that impact your company.

Tree Map reveals the Impact of the Top 10 Warehousing Industry Trends

Warehouse management is evolving as trends like omnichannel fulfillment and micro fulfillment centers address the need for faster, localized delivery. Immersive training solutions improve workforce productivity and safety, while blockchain applications enhance transparency and traceability in inventory handling.

Meanwhile, warehouse security technologies are advancing to safeguard valuable goods and digital infrastructure. These innovations support the industry’s shift toward agile, technology-driven, and customer-focused warehouse ecosystems that adjust to changing supply chain demands.

Global Startup Heat Map covers 10 Warehouse Management Startups & Scaleups

The Global Startup Heat Map showcases the distribution of 860+ exemplary warehouse management startups and scaleups analyzed using the StartUs Insights Discovery Platform. It highlights high startup activity in the US and the UK, followed by Germany. From these, 20 warehouse management promising startups are featured below, selected based on factors like founding year, location, and funding.

Want to Explore Warehouse Management Innovations & Trends?

Top 10 Warehouse Management Innovation Trends in 2025

1. AI Integration

E-commerce has changed demand patterns that lead to seasonal variations and sudden spikes during promotions. Warehouses are accelerating operations as consumers now expect faster delivery.

Amazon plans to allocate over USD 100 billion for capital expenditures in 2025, with USD 86 billion dedicated to AI datacenter infrastructure.

Further, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits improved demand forecasting accuracy by 6 percentage points last year after implementing AI models.

AI also reduces inventory by 20 to 30% through dynamic segmentation and predictive analytics, which leads to more accurate demand forecasting.

Moreover, Gartner predicts that by 2027, 50% of companies with warehouse operations will leverage AI-enabled vision systems to replace traditional scanning-based cycle-counting processes.

AI also improves operational throughput by optimizing product placement and picking routes, which minimizes travel time within warehouses.

In addition, integration with IoT sensors and RFID tags maintains stock visibility, triggers automated replenishment, and prevents shortages or surpluses.

Further, the global AI in warehouse management market is projected to reach USD 70 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 39.0% from 2024 to 2033.

Credit: Market.Us

In North America, the market is set to expand further, with estimates placing its valuation at USD 100.89 billion by 2037.

Workscore.ai facilitates AI-driven Performance Evaluation

Canadian startup Workscore.ai offers an AI-powered workforce optimization platform that evaluates employee efficiency and behavior in real time. It gathers data from scanners, smart bracelets, tablets, and warehouse management systems to track attendance, movement patterns, task completion, and tool usage.

The system uses algorithms to assess individual performance and the suitability of task assignments by supervisors. It also monitors employee trajectories, zone visits, and behavioral hotspots within designated warehouse areas.

The startup’s platform integrates with existing warehouse systems and provides customizable insights to specific warehouse configurations. It allows team leaders to track workforce activities by individual or group over defined periods, and also recommends role adjustments and training strategies based on predictive evaluations of employee potential.

Bomensoft makes a Worker Safety Platform

UK-based startup Bomensoft develops an AI-supported image processing platform, BomenVision, to automate quality control and improve workplace safety using real-time visual data analysis. It uses cameras and machine learning algorithms to inspect production lines, detect defects, and monitor compliance without disrupting operations.

It includes face recognition, PPE compliance checks, social distancing monitoring, and fire or smoke detection to enable continuous surveillance in large facilities. BomenVision presents violation data by type or time period on a single screen with multi-camera feed support and centralized dashboards.

The platform delivers visual, audio, and digital alerts, integrates a communication module, and facilitates cross-department collaboration for swift incident response. In addition, it connects with human resources systems to manage personnel data and monitors environmental conditions such as air quality.

2. Robotics and Automation

Many warehousing companies have turned to robots and automation to address labor shortages, with 61% identifying this as their main reason.

DHL Supply Chain invested USD 15 million in Boston Dynamics’ Stretch robots for truck unloading and inventory tasks.

Moreover, Walmart deployed 19 autonomous FoxBot Class 1 forklifts in 2024 to improve safety and efficiency in four US distribution centers.

Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are reshaping warehouse operations and are expanding at a 14.8% CAGR.

AMRs use AI and sensors for route optimization, object avoidance, and multitask execution such as picking, sorting, and navigation assistance. AGVs follow fixed routes and support pallet handling and zone connectivity, particularly for heavier loads.

