While Hannover Messe 2026 is dedicated to the future under the motto “Think Tech Forward,” mechanical and plant engineering is struggling with the present: weak order situation, insufficient capacity utilization and uncertain prospects. So let's talk today about your opportunities for tomorrow and the levers you can use to do so.
Waiting costs more than action; this rule also applies in economically challenging times in mechanical and plant engineering. After all, no one knows how long we'll have to deal with the issue of recession and how much reserves you have to bridge this period, you know best for yourself. At the same time, it is up to you to prepare and set up your company accordingly. The motto of the Hannover Messe illustrates where the journey is heading: towards a digitalized and automated future with more and more AI applications — including in mechanical and plant engineering.
In the face of price pressure and uncertainty, the first step in all industries is to reduce costs. According to my experience, the red pencil is quickly applied to personnel costs. The Catch: Staff Reductions reduce the know-how that you urgently need for the next upturn, especially as the skilled labor market is empty in many areas.
Significant savings potential lies, and many are not aware of this, in daily routines, for example when it comes to costs for barely (or not at all) used software and subscriptions, or in cumbersome processes. Process optimization can reduce machine set-up times by up to 30 percent. Companies with series production benefit from the use of robotics, which reduce unit costs. And then there are maintenance costs. With predictive maintenance, for example, you can reduce your overall maintenance costs by more than ten percent. Yes, in order to implement this, you must invest within a manageable framework. But there is good news: Find out about public funding programs that can cover a significant portion of your expenses.
You don't have to turn your entire company upside down to get started with AI. Start with a manageable pilot project that, if successful, you can roll out further in production. An interesting application for mechanical and plant engineering can be optimized quality control through image recognition, for example. Or you invest in an AI pilot tailored to your company, which accompanies and optimizes processes. You can also use government funding programs for this purpose.
Mechanical and plant engineering in Germany depends on technical know-how. