Logistics UK Annual Conference programme

Chair's welcome and Logistics UK keynote

Opening Logistics UK’s first Annual Conference, entitled Delivering the Foundations of Growth, David Wells OBE highlights the importance of the logistics sector in driving growth across the whole economy amidst concerns that UK productivity and growth is drastically low.

With logistics being one of the UK’s largest economic sectors, it has never been more vital for the development of an industrial strategy that is designed to directly stimulate economic growth whilst strengthening the critical enablers that underpin the logistics industry, including our road, rail, maritime and aviation networks, along with warehousing, energy systems and digital connectivity.

David Wells OBE, CEO, Logistics UK

Driving productivity and growth - the power of public-private partnerships in logistics

Boosting productivity and economic growth is a national priority, and logistics is central to this mission. To deliver this, the UK needs a public-private partnership to unlock investment and enable the logistics sector to deliver its full potential.

Given the complexity and scale of the challenge in overcoming barriers and requiring collaboration that extends beyond the remit of any single government department, our industry-leading panel of experts will drill down into the intricacies of a strategic public-private partnership to support growth, innovation and sustainability.

Chair: Kevin Green, Policy & Communications Director, Logistics UK

Nigel Milton, Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer, Heathrow

Ernst Schulze, UK Chief Executive Officer for Ports & Terminals, DP World

Maggie Simpson OBE, Director General, Rail Freight Group

Economic outlook for the sector: navigating the future

In this insightful session, Mike Garratt and Professor Alan McKinnon will provide an in-depth analysis of the economic outlook for the logistics sector, discussing the impact of global economic shifts, policy changes, technological advancements and sustainability initiatives. As they explore both the challenges and opportunities on the horizon, attendees will gain valuable insight into key economic trends, market dynamics and potential growth areas that will shape the future of logistics.

Mike Garratt, Managing Director, MDS Transmodal

Professor Alan McKinnon, Professor of Logistics, Kühne Logistics University

Will AI change the face of the industry?

With the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence on logistics operations already becoming apparent as it aids us in optimising supply chains, improving efficiency and reducing costs, we uncover its potential to revolutionise the sector in the years to come.

Priya Lakhani OBE, Founder and CEO, CENTURY Tech

Integrated infrastructure for logistics

To keep pace with evolving demands and drive sustainable growth, the UK needs to prioritise investment in a national logistics network, introduce planning reforms, and boost innovation funding.

As businesses and logistics hubs become ever smarter and more integrated, our knowledgeable panel will discuss the importance of evolving our supporting infrastructure to enable seamless, multimodal connections across transport networks.

Chair: Ben Garratt, Deputy Director - Public Affairs, Logistics UK

Nick Harris, Chief Executive Officer, National Highways

Nick Potter, Transport Director, Tesco

The role of logistics in supporting the UK's green transition

As the UK strives towards becoming a clean energy superpower that rebuilds its industrial strength, logistics stands at the forefront of reducing emissions, strengthening supply chains and managing the costs of decarbonisation.

This session will focus on practical solutions and strategies for the logistics sector to accelerate the green transition. Industry experts will share insights on creating a clear roadmap to net zero, phasing out fossil fuels, and driving private investment to support a sustainable future.

Chair: Michelle Gardner, Deputy Director - Policy, Logistics UK

Navigating future skills: equipping logistics for tomorrow's opportunities

As logistics continues to evolve with advancements in technology, decarbonisation goals, and shifting market demands, building a workforce equipped for the future is essential. This cross-modal panel will explore strategies to develop the skills needed to foster innovation, enhance productivity, and prepare the workforce for tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities.

Chair: Bethany Windsor, Head of Skills Policy, Logistics UK

Chris Downes, Senior Talent Director, GXO

Unlocking trade to connect the UK to world markets

The UK’s position as a global trading hub hinges on the ability to overcome barriers, reduce friction at our borders and strengthen international connections. With logistics facilitating the import and export of goods valued at over £1 trillion annually, this panel will discuss the importance of boosting trade for fostering economic growth, strengthening supply chain resilience and forging stronger connections to global partners.

Chair: Nichola Mallon, Head of Devolved Policy & Trade, Logistics UK

Doug Bannister, Head of the Port of Dover

Arron Kendall, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing - Europe, XPO Logistics

Closing session

Closing keynote from our chair with an overview of the day.

David Wells OBE, CEO, Logistics UK

Drinks reception and Sir James Whitehead Address

The Sir James Whitehead Address is an annual policy speech hosted by Logistics UK. It is an invitation-only event for senior business leaders, policymakers, thought leaders and commentators on a macro-economic topic that situates the logistics sector as underpinning the UK economy and as essential for unlocking growth. It is named after Sir James Whitehead who, as Lord Mayor of London, brought together leading traders in 1889 to campaign for improved services for moving goods. That initiative eventually became Logistics UK, one of the largest business groups in the UK.

Dr Lee Jones, Professor of Political Economy and International Relations, Queen Mary University London

If you are an executive or classic member of Logistics UK – expect your personal invitation shortly! You can also register your interest below.