PC: When comparing this year to previous years, how would you say the main discussion points of LogiPharma have evolved?
Robinson: I’m sure I’m not the only one saying this, but the big one is AI. The pace of growth in machine learning and automation has been incredible—even just compared to last year. We’re seeing a surge in both the number and scale of use cases, and I don’t see that slowing down any time soon.
That, along with the ongoing focus on sustainability, are the two key themes that have really gained traction since we’ve been in Lyon. While they’ve always been part of the conversation, over the past three years, both have skyrocketed in importance. On the sustainability front, companies like AstraZeneca, Novo Nordisk, and Pfizer have announced major targets, which has helped push the topic higher on the agenda. With over 350 speakers here, these two areas are clearly top of mind.
Full Interview Summary: The decision to relocate the 2026 event to Vienna is driven by several strategic priorities. While the current venue in Lyon has served well, the Vienna location offers enhanced capabilities, particularly for hosting smaller, targeted focus groups—an increasingly important part of the event’s agenda. These sessions cater to niche challenges or opportunities relevant to only a fraction of attendees but offer high value. Vienna’s strong sustainability credentials also align with the event’s growing focus on environmental responsibility, allowing for a paperless setup and contributing to reduced carbon emissions.
Reflecting on the evolution of the program since moving to Lyon three years ago, two themes have rapidly risen to prominence: artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability. AI, especially in areas like machine learning and automation, has seen explosive growth, with a surge in real-world applications across the industry. Likewise, sustainability efforts from major pharma players such as AstraZeneca, Novo Nordisk, and Pfizer have become increasingly ambitious, moving from general goals to actionable, large-scale initiatives.
The scale of the event has also expanded, with over 350 speakers this year. Behind the scenes, the team operates year-round, beginning research conversations immediately after each event to inform the next agenda. These interviews—up to 200 hours’ worth—are invaluable for uncovering the true challenges and innovations shaping the sector.
Looking ahead to 2026, emerging concerns include geopolitical instability and the need for increased agility in the face of unpredictable disruptions. Scenario planning and ensuring business continuity amid global uncertainty are expected to be major talking points. M&A activity is another rising theme, not only among pharma companies but across the broader supply chain, prompting new questions about integration and operational alignment post-acquisition. These shifts suggest a continued expansion of the event’s scope and relevance.