Further, Agility Robotics, in collaboration with NVIDIA, is advancing its digit humanoid robot with real-time perception and reinforcement learning for adaptive warehouse tasks.

Cobots are also gaining traction, designed to operate safely alongside humans on repetitive or physically demanding jobs. Integrated with wearable devices and voice-picking systems, these cobots enhance productivity while maintaining ergonomic safety.

Besides, these platforms integrate AMRs, AGVs, and cobots in hybrid warehouse environments to streamline task assignment and improve overall efficiency.

Moreover, the global warehouse robotics market is projected to reach USD 31 343.7 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 18.2% from 2024 to 2032 as automation demands increase in logistics and retail.

Credit: Allied Market Research

Gartner estimates that by 2027, 75% of companies will have adopted some form of cyber-physical automation in their warehouse operations.

InlogRobot builds Warehouse Shuttle Systems

Turkish startup InlogRobot manufactures warehouse shuttle systems to automate inventory handling, simplify operations, and improve order fulfillment. It uses horizontal shuttles and vertical lifts to retrieve bins, each holding up to 30 kg, from high-density racking and deliver them to goods-to-person workstations.

It allows operators to complete orders using pick-to-light guidance. Further, it integrates with warehouse management systems and ERP platforms for real-time tracking, FIFO-based inventory management, and coordinated shuttle operations.

The modular system accommodates up to 2000 bins and adapts to various storage needs. It automates repetitive tasks to reduce manual handling, enhance safety, and improve workforce efficiency.

Ceres WMS develops a Warehouse Management System

US-based startup Ceres WMS builds a warehouse management platform to simplify inventory control, order processing, and production scheduling for small to mid-sized manufacturers, co-packers, and fabrication shops. The system integrates warehouse management (WMS), order management (OMS), and production scheduling (PSS) into a single interface. It then provides real-time stock visibility, barcode scanning, and multi-location coordination.

It automates order workflows and approvals, pinpoints bottlenecks, and supports bill of materials (BOM)-driven production planning to reduce shortages and delays. The customizable dashboards highlight exceptions and live operational data, which enables teams to address projected stockouts or pending approvals.

Ceres WMS consolidates warehouse functions into an accessible system to improve operational efficiency, enhance traceability, and support scalable growth without increasing overhead.

3. Mobile & Cloud-based Warehouse Management

Mobile-enabled WMS platforms are gaining traction, with 73% of organizations planning to begin modernization by equipping workers with mobile devices. Besides, 83% of warehouse operators plan to adopt Android-based interfaces to enhance adaptability and workforce productivity.

These applications provide real-time access to inventory, order statuses, and shipment details, which allows staff to make timely decisions from the warehouse floor.

Companies are implementing mobile WMS, and they report operational improvements. UK fashion brand LOVALL shifted from manual processes to Descartes’ cloud-based WMS, achieving high order accuracy and supporting daily fulfillment cycles.

Further, Supply Chain Dive notes that barcode scanning via mobile WMS apps has reduced warehouse errors by 41%.

In addition, cloud-based WMS platforms offer remote access to warehouse data and enable multi-warehouse management and operational oversight. Real-time inventory visibility allows for preventing stock outs, avoid overstocking, and improving fulfillment timelines.

Cloud-native solutions automate order processing and inventory updates while integrating with ERP, TMS, and e-commerce systems.

Also, the WMS market is projected to grow from USD 4.0 billion in 2024 to USD 8.6 billion by 2029, expanding at a CAGR of 16.3% during the forecast period.

Credit: Research and Markets

8Stock enables Mobile Inventory Management

Malaysian startup 8Stock develops a cloud-based warehouse management system to streamline daily operations. It includes receiving, storing, picking, packing, and shipping inventory across multiple locations. The system tracks inventory in real time using barcode scanning and mobile device integration, and supports both serialized and non-serialized stock with FIFO and FEFO methods.

It enables batch processing, facilitates stock transfers with built-in request and approval steps, and provides visibility into transfer order status. Besides, it is integrated with e-commerce platforms and accounting tools for supporting multi-channel selling and keeping inventory synchronized across locations.

