What is the Best Warehouse Management System (WMS) in 2025?
Managing a warehouse efficiently is no easy feat, especially as demands on logistics and supply chain operations continue to escalate. Finding the right Warehouse Management System (WMS) can mean the difference between streamlined success and operational headaches.
With emerging technologies shaping the future of warehouse operations, 2025 is seeing large developments in the world of WMS. With the release of the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant for WMS, this guide explores key trends, top providers, must-have features, and challenges to help logistics professionals make informed decisions when choosing a new WMS.
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What is a Warehouse Management System (WMS)?
A Warehouse Management System (WMS), as described by Gartner, is a software solution that manages and optimises warehouse operations. From receiving and put-away to picking, packing, and shipping goods, a WMS streamlines processes to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Core Features of a WMS.
The core capabilities of a WMS include tasks such as:
- Receiving inventory
- Put-away and stock locating
- Order picking and wave management
- Packing and shipping
- Inventory management, including cycle counting
- Integration with automation systems like barcode scanners and RFID
Extended features often go beyond basic operations, offering functionalities such as labour management, task interleaving, slotting, and advanced analytics.
Key Trends in Warehouse Management for 2025.
The WMS landscape is evolving rapidly, with businesses focused more on Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), automation, and adaptability. Here’s what’s shaping the industry this year:
1. Market Growth and Demand
The WMS market exceeded $4 billion in 2024, with double-digit annual growth expected to continue. This growth is driven by increasing demand for automation, cost reduction, and scalability as businesses expand.
2. Focus on Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
Logistics professionals are becoming more cost-conscious, evaluating not only the initial investment but also ongoing operational costs. Vendors offering flexibility in pricing and faster ROI are gaining preference.
3. AI and Machine Learning
AI and Machine Learning are now integral to software improvement. For instance, WMS solutions are deploying AI-based slotting optimisation, predictive analytics, and vision systems to enhance decision-making and efficiency.
4. Generative AI Integration (GenAI)
GenAI is enabling game-changing capabilities such as automated coding, advanced chatbots, and process analysis. These innovations reduce implementation times and improve daily operations.
5. Cloud Deployments
Cloud-native solutions are now the go-to for businesses seeking scalability, flexibility, and secure data storage without major infrastructure investments. Multi-tenant cloud platforms are particularly popular for their adaptability.
6. Adaptability and Extensibility
Future-proofing is critical for warehouse operations. Organisations are prioritising solutions with configurable workflows and customisable modules to adapt to both technological advancements and business growth.
7. Commercial Term Flexibility
Vendors offering seasonal subscription models or those allowing businesses to scale user numbers up or down are becoming increasingly attractive.
8. Market Consolidation
Acquisitions between vendors (e.g., Körber acquiring MercuryGate) are consolidating market capabilities and offering all-encompassing supply chain solutions.
Top Warehouse Management System Providers in 2025.
Here are the leading providers you should consider when implementing or upgrading your WMS.
Leaders.
1. Infios (formerly Körber)
Overview: Rebranded in 2025, Infios offers adaptable supply chain execution tools integrating warehouse, transport, and order management systems. Ranked as the highest rated WMS by users on Gartner Peer Reviews (based on number of reviews).
Market Position: Leader
Customer Base: Over 5,000 clients across 70 countries in multiple industries.
WMS Capabilities: Modular architecture with extensive integration options, suitable for automated and complex operations.
Strengths:
- Highly flexible and scalable.
- Comprehensive suite covering all supply chain needs.
- Strong global support presence.
Weaknesses:
- Ongoing rebranding may create short-term identity confusion.
- Integration with legacy systems may prove challenging.
2. Manhattan Associates
Overview: A longstanding leader, Manhattan Associates provides the Manhattan Active WMS—a cloud-native, microservices-based platform built for continuous innovation and scalability.
Market Position: Leader
Customer Base: Global enterprises across retail, manufacturing, and logistics sectors.
WMS Capabilities: Comprehensive functionality encompassing order management, labour management, and transport management—all unified within a single platform.
Strengths:
- Continuous updates without operational disruption.
