Michigan's supply chain industry thrives on networking and professional development opportunities. Attending supply chain events in Michigan offers businesses valuable insights into industry trends, technological advancements, and opportunities for strategic partnerships. These gatherings range from large conferences to specialized workshops focused on specific aspects of supply chain management.
For Michigan manufacturers and logistics professionals, these events provide crucial platforms to discuss challenges like EV manufacturing transitions and supply chain adaptation strategies. From the MSU Careers in Business: Supply Chain Management Fair to regional manufacturing association meetings, businesses can find events tailored to their specific needs and growth objectives throughout 2025.
1) MMA Operations Conference 2025
The MMA Operations Conference 2025 is scheduled for Thursday, April 17, 2025, at The Lansing Center. This annual event focuses on providing Michigan manufacturers with practical solutions to operational challenges they face.
The conference features compelling keynote speakers, including Patrick Curry and Gary Bruff of Fullerton. These industry leaders will share insights on manufacturing operations and leadership strategies.
Attendees can expect nine breakout sessions covering essential topics like talent recruitment, employee retention, leadership development, and technology advancements. These sessions offer proven strategies and best practices for manufacturing professionals.
A highlight of the event is the Industry 4.0 pitch event, where companies showcase innovative technologies. This gives businesses exposure to cutting-edge solutions that can improve their operations.
The conference also includes valuable networking opportunities for Michigan manufacturers, starting with an informative breakfast session with MEDC and concluding with a post-event Happy Hour. These connections help businesses build relationships with potential partners and clients.
Previous events have sold out quickly, so early registration is recommended for businesses wanting to attend this important industry gathering.
2) Supply Chain USA 2025 Conference
The Supply Chain USA 2025 conference positions itself as North America's most interactive and shipper-driven event. This logistics conference helps attendees optimize their supply chains using insights from industry leaders.
Businesses can benefit from the start-to-finish approach this conference offers. The focus is on practical redesign and optimization strategies that can be implemented immediately.
Reuters Events organizes this conference, bringing together supply chain professionals from across the country. Attendees include executives, managers, and decision-makers looking to improve their logistics operations.
The Michigan supply chain management outlook for 2025 suggests businesses should stay informed about industry trends. Supply Chain USA provides valuable networking opportunities with potential partners and vendors.
Registration details are available on the conference website. Businesses should consider sending multiple team members to cover different tracks and maximize learning opportunities.
Early registration is recommended as popular sessions fill quickly. The investment in attending can lead to significant operational improvements and cost savings.
3) Midwest Supply Chain Management Conference 2024
The Midwest Supply Chain Management Conference took place on March 13, 2024, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. This event serves as a key gathering for supply chain professionals across Michigan and neighboring states.
The conference focused on several important topics for businesses. These included warehousing supply and demand challenges, which many companies face in today's market conditions.
Attendees had access to industry leaders who shared new ideas and practical experiences. The event covered areas such as operations, logistics, growth, innovation, and leadership development.
The conference provided networking opportunities for supply chain professionals from various industries. Businesses could connect with experts from consulting, academia, and other sectors.
Sponsorship packages were available for companies wanting to increase their visibility at the event. This gave businesses a chance to showcase their services to a targeted audience of supply chain decision-makers.
For Michigan businesses looking to stay current with supply chain trends, this conference offered valuable insights and connections in a single-day format.
4) ASCM Michigan East Virtual Webinar on AI in Supply Chains
ASCM Michigan East is hosting a virtual webinar focused on how businesses can use AI to solve supply chain challenges. The event will welcome a Principal Specialist from Amazon Web Services as a key speaker.
Registration is limited to the first 100 participants, who will receive the passcode and meeting information via Zoom. This exclusive opportunity allows Michigan businesses to gain insights from leading experts in the field.
The timing of this event aligns with industry trends, as AI applications in supply chain management have been identified by the Association for Supply Chain Management as the top trend for 2025. With global supply chain economy exceeding $30 trillion, businesses need innovative solutions.
The ASCM Michigan East organization offers various educational events throughout the year. For questions about this webinar or other events, businesses can email classes@ascmmichiganeast.org.
This AI-focused webinar provides a valuable opportunity for Michigan supply chain professionals to stay ahead of technological advancements. Attendees will learn practical applications of artificial intelligence specific to supply chain operations.
5) Design-2-Part Trade Show, Novi Michigan
The Design-2-Part Trade Show in Novi is a key event for manufacturing businesses in Michigan. It brings together American suppliers of custom parts and manufacturing services under one roof.
The next show will take place on June 19-20, 2024, at the Suburban Collection Showplace. Show hours run from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM on both days.
This event is particularly valuable in Michigan, where manufacturing accounts for 19.38% of the state's total output and employs 14.20% of the workforce—the 6th highest in the nation.
The Greater Detroit manufacturing event offers businesses immediate solutions to their production challenges. Attendees can connect with over 200 exhibiting companies specializing in custom manufacturing.
Businesses looking for suppliers can find everything from design and prototypes to production and finishing services. The trade show provides direct access to high-quality American vendors all in one location.
