“Innovation is not just technology. It is a strategy that changes the rules of the game in the market.”
In a world where logistics is becoming not only the backbone of international trade but also one of the drivers of technological progress, the name Igor Panchenko stands as an example of how a Ukrainian inventor and entrepreneur can change entire industries. His patented visual control technology is already in use in Ukraine and the US, and Valera Logistics Inc. is successfully competing in the American market. Add to this his recent participation as a member of the jury for The American Business Expo Award 2025, and we have a story worthy of an international business magazine.
Origins and development
How did your interest in logistics and innovative solutions develop?
My introduction to logistics began in the automotive industry, where I managed projects related to the sale, service, and import of vehicles for over 15 years. At first glance, it seems like a different business, but there I realized how important process accuracy and control are at every stage. Logistics became a natural extension of this experience, but on a larger scale and with more complex challenges.
Do you remember the moment when the idea that later became the basis for your patent first came to you?
Yes. It was a case where human error in tracking cargo caused the company to suffer significant losses. I realized that we needed a system that not only recorded data but also visually confirmed each stage of delivery. The idea gradually transformed into visual control technology, which is now patented.
How did your previous experience in Ukraine influence your approach to business in the US?
In Ukraine, I learned to work in a highly competitive environment where you often have to find non-standard solutions. In the US, these skills helped me quickly adapt, build partnerships, and find a balance between innovation and regulatory requirements.
Invention and patent
Tell us about visual inspection technology: what makes it innovative?
It is an integrated system that combines data processing algorithms, visual analytics, and elements of logistics cybersecurity. It allows you to see the actual status of cargo at any time, control the loading, transportation, and unloading processes, and reduces the risks of fraud and loss.
What challenges did you face during development?
The main challenge was integrating the technology into existing logistics platforms. We had to make it universal so that it would work in both Ukraine and the US without any complicated modifications.
Were the patenting processes in Ukraine and the US different?
Yes. In Ukraine, the procedure is more formalized, while in the US, it is more focused on the commercial potential of the invention. There, it is important to demonstrate not only the technical uniqueness of the invention, but also the business model for its use.
Where else can this technology be applied?
In addition to logistics, it can be useful in construction, industrial production, and even healthcare to monitor the movement of critical objects.
Business in the United States
What was the biggest challenge in founding Valera Logistics Inc.?
The most difficult thing was to build operational processes from scratch in accordance with American standards. This applied to licensing, hiring staff, and working with clients.
How did you adapt your business model?
We have implemented a TMS system, analytical modules, and standardized documentation to meet both market requirements and customer expectations.
Did the patent integration affect the company’s operations?
Yes. Technology has become our competitive tool — it has increased customer confidence and opened the door to large contracts.
Which markets are currently the most promising?
In addition to the US, we see great potential in Canada and EU countries, especially in projects related to smart cargo monitoring.
International recognition and role in the jury
How did you become a member of the jury for The American Business Expo Award 2025?
I was invited by the organizers, who appreciated my experience in international logistics, engineering, and strategic management.
What criteria do you consider key?
The most important things for me are the innovativeness of the solution, its practical value, and scalability.
Were there any projects that particularly impressed you?
Yes, I was impressed by the solutions in the field of last-mile delivery, which combine environmental friendliness and artificial intelligence technologies.
Tell us more about the participants you personally noticed.
In the Fleet Management category, I was impressed by the work of Yuri Gerasimov (USA), Fleet and Safety Manager at BSG Logistics LLC. He carried out a complete optimization of routes, which reduced delivery times, increased safety, and eliminated vehicle downtime. This is an example of how a strategic approach can change the efficiency of an entire company.
In the Consumer Services category, I highly rated the project by Erik Arutyunyan (Georgia), owner and CEO of LTD “E.D.E.” His company services over 300 commercial refrigeration units for leading food manufacturers, maintaining zero serious failures and expanding its geographical reach even in times of crisis.
In the Delivery & Last-Mile Logistics category, Natalia Malyaruk (Norway), manager at Nova Poshta, deserves attention. Her route and warehouse optimization algorithms reduced delivery time by 22%, fuel costs by 12%, and order errors by 40%. She also reduced route planning time from 90 to 10 minutes, opening up new opportunities for business scaling.
What did being on the jury mean to you?
This is not only an opportunity to evaluate innovative projects, but also to exchange experiences with colleagues from different countries. Such competitions shape the future of business and create an international platform for cooperation.
How did being on the jury affect your image?
This served as further confirmation of my expertise at the international level and expanded my network of contacts in the US and Europe.
Are you planning to participate in the jury again?
Yes, I am interested in being part of the process of selecting innovations that will shape the market of the future.
A look into the future
What trends will shape logistics in the coming years?
These are automation, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and green logistics.
Is global standardization possible in the field of logistics cybersecurity?
I believe so, but it requires initiative from major players and support from international organizations.
What are your main principles in business?
Honesty, transparency of processes, and innovation in every decision.
What advice would you give to Ukrainians planning to start a business in the US?
Be prepared for the long game, adapt, but don’t give up your uniqueness.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
My goal is to make Valera Logistics Inc. one of the leaders in innovative logistics in North America and Europe.
My journey proves that:
A Ukrainian inventor may be
world-class leader.”
