Startups, Investors & A Whole Host Of Innovation: What To Expect From Manifest Vegas 2025 | Spotlight Series

Chris Walton: 00:00:08

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Chris Walton: 00:00:41

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Chris Walton: 00:00:48

I am one of your co hosts for today's interview, Chris Walton and I.

Man Mazinga: 00:00:51

Man Mazinga and we are pleased to.

Chris Walton: 00:00:54

Welcome Pam Simon, the Executive Vice President and Conference Chair of Manifest.

Chris Walton: 00:00:59

Pam, welcome back to Omnitalk.

Chris Walton: 00:01:01

It is great to see you again.

Pam Simon: 00:01:04

Thank you so much for having me.

Pam Simon: 00:01:05

Good to see you both.

Man Mazinga: 00:01:07

Pam, we are so excited to have you today.

Man Mazinga: 00:01:10

I want to start by giving the audience for those who've never been to Manifest or who might want a reminder as to why they need to be returning to Manifest this year, tell everybody what Manifest Vegas is all about.

Man Mazinga: 00:01:25

How is it really the conference entire end to end for supply chain and logistics?

Pam Simon: 00:01:31

Yes, Manifest is the premier global conference end to end supply chain event that's going to be taking February 10to12 at the Venetian in Las Vegas.

Man Mazinga: 00:01:42

So I got that right.

Man Mazinga: 00:01:43

I said that, I said the whole end to end.

Man Mazinga: 00:01:45

Okay, perfect, perfect.

Pam Simon: 00:01:48

We are an ecosystem event so attracting startups, investors and industry leaders including any company that is shipping, moving goods around the world.

Pam Simon: 00:01:58

So from CPG to fresh pharma, e commerce, automotive, you name it, as well as three PLs, carriers, brokers, ports, I mean really anyone involved in the global supply chain and it's all about innovation.

Pam Simon: 00:02:14

So innovation is what you will see on our stages as well as our expo floor.

Pam Simon: 00:02:18

And if you have a startup or you know that or a company that's moving things around, you definitely need to be at Manifest.

Pam Simon: 00:02:26

We are for: 2025

Pam Simon: 00:02:42

So we're really excited about moving to the Venetian and we encourage everyone to stay on property to take advantage of all of the exciting networking opportunities that happen when you're just walking around the property on your way to all of the Manifest activities.

Chris Walton: 00:02:57

Yeah, that's great, Pam.

Chris Walton: 00:02:59

I was going to say.

Chris Walton: 00:02:59

Yeah, it's much bigger this year too.

Chris Walton: 00:03:01

And you've moved up, you've moved it up into the Venetian too, which is a huge, massive convention hotel too, at Vegas.

Chris Walton: 00:03:06

So.

Chris Walton: 00:03:07

All right, so our next question is for many, for many that come to these kind of events, right.

Chris Walton: 00:03:12

And Ann and I go to quite a bit of them.

Chris Walton: 00:03:13

I think we probably average about two or three a month, quite honestly.

Chris Walton: 00:03:17

But for many people it's, it's all about the money.

Chris Walton: 00:03:20

You know, as, as much as, you know, I might not want to, might not want to admit that it's all about the money and that by that I mean investors who have money to spend and startups that are competing for that cash.

Chris Walton: 00:03:31

What is it about having both of these groups at Manifest Vegas that makes your event so unique?

Pam Simon: 00:03:37

Well, so first off, we invest in things that help all of our participants succeed, including our smart badges that allow people to exchange information at the click of a button and our private booking app that's released about a month before the show so you can start scheduling meetings and connecting with folks before you arrive.

Pam Simon: 00:03:55

At this year's show, we had over 200 funds in attendance and that's super early stage through your private equity investment bank, family office, etc.

Pam Simon: 00:04:06

So we'll be expecting even more of them at next year's show and we have about 37 different investors on stage.

Pam Simon: 00:04:14

So why is Manifest unique?

