In 2026, the megatrends of sustainable operations and leveraging artificial intelligence will continue strongly. AI-powered processes are developing in a fast pace and are being integrated into all parts of business and life, material logistics and handling included. Modern technologies are taking their forms and places in supply chains and material handling, thus creating a clearer image of what the future will look like in the industry.
Before diving into the future trends, let’s take a quick look at what we predicted for 2025 and how it turned out. Artificial intelligence and robotics have strengthened their presence and as said, are finding their place in all areas. Cybersecurity issues remain a threat to smart project management and warehousing, and employees must be kept up-to-date in order to keep material flows and inventories safe. Decarbonization and sustainability are being promoted, and the world is seeing a growing number of projects around renewable energy, for instance. Supply chain transparency goes hand in hand with the rise of new technologies that are keeping all project parties updated on every bump in the road. The same goes for employee safety; at least in on-site warehouses where robotics is being used, the safety of on-site staff is one key focus area. Robotics will handle heavy lifting, freeing employee time to quality control and other more strategic tasks.
What will we see in 2026?
AI and other new technologies will continue growing
It is no surprise at this point that artificial intelligence, robotics and other new forms of technology will be leveraged even further. People have, in many areas, been skeptical about the wide-spread adoption of AI, thinking it will replace humans in many positions. However, as Anasoft’s trend report put it, collaboration between technology and the human factor is what makes the wheels turn. Finding a balanced ratio between human work and AI will make work more effective and profitable. “The employee’s role is no longer to carry boxes but to ensure the seamless operation of automated systems, troubleshoot technical issues, and perform preventive maintenance to avoid costly downtime.”
The rise of new technologies will, naturally, be seen in all parts of supply chains. In Norway, technology company Einride recently made history with a world-first border crossing by a driverless truck. There is still a long road ahead before this becomes a common procedure, due to inconsistent road signage and customs procedures, for instance. But this still marks the beginning of a historical shift towards a new era in material logistics. Driverless vehicles are taking a stronger foothold year after year, and it is only a matter of time before they take over in heavier transport as well.
Adapting & resilience in supply chains
With political turmoil, tariffs and more and more extreme weather conditions around the world, supply chains have had to adjust. A strong supply chain is resilient and well planned. Having plan Bs in place is no longer just a recommendation, but a necessity.
The Importance of Data & Predictive Analytics
Modern systems are generating a massive amount of data that can be used in decision-making, predicting outcomes and a whole lot of other business-profitable ways. Real-time data is key in many parts of supply chains and capital projects. Comparing current numbers to last year’s statistics, for example, can give project managers valuable information that will generate savings and help avoid delays and other problematic situations. “Data analysis is no longer an optional add-on — it has become a vital prerequisite for business survival and growth.” (Anasoft; see also data’s link to cybersecurity) https://nshift.com/kb/2026-delivery-trends-supply-chain-resilience-and-targeted-nearshoring-in-europe-for-europe
Environment, sustainability and green projects
The green transition is naturally present in large-scale EPC projects, too. Many companies are developing sustainable building materials, renewable fuels, and coming up with ways to keep transports as short as possible. There are huge numbers of projects around renewable energy and carbon storage going on around the globe. Many organizations are hurrying to take part in climate actions and this is, of course, also visible in EPC projects. It could be said that green energy is a megatrend of the moment.
Conclusion
In general, supply chains are becoming and are expected to be very transparent. This overall trend can be seen in all of the above, and is backed up by access to real-time data and clear communication between project parties. Digital twins exposing every part of a piece’s journey from contractor to site are valuable assets that can help save large amounts of money by preventing loss of materials.
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