The ninth edition of the Container Terminal Automation Conference (CTAC) kicks off tomorrow, and we are excited to highlight insights from our Gold Sponsor, NextPort, on the key automation trends and innovations that are shaping the future of container terminals.
As Europe’s leading event for container terminal operators, CTAC brings together more than 250 industry leaders each year for two days of invaluable discussion, innovation, and collaboration. Join us on 1–2 April 2025 at Las Arenas Balneario Resort in Valencia!
What key innovations or trends do you see shaping the future of container terminal automation?
We see the integration of digital twin technology and artificial intelligence as the dominant drivers of container terminal automation.
By standardising data and integrating it into one holistic system, the opportunities for terminal operators are huge. First, they will be able to gain a much better picture of real-time operations, giving the ability to speed up troubleshooting and utilise equipment more efficiently. Second, it will enable teams to gain a better understanding of performance from data. This enables continuous improvement both in real time and in the longer term.
How is your company contributing to the evolution of automation, equipment innovation, or operational optimisation in the industry?
NextPort is innovating in terms of connecting the dots between different data sources and systems, which today are supporting terminals in isolation. Standardisation, through TIC 4.0 or DCSA, plays a hugely important role in enabling those currently disassociated systems to speak the same language.
With this foundation, we can make it easier for system users to assimilate information and make decisions to optimise asset performance and utilisation, enabling system-wide continuous improvement.
Why should industry professionals attend CTAC Europe 2025, and what insights can they expect to gain?
The conference will give delegates a unique opportunity to hear first-hand from the innovators at the forefront of industry technology, including our keynote presentation, which includes insights from our clients.
We are also looking to collaborating with other companies, sharing our progress and experience and how we can support them in bringing the next level of automation to their terminals.
NextPort is the technology and innovation brand of Moffatt & Nichol, dedicated to transforming the maritime industry through advanced digital solutions. Building on more than 75 years of experience in port engineering, planning and operations, we combine deep industry expertise with breakthrough technologies such as AI, machine learning and operational digital twins. The company’s mission is to empower ports and terminals with smarter, more efficient, and sustainable solutions.
