Above: Smart Production Solutions – the 35th international trade fair for industrial automation. Copyright: Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH / Arturo Rivas

With around 1,180 exhibitors – nearly half of them from abroad – the SPS 2026 is building on its strong performance of last year and reaffirming its importance as a global platform for industrial automation. When the industry gathers in Nuremberg from 24 – 26 November, the agenda will focus primarily on the topics that are currently of greatest concern to companies: the use of industrial AI, and the implementation of the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA). These focal points will shape both the trade show and its supporting program.

“The automation industry is facing two key challenges: successfully translating the potential of artificial intelligence into industrial practice, and simultaneously meeting increasingly stringent cybersecurity requirements. The SPS offers the ideal platform for sharing information, dialogue, and concrete solutions around both topics,” explains Sylke Schulz-Metzner, Vice President SPS.

Industrial AI: From Vision to Reality

While many sectors are still debating the potential of artificial intelligence, the automation industry is increasingly focusing on its practical implementation. At the SPS, exhibitors will demonstrate how AI is already being used in engineering, production, and maintenance, and what added value this brings. The trade show will be complemented by around 30 expert presentations and panel discussions exploring opportunities, challenges, and specific applications in everyday industrial practice. On day two, the Industrial AI thematic block will offer an in-depth look at the topic on the Technology Stage powered by VDMA/ZVEI. These presentations will include a talk titled “Open SmartFactory Architecture: The Blueprint for Software-Defined Industry” by Prof. Martin Ruskowski, CEO of SmartFactoryKL.

Cyber Resilience Act: Finding Your Way in the Face of New Challenges

The new EU regulation is affecting manufacturers and operators alike, with reporting requirements having come into force in September 2026 and the Cyber Resilience Act due to come into full effect at the end of 2027. Its requirements apply to all products containing digital elements that are manufactured, imported, or sold in the EU.

At the SPS, visitors can learn about the implications, deadlines, and how the requirements can be implemented. Program highlights include presentations on the Technology Stage powered by VDMA/ZVEI in Hall 3:

  • “CRA: The end of your current digital products?” with Moises Lorenzo-Leon of HEITEC AG, on 25 November from 4:05 pm to 4:25 pm. This talk will explore the impact of the new regulation on existing and future products.
  • “CRA: From legal requirement to successful implementation” with Wolfgang Straßer, @-yet GmbH, following straight after, from 4:25 pm to 4:45 pm. This presentation will demonstrate how mechanical and plant engineers can implement legal requirements in a practical, efficient, and future-proof manner.

Guided Tours: Experience Technologies in Action

Those interested in exploring innovations firsthand through direct interaction with experts can join one of the free guided tours at the SPS. One of these, the daily 5G-ACIA guided tour, offers practical insights into industrial connectivity. Visitors will learn how Industrial 5G is already being implemented in manufacturing, logistics, and automation, and explore specific use cases from companies such as Siemens, Phoenix Contact, Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions, NXP Semiconductors Germany, the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT, and DRUID SOFTWARE.

Tickets and further information

For more information on tickets, registering for guided tours, exhibitors, and the supporting program, visit sps-exhibition.com.