AI, Automation and Circular Economy: The Future of Metalworking

With around 1,150 exhibitors from 34 countries, the AMB is one of the most important international meeting points for metal cutting. Across 120,000 m² of exhibition space, the entire process chain is represented: from machine tools and precision tools to software, automation, and digital production solutions. "Deciding to exhibit at a trade show is no small matter. The fact that companies choose AMB is a clear commitment to the trade fair and to the industry," says Roland Bleinroth, Managing Director of Messe Stuttgart. For more than 40 years, the AMB has been a central meeting point in international metal cutting.

Focus on Future Topics

Artificial intelligence, automation, and circular economy are recurring themes throughout the entire trade fair program. The focus is on how digital technologies can make manufacturing more efficient, flexible, and economical. On the AMB Stage, experts discuss, among other things, the practical use of AI in production: from predictive maintenance and AI-supported quality control to process optimization. The program is complemented by the VDMA Technology Forum with lectures on sustainable manufacturing and production processes. Start-ups showcase new technologies and digital approaches, and the AMB Award recognizes industry innovations.

New Format: Defence Meets Manufacturing

With 'Defence & Security Opportunities', AMB is addressing the growing importance of the defence sector to the manufacturing industry for the first time. The format, developed in conjunction with VDMA, brings together manufacturers, suppliers, and exhibitors to discuss scalable production solutions for security-relevant applications. International networking is also being expanded. The International Gallery powered by BW_i, in cooperation with associations from India, Italy, Taiwan, and Spain among others, creates new touchpoints for international business contacts. Country-specific networking formats and expert events are designed to facilitate direct exchanges between companies from different markets.

Knowledge Transfer for Tomorrow's Manufacturing

In addition to technological innovations, AMB is increasingly focusing on knowledge transfer and nurturing young talent. The special Education exhibition provides young professionals with practical insights into CNC technology, automation, and digital production processes. Complementary formats like the Business Breakfast address current topics, from robotics to quantum technology. With new event formats such as AMB Night and the AMB Roadshow, which started before the trade fair itself, the exhibition aims to deepen industry dialogue and more actively engage professionals. What this means in practice remains to be seen. The claim is clear: AMB 2026 is positioning itself not just as a product show, but as a debate venue for an industry where digitization, AI, and sustainability pressures are currently redefining business models.