3PL automation: See the good, the bad, and the ugly at the 2025 Robotics Summit
Third-party logistics, or 3PL, has been leading the charge in adopting robotics and automation, but not without challenges. At the 2025 Robotics Summit & Expo in Boston on April 30, a panel will discuss how organizations can overcome these challenges with the technologies are transforming supply chains.
In this session, industry experts from Cart.com and Zion Solutions Group will provide a practical guide on how to successfully integrate robots into existing 3PL workflows. They will also describe how to optimize for efficiency and scalability. The panelists will cover topics including:
- How to select the right systems for your environment and product flow
- How to navigate integration pitfalls and work with stakeholders
- How to ensure reliable operations in dynamic environments to guarantee your return on investment (ROI)
- What technologies and applications show promise for the future of 3PL
The speakers will also take questions from the audience as they examine what it takes to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry.
Learn from experts in 3PL automation
Steve Fischer is vice president of engineering at Cart.com. In this role, he oversees new client launches, facility openings, capital projects, procurement initiatives, and cost-saving strategies across a growing fulfillment network.
With over a decade of experience in the third-party logistics industry, Fischer specializes in leading large-scale implementations and automation integration within omnichannel warehouse fulfilment. His expertise includes managing multimillion-dollar budgets, developing high-performing teams, and optimizing operational efficiencies through advanced robotics and automation solutions.
Steve is passionate about driving innovation and strategic growth and excels at aligning technology and infrastructure to enhance scalability and efficiency in achieving business objectives.
Jordan Frank, co-founder and executive vice president of Zion Solutions Group, works closely with companies and individuals to identify pain points, recommend tailored systems, and deliver memorable experiences that drive intelligent change. He leads ZSG’s efforts to integrate cutting-edge robotics, software, and conveyance systems, ensuring end-to-end integration for customers.
Frank’s passion for innovation and his focus on staying ahead of industry trends drive the company’s success in delivering state-of-the-art solutions to transform businesses. His expertise in technology and robotics enables ZSG to lead the way in delivering impactful, forward-thinking solutions to clients.
Jim Shaw, founder and president of Zion Solutions Group, is an experienced senior leader with more than 25 years in the supply chain industry, specializing in supply chain operations, systems integration, material handling, and logistics. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a history of success in leading impactful projects and driving innovation.
Shaw is passionate about creating a culture of engaged employees and fostering dynamic partner relationships while ensuring superior customer experiences. His expertise spans operations management, new business acquisition, industrial engineering, and innovative technologies.
Known for his ability to drive change and lead organizational transformations, Jim excels at building teams, fostering client relationships, and delivering sustainable results. His vision for ZSG is centered on providing exceptional value to clients and creating lasting partnerships.
Eugene Demaitre, moderator, is the editorial director for robotics at WTWH Media, which produces the Robotics Summit & Expo, The Robot Report, Automated Warehouse, and RoboBusiness. Prior to working for WTWH Media, he was an editor at BNA (now part of Bloomberg), Computerworld, TechTarget, and Robotics Business Review.
Demaitre has participated in conferences worldwide, as well as spoken on numerous webcasts and podcasts. He is always interested in learning more about robotics. Gene has a master’s from the George Washington University and lives in the Boston area.
More about the Robotics Summit & Expo
The 2025 Robotics Summit & Expo will bring together more than 5,000 attendees focused on building robots for various commercial industries. Attendees can gain insights into the latest enabling technologies, engineering best practices, emerging trends, and more.
Keynote speakers will include:
- Aaron Saunders, the chief technology officer at Boston Dynamics
- James Kuffner, CTO of Symbotic
- Aaron Parness, director of applied science in robotics and AI at Amazon Robotics
- Daniela Rus, director of MIT CSAIL
- Dr. Aadeel Akhtar, the founder and CEO of PSYONIC
The show will have more than 50 educational sessions in tracks on AI, design and development, enabling technologies, healthcare, and logistics. The Engineering Theater on the show floor will also feature presentations by industry experts.
The expo hall will have 200+ exhibitors showcasing the latest enabling technologies, products, and services that can help robotics engineers throughout their development journeys.
The Robotics Summit also offers numerous networking opportunities, a Career Fair, a robotics development challenge, the RBR50 Robotics Innovation Awards Gala, and more.
Co-located with the event is DeviceTalks Boston, the premier event for medical technology professionals, currently in its tenth year. Both events attract engineering and business professionals from a broad range of healthcare and medical technology backgrounds.
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