Managers use the platform to monitor productivity, allocate staffing based on stock thresholds, and access operational data from any location. 8Stock optimizes space usage, reduces manual tasks, and improves order accuracy to enable warehouses to operate efficiently while controlling costs and strengthening supplier and customer relationships.

pyck builds an Open-source Cloud WMS

German startup pyck provides an open-source cloud warehouse management system, pyck WMS to simplify fulfillment operations through flexible deployment and scalable integration. It runs on the pyck Framework, which it allows users to start with a single module and expand progressively.

The system accommodates both cloud-powered and on-premise hosting to give businesses control over installation, data, and configuration to meet operational requirements. pyck integrates with third-party tools, ERP systems, and e-commerce platforms through a public API.

It allows businesses to customize workflows, warehouse layouts, and interfaces to match logistics needs while benefiting from continuous framework improvements.

4. Sustainable Warehousing

Governments and international organizations have established environmental regulations that have prompted warehouses to implement eco-friendly practices.

Certifications like Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) set standards for energy use, water conservation, and material efficiency.

Energy efficiency upgrades in warehousing play a key role, with LED retrofits reducing electricity consumption by 30–50% as seen in a partnership between Prologis and the US Department of Energy (DOE).

Prologis reported a 41% decrease at its Mississippi facility after implementing T5HO lighting upgrades. Meanwhile, solar-powered warehouses generate surplus energy, with JLL’s analysis showing that US warehouses have 16.4 billion sq. ft of solar-ready rooftop space, enough to produce nearly twice their energy needs.

Besides, right-sized packaging automation enables to reduction of emissions. These systems minimize material use by tailoring packaging to product dimensions, lowering shipping emissions and waste.

Space optimization technologies, such as vertical storage and high-density automation, further reduce land use and construction-related carbon footprints.

Modern WMS now features sustainability reporting tools, which allow companies to track and disclose environmental performance. The transparency in reporting supports regulatory compliance and reinforces corporate sustainability efforts.

Moreover, facilities are integrating sustainable materials, natural lighting, efficient insulation, and passive airflow designs to lower energy demand and create healthier work environments.

Also, the global green logistics market was valued at USD 1.54 trillion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3.39 trillion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 8.32% during the forecast period.

Credit: Precedence Research

ICOfloor makes Eco-friendly Flooring

Dutch startup ICOfloor builds industrial flooring solutions that turn concrete surfaces into durable, dust-free, and low-maintenance floors using polishing techniques. The process includes metal-bonded sanding, hardener application, and fine-grit polishing to compact concrete at the molecular level. This creates abrasion-resistant surfaces with high light reflection.

The startup’s polishing method, completed with butterfly machines, treats up to 1000 m² per day without causing long downtimes. Its solutions support warehouses, production facilities, parking garages, and showrooms by delivering fire-resistant, easy-to-clean floors that improve safety.

MecaBotiX builds a Cooperative Modular Mobile Manipulator

French startup MecaBotiX develops the M3-Cooper, a modular robotic system that automates lifting, moving, and picking operations in warehouses, factories, and maintenance sites.

The robot uses omnidirectional movement, crab motion, and a quad-bot obstacle-crossing system to navigate tight spaces, cross thresholds, and access multi-level storage areas. It works independently as well as in coordinated groups.

The M3-Cooper integrates interchangeable tools, which include single-finger forks, two-finger forks, and trays, to accommodate different load types. The robot is compact at 1.80 meters tall and 70 centimeters wide and fits standard warehouse aisles and elevators. It allows for deployment across indoor and outdoor logistics environments.

5. Warehouse Security

In 2024, cargo theft grew by 27% from the previous year, with 3625 incidents reported across the US and Canada, which resulted in USD 455 million in losses.

The average theft value reached USD 202 364, with electronics, pharmaceuticals, and perishables as primary targets.

In EMEA, May 2024 recorded 1295 cargo crimes, including an EUR 600 000 sneaker heist in Madrid and an EUR 353 479 truck hijacking in South Africa.

Hence, AI-driven video surveillance systems are becoming essential in warehouse security. These systems use computer vision and machine learning to analyze live video feeds to detect unauthorized access, loitering, and anomalies.

For instance, Spot AI integrates forklift detection algorithms to prevent collisions, while AI cameras at perimeter zones distinguish between human intrusions and environmental movement to reduce false alarms.

