Does Human Work Still Pay Off? People, Skills and the Limits of Automation in the Factory and Warehouse of the Future
Date
September 17, 2026
Hour
9:30 am -3:00 pm
Location
Hennes Mauritz Logistics<br /> Gądki pod Poznaniem
On 17 September, the 4th edition of the conference Does Human Work Still Pay Off? People, Skills and the Limits of Automation in the Factory and Warehouse of the Future will take place – a joint SPCC and AHK event dedicated to the future of manufacturing, logistics and business.
What will the factory and warehouse of the future look like? What role will humans play, and what role will be taken by AI, automation and new technologies? During the conference, we will discuss the transformation of industry, upskilling and reskilling, and how companies are preparing for a changing labour market.
The programme will include, among others, the latest GUS data on workforce availability in the Greater Poland region until 2040, practical examples of AI and digital twin applications, as well as a discussion among industry leaders on the factory and warehouse of the future. The event will conclude with a visit to the H&M distribution centre in Gądki.
Agenda:
09:30–10:00
Registration and welcome coffee
10:00–10:20
Opening session: Is it still worth employing people in the factory of the future?
- Representatives from H&M and Volkswagen
10:20–10:40
Demographic keynote: Greater Poland 2040 – Who will be working?
- Jacek Kowalewski, Central Statistical Office (GUS)
10:40–11:10
Keynote: How long can people keep learning? – On adaptation, development and redefining one’s role in a changing business environment
- Iwo Zmyślony
11:10–11:35
Fireside chat: Reskilling, upskilling, offboarding – a business responsibility or just a convenient HR buzzword?
- Reiner Pauly, Deininger
11:35–12:00
Networking break
12:00–12:25
Presentation: The engine running in the background: How is AI transforming modern HR and payroll outsourcing into a protective shield for business?
- Damian Wigowski, SWGK
12:25–12:40
Technology case study: The digital twin: Safe decision testing or a costly illusion of control?
- Artur Gnieciak, Siemens
12:40–13:20
Panel: The factory of the future doesn’t end on the production floor
- Ryszard Świderski, Phoenix Contact Polska
- Joanna Komarnicka-Słomińska, Nordec
- Barbara Robaszkiewicz, Beiersdorf Manufacturing Poznań
13:20–13:30
Closing remarks: People as a cost, a resource or a competitive advantage?
13:30–15:00
Lunch, networking and a factory tour
Participation is free of charge for SPCC members; however, prior registration is required. Please register by 14 September.
In partnership with:
