The worldwide automation community has recently convened for the industry’s annual focal point. Between 25 and 27 November 2025, the Nürnberg Messe exhibition center once again became the global hub for automation. The SPS – Smart Production Solutions 2025 left a significant impression once again, showcasing 1,175 exhibitors across 15 exhibition halls with their solutions for intelligent and digital automation. The fair saw approximately 56,000 trade visitors, marking a notable rise from the prior year—an evident indication of the event’s significance and innovative capability, conveying a clear and optimistic message for the future of the automation sector.
The SPS goes far beyond being a venue for product showcases, as this year’s event clearly demonstrated again. Over the course of three days, it provided a perfect environment for exchanging ideas, gaining practical knowledge, and directly interacting with cutting-edge technologies. Guests encountered methods to merge theory and. practice effectively, including through vivid live demonstrations, detailed expert talks, and individual conversations.
“The SPS offers the automation industry a platform not just for innovations, but especially for direct interaction. Experts came together again this year to work on solutions, discuss trends, and strengthen their networks. As in years past, the expo created a framework in which the community could continue growing on equal footing with a focus on real-world applications,” Vice President SPS Sylke Schulz-Metzner offered in summary after three days at the trade fair.
Artificial intelligence a driving force
A key topic at the SPS 2025 was the increasing integration of artificial intelligence into industrial processes. Numerous exhibitors presented specific applications, from AI-supported quality inspection and adaptive control systems to intelligent maintenance solutions based on real-time data. Visitors were able to experience how AI can not only optimize individual processes, but rethink entire production systems, as well. On site, it became clear how important personal interaction will be in the further development of industrial AI.
“AI is already an integral part of many applications, and it’s also opening up countless possibilities for the future. Today, we’re seeing it used in all kinds of applications that have long since become normal in everyday life. At the same time, AI presents tremendous potential in new concepts that are currently still in the proof-of-concept phase – it’s an exciting glimpse of what’s coming” emphasizes Marcus Bliesze, Vice President Marketing for Automation, Siemens AG.
Knowledge platform and networking hub
In addition to industrial AI, the extensive presentation program at the four stages – which included the Technology Stage powered by VDMA/ZVEI – offered in-depth insights into other current topics in automation. In Meet the Speaker zones, visitors also had the opportunity to discuss specific questions directly with experts.
Meanwhile, the joint booth “Automation meets IT” (Hall 6) once again proved to be a significant draw. Conventional automation merged with modern IT solutions, resulting in an inspiring environment for exchange across various areas of expertise. The up-and-coming firms in the Start-up Area and at the “young INNOVATORS” booth also demonstrated to impressive effect how much creative energy and innovative power there is in the industry. The SmartFactory KL Guided Tours, which took place on all three days of the trade fair and introduced visitors to innovative technologies and applications, were particularly popular. The offerings at the SPS 2025 were rounded out by Thursday’s topic-specific guided tour on enclosure construction, which also met with considerable interest and provided valuable insights into current developments and best practices.
Day focus on cultivating the next generation
At the second SPS Makeathon, talented young attendees had the opportunity to work in interdisciplinary teams on tasks from real-world industry settings. On the final day of the fair, Young Talents Day also offered guided tours, career advice, and a rally with attractive prizes – a hands-on experience for school and university students, as well as those just starting their careers in automation.
Looking ahead
A detailed analysis with further results from the SPS 2025 will be published starting in early 2026. The 35th edition of the trade fair will take place in Nuremberg from 24 – 26 November 2026.
Meanwhile, the SPS also offers numerous opportunities to network with the community and stay informed about current trends in the automation industry all year round. The SPS Automation Hub enables technology enthusiasts to work together on digital solutions for the industry of tomorrow. More exciting content and opportunities for exchange are available through formats such as the monthly Technology Talks, SPS Insights (which provide current industry news), or the Industrial Technology Summits scheduled for 19 May 2026 in Stuttgart and 17 June 2026 in Leipzig.