- High adaptability to complex supply chain demands.
- Strong integration capabilities.
Weaknesses:
- Premium pricing may deter smaller businesses.
- Implementation complexity for organisations with limited IT capacity.
3. Blue Yonder
Overview: Blue Yonder delivers AI-driven WMS solutions designed to improve forecasting and inventory control, supporting resilient and sustainable supply chains.
Market Position: Leader
Customer Base: Retailers, manufacturers, and logistics providers globally.
WMS Capabilities: Advanced analytics, machine learning-based demand forecasting, and end-to-end supply chain visibility.
Strengths:
- Deep integration of AI and machine learning.
- Robust planning and execution capabilities.
- Scalable offerings for large organisations.
Weaknesses:
- Complex implementation and customisation process.
- Higher overall cost of ownership.
4. SAP
Overview: SAP’s Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) solution offers advanced features tailored to manage intricate warehouse operations within its broader ERP ecosystem.
Market Position: Leader
Customer Base: Large enterprises in manufacturing, retail, and logistics.
WMS Capabilities: Real-time inventory visibility, automation readiness, and full ERP integration.
Strengths:
- Seamless compatibility with SAP’s suite of applications.
- Suitable for highly automated and complex warehousing needs.
- Extensive partner network and global support.
Weaknesses:
- High implementation and upkeep costs.
- Steep learning curve for non-SAP users.
5. Oracle
Overview: Oracle’s Fusion Cloud WMS provides a unified platform with a strong focus on scalability, flexibility, and real-time insights.
Market Position: Leader
Customer Base: Wide range of sectors including retail, manufacturing, and distribution.
WMS Capabilities: Cloud-native infrastructure, real-time inventory tracking, automation support, and integration with Oracle’s cloud services.
Strengths:
- Advanced cloud technology.
- In-depth analytics and reporting.
- Strong security and regulatory compliance.
Weaknesses:
- Integration with third-party systems can be complex.
- High total cost of ownership.
6. Infor
Overview: Infor WMS offers real-time warehouse visibility and control, prioritising customisation and scalability.
Market Position: Visionary
Customer Base: Over 60,000 organisations in more than 175 countries, including healthcare, retail, and manufacturing.
WMS Capabilities: Advanced labour management, 3D visual modelling, and cloud deployment options.
Strengths:
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
- Highly configurable to business-specific needs.
- Efficient onboarding and deployment.
Weaknesses:
- Smaller partner ecosystem than major competitors.
- Less ideal for ultra-large warehouse environments
Visionaries.
7. Reply
Overview: Reply’s Click Reply WMS is designed for adaptability and modularity across diverse warehouse settings.
Market Position: Visionary
Customer Base: Mainly European clients in retail, logistics, and manufacturing.
WMS Capabilities: Modular and scalable, with multi-site and multi-owner support and strong system integration.
Strengths:
- High level of customisation.
- Efficient for intricate logistics operations.
- Scalable with fast deployment times.
Weaknesses:
- Limited market footprint outside Europe.
- Smaller support network compared to global vendors.
8. Softeon
Overview: Softeon offers flexible, fast-to-deploy supply chain tools, including a full-featured WMS suite.
Market Position: Visionary
Customer Base: Mid to large organisations, including 3PLs and retailers.
WMS Capabilities: Labour, yard, and distributed order management among other functionalities.
Strengths:
- Adapts well to complex business processes.
- Excellent customer service.
- Short go-live timelines.
Weaknesses:
- Smaller international reach.
- Lower brand visibility in some markets.
Challengers.
9. Ehrhardt Partner Group (EPG)
Overview: EPG’s EPG ONE suite covers WMS, transport, and voice solutions, optimising logistics performance.
Market Position: Challenger
Customer Base: Over 1,600 global clients across logistics, automotive, and retail.
WMS Capabilities: Full spectrum of logistics support from manual to fully automated, with voice-directed picking.
Strengths:
- Broad functionality across logistics disciplines.
- Especially strong in Europe.
- Pioneering voice-enabled warehouse solutions.
Weaknesses:
- Limited footprint in North America and Asia-Pacific.
