"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.
SPS
Smart Production Solutions – the 35th international trade fair for industrial automation
The SPS will take place from 24 – 26 November 2026.
Press information and photographic material:
Links to websites:
SPS - Smart Production Solutions
https://www.facebook.com/spsmesse
https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/sps-smart-production-solutions/
https://www.instagram.com/spsmesse/
Your Contact:
Luise Werner
Phone: +49 711 61946-406
Luise.Werner@mesago.com
Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH
Rotebuehlstraße 83 -85
70178 Stuttgart
Germany
Background information on Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH
Since 1982, Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH has specialized in creating B2B formats for specific technology topics. Having originally emerged from the trade fair and congress sector, the company now offers much more than internationally established technology events. Thanks to the consistent development of its portfolio, Mesago connects leading players worldwide through innovative platforms in the form of industry-specific technology hubs, available 24/7, 365 days a year. Alongside traditional expos and conferences, these hubs comprise digital events, in-depth knowledge formats, and comprehensive services that are tailored to the specific requirements of individual industries.
These hubs create a dynamic space for a timely exchange of information and technological innovation, providing a year-round flow of content. With a view to the ever-changing needs of trade communities, Mesago creates ideal conditions through its forward-looking formats, primarily to further develop an even more efficient global network and to ensure that it is always up to date with the latest developments. This is true to the company's motto: 'Driving technologies by connecting bright minds'. As part of the Messe Frankfurt Group, Mesago employs around 170 people at its headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany. (mesago.com)
Background information on Messe Frankfurt
http://www.messefrankfurt.com/background-information