Press Releases

Trends in Automotive Logistics 2026 | Digital by Design in Practice

Written by Petra Troblová | May 20, 2026 9:55:45 AM

Logistics is entering a turning point. Automation, simulation and AI are rapidly shifting the boundaries of what is possible in logistics. Those who seize the opportunity will gain both speed and resilience. Those who do not risk losing competitiveness in the near future. However, to apply these technologies successfully in practice and build on them long term, companies must establish logistics operations driven by data: clearly defined processes, high-quality data inputs and a digital architecture that can scale and evolve securely. Without accurate and reliable data, major changes cannot be implemented with confidence – systems work with flawed inputs, produce misleading outputs and may ultimately cause errors in operations and decision-making.

The key trends shaping the digitalisation of logistics – and what companies need to prepare in order to benefit from them – will be introduced in the opening keynote by Rostislav Schwob (Aimtec). He will be followed by Hana Součková (SAP ČR), who will speak about the fundamental transformation of industry and the changing role of people within it. What limitations are we reaching? Are we entering an era where expertise and experience alone are no longer enough?

Digital by Design in Real-World Case Studies

This year, we will focus heavily on smart automation in logistics. Not as an abstract topic, but as a real experience shared by companies already implementing it. Come and gain inspiration you can begin applying the very next day,” says Roman Žák, founder of Aimtec and Chairman of its Supervisory Board. How should automation projects be prepared properly – from defining goals and building the right team to planning the individual implementation steps? These topics will be supported by practical examples from companies that have already successfully completed this journey.

The TAL 2026 programme is built around real operational experience and will demonstrate how the Digital by Design approach translates into logistics and manufacturing management in practice. Pavel Maryško (Škoda Auto) will focus on the practical use of the Aimtec DCIx platform for managing EC tightening technology in a manufacturing environment. Jan Vavřík (Amazon) will present a case study on the use of AI across the plant, capacity management in a fulfilment centre and last-mile logistics in a robotic warehouse. Insights into building smart intralogistics automation will be shared by Karel Kepka and Marek Kuna (Shape Corp. Czech Republic), together with Markus Schmermund (Idealworks).

Discussions on Artificial Intelligence and Risk-Free Automation

The practical use of artificial intelligence will be explored in the morning AI panel moderated by Pavel Boháč (Aimtec). In the afternoon, discussions will continue with a panel dedicated to practical automation. What should companies consider when preparing an automation project? How should objectives and project specifics be defined to minimise implementation risks? These questions will be discussed by Jan Vavřík (Amazon), Libor Mihalka (LogTech), Roman Černohous (Logio) and Rostislav Schwob (Aimtec).

The ability to implement automation quickly and safely and to leverage artificial intelligence will determine the competitiveness of supply chains. TAL is a place where these topics are discussed practically – through real projects and company experiences,” confirms Bernard Bauer, Member of the Board at DTIHK.

Innovation and Technology First-Hand

The topic of innovation and automation in logistics will also be explored by Christoph Scheufler (Magna Exteriors) and Marco Prüglmeier (Noyes Technologies), who will present a case study on automated picking using mobile robots. The new system reduces walking distances by 97% while demonstrating how modular automation can be scaled and expanded without major changes to existing processes.

TAL 2026 will also feature the Experience Zone, combining technology showcases and networking opportunities. The partnership with Zebra Technologies (main partner) and other logistics technology providers further strengthens the conference’s practical dimension. During breaks, participants can also visit the #AimtecLab – Aimtec Digital Factory Showcase in the main hall. Throughout the conference day, attendees will have the opportunity to meet event partners as part of the accompanying programme and network informally with colleagues during the evening social event.

The TAL 2026 conference will conclude with an interview featuring Czech aerobatic pilot and former fighter pilot of the Czech Air Force, Martin Šonka, about what it takes to prepare for a successful take-off — this time no longer into the heights of automation, but into real clouds.

TAL 2026 – Digital by Design

Tuesday, 16 June 2026 / 8:30–17:00 + evening networking Parkhotel Pilsen, Czechia (U Borského parku 31, 301 00 Pilsen)

The full programme is available on the conference website:
https://www.talconference.com/en/agenda/.

All presentations will be simultaneously interpreted into/from Czech, German and English.

Main Partner: Zebra Technologies

Conference Partners: 24 VISION, ABB Robotics Czech Republic, Asprova, Bayern Innovativ, Beratungsbüro Oberpfalz, BITO skladovací technika CZ, European Danube-Vltava Region – Lower Bavaria Advisory Office, GALAXIS TECHNOLOGY, Happenee, Idealworks, KÖRBER, Logio, LogTech, Noyes Technologies, Pilsen Region supported by the EU and the Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, SAP, SKLAD Association, VertiFlex.

Media Partners: Aimtec Insights, Automa, CIOtrends, Dopravní noviny, IT Systems, Logistika.Tv, Packaging Herald, Praktická LOGISTIKA, Reliant Group, Svět průmyslu, Systémy logistiky, The Best of Logistics, TRANSPORT a LOGISTIKA, Vše o průmyslu.

Organisers: Aimtec, IHK Regensburg für Oberpfalz / Kelheim, German-Czech Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DTIHK).

Aimtec

For nearly thirty years, Aimtec has been supporting industrial companies worldwide in the digitalisation of manufacturing and logistics. The company focuses on connecting IT and business processes – from warehouse, production and supply chain management to simulation, automation and the integration of complex systems. Aimtec’s customers include companies such as Škoda Auto, Panasonic, DENSO, Magna and GZ Media. More information is available at www.aimtecglobal.com.

 

Media Contact:

Petra Troblová
Key Account Marketing Manager
petra.troblova@aimtecglobal.com
+420 724 284 141