Pam Simon: 00:04:16

It really provides a one of a kind experience for investors to make the most of their time in Vegas.

Pam Simon: 00:04:22

Like it's a chance to connect with potential co investors, partners, customers.

Pam Simon: 00:04:27

All of your portfolio companies and investors are even walking away with some GPs and LPs for their funds.

Pam Simon: 00:04:35

So it's really unique that you're able to find funding for your companies, for yourself, for everybody involved.

Pam Simon: 00:04:43

And we've seen a lot.

Pam Simon: 00:04:45

M and A is not slowing down, so we're seeing that gain a lot more momentum.

Pam Simon: 00:04:49

And we'll feature a session on that at Manifest where we'll dive into how companies can effectively integrate supply chains post merger to maximize their synergies and due diligence in supply chain operations that impact, you know, the success of M and A transactions.

Pam Simon: 00:05:06

So we're really covering the full gamut of ways that investors and companies of all sizes are able to connect and do business together.

Man Mazinga: 00:05:16

Now, Pam, will you dive in a little bit more too?

Man Mazinga: 00:05:18

I mean, I can understand from the content perspective like that they'll be able to see these startups who are just coming into the space, who are gaining traction.

Man Mazinga: 00:05:27

But how do the investors and startups kind of get one on one time with each other?

Man Mazinga: 00:05:31

Can you elaborate a little bit more on what's set up for them for those interactions?

Chris Walton: 00:05:35

Great question.

Pam Simon: 00:05:36

Of course our office hours on Tuesday afternoon provide an opportunity to have one on one meetings with investors to your next round.

Pam Simon: 00:05:46

And our innovation stage is at the heart of our expo hall which features about 40 different disruptive companies from around the world and will also include product launches.

Pam Simon: 00:05:56

So I'm pretty sure if you are anywhere in the vicinity of our innovation stage, there will be investors lurking around.

Man Mazinga: 00:06:03

That's awesome.

Man Mazinga: 00:06:05

Great to hear.

Man Mazinga: 00:06:06

Really good investment for those startup companies too.

Man Mazinga: 00:06:08

That makes sense.

Chris Walton: 00:06:09

Yeah, it's a great place to be if you're startup.

Chris Walton: 00:06:11

All right, so.

Chris Walton: 00:06:12

So you've already mentioned this, the startups and the investors.

Chris Walton: 00:06:14

But there of course is another group that's essential to moving goods around the globe, as they say.

Chris Walton: 00:06:20

And these are the leaders that.

Chris Walton: 00:06:22

Yeah, I might be ad.

Chris Walton: 00:06:24

We might be getting there.

Man Mazinga: 00:06:25

Oh, I hope it's air time.

Man Mazinga: 00:06:26

Okay.

Chris Walton: 00:06:27

Yes, these are the shippers ads.

Chris Walton: 00:06:28

So what can we expect from the shippers in attendance at Manifest this February?

Pam Simon: 00:06:34

We have been working hard on this one, so very excited to share that we have over 120 shippers will be on stage.

Pam Simon: 00:06:41

So like chief supply chain officers, chief operation officers, chief procurement officers.

Pam Simon: 00:06:46

This year we'll actually be featuring a number of case studies from the likes of Mattel, Daily Harvest, Microsoft, Alibaba, even the government of the United States Transportation Command.

Pam Simon: 00:07:00

So they'll dive into, into, you know, how they're approaching a beverly of different technologies and topics as well as change management, operational design and the adoption of technology for effective decision making.

Pam Simon: 00:07:12

One of the big highlights is also our leadership suite which is an exclusive program mostly for senior, senior level and supply chain manifest.

Pam Simon: 00:07:22

So it's came by popular demand directly from the leaders that are joining.

Pam Simon: 00:07:28

So you'll have the opportunity to engage, network, learn from each other and it creates these really unique peer to peer networks so that shippers are able to, you know, have those important conversations with each other as well as discuss all the different technology that they're seeing and what's working, what's not working well.