Intelgic’s Vision AI further combines 3D cameras with AI models to detect pallet tampering, unauthorized access, and fire hazards, to improve emergency response times. It enhances real-time anomaly detection and strengthens risk management in high-value storage environments.

Further, inventory tracking is advancing through RFID and barcode integration. AI cross-references scan timestamps with video surveillance to identify discrepancies such as misplacements or theft, and enables root-cause analysis.

Cybersecurity defenses now include network segmentation to isolate robotics control systems from general IT infrastructure, which limits lateral movement by intruders.

Moreover, multi-factor authentication (MFA), role-based access controls, and encryption protocols secure communication between AMRs, AGVs, and central servers to protect physical and digital assets.

In addition, the global cybersecurity market was valued at USD 245.62 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.9% from 2025 to 2030.

Vidarex provides Video Surveillance as a Service

Hungarian startup Vidarex offers a cloud-based video surveillance platform to improve warehouse and logistics operations through AI-driven monitoring, real-time alerts, and analytics. The platform functions as a scalable video surveillance as a service (VSaaS) that allows logistics providers to monitor inventory, personnel, and vehicle movements remotely from any device.

It integrates AI-based video analytics for object recognition, intrusion detection, loitering monitoring, and license plate recognition. It sends real-time alerts that notify businesses of safety violations, unauthorized access, and camera tampering.

Key features include cloud-based access control, time and attendance tracking with facial recognition, intuitive video management, voice control, and OpenAPI integrations with ERP and IoT systems.

Vidarex strengthens asset protection, simplifies incident management, and provides insights into logistics operations to enable companies to enhance security, lower costs, and improve efficiency across warehouses and supply chains.

AIVID enables AI-based Process Inspection and Review

Indian startup AIVID develops an AI-powered video analytics platform that upgrades surveillance systems for warehouse and logistics operations. The platform uses pre-configured AIVID BOTS to analyze live video feeds and detect key events such as pallet movements, box counts, guard patrols, and package tracking.

It identifies safety and compliance issues, including PPE violations, fire or smoke presence, crane hook status, and unauthorized access. The system also automates loading and unloading detection, and inventory counting. AIVID’s platform operates without GPU dependency, processes data on the edge, and integrates with IP cameras to deliver real-time alerts via email, SMS, or WhatsApp.

Its vision insights dashboard allows businesses to access operational and compliance data across multiple locations. This visibility reduces manual inspections, prevents workplace hazards, and resolves process inefficiencies.

6. IoT & Real-Time Inventory Tracking

Warehouse digital twins create real-time virtual replicas of physical environments to optimize operations. Platforms like NVIDIA’s Omniverse integrate IoT data from sensors, AGVs, and WMS to simulate layout changes, forecast peak loads, and improve workflows.

Further, Vimaan’s computer vision-powered twins enhance this capability by capturing 3D stock images, detecting discrepancies, and triggering automated replenishment workflows.

Companies report a 30% increase in productivity with IoT adoption, driven by real-time inventory tracking and fewer manual errors. According to the US Department of Commerce, RFID and sensor integration has reduced inventory discrepancies by 50%, delivering annual savings of USD 30 million for mid-sized warehouses.

Further, condition-monitoring sensors track environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light to ensure product integrity in pharmaceutical and perishable storage. Solutions like Thermokon’s LoRaWAN sensors provide wireless monitoring across large spaces for reducing dependence on wired infrastructure.

In addition, motion and proximity sensors improve warehouse safety by identifying unauthorized access and anomalies in high-traffic areas, which prevents incidents and speeds up response times.

The expansion of 5G networks is advancing real-time IoT communication. By 2025, ultra-low latency of under 10 milliseconds will allow AMRs and drones to coordinate inventory audits and perimeter surveillance with speed and reliability to support autonomous warehouse ecosystems.

Moreover, the global IoT in warehouse management market is projected to reach USD 57.2 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 14.5% from 2024 to 2033.

Credit: Market.Us

In 2024, North America accounted for 34.8% of global revenue, and it is driven by the early adoption of automation and smart infrastructure in warehousing.

EarthTrack offers GPS Check-In & RFID Technology

Singaporean startup EarthTrack develops an RFID and GPS-enabled inventory management platform to improve asset tracking in heavy industries. The system connects field operations, office teams, and ERP systems to streamline workflows.

