IEN Europe: In 2026, HANNOVER MESSE once again aims to be one of the global hotspots for topics related to industrial transformation. What are the main exhibition areas, and how are they structured thematically?
Köckler: This year, HANNOVER MESSE features a new thematic layout. Automation and digitalization are closer both spatially and conceptually. We are responding to a clear trend: software and hardware are increasingly converging in industry – from AI-controlled robots and data-driven manufacturing to digitalized supply chains. The updated structure is divided into three main exhibition areas: “Automation & Digitalization,” “Energy & Industrial Infrastructure”, and “Research & Technology Transfer.” The new layout reflects what has long been reality in factories: processes and technologies can no longer be viewed separately.
IEN Europe: The new layout is intended to support the thematic structure. What advantages does this realignment offer visitors, and what does it look like in practice? Köckler: The new layout enables visitors to orient themselves quickly. For the first time, we have installed Solution Labs in all three main exhibition areas. At each central location, we organize Expert Stages, Masterclasses, Roundtables, and Speed Dating sessions. While the Expert Stages are freely accessible, visitors must apply in advance to participate in the other three formats.
The Masterclasses provide in-depth insights into innovations, technologies, and specific applications. The focus is on practical use cases, the classification of different solution approaches, and the opportunity to discuss questions directly with experts. During Roundtables, up to ten participants and one exhibitor discuss a specific topic. The Speed Dating sessions give visitors the opportunity to engage in short, approximately seven-minute conversations with various exhibitors, gaining different perspectives on a particular subject.
IEN Europe: The new Center Stage in Hall 25 will be one of the highlights of the trade fair. What topics and speakers can visitors look forward to?
Köckler: The new Center Stage is THE highlight of HANNOVER MESSE. Around 100 high-profile speakers from around the world will participate. Among them are thought leaders, CEOs, scientists, and politicians who have boldly pursued innovative paths and contributed to the advancement of manufacturing.
At HANNOVER MESSE, they will provide exclusive insights into their work, share practical expertise, and offer clear guidance on the future of industry. Speakers include Cedrik Neike, Member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG and CEO Digital Industries; Zhaopeng Chen, Founder and CEO of Agile Robots SE; Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO of Accenture; and Amy Webb, futurist and CEO of the Future Today Institute.
IEN Europe: What special areas focusing on particularly important industry topics will be featured at the trade fair? How can visitors obtain targeted information on specific topics – before and during the event?
Köckler: The most important tool remains the exhibitor and product search on our website. There, visitors can find out in advance about the solutions being presented at HANNOVER MESSE.
At the trade fair itself, we offer themed group pavilions. In the field of robotics, for example, the Application Park in Hall 26 focuses on AIbased perception systems, autonomous mobile industrial robots, and humanoid robots.
Another key topic is cybersecurity, which is also located in Hall 26. Due to geopolitical changes, cybersecurity requirements are increasing rapidly, and industrial companies face growing pressure. Artificial intelligence (AI) is taking both attacks and defense to a new level: In 2026, AI will be the dominant technology in both offensive and defensive cybersecurity strategies. Attackers are using AI to automate phishing, social engineering, vulnerability analysis, and entire attack campaigns.
We also have AI Experience Pavilions in Halls 16 and 27. Both are interactive exhibition areas where visitors can directly experience and understand artificial intelligence.
IEN Europe: In cooperation with DSEI, HANNOVER MESSE has established the special “Defense Production Area” for the first time. Who is this area aimed at, and where do you see the interfaces and overlaps with “traditional” manufacturing and exhibition topics?
Köckler: With the Defense Production Area, we have created a new exhibition area for modern production technologies in the defense sector. Companies will present concrete solutions demonstrating how the defense and security industry can scale its manufacturing capacities quickly, efficiently, and securely – embedded within the industrial environment and the international reach of HANNOVER MESSE.
The Defense Production Area in Hall 26 serves as the central platform for manufacturers and suppliers whose technologies, machinery, systems, or components are used in the production of security-relevant products. It is particularly aimed at visitors from the defense and security industry.
On the Tuesday of the trade fair, we will host Defense Day on our Center Stage. Speakers include Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall; Michael Schöllhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space; and Marc Wietfeld, CEO of Arx Robotics.
IEN Europe: With Brazil as the partner country of HANNOVER MESSE 2026, a smoother ratification process for the long-negotiated Mercosur agreement might have been hoped for. Nevertheless, the trade fair partnership is expected to generate positive momentum for long-term cooperation. Which exhibitors and highlights can visitors expect?
Köckler: Even though the Mercosur agreement has not yet been fully ratified, it is already strengthening cooperation between Europe and the participating South American countries: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. In Hannover, Brazil will present its strengths in digitalization, innovation, international development, natural resources, and sustainability. The main pavilion in Hall 12 will focus on innovation and investment opportunities. Additional pavilions in Halls 11, 16, 17, and 26 will cover topics such as automation and robotics, digitalization, energy technologies, mechanical and plant engineering, startups, and sustainability.
IEN Europe: Thank you for these insights. See you soon in Hannover!
