Hannover, September 2025 The world’s premier trade fair for industrial innovation, HANNOVER MESSE, is gearing up for its April 2026 edition with a renewed focus on automation, digitalization, and artificial intelligence (AI). Featuring a new thematic structure, optimized visitor experience, and forward-looking networking formats, the event will once again bring together the brightest minds and leading technologies shaping the future of manufacturing.
From 20 to 24 April 2026, 4,000 exhibiting companies from the mechanical engineering, electrical, digital, and energy sectors will converge in Hannover to present next-generation solutions for a competitive, connected, and sustainable industry. With Brazil as the official partner country, HANNOVER MESSE 2026 aims to reinforce global collaboration in the era of Industry 4.0.
Automation and Digitalization: The Core of Industrial Evolution
As industries embrace smarter production methods, automation and digitalization are becoming inseparable. “Automation and digitalization are moving closer together, both physically and in terms of content,” explains Hubertus von Monschaw, Global Director of Trade Fair and Product Management at Deutsche Messe AG. “There is increasing convergence between software and hardware – from AI-driven robots to digitized supply chains – reflecting what is already a reality on factory floors.”
Leading global and mid-sized technology firms such as AWS, Microsoft, SAP, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Beckhoff Automation, Festo, Pepperl+Fuchs, Phoenix Contact, and Schaeffler will unveil cutting-edge automation technologies that optimize productivity, flexibility, and energy efficiency across industries.
AI and Robotics at the Heart of Production Innovation
Artificial intelligence will play a starring role across all exhibition halls. From smart perception systems to autonomous mobile manipulators, AI-driven robotics are transforming industrial operations. Humanoid and adaptive robots, capable of using human-designed tools and environments, will demonstrate how automation can integrate seamlessly into existing workflows.
“Automation is everywhere and is going to make a big difference,” says Aaron Morrill, a CNC mechanic from the USA. More than 140 robot manufacturers will showcase innovations in data-driven simulation, digital twins, and virtual commissioning – allowing robots to be programmed faster and production lines to operate with minimal disruption.
Defense Production Area: Building Resilience and Security
A major new highlight of the 2026 edition is the Defense Production Area — a special zone focused on modern production technologies for the security and defense industries. The format aims to strengthen Europe’s defense manufacturing capabilities by connecting suppliers and technology providers offering scalable, flexible, and reliable solutions.
In collaboration with DSEI Germany, this new area will address how advanced manufacturing can enhance defense readiness, resilience, and sustainability — aligning industrial innovation with global security imperatives.
Industrial Software: Powering the Digital Factory
At the heart of every smart factory lies software. HANNOVER MESSE 2026 will emphasize how industrial software connects people, machines, and data into a single intelligent ecosystem — from design and production to maintenance and logistics.
Key exhibitors including SAP, PSI, Inform, soffico, Aegis, cybus, and Microsoft will demonstrate solutions that leverage AI, edge computing, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to create more flexible, efficient, and sustainable manufacturing systems.
“Software is becoming a strategic differentiator,” notes von Monschaw. “Only companies that use real-time data to dynamically manage production will remain competitive in fast-moving markets.”
Cybersecurity and Connectivity: Foundations of Digital Resilience
As digital integration deepens, cybersecurity takes center stage. The 2026 edition will spotlight IT and OT security — with global leaders presenting advanced solutions for protecting industrial infrastructure. Topics such as zero-trust architecture, AI-powered threat analysis, and secure cloud ecosystems will be explored to help manufacturers strengthen their digital resilience.
In addition, the 5G & Industrial Wireless Arena will return as Europe’s largest platform for wireless industrial communication, highlighting key technologies like 5G, 6G, and NB-IoT. Companies including Siemens, Huawei, Ericsson, and InterX will demonstrate how next-generation connectivity supports autonomous systems and intelligent production networks.
Driving the Future of Manufacturing
For over seven decades, HANNOVER MESSE has been the global benchmark for innovation in manufacturing. The 2026 edition promises to elevate this legacy by uniting AI, automation, robotics, digitalization, and sustainable energy under one roof.
From high-level discussions on industrial strategy to hands-on demonstrations of future-ready technologies, the event will serve as a launchpad for collaboration, transformation, and growth across global industry sectors.
As industries evolve toward more autonomous, intelligent, and resilient systems, HANNOVER MESSE 2026 stands ready to define what comes next — proving once again why Hannover remains the world capital of industrial innovation.
