MegaTrans 2026 is inviting the food and beverage industry to explore themes, discussions and technologies around freight and logistics to boost the sector.
As Australia’s freight and logistics sector faces growing pressure to improve efficiency, reduce emissions and adapt to shifting supply chain demands, MegaTrans 2026 is positioning itself as a platform for industry collaboration and practical discussion.
Taking place from 16 to 17 September 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), the event will bring together operators, suppliers, technology providers and policymakers to address the issues currently shaping the future of freight and logistics.
Running alongside BULK 2026, the event is expected to create opportunities for businesses across warehousing, transport, manufacturing and supply chain operations to connect with a broader network of decision makers and industry stakeholders.
Relevance in food industry
For food and beverage manufacturers, the freight and logistics sector continues to play a central role in maintaining operational continuity, managing rising costs and meeting customer expectations.
“Efficient transport and distribution systems are key for food and beverages,” said Prime Creative Media head of marketing events Molly Hancock. “Cold chain logistics or temperature-controlled warehousing is crucial in an industry where shelf life determines quality.”
MegaTrans 2026 aims to provide insight into how these pressures are influencing transport, warehousing and distribution strategies across the country.
The exhibition floor will feature suppliers and service providers showcasing solutions spanning automation, fleet management, infrastructure, sustainability and warehouse operations.
According to event organisers, access to decision makers remains one of the key reasons exhibitors continue to support the event. MegaTrans 2024 attracted 4,737 attendees, with 48 per cent identified as fleet managers and 29 per cent as warehouse operators.
By bringing together stakeholders from different parts of the supply chain, the event aims to create discussions that can boost efficiency relevant to food and beverage supply chain applications.
Insights from industry leaders
The 2026 conference program has been built around the operational and strategic challenges currently facing the industry. Topics including decarbonisation, automation, workforce shortages and infrastructure planning will form the basis of panel discussions and presentations across the two-day event.
One session expected to draw attention is Beyond Diesel: The Best Way Forward, featuring Andrew Newman, director of policy and strategy at Freight Victoria, and Heather Bone, director of sustainability at Team Global Express.
The session will examine how freight operators are approaching lower emissions transport solutions and the practical realities involved in moving beyond diesel powered fleets.
Automation will also feature throughout the program. In Automate All Avenues: Driving All Modes Forward, Bruno Porchietto, chief executive officer of Victoria International Container Terminal Melbourne, and Gren John Britto, Amazon Australia DSP country leader, will discuss how automation is reshaping operations across ports, road freight and warehouse environments.
Mid-tier logistics operators will be another area of focus. Reinvigorating Mid-Tier Logistics will feature Steven Ballerini, chief executive officer of the Australasian Supply Chain and Logistics Association, alongside other industry representatives discussing the pressures facing medium sized operators.
Infrastructure planning and warehouse development will also be addressed in Location, Location, Location: Establishing DCs for the Future. The session will feature Hermione Parsons, chief executive officer and managing director of the Australian Logistics Council. The discussion will examine how businesses can identify suitable locations for future distribution centres while designing facilities capable of meeting evolving operational requirements.
Sustainability across manufacturing and logistics operations will remain another key theme throughout the conference program. In Greener By Design: Manufacturing Driving Sustainability Across the Supply Chain, Scott Edwards, associate director sustainability at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Australia, will join fellow panellists to discuss how environmental considerations are being integrated into supply chain decision making.
Workforce challenges will also feature prominently during the event. Recruiting Right: Overcoming Staff Shortages will include Tony Mellick, chief executive officer of Hi-Trans Express, discussing approaches to attracting and retaining staff in a competitive labour market.
“Freight and logistics are under real pressure right now, and that’s exactly why this program matters,” said Hancock. “We’ve built it around the conversations the industry is already having on the ground and brought together the people who can speak to what’s actually changing and what comes next.”
More opportunities
Beyond the conference sessions, MegaTrans 2026 will also provide exhibitors with opportunities to launch products, demonstrate technology and build new business relationships.
For businesses supplying the food and beverage sector, the event offers exposure to warehouse operators, transport providers and supply chain decision makers looking to improve efficiency and adapt to changing market conditions.
With more sessions and speakers still to be announced, MegaTrans 2026 is shaping up to be a meeting point for businesses navigating a rapidly evolving freight and logistics environment.
