National Distribution Day 2025: Go AI, stay ahead!

Regional visits: a powerful start to the day

The day kicked off with a welcome address by René Brill, chairman of main sponsor Logistics Overijssel. He highlighted the strategic priorities for the region: improving accessibility, driving sustainability, strengthening the labour and knowledge market, and encouraging international business. Participants then set off to five impressive regional company visits, with exclusive behind-the-scenes tours at Aldi, Auping, Hanos, Scania Logistics Netherlands, and the Inland Terminal Group.

Plenary session: AI in action

Following a networking lunch, the conference continued in the unique atmosphere of the Adelaarshorst Stadium, where professionalism and informal exchange came together seamlessly. The plenary session opened with a warm welcome by Ron König, Mayor of Deventer, followed by NDL Chairwoman Annemarie Jorritsma, who emphasized the importance of logistics to the economy and officially welcomed all attendees on behalf of NDL.

The three keynote speakers each offered a unique perspective on how AI is transforming logistics. Peter de Haas, Co-founder and CEO of Augmentic, stressed that AI only truly delivers value when integrated into daily operations. “The real value comes when experimenting and learning becomes routine,” he said. Sebastian Piest, Assistant Professor at the University of Twente, presented over thirty AI projects that have been successfully implemented in logistics, and introduced a hands-on approach to launching effective AI initiatives. Etienne Visser, Vice President European Operations at Uber Freight, gave insights into how AI is already being used within Uber’s transport management system to optimise global freight flows.

Workshops: practical applications and tangible insights

In the afternoon, attendees dove into six interactive workshops that brought AI practice to life across different areas of the logistics chain. Mujin demonstrated how intelligent robots — powered by Physical AI — can operate autonomously in dynamic warehouse environments. ORTEC showed how AI helps optimise complex workforce planning in times of labour shortages. DPD Netherlands shared its journey towards a data-driven approach to demand forecasting, replacing manual estimates with models based on real-time operational data. CEVA Logistics revealed how AI is used in warehouses and control towers to streamline processes and support staff. Nijhof-Wassink offered practical examples of AI in transport management, with a focus on route optimisation and decision-making. Clear D3 showcased innovative AI applications for pricing, tender calculations, and demand forecasting — with proven profitability gains for transport companies.

Networking in the right atmosphere

The day concluded with a networking reception in the stadium. The relaxed setting provided the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the day’s topics, meet new people, and exchange ideas. From artificial intelligence to authentic connection – the networking element of the NDD remains an essential pillar of this annual event.

NDL CEO Remco Buurman looks back on the day with pride:

“It’s great to see how AI is truly alive in our sector. We’re proud that this edition once again delivered a strong and inspiring programme. This is exactly what NDD is about: connecting, innovating, and strengthening.”

Thank you to our sponsors

The National Distribution Day 2025 would not have been possible without the involvement of our sponsors, each representing a different facet of the logistics industry.

We extend our thanks to our main sponsors: Logistics Overijssel, Port of Zwolle, Port of Deventer, Port of Twente, and Regio Stedendriehoek. Our gold sponsor was Air France KLM Martinair Cargo. Our silver sponsors were DSV and SF Express. Our bronze sponsors were Allin Base, Black Box Logistics, Briddge, DAF, IDS, idverde, Huawei, and Secure Logistics.

For more information:
Katerina Veliskova
Head of Marketing
M: +31 6 22 10 86 11
E: k.veliskova@ndl.nl