The 2020 edition of the annual manufacturing trade show in Hannover, Germany isn’t until April, but here I am in Hannover for my first trip to the preview of the show given to global media. Well global except for most of the Chinese delegation for obvious reasons.

2020 is expected to be as large as ever with the theme this year of Industrial Transformation.

Show organizers have placed an emphasis of attracting start up companies acknowledging that these are often the sources of energy and new ideas. This year 250 startups are expected at the show.

Hannover Messe is the world’s largest manufacturing technology show partly because it is also the broadest. The areas of emphasis this year are:

  • Digitalization (AI, IoT, Analytics, security)
  • Individualization (impact on manufacturers)
  • Climate Change (customers ask for responsibility from manufacturers)

Demographics — acknowledging the global shrinking workforce — will be an added area of concern.

The Big Picture trends, defined as 5G, Automation, Digital, Energy, Engineered Parts, Global, Logistics, and Future, constitute the organizing principle for the layout of the 30+ Halls.

Attendees will not escape without hearing about Data many times. Artificial Intelligence being the key component.

Networking is also considered an important component, and attendees will be tutored on speed and 5G.

I am not sure yet if I will be attending–there are several personal commitments I have not to mention the cost. The jury remains out on that one. I’m trying to work it out. It’s a tiring week, but I always learn much.

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