Man Mazinga: 00:07:47

And Pam, I think it's important to call out Chris and I have been to Manifest several times, but it's important to get there early because you do some really exceptional kickoff events like the maritime symposium which I mentioned.

Man Mazinga: 00:08:00

But can you Go into a little bit about what to expect that first day of the conference and why it's important for people to attend.

Pam Simon: 00:08:08

Sure.

Pam Simon: 00:08:08

So the first day is a lot of fun on our kick up day and it is divided into symposiums.

Pam Simon: 00:08:14

So our maritime port symposium is obviously a favorite and will feature, you know, the Port of LA and Claris, DP World, aapa, dcsa, APM Terminals, Maersk and we'll be diving into, you know, large scale digital transformation enabling complete traceability of container movements and streamlining cargo handling.

Pam Simon: 00:08:39

Our intermodal workshop will feature Linksys, Telegraph, Union Pacific, JB Hunt, Southwest Airlines.

Pam Simon: 00:08:47

You know, we'll dive into how cities are becoming world class freight hubs, air cargo transformation and keeping goods and materials moving via strategic partnerships, tools, technologies.

Pam Simon: 00:09:02

Sustainability is another one which I mean every conversation that I have includes sustainability.

Pam Simon: 00:09:07

So we'll be exciting to hear from Super Circle and PlantSwitch and Bcomp to discuss scaling climate solutions, holistic sustainability and circularity from reusable to ecommerce.

Pam Simon: 00:09:22

Since I listened to, I mean we listened to the industry.

Pam Simon: 00:09:25

So after a lot of feedback coming in, we'll be launching our Cold Chain forum at this year's show featuring.

Chris Walton: 00:09:33

Wow.

Pam Simon: 00:09:33

Yes, very excited.

Pam Simon: 00:09:35

We have a great lineup discussing, you know, different ways that food is moving through the supply chain and scarcity and security as well as temperature control, navigating the pharmaceutical side of things with Vanguard Medical and Candor Expedite B Go.

Pam Simon: 00:09:51

So we have a lot of stuff that's jam packed into the first day of the show and the expo hall is not open this day.

Pam Simon: 00:09:58

So this is really the time to go to the sessions, connect with people and start to plan what the rest of your experience is going to be like.

Pam Simon: 00:10:06

Additionally, you know, stay for the cocktail after as well.

Man Mazinga: 00:10:11

Well Pam, it's impressive to see how fast Manifest Vegas has grown.

Man Mazinga: 00:10:16

I want to go deeper into how shippers are making sure that they're getting the most out of their time at Manifest.

Pam Simon: 00:10:24

Of course.

Pam Simon: 00:10:25

So the growth that we've seen in shippers is really, really exciting and we're so happy to see so many shippers getting value from man.

Pam Simon: 00:10:33

I'm constantly hearing of people that are now working together and deploying new technologies.

Pam Simon: 00:10:38

So it's very exciting.

Pam Simon: 00:10:39

This trend really started off with Pepsi.

Pam Simon: 00:10:42

So big thank you to them because now they're bringing their entire executive team to the show and it allows them to be at the event in a more efficient and productive way.

Pam Simon: 00:10:54

So you're able to divide and conquer.

Pam Simon: 00:10:56

Going to educational sessions, going to meetings, meeting More companies on our expo floor to truly get the most out of all the different networking opportunities that we provide.

Pam Simon: 00:11:06

So it makes sense to divide and conquer.

Pam Simon: 00:11:09

We're seeing a lot more people bring their teams.

Pam Simon: 00:11:12

So that's, that's the best way to do it is really like prepare ahead of time and then attack the, attack the scene.

Pam Simon: 00:11:19

And we also have many shippers taking advantage of our hosted shipper program which gives benefits to both individuals and teams.

Pam Simon: 00:11:27

They have access to things like our shipper lounge and meeting rooms for larger teams.