It offers EarthTrack Go, a ruggedized Android tablet that includes RFID sensors and GPS for stocktaking, radar-based item location, and digital access to machinery manuals and work orders. Its EarthTrack Reach combines GPS check-in with RFID technology to track high-value assets across remote or large areas, which supports passive and active RFID tags.

In addition, EarthTrack Control serves as a centralized analytics platform to provide insights, monitor stock levels, evaluate supplier performance, and flag inventory anomalies. The system integrates with ERP and third-party tools to bridge field inventory actions with backend updates while automating workflows through specialized RFID hardware.

LODI Enabled provides IoT & GPS Tracking Devices

Australian startup LODI Enabled builds IoT-embedded supply chain hardware and asset management software to improve real-time visibility, risk management, and operational efficiency in logistics and warehousing. The startup integrates sensors into plastic pallets, keg pallets, and custom IoT devices to track asset location, temperature, impact, vibration, and orientation during transport and site operations.

Its devices use LTE-M, NB-IoT, Bluetooth 5.2, and GNSS connectivity with onboard computation, which eliminates the need for external gateways or scanners. The IP69K-rated hardware withstands harsh conditions while maintaining low power consumption. It operates on a long-lasting battery, stores three months of data locally, and supports over-the-air firmware updates.

Further, the startup’s LODI Lens platform allows businesses to access insights, dwell time analysis, and real-time alerts for proactive supply chain optimization. LODI Enabled lets industries from manufacturing to mining to improve asset tracking, optimize logistics, and reduce costs.

7. Demand Forecasting and Inventory Optimization

McKinsey reports that AI-driven forecasting reduces errors by 20–50%, lost sales by 65%, and warehousing costs by 5-10%. These technologies analyze historical sales data, seasonality, macroeconomic signals, and external inputs such as weather patterns and social media trends.

Blue Yonder’s cognitive demand planning applies proprietary algorithms to improve forecast accuracy by 12%, which enables retailers to align inventory with consumer demand.

Besides, demand sensing technologies refine forecasts using real-time inputs, including point-of-sale (POS) data, warehouse throughput, and IoT device insights. ThroughPut AI demonstrates this approach by enabling fast responses to demand shifts and reducing forecast lag.

Multi-echelon inventory optimization (MEIO) software further enables synchronization of stock across distribution networks. LEAFIO AI models demand across retail locations, regional warehouses, and central distribution centers to support coordinated replenishment strategies. This method reduces safety stock by up to 30% while improving order fulfillment.

Further, the inventory optimization software market was valued at USD 2.73 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 4.98 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 8% during the forecast period.

Credit: Verified Market Research

Also, the global demand planning software market reached USD 9.14 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 21.6 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 11.5%.

Quiver advances Forecasting & Inventory Planning

Danish startup Quiver provides a SaaS platform for demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and purchasing planning to allow businesses to manage stock levels and streamline decision-making. The platform applies statistical forecasting models to automate sales and inventory predictions and provides real-time insights through integrations with ERP systems such as Microsoft Dynamics NAV, Business Central, Shopify, and Amazon.

It replaces manual Excel-based planning with a centralized interface that generates automatic order suggestions, enriches historical and future data, and connects via live API for dynamic responsiveness. Quiver facilitates collaboration across sales, operations, marketing, and finance by creating a single source of truth for inventory management to improve alignment and transparency.

Sirdab supports On-demand Warehousing

Saudi Arabian startup Sirdab offers a logistics platform that integrates warehousing, transportation, and customs clearance services. The system includes a WMS and OMS to improve inventory visibility and operational efficiency.

The WMS automates inbound workflows, optimizes outbound processing, and provides real-time status updates. It supports multi-level warehouse modeling to enable operators to define zones, racks, and storage locations, improve space utilization, and configure workflows for different storage needs.

Sirdab offers 3PL client management tools, including client-specific pricing, automated invoicing, and flexible billing cycles. Its role-based permissions and audit tracking ensure secure user access management.

The platform also connects businesses to Sirdab’s warehousing and carrier network, which allows for on-demand storage listings and integrated transportation booking. Further, advanced reporting and analytics provide insights into storage utilization, order performance, and financials.