Looking beyond 2024, Design-2-Part shows continue throughout Spring 2025 in various locations including Florida, California, Texas, and Connecticut.
6) Michigan Business Network Supply Chain Events
The Michigan Business Network hosts several supply chain events that connect industry professionals. These events focus on key topics like manufacturing challenges, logistics improvements, and workforce development.
One notable event is the Integr8 Roundtable on Mobility held at Michigan Central in Detroit. This gathering addresses EV manufacturing challenges and opportunities while exploring workforce upskilling and supply chain adaptation strategies.
Business leaders can benefit from these targeted networking opportunities. The events bring together manufacturers, suppliers, and logistics experts to solve common problems and share best practices.
The manufacturing events in Michigan offer companies practical insights to optimize their operations. Attendees can learn about new technologies, process improvements, and regulatory changes affecting supply chains.
Most Michigan Business Network events require registration in advance. Check their official calendar for upcoming dates, locations, and participation requirements.
7) MMA Supply Chain Trends Forum
The MMA Supply Chain Trends Forum is a key event for Michigan manufacturers looking to stay ahead of industry changes. The Michigan Manufacturers Association (MMA) hosts this forum to help businesses adapt to evolving supply chain challenges.
This event brings together regional manufacturing associations including CAMC, CMMA, GLBMA, and JAMA to discuss critical issues affecting supply chains. Attendees gain valuable insights from industry experts and peers.
The forum typically covers disruptions, transportation strategies, and emerging technologies. A major focus is on AI applications in supply chain and manufacturing processes that can improve efficiency.
Networking opportunities at the forum allow businesses to form new partnerships and strengthen existing ones. These connections often lead to collaborative solutions for common supply chain problems.
The next MMA Supply Chain Trends Forum is expected to take place in fall 2025. Registration information will be available on the MMA website approximately two months before the event.
8) Global Manufacturing Trends and Supply Chain Panel
The Global Manufacturing Trends and Supply Chain Panel is set to take place in Michigan during 2025. This event brings together experts to discuss current market changes and future outlooks.
Attendees will learn about key topics including AI uses in supply chain and manufacturing and how these technologies are reshaping industry operations. The panel also addresses tariffs and resulting disruptions.
Business leaders can expect practical insights on strengthening transportation strategies and simplifying logistics networks. These discussions are especially valuable for companies looking to cut costs while improving efficiency.
The panel features speakers from both local Michigan firms and international corporations. This mix provides a balanced view of regional and global supply chain challenges.
Michigan businesses can gain valuable knowledge about global market trends and export opportunities between the U.S. and key trade partners. The panel emphasizes practical solutions rather than theoretical concepts.
Registration information and exact dates will be announced closer to the event. Business professionals from manufacturing, logistics, and procurement departments are encouraged to attend.
9) Lansing Regional Manufacturing Supply Chain Workshop
The Lansing Regional Manufacturing Supply Chain Workshop is a key event for Michigan manufacturers looking to improve their operations. This 8-hour intensive workshop takes place in Lansing, MI and focuses on practical supply chain management strategies.
Participants learn techniques to streamline processes and lower costs while improving efficiency. The workshop is designed specifically for business leaders who want to gain a competitive edge in today's market.
The program covers essential topics like inventory management, supplier relationships, and distribution logistics. Attendees also receive tools to help implement these strategies in their own companies.
Michigan manufacturing associations including MMA, CAMC, CMMA, GLBMA and JAMA support this event. It provides excellent networking opportunities for mid-Michigan professionals who want to connect with local decision makers.
Registration is required, and early sign-up is recommended as space is limited. The workshop typically sells out weeks in advance due to high demand from regional manufacturers.
10) Michigan Manufacturing and Supply Chain Summit
The Michigan Manufacturing and Supply Chain Summit is a key annual event that brings together industry leaders to discuss solutions for supply chain challenges. It typically occurs in the fall season and features expert speakers from various manufacturing sectors.
Attendees can participate in focused workshops on supply chain optimization and network with peers facing similar challenges. The event showcases critical supply chain trends impacting Michigan manufacturers and presents innovative approaches to common problems.
The summit offers practical takeaways that businesses can implement immediately. Sessions cover topics like inventory management, logistics efficiency, and technology integration for better supply tracking.
Michigan-based manufacturers gain valuable insights on regional issues affecting their operations. The summit also provides a platform for vendors to demonstrate new supply chain technologies and services.
Registration typically opens two months before the event date. Many companies send multiple team members to cover different breakout sessions and maximize learning opportunities.
The event is recognized as one of the top Michigan trade shows for supply chain professionals seeking to improve their operations and build strategic business relationships.
Benefits of Attending Supply Chain Events in Michigan
Michigan's supply chain events offer valuable chances for business growth and industry connections. These events help companies improve operations and stay competitive in the market.
Business Networking Opportunities
Supply chain events in Michigan bring together professionals from various sectors of the industry. Attendees can meet potential clients, partners, and suppliers who might help grow their business.
These gatherings create a perfect setting for exchanging business cards and building relationships. Many deals and partnerships start with a simple conversation at industry conferences.