Pam Simon: 00:11:32

And we look forward to seeing even more and more shippers at the show the coming, coming year.

Chris Walton: 00:11:38

So.

Chris Walton: 00:11:38

So Pam, I'm curious because you mentioned it, is that the best way to attack the show is to come in with a plan?

Chris Walton: 00:11:44

Because we talk, we talk to a lot of, especially the retail side of things, the retail executives that attend all these conferences.

Chris Walton: 00:11:49

And, and honestly we hear different approaches.

Chris Walton: 00:11:51

Like some people like to just keep it tabula rasa, keep their, keep their agenda completely free and open and just wander around.

Chris Walton: 00:11:57

Some people like to be incredibly planful.

Chris Walton: 00:12:00

But you're saying people should plan their day, right?

Chris Walton: 00:12:02

That's what you think?

Chris Walton: 00:12:03

That's the way to get the most out of it?

Pam Simon: 00:12:04

Well, the way to really get the most out of it is bring your team.

Pam Simon: 00:12:07

Right?

Pam Simon: 00:12:08

There's only one of you I wish when you figure out how to clone me, let me know.

Pam Simon: 00:12:12

But until that's solved, really it's to bring your team.

Pam Simon: 00:12:16

That way you don't miss anything.

Pam Simon: 00:12:18

So I mean, or, or divide and conquer.

Pam Simon: 00:12:20

Like really that's the point of bringing team.

Pam Simon: 00:12:23

And then before you get to the show, you can determine, you know, who's going to be taking meetings, who's going to go to the educational sessions, who's going to go to the floor.

Pam Simon: 00:12:31

And it really helps, you know, everyone spread out and then come together following the show to really be able to debrief in the most productive, efficient way.

Chris Walton: 00:12:40

Yeah, the divide and car care approach is a great one too because like, the other thing I think about having been in these shows when I, when I was working for a retailer too, is it allows you to see different perspectives on the new innovations and technologies that are on display at the show too.

Chris Walton: 00:12:53

So before we let you go, I want to ask you more about that.

Chris Walton: 00:12:57

So I think there's going to be a ton of startups in attendance.

Chris Walton: 00:13:01

You touched on it a little bit earlier, but, you know, can you dig deeper into the kind of companies particularly that you're going to hear from on the innovation stage?

Chris Walton: 00:13:09

For which, you know, you'd want those diverse perspectives to weigh in on it if you're in attendance.

Pam Simon: 00:13:14

We have about 40 companies from around the world of all different shapes and sizes that are going to be represented.

Pam Simon: 00:13:21

And we have, there will be presentations diving into combating fraud and cybersecurity to payments near shoring, rail automation, sustainability, as well as companies that are tackling workflow, automation, enterprise safety, real time tracking and IoT, as well as autonomous shipping with Mythos.

Pam Simon: 00:13:42

And I think that company is pretty exciting.

Pam Simon: 00:13:45

So see a number of companies that will be doing product launches.

Pam Simon: 00:13:49

So I don't know if you realize this, but a lot of news gets broken on stage at Manifest.

Pam Simon: 00:13:53

So products launched and new announcements.

Pam Simon: 00:13:56

So it's important to listen to what's happening.

Man Mazinga: 00:14:00

Yeah, we got to catch as much of it as we can.

Man Mazinga: 00:14:03

Pam, I want to close with one thing that I know is very near and dear to you and to me, especially in this industry, and that is promoting diversity and getting new, new fresh blood into the transportation and logistics side of the business.

Man Mazinga: 00:14:21

And one event that you're hosting that I want to make sure that our listeners know about is the Women's Lunch.

Man Mazinga: 00:14:26

This year is the fourth installment.

Man Mazinga: 00:14:28

Can you tell a little, tell our listeners a little bit about where and when they can catch that?

Pam Simon: 00:14:33

Okay, so this will be taking place Lunchtime on Wednesday, February 12th.