- Compatibility issues with third-party platforms.
10. Tecsys
Overview: Tecsys’ Elite™ WMS focuses on visibility and control, offering actionable insights and real-time tracking.
Market Position: Challenger
Customer Base: Healthcare, retail, and third-party logistics firms.
WMS Capabilities: Inventory tracking, warehouse process control, and seamless SCM system integration.
Strengths:
- Particularly strong in healthcare logistics.
- High customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Offers flexible deployment modes.
Weaknesses:
- Limited global market penetration.
- Fewer advanced automation options than rivals.
11. Microsoft
Overview: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management includes robust WMS functionality integrated within its wider enterprise suite.
Market Position: Niche Player
Customer Base: Best suited to organisations already using Microsoft services.
WMS Capabilities: Integrated real-time inventory tracking, order fulfilment, and automation support through Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Azure.
Strengths:
- Strong integration with Microsoft ecosystem (Azure, Power BI, Office 365).
- Flexible deployment options (cloud or on-premises).
Weaknesses:
- May require significant customisation for complex warehouse operations.
- Fewer advanced WMS features compared to specialist providers.
Niche Players.
12. Made4net
Overview: Made4net’s SCExpert™ platform delivers comprehensive supply chain execution tools, with strong WMS functionality geared towards mid-sized firms.
Market Position: Niche Player
Customer Base: Retail, wholesale, and 3PL sectors.
WMS Capabilities: Inventory and labour management, yard operations, and task automation.
Strengths:
- Highly customisable and scalable solutions.
- Rapid implementation and easy-to-use interface.
Weaknesses:
- Smaller international footprint.
- May lack some advanced enterprise-grade capabilities.
13. Synergy Logistics (SnapFulfil)
Overview: Synergy Logistics’ SnapFulfil is a cloud-based WMS tailored for rapid deployment and fast ROI.
Market Position: Niche Player
Customer Base: E-commerce, retail, and manufacturing sectors.
WMS Capabilities: Real-time inventory management, mobile-friendly dashboards, and configurable workflows.
Strengths:
- Quick deployment (often under 45 days).
- Subscription pricing allows financial flexibility.
Weaknesses:
- Limited customisation compared to larger platforms.
- Less suited for highly complex, large-scale warehouse setups.
14. Generix Group
Overview: Generix offers WMS platforms such as Generix WMS and SOLOCHAIN, focusing on adaptability and robust integration within the wider supply chain.
Market Position: Niche Player
Customer Base: Strong European presence in retail, manufacturing, and logistics.
WMS Capabilities: Inventory visibility, automation integration, and support for both SaaS and on-premise deployments.
Strengths:
- Flexible deployment and integration.
- Suitable for diverse warehouse environments.
Weaknesses:
- Limited market share in North America.
- Implementations may require significant technical resources.
15. Mantis
Overview: Mantis delivers the Logistics Vision Suite (LVS), a modular WMS that emphasises adaptability and business-specific tailoring.
Market Position: Niche Player
Customer Base: Focus on 3PL, retail, and manufacturing.
WMS Capabilities: Real-time data, automation control, and strong customisation options.
Strengths:
- Deep configurability for complex operations.
- Good support for automation and robotics.
Weaknesses:
- Smaller global market presence.
- Custom implementations may increase project lead times.
16. Dematic
Overview: Dematic provides WMS systems built to integrate seamlessly with their automation and material handling equipment.
Market Position: Niche Player
Customer Base: Used across retail, food & beverage, and manufacturing.
WMS Capabilities: Covers manual and automated warehouse processes with strong orchestration capabilities.
Strengths:
- Ideal for customers using Dematic automation.
- Suitable for sophisticated, large-scale warehouses.
Weaknesses:
- High costs due to bundled hardware and software.
- Less appealing to organisations not using Dematic equipment.
17. Vinculum
Overview: Vinculum’s Vin eRetail WMS is focused on omnichannel retail and e-commerce fulfilment, particularly in emerging markets.
Market Position: Niche Player
Customer Base: Online retailers and D2C brands across Asia-Pacific.
