Technologies to shape tomorrow

As the leading expo for industrial automation, the event offers a comprehensive overview of current developments and highlights the technologies that will shape tomorrow's industrial value creation.

A total of approximately 1175 exhibitors from 40 countries will showcase their latest innovations, products, and solutions at the Nuremberg exhibition center. Spread across 15 halls, visitors will gain a comprehensive overview of the entire spectrum of industrial automation – from sensor technology, drive systems, industrial communication and software all the way through to smart automation solutions for the digital factory. Trade visitors from around the world are expected, including a high proportion of decision-makers and end users.

In addition to its wide range of international exhibitors, the SPS is also renowned for its strong practical focus. Trade visitors from around the world – including numerous attendees from the United Kingdom, which was represented by over 500 visitors in 2025 – gain valuable insights into the latest technologies, real-world use cases, and pioneering solutions. Specialist presentations on the stages, live demonstrations, and opportunities for direct interaction with experts help attendees make sense of technological developments and gain new inspiration for their own business practices.

"For many years, the SPS has been the place where technological developments are showcased before they become widespread throughout the industry. The expo not only highlights trends but also allows visitors to experience them first hand. It facilitates dialogue among suppliers, users, and innovation partners," explains Sylke Schulz-Metzner, vice president SPS at Mesago Messe Frankfurt.

International community

This industry event brings together the international SPS community and provides guidance in times of technological change. Professional dialog, practical insights, and personal networking provide a solid foundation for future decisions.

"Automation is currently advancing at a rapid pace: AI, software-based solutions, and open systems are bringing about lasting change in the industry. For companies, the question arises as to which technologies are suitable for industrial use and what measurable benefits they offer. As the leading trade show for the automation industry, the SPS offers the ideal platform to learn about the latest innovations and network with the industry’s key players," said Steffen Winkler, CSO of the Automation Business Unit at Bosch Rexroth AG and Chair of the Exhibitors' Advisory Board for the SPS.

Industrial AI 

A key theme of the SPS 2026 is the ongoing integration of artificial intelligence into industrial processes. AI applications are increasingly evolving from individual pilot projects into productive components of modern automation solutions. Whether in engineering, the analysis of production data, quality assurance, or the optimization of machinery and equipment, industrial AI opens up new possibilities for efficiency, flexibility, and resilience in production. The SPS addresses these developments, and exhibitors use concrete applications to demonstrate how companies can already take advantage of the added value of artificial intelligence today.

Software-defined industry

As software plays an increasingly significant role in industrial value creation processes, the concept of a software-defined industry is also gaining importance. Hardware-centric structures with predetermined processes are increasingly being replaced by agile, software-based architectures. As a result, production systems are becoming more adaptable, more interconnected, and more easily scalable.

"The future of productivity will be driven by data and software," says Gunther Koschnick, director of industry at the German Electro and Digital Industry Association (ZVEI). "In the future, industrial AI will be able to analyze and help manage entire value chains. The long-term vision is for machines to find the most efficient path to a specific production goal on their own."

SmartFactory-KL will demonstrate exactly how the software-defined industry concept works in the Software-Defined Industry Area in Hall 6. The focus is on the model factory: Solutions tested in collaboration with industry partners, along with the process behind them, can be experienced firsthand at the trade show through a demonstration of a production process. Various formats, such as daily guided tours, also encourage visitors to explore and learn. Companies will be showcasing specific solutions related to this topic on their booths.

"For us at SmartFactory, Software-defined Industry is not about simply adding more software to existing machines. It is about seamlessly connecting IT and OT into one integrated system. This creates production systems that are more flexible and can adapt more quickly to new requirements,” says Marco Wanner, Head of IT/OT Solutions, XITASO and Executive Board Member of SmartFactory-KL.

In addition, the 5G Alliance for Connected Industries and Automation (5G-ACIA) will be organizing daily guided tours to leading member companies such as Siemens, Phoenix Contact, Fraunhofer, and Ericsson. Visitors will gain practical insights into real-world use cases and modern communication solutions. The event will also feature the 5G-ACIA DemoWall, which showcases technical solutions and real-world industrial use cases.

Knowledge transfer and discussion

In addition to exhibitor presentations, the SPS will once again offer an extensive lecture program in 2026. On a total of four stages in the exhibition halls – including the Technology Stage powered by VDMA/ZVEI in Hall 3 – industry experts will discuss current developments, technological trends, and specific real-world application examples from industrial practice. Industrial AI, cybersecurity, industrial communication, digital transformation, and sustainable production concepts are currently among the hot topics in the industry.

Networking areas located right next to the stages facilitate face-to-face interaction between visitors, speakers, and technology providers, and provide additional space for technical discussions.

Innovation platform

The joint stands have proven very popular in previous years and will once again be key gathering spots in 2026. In Hall 6, the "Automation meets IT" area brings together traditional automation environments and modern IT solutions. Other joint stands include the international Startup Area and "young INNOVATORS", which is sponsored by the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. Together, they create a platform for new business ideas, technological innovation, and dialog between established market players and startups.

Supporting young talent

With events such as the SPS Makeathon – supported by ITQ, New Automation, NürnbergMesse, and dedicated exhibitors – the trade show will continue to target young professionals in 2026. The program is complemented by additional activities for young talents. High school and college students, apprentices, and those just starting their careers have the opportunity to learn about modern automation technologies, gain hands-on experience, and establish early connections within the industry.

Everything related to the SPS 2026, including the ticket shop, the exhibition program, the exhibitor directory, and services, can be found at:

sps-exhibition.com