Record Attendance at Vienna Debut
LogiPharma 2026 concluded at the Austria Center in Vienna with more than 2,300 life sciences supply chain professionals attending three days of sessions. The event's move to Vienna and introduction of refreshed formats delivered record engagement and packed sessions, according to organisers.
Delegates submitted 321 questions via the event app, demonstrating strong audience participation across both Supply Chain and Logistics tracks. Sessions featured live polling, audience-led debate and peer-to-peer exchange formats.
Industry Conversation Matures on AI Capabilities
Ben Sharples, Event Director of LogiPharma, noted a shift in how the industry approaches transformation: "AI dominated the conversation again this year, but the tone was far more grounded. There's a growing realism about what the technology can deliver right now, as well as where its limitations still lie."
Survey data shared during sessions revealed that 50% of respondents felt AI had not helped at all during the recent Middle East crisis. This reinforced discussions that technology alone is not sufficient for supply chain challenges.
According to Sharples, true end-to-end visibility emerged as the most critical capability for supply chains responding to major disruption. Poor data quality remains the root cause of many failed AI initiatives, often overlooked amid industry attention on new technologies.
Technology Launches Focus on Risk and Cold Chain
Several companies used the platform to announce new solutions. TransVoyant launched Risk in Motion, designed to analyse multiple data sources against disruption threats and enable supply chain teams to act ahead of potential issues.
Cold chain innovation featured prominently, with Peli BioThermal introducing a new SmartCap for DV10 dewars aimed at cell and gene therapy shipments. Woolcool showcased its LifeGUARDIAN thermal box system, a passive packaging solution protecting temperature-sensitive payloads for up to 120 hours through a layered design including outer carton, fleece jacket, thermal core and ice packs.
Start-Up Recognition and Cultural Elements
Tapp was named Start Up Village Champion for developing simpler, more sustainable temperature-controlled shipment management. The company was recognised for its focus on reducing electronic waste and enabling instant data access without additional hardware.
The event included cultural elements, with Yusen Logistics hosting a traditional Japanese Kagami Biraki sake barrel opening ceremony, symbolising new beginnings and strengthened collaboration.
Jake Brown, Commercial Lead at LogiPharma, highlighted sponsor engagement: "People love the interactive elements of LogiPharma and these extend from plenaries and round-tables, to the experiential activities brought by sponsors, including a F1 simulator and an A.I. photobooth."
Based on reporting by Exhibitor Magazine. Read the original article.