WMS Capabilities: Order and return management, inventory synchronisation, and integration with marketplaces and ERP systems.
Strengths:
- Specialised for e-commerce and omnichannel logistics.
- Scalable cloud infrastructure.
Weaknesses:
- Limited reach in North America and Europe.
- May lack advanced warehousing features required by enterprise-level users.
Additional Mentions Outside the Gartner Magic Quadrant.
18. Indigo WMS
Overview: Indigo WMS is a fully-featured warehouse management solution supporting a broad range of industries including FMCG, fashion, automotive, and 3PL.
Market Position: Not in Gartner MQ; recognised in the UK for strong industry-specific features.
Customer Base: Broad UK and European user base in manufacturing, distribution, and retail.
WMS Capabilities: Real-time inventory control, pick optimisation, voice enablement, and ERP/TMS integration.
Strengths:
- Detailed process control tailored to industry use.
- High usability and real-time performance.
- Excellent integration with existing enterprise systems.
Weaknesses:
- Smaller international reach.
- May require more advanced training for full adoption.
19. Clarus WMS
Overview: Clarus WMS is a modern, cloud-native solution focused on ease of use and efficient warehouse performance.
Market Position: Not in Gartner MQ; emerging British WMS vendor.
Customer Base: SMEs and growing mid-sized logistics providers.
WMS Capabilities: Kitting, stock rotation, multi-site support, and real-time visibility.
Strengths:
- Simple and intuitive user experience.
- Transparent, predictable pricing model.
- Fast deployment and configuration.
Weaknesses:
- Reporting tools may require enhancement.
- Slightly limited configurability for enterprise-scale needs.
Mandatory and Common WMS Features.
When selecting a WMS, focus on both mandatory and common features to meet your operational demands.
Mandatory Features
These are the non-negotiable elements every WMS must provide:
- Receiving, put-away, and cross-docking.
- Inventory and location management.
- Picking, packing, and cycle counting.
- Automation integration (e.g., robotics and barcode systems).
Common Features
While not mandatory, these features improve flexibility and performance:
- Labour and workforce management.
- Task interleaving to combine multiple warehouse activities.
- Slotting optimisation for improved space utilisation.
- Dock appointment scheduling and yard management.
Challenges and Considerations.
Implementing a WMS is not without its challenges. Address these issues proactively to ensure a smoother process.
1. Implementation Time and Costs
Large-scale WMS solutions often involve lengthy implementation timelines, leading to higher upfront costs. Choose vendors with faster deployment options like Infios or Synergy.
2. Integration with Existing Systems
Ensuring compatibility with ERP, automation hardware, and other software solutions is critical to avoid operational bottlenecks.
3. Adaptability and Extensibility
A WMS should meet not just current needs but also evolve with your business. Solutions offering flexible workflows, plug-ins, and upgrades will better support long-term goals.
4. Avoiding Feature Overload
It’s tempting to invest in a WMS with many features, but it’s crucial to assess if they meet your needs. Choosing an expensive system with unused functionalities can add complexity and waste resources. Extra features may complicate training, slow workflows, and raise maintenance costs. Focus on features that improve efficiency and scalability to keep the system practical and cost-effective.
5. Choosing the Right Partner
Choosing the right technology partner is as important as the WMS solution itself. The right partner ensures smooth implementation and ongoing support. Look for industry expertise, positive reviews, and scalable services.
A partner familiar with your sector will understand your needs and provide tailored solutions. Ensure they offer training, proactive maintenance, and fast responses to minimise disruptions and improve performance.
Why Infios (Körber) is Ideal for SMBs.
For SMBs aiming to optimise costs and scale rapidly, Infios’ flexibility, advanced features, and competitive pricing make it the best option among top-tier WMS providers in 2025. Its focus on adaptable, intuitive design ensures you get a future-proof solution without breaking the bank.
Making Your WMS Investment Work Harder.
Investing in the right WMS can transform your warehouse operations. By considering the latest trends, carefully reviewing features, and evaluating your unique needs, you’ll be better placed to make an informed choice.
Looking to see how a WMS can impact your business firsthand? Request a customised WMS demo today.
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