Top WMS Trends for 2025: What Manufacturers Really Need to Simplify Fulfillment Process

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Manufacturers face a perfect storm: the explosion of e-commerce (global sales forecast to hit $7.4 trillion by 2025), rampant labour shortages with 62% of leaders citing workforce gaps, and sky-high customer expectations for fast, flawless fulfillment. To stay competitive, they need Manufacturing WMS Software that not only manages warehouse logistics but also understands production intricacies.

In this blog we will dive into the top trends reshaping manufacturing warehouse management software in 2025—solutions that can simplify your fulfillment process and drive real results.

WMS 101 with a Manufacturing Lens

What is a “Manufacturing WMS”?

A Warehouse Management System for manufacturing goes beyond basic inventory tracking. It manages everything from raw material intake, BOM (Bill of Materials) and work in progress to finished goods, all within the flow of your production line. It is the nerve center that keeps raw to finished workflows in sync preventing bottlenecks and ensuring traceability.

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Unique Considerations for Manufacturers

Manufacturers need WMS features tailored to production environments:

  • BOM tracking and materials allocation
  • Integration with MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems)
  • Real-time material flow and lot/serial traceability
  • Exception handling (e.g., defective batch management)
  • Support for manufacturing and inventory management software metrics

Top Manufacturing WMS Trends for 2025

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1. Cloud & Real-Time Visibility 

The shift from legacy on-prem to cloud-native manufacturing WMS software is accelerating. Why? Scalability, remote access, and fewer IT headaches. Real-time visibility across multiple plants and supplier networks means no more blind spots. Whether you’re at HQ or on the shop floor, live dashboards and mobile alerts keep you proactive.

2. Robotics, AGVs & Smart Automation 

Warehouses are evolving from static storage to dynamic, automated spaces. Robots, AGVs, and barcode systems for manufacturing are handling repetitive tasks—freeing humans for higher-value work.

  • Robots streamline picking, packing, and pallet handling.
  • AGVs shuttle goods between zones.
  • Barcode scanning speeds up inbound/outbound processes and reduces errors.

Smart automation creates a hybrid environment where humans and machines collaborate efficiently.

3. AI-Driven Warehouse Orchestration 

AI and machine learning are stepping in to optimize task scheduling and labour allocation based on real-time variables like order volume and staff availability. Predictive analytics help you avoid bottlenecks and anticipate downtime. When disruptions hit, AI-driven systems can adapt fulfillment flows instantly.

4. Traceability via Blockchain & IoT 

Traceability isn’t just buzz it’s a must for sensitive industries like food, pharma, and high-value manufacturing. Blockchain & IoT solutions provide:

  • RFID and sensor tracking at every stage.
  • Immutable data sharing across partners.
  • Compliance with industry regulations.

The result? Transparent, secure, and auditable supply chains.

5. ERP/MES and WMS Synergy 

A powerful warehouse management system for manufacturing doesn’t work in isolation. It must integrate seamlessly with your ERP and MES, enabling end-to-end visibility—from forecasting to fulfillment.

Modern systems offer open APIs and low-code connectors, making siloed data a thing of the past. Production-to-warehouse handoffs become smooth, automated, and error-free.

6. Sustainability & Efficiency Analytics 

Green goals are front and center. WMS platforms now track energy use, CO₂ emissions, and material waste. Analytics from these systems help you:

  • Optimize energy consumption during peak picks.
  • Reduce material spoilage with better rotation.
  • Make data-driven decisions to support sustainability initiatives.
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Implementation Best Practices 

Selecting the Right WMS 

Look for systems that tick these boxes:

  • Designed for manufacturing operations
  • Cloud-native and scalable
  • Ready for automation (robotics/AGVs)
  • Offers barcode and traceability modules
  • Easily integrates with ERP/MES

Overcoming Adoption Barriers 

Common hurdles include:

  • Staff reluctant to change
  • Integration challenges with legacy IT
  • Security concerns and data compliance

To address these, prioritize strong onboarding, clear communication, and cybersecurity protocols.

overcoming-adoption-barriers

Measuring ROI 

Track these KPIs:

  • Picking and shipping accuracy
  • Labor productivity and savings
  • On-Time-In-Full (OTIF) rates
  • Inventory turn rate
  • Energy and waste metrics

Conclusion & Future Look

Manufacturers in 2025 will not thrive by sticking to outdated systems. Growth now depends on smart, connected tools that align production and fulfillment without creating friction or delays. A strong manufacturing WMS software can simplify how goods flow through your facilities, cut waste, and keep labour costs manageable.

Canary7 provides a scalable, cloud-based platform created by people who understand warehousing from the inside out. Their solution supports barcode scanning, real-time dashboards, automation sync, and integrations with leading ERPs and manufacturing systems. Businesses looking for a warehouse management system UK that adapts to complex manufacturing needs will find Canary7 well suited to the task. Their team focuses on rapid onboarding, high-impact features, and long-term value.

Explore Canary7 if you want tools that help you improve fulfillment, not just monitor it.

FAQs

1. How does WMS differ from MES or ERP?

WMS manages inventory, picking, and warehouse tasks. MES handles production-floor operations, while ERP covers planning and finance. They work together when integrated.

2. Is blockchain necessary for all manufacturers?

It is useful in industries that demand strong traceability, such as food and pharmaceuticals. Others may use lighter tracking tools like RFID or barcode systems.

3. Can WMS help if I do not use robotics yet?

Yes. A WMS brings value through accurate tracking, faster order processing, and clearer inventory visibility. Automation can be added later without disruption.

Namrata Chawla

Namrata Chawla

Author

UPDATED ON: 24th June 2025

Namrata Chawla, a professional writer, crafts compelling weblog content on warehouse management, inventory control, logistics, and beyond. With a wealth of experience in this niche, she's dedicated to delivering unique, informative, and top-tier posts. Her commitment to exploration ensures fresh perspectives in each insightful blog post.

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