Evolving Supply Chains: What We Learned at Manifest and RILA

How AI, Reverse Logistics, and Strategic Partnerships are Shaping Tomorrow’s Retail Landscape

This month, our team had the opportunity to attend two powerhouse events in the supply chain and logistics space: Manifest and RILA’s Retail Supply Chain Conference. Both provided invaluable insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of retail, logistics, and technology. Below are our top takeaways.

Manifest: Vibrant, Transformative, and Future-Focused

Manifest is known for bringing together industry leaders, startups, and innovators to share their visions on how to modernize global supply chain, logistics, and transportation.

1. AI Takes Center Stage
   From predictive analytics to machine learning-driven workflows, the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) was a key talking point at Manifest. Sessions emphasized how AI can streamline operations, reduce costs, and uncover data-driven insights—ultimately enabling companies to make better strategic decisions in real time.

2. Women’s Panel Discussion
   One of the most memorable sessions was the women’s panel, which highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusivity in leadership. Panelists shared personal experiences, discussed overcoming industry challenges, and underscored how varied perspectives drive better problem-solving and innovation within supply chain and logistics.

3. Vibrant Networking & Thought Leadership
   Manifest certainly lived up to its reputation for energy and innovation. The exhibition floor was buzzing with new ideas, as attendees explored cutting-edge solutions ranging from autonomous vehicles to robotics in warehouses. The high-energy atmosphere made it easy to engage in meaningful conversations and share forward-thinking visions with peers.

RILA: Retail-Centric Insights and Practical Solutions

Organized by the Retail Industry Leaders Association, RILA’s Retail Supply Chain Conference brought together top retailers and solution providers to address pressing challenges in retail logistics.

1. Reverse Logistics
   As e-commerce returns continue to surge, reverse logistics took center stage. Sessions spotlighted strategies for processing returns more efficiently—everything from optimizing product dispositions (return, recycle, refurbish) to improving the customer return experience. Increasingly, this process is critical to brand loyalty and profitability.

2. AI & Automation
   Like Manifest, RILA demonstrated how AI and automation are transforming retail. Experts shared case studies on leveraging machine learning for demand forecasting and warehouse automation. Discussions emphasized adopting scalable solutions that balance cost with long-term value.

3. Middle & Final Mile
   In the competitive world of e-commerce, efficient delivery is paramount. RILA’s sessions delved into how retailers and carriers partner to optimize the “middle mile” (moving goods from distribution centers) and the “final mile” (delivering to the consumer). Attendees explored gig-economy solutions, micro-fulfillment centers, and real-time tracking technologies to enhance speed, visibility, and customer satisfaction.

4. Carrier Partnerships
   Building effective, collaborative relationships with carriers is increasingly vital in a globalized economy. Retailers and carriers discussed how to create more agile partnerships—ones that can handle both seasonal surges and day-to-day operations seamlessly. These collaborations often extend beyond simple service agreements, involving shared data and integrated systems for greater transparency.

5. Tariff Impact
   With shifting trade policies, retailers face ongoing challenges in managing tariffs and import/export regulations. RILA sessions focused on risk mitigation, alternative sourcing, and how to adapt global operations to dynamic political and economic environments.

Bringing It All Together

Both Manifest and RILA showcased the critical role of AI and automation in modern logistics. At the same time, they underscored the importance of people—through the dynamic discussions on diversity, leadership, and collaboration. From innovative return processing to optimizing carrier relationships, staying ahead in logistics requires a holistic approach that balances technology, human capital, and strategic partnerships.

That perfectly aligns with the spirit we have at Intelligent Audit. Technology is powerful, but it’s the people that drive a business forward.  

But while we’re on the topic of technology...

Let’s Talk AI

At Intelligent Audit, AI is not just another industry buzzword; it’s an essential part of our strategy to deliver tangible, measurable value for shippers. While many companies talk about AI without demonstrating its real-world benefits, IA’s AI-driven tools are rigorously tested and specifically designed for logistics, ensuring shippers see impactful results.  

Hannah Testani, CEO of Intelligent Audit, emphasizes this commitment:

“AI has a lot of power if you know how to use it effectively. We’re not here to just talk the talk and have smart people using buzzwords. We want to implement AI in a way that genuinely benefits our customers—because that’s what a true tech partner does.”

AI at IA—developed and managed internally by a dedicated data science team—is customized to meet the specific challenges shippers face today. Unlike generic AI solutions, IA’s tools are built locally and hosted internally, ensuring complete data security and eliminating reliance on third-party vendors. IA’s key AI offerings include:  

• Polly: An automated customer service assistant.

• Proprietary Anomaly Detection Tool: Designed to identify and address irregularities.

• Advanced Machine Learning Algorithms: Specially tailored for efficient invoice loading.  
  

Learn more about our approach, download great resources to enhance your understanding, and test your speed against AI at our dedicated AI at IA hub.