Agenda

Opening Session

Emerging technologies are accelerating change across the dairy supply chain, and processors are at the forefront of this transformation. Building on the strong momentum of last year’s focus on artificial intelligence, this year’s theme expands the conversation—highlighting how AI and other advanced tools are reshaping processes, decision-making, and collaboration across the industry. Attendees will gain context for the sessions ahead and insight into how technology is driving the next wave of innovation and opportunity.

Session II: Innovations on the Road

Transportation and logistics are rapidly evolving as technology reshapes how dairy products are moved, stored, and delivered. In this session, explore how innovations in automation, AI, and connected systems are transforming logistics operations and unlocking new efficiencies across the supply chain. Attendees will learn how to apply these tools to reduce costs and boost supply chain agility.

Moderator: Hill Pratt

Session III: The Dairy Plant of the Future

With historic levels of investment in U.S. dairy processing, the next generation of plants is setting new standards for what’s possible. In this session, discover how greenfield sites are integrating robotics, data analytics, and smart systems to build world-class operations. Learn how these technologies are creating the most productive assets in the world—redefining plant efficiency and raising expectations across the industry.

Moderator: Katie Moore

Session IV: Building a Resilient Dairy Supply Chain Through Technology

In an era marked by escalating cyber threats, shifting trade policies, and global uncertainties, the dairy industry faces unprecedented challenges in maintaining a resilient supply chain. In this session, learn how businesses are harnessing advanced technologies to build more resilient, adaptive, and secure supply chains. This session will equip attendees with tools and strategies to future-proof operations and reduce risk.

Moderator: Phil Plourd

Session V: Creating a Seamless Supply Chain with E2E Platforms

Achieving a frictionless supply chain has long been the goal for dairy. In this session, explore how integrated platforms are bringing planning, production, and logistics into alignment through real-time data and automation. Attendees will discover how to leverage E2E systems to create more seamless, transparent, and responsive supply chains.

Moderator: Simon Drake

Breakout Roundtables II

As digital solutions spread across all areas of the supply chain, dairy processors face new challenges and opportunities in implementation. Engage in focused conversations about adopting new technologies, with an emphasis on practical strategies and real-world applications. These discussions will provide actionable takeaways for navigating innovation at every supply chain stage.

Session VI: Delivering Next-Generation Sustainability Data Infrastructure

Every dollar spent by a consumer is one less dollar that a business, CPG brand, or retailer needs to spend on carbon. This session will explore how innovative technologies are being combined to deliver next-generation sustainability data infrastructure, enabling digital product passports that support concepts like carbon-free transactions paid for by consumers. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how integrated digital infrastructure can support compliance, enhance ESG reporting, reduce operational costs, and empower organizations to lead with data-driven climate and sustainability action.

Moderator: Mike Aquino

Closing Session

As DairyTech 2025 comes to a close, this capstone session brings together senior leaders from McKinsey to explore how advanced supply chain technologies used outside the dairy sector can unlock transformational value within it.

With insights from sectors like MedTech, consumer packaged goods, and food tech, this conversation will provide concrete playbooks and digital strategies for modernizing dairy operations. This session isn’t just about ideas—it’s about action. Attendees will leave with a practical roadmap to deploy proven technologies, inspired by what’s worked in other sectors and tailored to the complex, fast-moving world of dairy.