After three days at IMHX 2025, we returned to the office with plenty to reflect on. The event brought together thousands of logistics professionals at the NEC in Birmingham, and we had the opportunity to speak with numerous businesses exploring automation for their warehouse operations.

Nearly every conversation began the same way. Business owners and operations managers had been sent to explore the available automation options. They were doing their homework, walking the aisles, gathering information, and trying to make sense of an overwhelming array of technologies.

What became clear was that Autrix’s approach resonated differently. While many exhibitors focused purely on hardware or software, we showcased how both elements work together through our Autrix Control System. This unified approach to warehouse automation caught attention because it addressed the reality that most businesses face: they need solutions that integrate with their existing operations rather than forcing them to rebuild everything around new equipment.

We strengthened relationships with key technology partners during the event. Meetings with Hikrobot and Libiao reinforced our commitment to working with proven robotics suppliers whilst maintaining our focus on the software intelligence that makes automation truly effective. These partnerships enable us to deliver comprehensive solutions, rather than leaving businesses to piece together disparate systems themselves.

The most striking insight from IMHX wasn’t about technology at all. It was about strategy. When we asked prospects what they wanted automation to achieve, the most common answer was labour savings. That’s understandable. Reducing headcount costs is an obvious benefit of automation. But here’s the challenge: labour savings is an outcome, not a vision.

Businesses exploring automation often haven’t done the deeper work of defining what success actually looks like. What does better warehouse performance mean for your business specifically? Is it about handling seasonal peaks without temporary staff? Improving accuracy to reduce returns? Enabling growth without relocating to a larger facility? Supporting next-day delivery commitments? Freeing skilled staff from repetitive tasks so they can focus on problem-solving?

Without clarity on these questions, businesses risk choosing automation based on what sounds impressive rather than what solves their actual problems. They might invest in technology that delivers labour savings but fails to address the bottlenecks that truly limit their growth.

If IMHX demonstrated anything, it’s that the warehouse automation market has matured significantly. The technology works. Robotics, intelligent software, and integrated systems are no longer experimental. The question isn’t whether automation can improve warehouse operations, but whether you’ve defined what improvement means for your business.

Before evaluating vendors or comparing systems, take time to develop your internal vision. Speak with your warehouse team about what frustrates them on a daily basis. Discuss with your customer service team the factors that lead to complaints. Review your operational data to identify where delays and errors actually occur. Identify the problems that are costing you customers, limiting growth, or consuming disproportionate management time.

This groundwork transforms automation from a vague aspiration into a targeted solution. It allows you to evaluate options based on how well they address your specific challenges rather than how impressive they look on a show floor.

IMHX 2025 reinforced why we built the Autrix Control System the way we did. Businesses don’t need more complexity. They require clarity, integration, and solutions that cater to their unique operational needs.

We’re grateful to everyone who visited Stand A40 and shared their challenges with us. Those conversations shape how we develop our platform and guide the advice we provide to businesses exploring automation.

If you’re considering automation for your warehouse, start with the vision. Define what success looks like. Once you have that clarity, the technology decisions become far more straightforward. That’s when we can help you find the right solution, rather than just the most talked-about one.