[Events] The Future of Logistics Takes the Stage in Memphis

Host: Andy Shiles Guest(s): Nate Smith, Director of Programs at Epicenter Published: September 9, 2026 Length: ~21 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary What happens when logistics veterans get a firsthand look at technologies designed to solve some of the industry's most persistent problems? In this Compliance Cowboy edition of Simply Trade, Andy Shiles sits down with Nate Smith, Director of Programs at Epicenter in Memphis, to preview the Logistics Innovation Showcase on October 1, 2026. Part of Memphis World Trade Week, the event brings together supply chain professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors for a look at emerging solutions that could shape the future of logistics. Nate explains how five companies were selected from nearly 50 applicants through Epicenter's Logistics Opportunity Challenge. Their solutions tackle real industry challenges spanning cold chain capacity, fraud prevention and detection, drayage and intermodal operations, and oversized and overweight freight. Andy and Nate also discuss why catching problems earlier can dramatically reduce costs, how previous showcase participants have turned presentations into real revenue-generating contracts, and why Memphis continues to be an important hub for logistics innovation. Beyond today's solutions, attendees will also get a glimpse at emerging research and technologies that could influence supply chains in the years ahead. Main Topic / Discussion The episode previews the Logistics Innovation Showcase taking place October 1 at Epicenter in downtown Memphis as part of Memphis World Trade Week. At the heart of the event are five companies selected through Epicenter's Logistics Opportunity Challenge: • Freight Deck — A Birmingham-based heavy-haul cost estimator helping freight brokers and carriers price permits, escorts, and other costs associated with oversized and overweight loads across the U.S. and Canada. • Pallet Vision — An Ann Arbor company using computer vision and sensors at pallet wrap stations to measure containment force, provide health scores, and create verified digital records before shipments leave the dock. • ARVEST — A Chicago company using AI-powered cameras and software to automate warehouse quality control and compliance monitoring, including detecting damage, incorrect picks, safety issues, and potential fraud. • OnSight — A Kansas City company focused on cargo-theft prevention through biometric and digital driver check-in technology. • Arcticar — An Alameda, California company developing intelligent, all-electric refrigeration systems that can help convert existing trailer assets into additional cold-chain capacity. The showcase goes beyond startup pitches. Attendees will also hear about emerging research from the University of Memphis FedEx Institute of Technology and quantum-based logistics technology from Zapata Quantum. Andy will serve as MC for the October 1 event. Key Takeaways • The Logistics Opportunity Challenge starts with real problems identified by logistics industry professionals and then searches for companies capable of solving them. • Nearly 50 companies applied this year, with five logistics experts reviewing each application before the five finalists were selected. • Earlier detection of freight damage, warehouse errors, fraud, and compliance issues can give companies an opportunity to intervene before those problems become significantly more costly. • The showcase isn't only about interesting technology — previous editions of the program have resulted in revenue-generating contracts between participating companies and corporate partners. • Supply chain operators, 3PLs, brokers, shippers, warehouse professionals, investors, and anyone interested in emerging logistics technology can benefit from seeing these solutions firsthand. • Epicenter has supported more than 1,000 entrepreneurs since its founding and combines customer validation, capital readiness, customer connections, and community-building to help innovative businesses grow. • Graduates of Epicenter's capital readiness accelerator have raised more than $5 million in equity investment since the program began in spring 2024. • Memphis World Trade Week gives attendees an opportunity to combine education, networking, logistics innovation, and industry connections across multiple events. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Logistics Innovation Showcase — October 1, 2026 • Memphis World Trade Week 2026 • Epicenter Logistics Opportunity Challenge Credits Host: Andy Shiles Guest(s): Nathaniel "Nate" Smith - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don't forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? [email protected]