Insights from the Show Floor: Manifest 2025 and RILA 2025

Image of three data integration supply chain sales reps at a conference

It’s not just about moving goods—it’s about moving data smarter and faster

Author: Patty Brehm

As the saying goes, March comes in like a lion—and for Kleinschmidt, the energy from our March trade shows is still roaring. 

We kicked off 2025 with two major industry events: Manifest and The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) LINK conference. From cutting-edge transportation technology at Manifest to the retail logistics focus at RILA, our team gained valuable insights into where the industry is headed.

Transportation Tech at Manifest

This was our second year at Manifest, and as expected, API- and EDI-driven integration remained hot topics. However, this year, there was a stronger sense of urgency, with many attendees actively seeking solutions to streamline operations.

Vanessa Eldridge, Director of Account Management, shares, “We connected with CTOs and analysts, having high-level discussions right from the start, allowing us to dive straight into meaningful conversations about transportation tech and their 2025 roadmaps.”

“A lot of the people we talked to have an immediate need and were very interested in how our API work ties into EDI,” says Andrew MacDonald, AVP of Sales. “This reaffirms that companies are looking for ways to integrate new technology with their existing infrastructure.”

RILA LINK 2025

Shortly after Manifest, the Kleinschmidt team headed to Orlando, Florida, for RILA. While we anticipated a retail-centric event, we were pleased to find a strong logistics presence as well.

“We had plenty of conversations with shippers as well as logistics companies,” Don Powell, AVP of Sales, adds. “What stood out was how many companies are actively looking to optimize their supply chain. It’s not just about moving goods—it’s about moving data smarter and faster. That mindset aligns perfectly with Kleinschmidt’s focus.”