For the first time, ProMat 2017 will exhibit in both the South and North halls of McCormick Place, Chicago.

The ProMat show floor in the South hall will be divided into solution-specific centers—equipment and components for manufacturing/assembly logistics solutions, fulfillment and delivery solutions and information technology solutions.

And, in the North hall will be two new solution centers—autonomous vehicle solutions and sustainable facility solutions. These two new Solutions Centers will also include a theater on the show floor, which will hold educational sessions specific to these solutions.

While autonomous vehicle and drone technology is still emerging, 59% of survey respondents in the 2016 MHI Annual Industry Report said they are having at least some impact on supply chains, and 37% said it has the potential to provide competitive advantage or disrupt the industry. Adoption rates for autonomous vehicle and drone technologies are expected to grow to 50% over the next 6-10 years.

ProMat 2017, hosted by MHI, Charlotte, N.C., will take place April 3-6, 2017.