This year's Hannover Messe is once again focusing on key topics for the future of industry. According to the trade fair organizers, more than 4,000 companies from the mechanical engineering, electrical and digital industries as well as the energy sector will come together in Hanover from 20 to 24 April. The focus will be on solutions for competitive and sustainable production, with artificial intelligence playing an important role as a cross-sectional technology.

Awards at the industry show

Several awards had already been prepared in the run-up to the trade fair. A jury nominated three companies for the 'Hermes Award': Festo, Schaeffler and Ziehl-Abegg. The innovations submitted range from integrated systems for medical technology to compact actuators for humanoid robotics and drive solutions without rare earths. In addition to the degree of technological innovation, criteria such as market maturity and cost-effectiveness are also included in the assessment. The award ceremony is scheduled for April 19 as part of the opening of the trade fair.

At the same time, the focus will be on promoting skilled workers and diversity in technical professions. The 'Engineer Woman Award' and the 'Young Engineer Woman Award' will once again be presented as part of the Femworx Congress. The nominated female engineers come from various disciplines, including aerospace, robotics, energy and raw materials technology and computer science. Their projects combine technological development with social issues, for example in the areas of inclusion, sustainable energy or digital education.

The 'Robotics Award 2026' was presented to the start-up GoodBytz at the Hannover Messe press preview on February 25.

Partner country Brazil

In addition, Brazil will be focusing on its role as a raw materials supplier and energy location at Hannover Messe 2026. The country has extensive reserves of strategically important materials and great potential in the field of renewable energies. The Brazilian industry sees opportunities for closer cooperation with European partners, particularly in green hydrogen and sustainable power generation.

In the context of the expected trade agreement between the European Union and the Mercosur agreement, which is due to come into force provisionally on May 1, 2026, Brazil's presence is becoming even more important. Companies are using the trade fair specifically to initiate investment projects and expand existing business relationships. At the same time, issues relating to decarbonization, industrial transformation and the integration of new technologies will be the focus of bilateral talks.

Robotics in the Application Park

In the Application Park, it becomes clear that robotics is increasingly developing in the direction of flexible and networked systems. The use of artificial intelligence enables robots to grasp complex environments and react to changes in real time. This shifts the focus from rigid production processes to adaptive systems that can be adjusted to new requirements more quickly.

At the same time, the integration of robotics into existing industrial processes is becoming increasingly important. Solutions that can be used without extensive retooling make it easier for SMEs in particular to get started with automation. Digital twins and simulation-based processes help to shorten development times and make commissioning more efficient.

International orientation

The international focus of the trade fair also remains a key element. Spain has been named as a partner country for 2027 and an agreement to this effect has already been signed in 2025. Spain is currently pursuing a comprehensive transformation process in its industry aimed at digitalization, decarbonization and the expansion of renewable energies. Government programmes worth billions are supporting SMEs in particular with modernization. The close economic ties with Germany are seen as an important factor for industrial development in Europe.