8. Immersive Training

Companies in logistics and warehousing are adopting VR and XR training tools to improve efficiency, safety, and employee retention.

PwC’s VR Soft Skills Training Efficacy study found that VR-trained employees maintained focus better than their peers. They were up to four times more attentive than e-learning participants and 1.5 times more focused than those in classroom training.

Further, DHL has opened Advanced Training Centers with 3D glasses and simulators, training more than 1500 candidates annually across five locations.

DB Schenker’s VR forklift program allows trainees to navigate simulated warehouses to improve hazard awareness and spatial skills.

Moreover, Strivr’s XR platform merges virtual inventory environments with warehouse layouts, which enables trainees to use real handheld scanners during simulations. This hands-on approach sharpens operational readiness before deployment.

Warehouse simulation tools further improve efficiency. EPIC VR’s platform enables businesses to model warehouse layouts, assess packing configurations, identify workflow inefficiencies, and test new processes without disrupting operations.

In addition, MetaENGA focuses on order-picking tasks, guiding employees through virtual shelves and inventory systems to refine item retrieval skills.

Besides, the global immersive training market was valued at USD 11.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 22.4% between 2025 and 2034.

Credit: Global Market Insights

Virtual Reality Safety Training creates Crane Simulator & Forklift VR Training

UAE-based startup Virtual Reality Safety Training develops virtual reality training and simulation solutions to improve operational readiness and safety in security, industrial, and emergency sectors. The platform integrates the Virtualizer and Virtualizer ELITE 2 locomotion systems, and allows employees to walk and run freely in virtual environments while engaging in realistic scenarios.

It supports integration with simulation engines such as VBS 3 from Bohemia Interactive Simulations and includes a flexible software development kit for custom training solutions. The startup provides VR modules for crane operation and forklift driving, which allows trainees to improve procedural proficiency without real-world risks.

Supporteo offers AR Assistance

US-based startup Supporteo develops AR Assist, an AI-powered augmented reality platform that enables real-time remote collaboration between field personnel and experts using AR glasses or mobile devices. The system connects users over low-bandwidth, encrypted channels and allows experts to view the on-site environment from the worker’s perspective and provide guidance through AR annotations, shared content, and voice communication.

It supports hands-free operation with voice control and integrates with barcode scanners and thermal cameras. Its GPS-based location tracking and session recording enhance training and quality control. The platform also enables multi-expert conferencing, real-time file sharing, and on-screen visual guidance to reduce errors in complex operations.

Supporteo’s AR Assist minimizes downtime, improves process accuracy, and reduces travel for expert support to enhance workforce productivity, safety, and operational efficiency in maintenance, logistics, and industrial settings.

9. Omnichannel & Micro Fulfilment Centres

According to McKinsey, more than 90% of US consumers expect delivery within two to three days, and one-third expect same-day fulfillment.

MFCs enable hyper-local fulfillment with two- to three-hour turnaround, and contribute to a 15-30% increase in customer satisfaction through faster deliveries and better inventory availability.

In addition, MFCs deploy AMRs and robotic shuttles capable of 600–800 order picks per hour to improve efficiency. Machine learning algorithms optimize MFC layouts, while solutions like Honeywell’s Intelligrated use 3D simulation tools to maximize storage density in urban high-bay configurations to ensure profitability even in high-rent locations.

Moreover, OMS is becoming essential in third-party logistics (3PL), and serves as a centralized hub for coordinating orders across multiple sales channels. Integrating OMS with WMS improves supply chain visibility, supports real-time tracking, optimizes order routing, and strengthens customer communication.

Consumer touchpoints have expanded significantly—from two touchpoints fifteen years ago to more than 50 today, spanning online and offline experiences. This shift requires advanced warehouse operations to manage omnichannel fulfillment accurately and efficiently.

Omnichannel WMS platforms also enhance reverse logistics by automating return authorization, inspection, and restocking. Osa Commerce, for example, routes returned items to the nearest facility with local demand to reduce return costs and maximize resale value.

Also, the omnichannel WMS market is projected to grow from USD 2.86 billion in 2025 to USD 6.61 billion by 2034, registering a CAGR of 9.72%.

Credit: Market Research Future

The annual investment in micro-fulfillment centers (MFCs) is expected to rise from USD 132 million in 2023 to USD 5.2 billion by 2030, driven by a CAGR of 53.8%.