Pam Simon: 00:14:39

So we have not announced the speaker for our Women's lunch just yet, so stay tuned on that one.

Pam Simon: 00:14:45

But we do have a brand new initiative that I'm super excited about that we'll be launching at the show and it will be focused around mentorship.

Pam Simon: 00:14:53

So we've had a lot of C Suite executives and attendees mention that they would be open to mentoring people and wanted to give the opportunities to find mentees.

Pam Simon: 00:15:05

So this, we're creating this program.

Pam Simon: 00:15:07

So as part of the RSVP for the Women's Luncheon, we'll be asking folks, you know, to indicate if they would like to be a mentor or a mentee.

Pam Simon: 00:15:15

And we'll spend some time at the end of the Women's Luncheon with my colleague Katie Date, talking on stage about mentors, mentorship and how to be a great mentor and how as a mentee, you can get the most out of your relationship.

Pam Simon: 00:15:29

So, I mean, studies have shown that those who have strong mentorship in their life are able to navigate and grow within their careers in a more impactful way.

Pam Simon: 00:15:39

So I'm really excited that Manifest will be able to use technology to help these matches, help create these matches.

Pam Simon: 00:15:47

So the mini workshop run by Katie, will focus on how to seek mentorship mentee, how to make the relationship most valuable for both parties, as well as the importance of having your own personal board of advisors.

Pam Simon: 00:16:02

So attendees walk away with the tool, valuable tools to help them support their mentor in any way.

Chris Walton: 00:16:09

All right, Pam, so I think we've asked you every question that Anne and I can think of in regards to the conference.

Chris Walton: 00:16:14

Is there anything we haven't asked you about or anything you want to leave our listeners with here about Manifest Vegas before we let you go?

Pam Simon: 00:16:21

Well, if you have not registered yet, prices increase in January and on site.

Pam Simon: 00:16:26

So please take advantage of our deal and register now.

Pam Simon: 00:16:30

Go to manifestvegas.com and if you backslash OmniTalk, you can save $2 on your registration.

Chris Walton: 00:16:38

Nice.

Chris Walton: 00:16:38

Yes.

Chris Walton: 00:16:39

Yes, yes, that's.

Chris Walton: 00:16:40

Yes, that's right.

Chris Walton: 00:16:40

Yes, you can save with us.

Chris Walton: 00:16:42

So, yeah, so if you're listening to this podcast and you're like, hey, Manifest sounds amazing, just go register@ manifestvegas.com omnitalk and get it done, and we'll see you there.

Chris Walton: 00:16:51

And I are going to be there.

Chris Walton: 00:16:52

We've been there.

Chris Walton: 00:16:52

I think this is our fourth year being there, right, Adam?

Chris Walton: 00:16:55

Is that right?

Chris Walton: 00:16:56

Pam's like, shaking her head.

Man Mazinga: 00:16:57

Yes, that sounds right.

Chris Walton: 00:16:59

Yeah.

Chris Walton: 00:16:59

When it was originally at Paris back in the day.

Chris Walton: 00:17:01

So Paris, the hotel.

Chris Walton: 00:17:03

Not.

Chris Walton: 00:17:03

Not the.

Chris Walton: 00:17:04

Not France, but, you know, not yet.

Chris Walton: 00:17:06

Maybe one day, Pam.

Chris Walton: 00:17:07

Maybe one day.

Chris Walton: 00:17:09

All right, Pam.

Chris Walton: 00:17:09

Well, thank you so much.

Chris Walton: 00:17:10

That wraps us up.

Chris Walton: 00:17:11

Pam Simon of Manifest, thanks for sitting down with us today.

Chris Walton: 00:17:14

And thanks to all of you for listening to this podcast and.

Chris Walton: 00:17:18

Or if you're watching us on video, thanks for tuning in.

Chris Walton: 00:17:20

And as always, on behalf of all of us at Omnitalk Retail, be careful out there.