On January 28th and 29th, "Logistics & Automation" will once again present future approaches to corporate logistics. Organizer Easyfairs discusses (part 3) with Peter Spycher, President of the Swiss Intralogistics Association, the leading Swiss platform for (intra)logistics, materials handling technology, and warehouse automation.

Mr. Spycher, for the ILS, the new year 2026 is all about its 60th anniversary in September. What does this anniversary mean for the association, which has been the only logistics association in Switzerland to operate entirely on a voluntary basis since 1966, and how has the industry changed over these six decades?

Peter Spycher: The association was founded in 1966 with the clear goal of finally holding a trade fair in Switzerland . For a long time, in addition to the trade fair itself, the focus was primarily on the work within the individual sections , where industry-specific goals were defined – and, of course, on shared lunches. New tasks only arose with the name change to IGFT. The association then acquired a strategic direction with its renaming to ILS Intralogistics Switzerland.

ILS President P. Spycher

New areas were created, the board was expanded, and a whole range of activities were launched: strong networking with other associations, intensive commitment to the " Experience Logistics" exhibition at the Swiss Museum of Transport, the organization of entire thematic areas at the VNL Logistics Forum, six training courses on shelf inspection, innovation days, joint stands at trade fairs, "SwissSkills," and the ILS study trips.

All volunteer work

Thus, we have evolved from a rather quiet, inactive association to a dynamic organization with over 176 members – all still on a voluntary basis. A heartfelt thank you to the board and the companies that made this possible.

Our 60th anniversary will be a particular highlight. The first celebration for our 55th anniversary was so well received that we were explicitly asked to organize a 60th anniversary celebration. Preparations are already underway, and it will be difficult to top the 55th anniversary celebration – but we'll do our best!

In addition to the trade fair in Bern and the anniversary celebration in 2026, you are also planning an update to the VR training course on shelf inspection and another study trip. How do these activities fit into the strategic vision of further developing the ILS as a central knowledge and networking platform?

VR training update

The VR training update seamlessly integrates into our vision of keeping our shelf inspection courses current. With the expert commission, we have created an efficient tool that allows new findings to be incorporated into the training quickly and effectively. The 60th anniversary celebration offers not only an entertaining program and a delightful culinary experience, but also numerous networking opportunities – open to all members and representatives of other associations.

The study trip on October 14th and 15th, 2026, also allows non-members, such as end customers, to gain valuable knowledge and build contacts within the industry. It serves as a true showcase of intralogistics and demonstrates how diverse and innovative the industry is today.

A true showcase of performance

When you personally walk through the ILS joint stand with its demo objects and innovative presentations – what are you most looking forward to and which exhibit or technology will personally inspire you the most in Bern?

It fills me with pride to experience such a vibrant trade fair. Especially at our joint stand, there's a spirit where logistics are clearly the priority. Highlighting individual companies or exhibits would compromise the association's neutral approach. However, I can say with complete conviction: a visit is definitely worthwhile. Trade fairs not only offer insights into products and innovations, but are also one of the best platforms for personal networking and professional exchange. Learning takes place here through conversations and the direct exchange of information – a value that should be utilized.

The «Logistics & Automation» trade fair will bring together the Swiss intralogistics community on January 28th and 29th, 2026. What do you hope these two days of the fair will achieve for the industry, for ILS members, and perhaps also personally as association president, for the future of Swiss intralogistics?

We consider the trade fair a central pillar of our industry. For this reason, we have supported it from the very beginning with our joint stand and also make a financial contribution. The development shows that we are on the right track: starting with ten stands, we now present 20 – a size that has proven optimal and significantly increases our visibility as an association.

The format has proven successful

The feedback from our members has been consistently positive. Our format has proven particularly successful because companies can initially participate with a smaller booth and, if their experience at the trade fair is successful, later book their own, larger booth. This creates a win-win situation – for the trade fair, for the exhibiting companies , and ultimately for the entire industry. Furthermore, the growth of the trade fair opens up new opportunities to implement additional ideas that we already have in the pipeline.

As an association, our passion lies in logistics, and we are proud to contribute to the economic well-being of Switzerland. For me personally, it is a great joy and honor to be able to contribute as president – ​​and, after more than 30 years in logistics, to give something back to the community from my own happiness.

Why, in your opinion, is it absolutely essential to attend the "Logistics & Automation" trade fair?

Here, the entire spectrum of Swiss intralogistics is showcased. From small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to global corporations, all are represented, comprehensively addressing the needs of the Swiss market. This creates a valuable counterpoint to LogiMAT, the leading international trade fair serving the entire world. Our national trade fair has continuously evolved over the years, and we are proud to actively contribute to this success.

What are you personally most looking forward to?

Over 30 years ago, I found my way into logistics and have experienced so many positive things since then. I've had the privilege of learning from numerous leading figures in the industry and gaining new experiences every day. Today, I look back and see that many perceive me as a leading figure myself – and that fills me with pride because I can give something back to the industry and to Switzerland for what I have received. I dedicate many hours of my free time to precisely this goal. When I see the dynamism and commitment of our association and our members, it makes me proud to be able to contribute.

Leaving a mark on the market

There's hardly anything more rewarding than contributing industry and life experience and humbly reflecting on initiatives that have truly left their mark on the market. And what remains most valuable to me is developing ideas with great people and creating something together.

Here is the full interview and further information about the trade fair.

Download the hall plan here.

Free entry with the voucher code «1600» on the «Logistics & Automation 2026» website,
which is also valid for the parallel «EMPACK» (www.empack-schweiz.ch).