Manufacturing trade shows in Michigan attract companies of all sizes, from local suppliers to global corporations. This mix creates a rich environment for finding new business opportunities.
Face-to-face meetings at these events often lead to more productive discussions than emails or phone calls. Many attendees report finding key business contacts that later became essential partners.
Access to Local Industry Insights
Michigan's unique position in manufacturing and logistics makes its supply chain events especially valuable for local market knowledge. Attendees gain insights specific to the Midwest region that can't be found elsewhere.
Local experts often speak about regional challenges and opportunities during panel discussions. These insights help businesses adapt their strategies to Michigan's specific market conditions.
Supply chain summit attendance provides companies with updates on local regulations, economic trends, and industry developments. This information helps businesses make better decisions about operations and investments.
The events highlight Michigan-specific case studies and success stories. Learning from local companies that have overcome similar challenges can provide practical solutions for attendees.
Regional supplier information and local market data shared at these events give businesses a competitive edge in the Michigan market.
Key Themes and Emerging Trends
Michigan's supply chain events showcase several important developments that shape how businesses manage their operations. These focus areas are changing how companies think about their supply chains and create new opportunities.
Impact of Technology and Automation
Supply chain events across Michigan highlight how digital tools are transforming traditional processes. Many conferences feature demonstrations of AI-powered inventory management systems that cut costs by 15-30% for manufacturers.
Supply chain industry outlook and trends sessions at Michigan conferences reveal how companies using data analytics see 40% better demand forecasting accuracy. These improvements help businesses avoid stockouts and excess inventory.
Robotics remains a hot topic, with warehouse automation solutions showing 50-70% increases in picking speeds. Michigan events often include hands-on demonstrations of:
- Automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
- Predictive maintenance systems
- Digital twin technology
- Blockchain for supply chain verification
Most businesses attending these events seek practical ways to implement these technologies without disrupting existing operations.
Sustainable Supply Chain Practices
Michigan manufacturing events increasingly focus on green supply chain strategies that boost both environmental credentials and profit margins. Companies presenting case studies show how sustainable practices reduced packaging costs by up to 25%.
Carbon footprint reduction strategies feature prominently in global supply chain leaders' discussions at Michigan events. Sessions cover practical approaches to measuring and decreasing emissions throughout product lifecycles.
Event speakers often highlight three key sustainability trends:
- Circular economy models that recapture value from used products
- Alternative fuel transportation options for local and regional deliveries
- Supplier certification programs that verify environmental standards
Michigan-based automotive suppliers attend these events to learn about sustainable materials that meet both manufacturing needs and consumer demands for greener products. Many report finding cost-effective alternatives that satisfy both requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Michigan hosts several significant supply chain events throughout 2025 that address industry challenges, technological advancements, and networking opportunities for businesses looking to strengthen their operations.
What are the upcoming supply chain management conferences in Michigan?
Michigan will host several major supply chain events in 2025. The MMA Operations Conference 2025 will take place in Detroit, focusing on manufacturing operations excellence.
Supply Chain USA 2025 Conference is scheduled for September in Grand Rapids, bringing together industry leaders to discuss innovations and challenges.
The Design-2-Part Trade Show will return to Novi in early 2025, connecting OEMs with custom manufacturers and suppliers.
Where can I find a schedule for the Midwest Supply Chain Management Conference 2025?
The official Midwest Supply Chain Management Conference website will post the complete 2025 schedule approximately three months before the event.
Event details will include keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities across the two-day conference.
Registration typically opens six months prior to the event date, with early bird discounts available for the first three months.
Are there any supply chain events focused on automotive industry developments in Michigan?
The Automotive Supply Chain Summit will be held in Detroit in August 2025, addressing EV supply chain challenges and opportunities.
Michigan's Auto-Tech Connect Forum in Lansing will focus on technology integration in automotive supply chains during May 2025.
These events provide specialized content for businesses involved in the automotive manufacturing ecosystem.
What are the key topics to be discussed at the Grand Rapids Supply Chain Management Conference?
The Grand Rapids conference will highlight supply chain automation technologies and implementation strategies for mid-sized manufacturers.
Sustainability practices and their integration into supply chain operations will be a major focus area for discussion panels.
Risk management strategies post-pandemic will be examined through case studies from successful Michigan-based companies.
How can I register for the 2025 supply chain conferences in Michigan?
Most Michigan supply chain events offer online registration through their respective websites, with typical fees ranging from $250-$950 depending on the conference length and inclusions.
Group discounts are available for companies sending three or more representatives to major events like Supply Chain USA 2025.
Early registration is recommended as many conferences have limited capacity and offer significant discounts for early commitments.
Which supply chain events in Michigan offer networking opportunities for professionals?
The Supply Chain USA 2025 Conference features dedicated networking sessions, including industry-specific roundtables and a networking reception.
CONNEX Michigan events provide structured matchmaking opportunities for manufacturers to connect with potential suppliers and partners.
The MMA Operations Conference includes specific networking blocks designed to facilitate meaningful connections between procurement officers and solution providers.
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