EXCEPTIONAL PROGRAMME LINED UP FOR 2026 SAPICS CONFERENCE
Artificial intelligence, robotics, circular supply chains, ethical sourcing, public sector transformation and healthcare supply networks are among the topics that will be under the spotlight when supply chain professionals from around the world gather in Cape Town next month for the 48th annual SAPICS Conference.
Taking place from 19 to 22 July 2026 at the Century City Conference Centre, this year’s event marks a major milestone as SAPICS celebrates its 60th anniversary of advancing supply chain excellence across South Africa and the African continent. Under the theme “Legacy to Leadership: 60 Years of Connection, Collaboration and Transformation”, the conference programme brings together an exceptional line-up of local and international speakers, industry experts, thought leaders and practitioners who will share practical insights into the opportunities and challenges shaping modern supply chains.
At a time when organisations are navigating geopolitical uncertainty, technological disruption, sustainability imperatives and increasing demands for resilience, the SAPICS Conference offers delegates access to cutting-edge thinking, real-world case studies and valuable networking opportunities.
Opening keynote by Transnet CEO
Among the highlights this year is the opening keynote presentation by Michelle Phillips, group CEO of Transnet SOC Ltd.
Eskom Holdings is in the spotlight in a not to be missed session by public sector and SOE specialist Simphiwe Mbonambi. In a presentation titled “Beyond Compliance: Leadership Solutions for Transforming Public Sector Procurement”, she will explore how leadership can drive meaningful procurement reform and deliver greater value in the public sector.
Travelling from the Netherlands to share his insights at SAPICS 2026, Armand van Oostrom of The Hague University of Applied Sciences will discuss circular supply chains and explore how organisations can create more sustainable and regenerative supply chain models in an increasingly resource-constrained world.
ABF Sugar’s Melicia Buddan and Neshwin Buddan will explore the rise of intelligent agents and the practical application of AI across large-scale corporate and entrepreneurial supply chains.
Improving healthcare supply chains in Africa
Healthcare supply chain innovation will also feature strongly at SAPICS 2026. Representatives from the United Kingdom’s Supply Chain Funders’ Forum, Megan Toon, Kelly Hamblin and Wapapha Nthomiwa, will discuss the integration of health supply networks and how verification and traceability can be advanced in Africa.
Technology’s impact on logistics and warehousing will be examined by respected South African industry expert Martin Bailey. His presentation on “The Rise of Robotics in the Warehousing Industry” will showcase how automation is transforming operations, productivity and competitiveness.
Beyond the speaker programme, SAPICS delegates will have access to a dynamic exhibition featuring leading technology providers, solution specialists and service partners showcasing the latest innovations in supply chain management, logistics, procurement, planning, warehousing and digital transformation. The exhibition offers a valuable opportunity to explore new technologies, engage directly with solution providers and discover practical tools to improve organisational performance.
Business matchmaking for exhibitors
The exhibition also offers significant value for exhibitors, providing direct access to senior supply chain decision-makers, procurement leaders, logistics professionals and industry influencers from across Africa and beyond. As one of the continent’s most respected supply chain gatherings, the SAPICS Conference creates a unique environment for exhibitors to generate qualified leads, strengthen brand visibility, showcase innovations and build meaningful business relationships.
New for 2026 is a dedicated Business Matchmaking programme designed to help exhibitors maximise their return on investment. This structured networking initiative will facilitate targeted introductions and pre-arranged meetings between exhibitors and prospective customers, partners and industry stakeholders, creating more opportunities for productive conversations and tangible business outcomes.
The SAPICS Conference experience extends beyond the venue through a series of exclusive site visits that provide delegates with a behind-the-scenes look at world-class supply chain and logistics operations. These visits offer practical learning opportunities and valuable insights into how leading organisations are addressing real-world operational challenges.
The 2026 SAPICS Conference promises to be one of the most significant gatherings in its history. As SAPICS celebrates six decades of advancing the profession, this landmark event will not only reflect on the past but help shape the future of supply chain excellence.
To find out more, to register to attend, or to exhibit at the 2026 SAPICS Conference, visit https://conference.sapics.org/ or contact the SAPICS 2026 Secretariat by calling + 27 31 303 9852 or emailing kimera@confco.co.za.
For more information:
Email: info@sapics.org.za
ABOUT SAPICS: http://www.sapics.org
Since 1966, SAPICS has worked to elevate, educate and empower the community of supply chain professionals in South Africa and across the continent. This is done via membership, events, the annual conference and education courses and workshops through Authorised Education Providers and others.
SAPICS is registered in South Africa as a not-for-profit company. Its mandate is to ensure that any profits made are used towards the continual development and overall benefit of individuals and organisations in the supply chain management profession.
The annual SAPICS Conference is the leading event in Africa for supply chain professionals and is now in its 48th year. The 2026 SAPICS Conference takes place in Cape Town from 19 to 22 July 2026.