FullStro facilitates Omni-Channel Inventory Management

Thai startup FullStro develops an omnichannel inventory management platform to automate stock control, order fulfillment, and warehouse operations across e-commerce, retail, and wholesale channels. The system integrates with platforms such as Shopify, Amazon, WooCommerce, FedEx, DHL, PayPal, and Stripe to provide centralized oversight of sales, inventory, and logistics.

It supports real-time analytics, user access control, product attribution, barcode labeling, purchasing workflows, supplier coordination, and return management, which enables businesses to track inventory accurately. FullStro simplifies workflows, increases order volumes, and improves sales performance through automation.

TAC Dynamics creates a Micro-Fulfillment Center

Taiwanese startup TAC Dynamics builds a micro-fulfillment center solution that automates warehouse operations through a robot control system that manages SKU quantities and storage locations. The system directs micro-automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to transport standard-sized crates to designated workstations for manual pickup, and ensure efficient inbound and outbound material flow.

It operates within areas smaller than 100 square meters and provides flexibility and maximizes space utilization to support logistics automation in compact environments. TAC Dynamics continuously monitors and optimizes scheduling for improving efficiency and reducing manual intervention.

10. Blockchain Integration

Blockchain enhances supply chain traceability by maintaining an immutable digital ledger of transactions. Each block records a unique entry to create a transparent and auditable trail that authorized stakeholders are able to access.

Walmart uses Hyperledger Fabric for food traceability, which reduces the time required to track specific items from seven days to 2.2 seconds. The company currently applies this technology to more than 25 products from five suppliers.

In the automotive sector, Renault introduced a blockchain compliance platform that lowered non-compliance costs by 50% and reduced expenses related to quality and regulatory management by 10%.

Further, its decentralized architecture eliminates single points of failure and prevents unauthorized data manipulation. Pharmaceutical warehouses use blockchain to log environmental data such as temperature, to ensure FDA compliance.

Blockchain also supports sustainable sourcing by verifying raw material origins and maintaining fair-trade certification through transparent supply chain records.

Moreover, the global blockchain market is projected to grow from USD 20.1 billion in 2024 to USD 248.9 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 65.5%.

Credit: Markets and Markets

Estoko offers Integrated Stock Management

Spanish startup Estoko develops a micro-fulfillment and logistics platform by leveraging AI, cloud computing, and blockchain to improve supply chain efficiency. It operates a network of more than 500 logistics warehouses to provide scalable storage and last-mile fulfillment near major demand centers.

Its platform uses predictive algorithms to position stock, manage seasonality, and prevent stockouts, and offers real-time inventory visibility and centralized control. It matches logistics needs with available spaces to enable immediate deployment without upfront infrastructure investment.

The key features include pay-per-use pricing, specialized handling for different merchandise types, and optimized transport routes to reduce carbon footprints. The platform integrates with client systems for streamlined order, stock, and billing management.

Whrrl provides Warehouse Receipt Financing

Indian startup Whrrl develops a blockchain-based warehouse receipt financing platform that connects farmers, warehouses, and banks to facilitate collateral-free loans against stored crops. The process begins with onboarding government and private warehouses through the Partner App, and farmers then use the Anndhan mobile app to book storage slots at a selected warehouse.

The warehouse conducts quality and quantity checks and issues a tokenized warehouse receipt after farmers deposit their harvest, which is validated on the blockchain as proof of deposit. Farmers apply for loans directly through the Anndhan app, with digital approval and automated fund disbursement via smart contracts.

The platform integrates IoT sensors for real-time commodity monitoring to ensure data transparency and reduce fraud risks. The startup also allows farmers to sell stored crops through the Anndhan marketplace by transferring tokenized receipts to buyers for improving price realization and liquidity.

Discover all the Latest Warehouse Management Trends, Technologies & Startups

The future of warehouse management will evolve with emerging technologies such as AMRs advancing inventory movement and supporting labor tasks. Digital twin technologies enable virtual modeling of warehouse operations to allow real-time scenario testing and workflow optimization.

Meanwhile, edge computing improves data processing speed on the warehouse floor, which facilitates faster decision-making and system responsiveness. These innovations are shaping more adaptable and efficient warehousing ecosystems.