The supply chain function is at a turning point. Over the next decade, we’ll see a fundamental shift in how supply chains are designed, operated, and optimized. This isn’t just about adopting new technologies; it’s about rethinking the very architecture of supply chain operations to meet the demands of a more volatile, regulated, and interconnected world. 

Many organizations are already investing in digital tools, but the gap between ambition and execution remains wide. The question is no longer whether to digitize, but how to do it in a way that delivers real, measurable value. And, more importantly, how to prepare for what’s coming next. 

Based on conversations with industry leaders and firsthand experience working with global supply chains, here are five future of supply chain predictions that are likely to define the trajectory of supply chain digitalization over the next 5 years. 

5 Key predictions shaping the future of supply chains 

1. AI-driven autonomy will redefine supply chain operations 

Let’s start with AI. We’re moving toward a future where most day-to-day supply chain decisions will be made autonomously. That’s not a prediction; it’s already happening. AI is increasingly capable of handling operational decisions like rerouting shipments, adjusting forecasts, or flagging anomalies in real time. These are decisions where the optimization goal is clear, and human input doesn’t add much value. 

What will remain in human hands are strategic and value-based decisions. The ones that require judgment, ethics, and long-term thinking. In this new model, humans define the “why” and “what,” while machines handle the “how.” 

Organizations that embrace this division of labor and strike the right balance in people and AI working together will be able to scale faster, respond quicker, and operate more efficiently. But getting there requires more than just plugging in an AI tool. It requires a shift in mindset, governance, and data infrastructure. 

2. Supply chain resilience will be built on scenario planning and supplier agility 

If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that resilience isn’t about avoiding disruption; it’s about responding to it quickly and effectively. That means having executable plans in place for a range of scenarios and supply chain challenges, from geopolitical shifts to cyberattacks to climate events. 

It also means being able to onboard new suppliers quickly and securely. This is where automation becomes critical. Manual supplier onboarding processes are too slow and too risky for today’s environment. Companies need tools that can enforce governance while enabling agility, especially when regulations or market conditions require rapid shifts in sourcing strategy. 

And let’s not forget cybersecurity. As AI becomes more powerful, so do the tools used by malicious actors. Humans are already the weakest link in cybersecurity, and that risk will only grow. AI must be part of the solution here too, helping users detect threats, avoid phishing attempts, and maintain trust across the supply chain. 

3. Supply chain sustainability will be driven by regulation—Not just good intentions 

There’s a lot of talk about sustainability in supply chain circles, but let’s be honest: for most companies, it’s still more about optics than action. The real driver of change is regulation. 

The EU is leading the charge with initiatives like the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), and others. Meanwhile the US is driving changes in the food supply chain by finally implementing the section 204 of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). These and many other regulations around the world are forcing companies to rethink how they track, report, and manage product data across the lifecycle. 

The reality is that only a small number of companies are pursuing sustainability as a source of competitive advantage. For the rest, it’s about doing the minimum required to stay compliant. That’s why the regulatory floor matters so much. It sets the baseline for what “good enough” looks like and creates a fair playing field for those who want to do the right thing. 

Organizations that want to lead—not just follow—need to go beyond compliance. That means investing in the systems, data, and processes that make sustainability operational, not just aspirational. 

4. Digital product passports will unlock new value for brands and consumers 

Digital product passports (DPPs) can be viewed narrowly through the lens of compliance. But they’re actually a huge opportunity for innovation. This applies to most companies that manufacture goods, but especially to consumer brands and the way they engage with consumers. 

As DPPs become more common, consumers will get used to scanning QR codes on products to access detailed information. This behavior shift opens a new channel for digital engagement—one that’s tied directly to the physical product. 

Brands can use this to deliver personalized content, loyalty programs, service offerings, and more. It’s a chance to turn a regulatory requirement into a strategic asset. But to do that, companies need to start thinking now about how they want to show up in this new digital space. 

The worst mistake companies can make is to treat DPPs as just another compliance checkbox exercise. Those who wait until the last minute will miss the opportunity to differentiate and drive customer value. 

5. Interoperability and trust will be the next frontier for supply chain digitalization 

Automation depends on reliable and timely data that is delivered in a way that is readily understandable across the supply chain. Unfortunately, this is still one of the biggest barriers to supply chain transformation. 

We’ve seen waves of standardization efforts over the years—some successful, many not. The latest push, including international data spaces with industry-specific frameworks, promises to be successful. But let’s be realistic: these efforts are unlikely to produce perfect outcomes. 

This is where AI can play a game-changing role. By interpreting and translating data across systems, AI can help smooth out the rough edges of imperfect interoperability. But even with the best tech, there’s still a cultural hurdle to overcome. 

Many organizations are reluctant to share data due to competitive concerns or fear of losing leverage. That’s understandable, but it’s also holding us back. The real question is: can we find a middle ground between full transparency and total protectionism? Because without trust, there is no collaboration. And without collaboration, there is no future-ready supply chain. 

Are you prepared for the supply chain future? 

The next five years leading into 2030 and beyond will be defined by how well organizations can orchestrate their supply chains, not just improve process execution and efficiency. Those who master supply chain orchestration—data, automation, governance, and experience—will be able to operate with greater autonomy, resilience, and agility. 

The technology is here. The challenge is aligning it with strategy, culture, and execution. Now is the time to ask: Are you building a supply chain that’s ready for the future—or just digitizing the past?  

Learn how OpenText enables smarter, more connected supply chain collaboration. 
 
 

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