AI at HANNOVER MESSE 2026: From Theory to Application

[Cengiz Özemli]

## Artificial Intelligence at HANNOVER MESSE 2026: From Theory to Application

Artificial intelligence (AI) in industry becomes tangible at HANNOVER MESSE 2026. The fair demonstrates with practical examples how manufacturing companies can profitably leverage AI.

### Innovations at HANNOVER MESSE 2026

With new exhibitors, an updated thematic structure, optimized visitor guidance, new communication formats, and a strong AI focus, the fair offers ways to transform today's challenges into strategic competitive advantages.

Global competition, increasing cost pressures, and the rapid development of technological innovations are forcing the manufacturing industry into its biggest transformation in history. In this context, companies are looking for a platform that translates technological innovations into real applications. HANNOVER MESSE 2026 shows how AI, automation, digitalization, energy systems, and research together provide sustainable competitiveness.

### Industrial Artificial Intelligence and its Contributions

Industrial AI optimizes processes by analyzing production data in real-time and manages production flows in an intelligent, adaptive manner. This increases efficiency, boosts productivity, and ensures more conscious use of resources. It also unlocks the potential for new data-driven business models and added value creation.

Dr. Jochen Köckler, Chairman of the Managing Board of Deutsche Messe AG, stated, "Now is the time to invest in AI, automation, and digital systems. Those who invest boldly are laying the groundwork for a leap in efficiency, resilience, and sustainable competitiveness." HANNOVER MESSE offers visitors the opportunity to experience concrete AI applications and increase efficiency through interaction with exhibitors.

### Physical Artificial Intelligence and New Exhibitors

At HANNOVER MESSE 2026, the topic of Physical AI will be highlighted for the first time. This refers to AI systems that interact directly with machines, plants, or robots. It is emphasized that AI is a productive force in industrial and humanoid robots.

Approximately 3,500 companies from mechanical engineering, the electrical and digital sectors, and the energy field will present today's and tomorrow's production and energy solutions. Global companies such as AWS, Microsoft, SAP, Schneider Electric, Siemens, as well as technology leaders like Beckhoff, Festo, HARTING, ifm, LAPP, Phoenix Contact, Rittal, Schaeffler, SEW will be at the fair.

### New Exhibitors and the Rise of Robotics

Rockwell Automation will participate in HANNOVER MESSE for the first time in years, showcasing its automation and digitalization solutions. Agile Robots will be at the fair for the first time with its industrial and humanoid robots. DMG Mori will introduce digital twins and automated production solutions. Bosch Connected Industry will exhibit industrial IoT and AI applications.

Schwarz Digits is among the new exhibitors focusing on developing secure data and cloud infrastructures and powerful AI ecosystems. Companies such as Jumo, Denso, Wandelbots, and German Edge Cloud will also be present.

### Thematic Structure and Visitor Experience

The fair's new thematic structure and hall layout provide clearer guidance and visibility for exhibitors and visitors.

### New Communication Formats

Formats such as masterclasses, roundtables, expert panels, and matchmaking events will enhance knowledge depth and networking opportunities.

### Center Stage Events

Leading figures from industry, politics, and research will discuss concrete solutions for the future of industry:

• Cedrik Neike, Member of the Managing Board of Siemens, emphasizes the importance of automation and AI.
• Entrepreneur Verena Pausder offers suggestions for an innovation culture and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
• Amy Webb analyzes technological megatrends.
• Julie Sweet, CEO of Accenture, discusses AI and data-driven business transformation.
• Karsten Wildberger, Minister for Digital Affairs, shares conditions for digital sovereignty and innovation.
• Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall, evaluates industrial security and technological independence.

### New Topic Area: Defense Production Park

It will be shown how modern production technologies in the defense industry can be scaled while maintaining security and quality. Ways to rapidly increase capacity in light of geographical and geopolitical transformations will be discussed.

### High-Level Political Participation and Partner Country Brazil

In 2026, Brazil will be featured as the partner country. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will jointly open the fair. Brazil and South America are becoming important trade and industrial partners for Germany and Europe.

The fair will host global representatives and leading politicians from Germany, strengthening international collaborations for industry and technology.

### About HANNOVER MESSE

HANNOVER MESSE is the world's leading trade fair for industrial technology. Approximately 3,500 exhibitors from the electrical, mechanical engineering, digital, and energy sectors showcase their competitive and sustainable solutions. Key exhibition areas: Automation & Digitalization, Energy & Industrial Infrastructure, Research & Technology Transfer. The AI theme is integrated across all areas. The next fair will take place from April 20-24, 2026, in Hannover, with Brazil as the partner country.