AI is crucial for competitiveness

What are the focal points of this year's EMO and what can visitors and exhibitors expect?

EMO 2025 will address the key trends with the three focus topics of automation, sustainability and digitalization and AI. I am convinced that the majority of the more than 1,500 exhibitors will offer automation solutions. These range from simple solutions to the use of robots and autonomous factories. In addition, automation also means supporting the machine operator, for example through assistance systems. A growing trend is the integration of processes such as cleaning, labeling or measuring.

Sustainability is the second important trend. In the Sustainability Area, EMO exhibitors will provide information on trends in energy efficiency, the integration of renewable energies, the circular economy and life cycle concepts. Digitalization is far from exhausted, as data still offers a great deal of potential to increase productivity and set up new business models. AI is the next step, and open, standardized interfaces are the prerequisite. EMO will be showcasing the current status of the umati project in the AI + Digitalization Area. The AI Hub@EMO2025 will also showcase the potential applications of AI. Other formats will focus on start-ups, recruiting young talent, additive manufacturing and the economic opportunities in our industry.

What role will AI, 3D printing and networked production play at the trade fair?

According to many experts and companies themselves, AI is crucial for the future competitiveness of the industry. We need to focus intensively on this, especially as we are at the forefront of industrial AI with our engineering expertise and in-depth knowledge of supply chains. The AI Hub@EMO 2025 will provide plenty of discussion material for use in production. In cooperation with the demonstration and transfer network for AI in production, ProKI Netz, application scenarios and prototype solutions for AI in metalworking will be shown with the help of demonstrators. The AI Hub@EMO 2025 also networks the exhibitors' offerings and makes them transparent for visitors. This allows them to discuss relevant solutions directly with the exhibitor. Finally, high-caliber experts will shed light on the use of AI from different perspectives in the P.O.P. Talks at the central EMO Forum in Hall 12.

How has the industry changed since the last EMO and how do you see the future?

Since the last EMO 2023, the industry has been confronted with major challenges, most of which are beyond our direct control. And they are far from all solved. Nevertheless, I am convinced that the industry has every reason to be confident, as there are many developments that open up new opportunities in the market. And that is exactly what we will see at EMO.