72,5% of companies identify Artificial Intelligence as the engine of efficiency for global logistics

 

El SIL Barcelona presented the XVI Logistics Circle Barometerrevealing that 72,5% of companies see in the Artificial Intelligence a strategic ally to improve productivity and operational efficiency in the face of the challenges of global trade.

 

The consolidation of Artificial Intelligence in business strategy

 

Confidence in disruptive new technologies has reached historic levels within the industrial sector. According to the study published by the SIL Barcelona, the leading trade fair organized by the Consorci de la Zona Franca de Barcelona (CZFB), The IA It is not only perceived as an optimization tool, but also as a key factor for the growth of skilled employment. 72,5% of logistics managers He states that this technology will allow his teams to be more competitive without negatively impacting the size of their squads.

 

The degree of adoption is already a tangible reality in the sector: 76,6% of companies that consume logistics services already have tools for Artificial Intelligence or is in the implementation phase. This figure represents a steady increase compared to the data recorded in 2025, where interest already reached 76,3% of the market, consolidating a trend of technological investment. B2B long term.

 

Operational challenges: costs, reliability and sustainability

 

Despite technological optimism, the sector faces significant structural challenges. increased transport costs It is positioned as the main logistical challenge for 26,4% of organizations. In this context, the choice of service providers is no longer based solely on price, but rather prioritizes... reliability, a fundamental criterion for 30,7% of respondents.

 

Likewise, environmental commitment remains paramount in decision-making. 92,5% of professionals in the sector consider it a significant factor. sustainability in their logistics operations, compared to a residual 7,5% who still consider it irrelevant. This comprehensive approach will be one of the central pillars during the next SIL Barcelona, which will be held from June 3 to 5 in Fira Barcelona, Montjuic.

 

 

Logistics Indicator 2026	Percentage / Data
Companies that see AI as a productivity ally	72,5 %
Companies with AI implemented or in process	76,6 %
Importance of sustainability in decisions	92,5 %
Main challenge: Increased transport costs	26,4 %
Selection criteria: Supplier reliability	30,7 %

 

Technologies with the greatest potential for the next three years

 

When projecting the future of the supply chain leaders towards the next three years, the Artificial Intelligence and predictive analytics They lead the preferences of 33,2% of experts. However, the digital ecosystem is diversifying with other emerging solutions:

 

• Collaborative platforms: Considered essential by 22,3% for interaction with carriers.
• Warehouse automation: Priority for 19,2% of logistics managers.
• Operating efficiency: Main focus of new investments in Intralogistics.

 

El SIL Barcelona It reaffirms itself as the epicenter where this data will be analyzed, allowing industrial and loading companies to adjust their strategies to the reality of an increasingly digitized market that is aware of the environmental impact.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about the Logistics Circle Barometer 2026

 

How does Artificial Intelligence affect employment in the logistics sector?

72,5% of managers believe that AI will increase productivity without significantly reducing staff, while only 4,6% foresee considerable staff reductions due to this technology.

 

What is the main economic challenge facing logistics companies?

The increase in transport costs is the most critical challenge, cited by 26,4% of companies, which forces them to seek greater efficiency through technology and predictive analytics.

 

What technologies will shape the future of logistics until 2029?

Artificial intelligence and predictive analytics are the most relevant for 33,2% of professionals, followed by collaborative platforms (22,3%) and warehouse automation (19,2%).