IEN Europe: The motto of HANNOVER MESSE 2025 is ‘Energizing a Sustainable Industry’. What answers and solutions will trade visitors find in Hannover for the many challenges the European industry is facing today?
von Monschaw: Our lead theme, Energizing a Sustainable Industry, focuses on an industrial ecosystem where exhibiting companies demonstrate how automation, digitalization and electrification enable competitiveness and climate neutrality. At HANNOVER MESSE, visitors learn how innovative solutions for climate-neutral manufacturing turn challenges into opportunities and lead to a globally competitive and sustainable industry. Exhibiting companies provide clear guidance on how to use technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence, robotics, robust energy systems, and green hydrogen to catalyze industrial transformation. Our conference program encourages knowledge sharing across a wide range of topics.
IEN Europe: This year, there will once again be a ‘Compressed Air & Vacuum’ themed area. This is also an industry topic in which energy efficiency and costs have played an important role for years. Can you already give us a preview of the highlights and exhibitors?
von Monschaw: Our “Compressed Air & Vacuum Technology” area is in Hall 12. Exhibiting companies include leading brands from all over the world, such as Aerzener Maschinenfabrik, Anest Ivata, Dalgakiran Makina, Ing. Enea Mattei, J.A. Becker & Söhne, Kaeser Kompressoren, Lupamat Makina, Omega Air and Rotorcomp Compressors. As a cross-sectional technology, compressed air and vacuum technology ties in perfectly to the themes “Smart Manufacturing” and “Energy for Industry”. Many suppliers specializing in the optimization of compressed air and vacuum technology in manufacturing also offer solutions for the growing hydrogen energy and storage sector. One highlight is the International CEO Panel of Compressed Air & Vacuum on 31 March 2025, where CEOs from leading global companies in the industry will discuss the difference between theory and practice.
IEN Europe: The EU Cyber Resilience Act entered into force in December 2024. This means that the countdown is on for its implementation by the end of 2027. There is currently a great need for information on (cyber) security issues. Where can visitors find specific information on this topic at the show?
von Monschaw: Under the umbrella IT/OT Security, numerous companies at HANNOVER MESSE offer cybersecurity solutions for manufacturing environments, including cloud security systems, IT security consulting, managed security services, secure communications and mobile security, and complete IT security services. The group exhibit “Industrial Security Circus” in Hall 16 is a hub for IT/OT Security with a conference stage where industry experts discuss current topics such as KRITIS and NIS2. Fraunhofer FOKUS is our cooperation partner.
IEN Europe: HANNOVER MESSE also offers an attractive environment for industrial startups. How many newcomers will be presenting their ideas in 2025? Are there any topics that stand out in particular?
von Monschaw: Our Startup Area in Hall 2 showcases more than 300 startups surrounded by leading R&D companies and institutions. The startups offer a broad range of products and solutions, from software for analyzing machine data and a hardware-agnostic operating system for industrial robots to AI search agents and a service that enables SMEs to purchase green electricity directly from independent power producers. The Industrial Startup Stage, also in Hall 2, generates enthusiasm for new ideas with a lively mix of pitches, talks and presentations.
IEN Europe: The two-day FEMWORX congress will start for the 22nd time on the Thursday of the fair. How has the topic of women in industrial leadership, especially in STEM, developed over the years? What are the main focal points this year?
von Monschaw: Women in STEM leadership positions are more visible, but remain underrepresented. Diversity programs and networks are having an impact, but there are still challenges such as glass ceilings. The FEMWORX career congress takes place on 3 and 4 April and once again supports women in seizing new opportunities, advancing their careers, and actively shaping the future of industry. The focus is on topics such as female leadership, sustainable career planning, innovative working models and entrepreneurship. One highlight is the Engineer Woman Awards, which recognize outstanding achievements in the STEM field.
IEN Europe: Canada will be the 2025 show's partner country. Among other things, the country is a leader in the field of artificial intelligence. What highlights - not just in the field of AI - can we look forward to?
von Monschaw: Canada’s theme for HANNOVER MESSE, “The future’s here”, reflects the nation’s commitment to fostering sustainable and environmentally friendly industries. The Canada Pavilion in Hall 2 showcases the country’s national innovation ecosystem, while additional pavilions focus on automation, digitalization, hydrogen and energy, and trade and investment. The event lineup includes the Canada Conference Stage in Hall 2, the Canada-Germany Business Summit, the Leaders’ Dialogue, the EUREKA Global Innovation Summit (GIS), the Renewable Dialogue, and various networking events that highlight innovation and business opportunities in Canada.
IEN Europe: Thank you for the interview!
