HANNOVER MESSE 2026 showed that industry is responding to today’s economic challenges with practical, future-focused solutions. Artificial intelligence, automation, robotics and digitalisation emerged as the key technologies driving greater efficiency, resilience and competitiveness across the manufacturing sector.
The event attracted around 110,000 visitors from across the globe. Although attendance was slightly lower than in 2025 due to airline and public transport strikes, the exhibition maintained a strong international profile, with around 40% of visitors travelling from overseas. China, Brazil, the United States, Japan and South Korea were among the largest international delegations.
Jochen Köckler, CEO of Deutsche Messe AG, described this year’s event as both a technology showcase and a source of inspiration, emphasising that Europe already has the tools needed to remain competitive. The focus now, he said, must be on implementing these innovations more rapidly.
Across the exhibition halls, companies demonstrated AI-powered production systems capable of automating processes, predicting maintenance needs and improving operational efficiency. Humanoid robots, advanced automation technologies and new energy infrastructure solutions also highlighted the industry’s progress towards more sustainable and intelligent manufacturing.
The exhibition attracted significant political and business attention, with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, senior European officials and leading executives from Siemens and SAP among those attending. Their presence reinforced HANNOVER MESSE’s role as a key platform for industrial dialogue and international cooperation.
Despite showcasing technological innovation, industry leaders also highlighted the challenges facing European manufacturers, including rising costs, regulatory complexity and geopolitical uncertainty. Representatives from ZVEI and VDMA called for faster deregulation and policy reforms to enable companies to compete more effectively in areas such as industrial AI and advanced manufacturing. While acknowledging these obstacles, exhibitors reported productive discussions, strong international interest and promising business opportunities throughout the event.
Partner Country Brazil made a significant contribution, presenting its strengths in industrial technology, energy and digital transformation. The partnership also reflected growing cooperation between Europe and Latin America, supported by the anticipated implementation of the Mercosur agreement.
The exhibition introduced several successful new features, including an improved hall layout, practical Masterclasses and the Centre Stage programme, which attracted around 30,000 visitors with presentations, discussions and expert insights.
Looking ahead, HANNOVER MESSE will continue evolving in 2027 with the launch of Europe Energy Week alongside the exhibition and a revised four-day format designed to maximise visitor engagement. AI applications and their integration into real industrial processes will remain central themes as the event continues to support the future development of global manufacturing.
