Machines learning from data. Factories running themselves. Supply chains adapting to new conditions in seconds. The industry of tomorrow is advancing by leaps and bounds. Yet untapped potential remains: 44 percent of companies in Germany rely on big data, 37 percent on IoT – but only 17 percent use AI in their processes. The question is no longer whether industry will transform, but how quickly companies will leverage this change for themselves.
Hannover Messe 2025 shows businesses how to implement Industry 4.0 quickly and pragmatically – with best practices, hands-on solutions and specialized know-how. From March 31 to April 4, the international industry gathers in Hanover to take the next steps in digital transformation. Under the motto The Future’s Here, Canada – Hannover Messe 2025’s partner country – will showcase its innovation strength in automation, hydrogen and digital transformation with over 200 companies. As a pioneer in cleantech, renewable energies and artificial intelligence, Canada is already setting decisive impulses for the industry of tomorrow.
The Digital Hub Initiative will again be strongly represented: dehubs Smart Systems Dresden, Artificial Intelligence Karlsruhe, Life Science & Bioeconomy Halle, Renewable Energy Lübeck, Security & Defense Munich and Logistics Dortmund will exhibit their innovations at the de:hub booth (Hall 2, Booth D30). A delegation of 36 startups and five additional de:hubs will also be on site. With a varied stage program on the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action stage (Hall 2) and dedicated networking formats, we create an ideal platform to bring startups, companies and investors together. The shared goal: an industry that optimizes itself with the right technologies.
Automation and Autonomy
The Self-Optimizing Industry The opportunities AI offers for tomorrow’s industry are enormous. In production and manufacturing, self-optimizing systems and intelligent processes can pave the way for greater efficiency and flexibility. Generative AI, machine learning and automation not only boost efficiency, but also lower costs and make production processes significantly more flexible. Through cloud and edge computing, machines network with each other and control their own workflows. Yet success depends on how well companies analyze and optimize their existing processes: “More efficiency, precision and flexibility, lower costs – AI can become a game-changer in production and manufacturing. But only if you look honestly at your own processes and understand pain points as hints for innovation,” emphasizes Sebastian Felzmann, hub manager of de:hub Artificial Intelligence Karlsruhe.
In logistics, AI is gaining importance too – from intelligent route planning to autonomous vehicles. Twenty-two percent of companies already use driverless transport systems to streamline processes. “Artificial intelligence is a tool that makes processes in SMEs more efficient and can help address resource shortages and skill gaps. With the right strategy, any company can get started,” explains Maria Beck, hub manager of de:hub Logistics Dortmund.
From the Connected Factory to Sustainable Production
Supply chains are also crucial for economic growth. The Manufacturing-X initiative, supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, ensures secure and standardized data networking in industry. It enhances supply chains, optimizes automation and drives the use of AI – for greater efficiency, resilience and competitiveness. “Speed, efficiency and knowledge transfer are essential to keep pace with rapid industrial developments. Experience Industry 4.0 live at our pop-up testbed at Hannover Messe and discuss Manufacturing-X with our experts,” says Michael Kaiser, hub manager of de:hub Smart Systems Dresden.
Digital transformation goes far beyond networking and efficiency gains – it creates new avenues for sustainable value creation. Bioeconomy technologies make it possible to integrate sustainable materials and processes directly into industrial value chains. “The industrial future will be shaped by the bioeconomy! For the transfer from lab to industrial scale, Hannover Messe offers technical solutions and suitable partnerships – and we provide tailor-made support,” says Mareike Meyer, technology transfer manager at Startup Elevator Saxony-Anhalt, part of de:hub Life Science & Bioeconomy Halle.
Digital transformation is not driven only within Germany – which is why it’s now crucial to foster exchange with other countries and learn from one another. A strong role model and significant partner in this process is Canada.
Canada: A Partner Country with Vision Germany is Canada’s most important EU trading partner – especially in energy, AI and automation. Hannover Messe 2025 provides the ideal platform to further expand this cooperation.
With its hydrogen capabilities, Canada plays a leading role in the global energy transition. Since the founding of the Germany-Canada Hydrogen Alliance in August 2022, there have been major advances, including several planned green hydrogen export projects in Canada and new hydrogen partnerships between Germany and Canadian provinces, ports and companies. At the same time, Canada’s LNG exports contribute to Germany’s energy security.
This close cooperation extends beyond the energy sector into the innovation landscape. A special highlight at Hannover Messe is the German-Canadian Pitch Battle. Promising startups from both countries will present their innovative solutions to an expert jury. Representing the German side, this offers a unique opportunity for young companies to access international markets.
Join Us to Learn Seize the chance to experience hands-on solutions and invaluable know-how up close, and make the right contacts – both at the de:hub booth (Hall 2, Booth D30) and at the Canada pavilion (Hall 2). If you have questions in advance or would like to get in touch, send us a message at: hubagency@rckt.com.
The Future’s in Hannover!
https://www.bmwk.de/Redaktion/DE/Dossier/manufacturing-x.html
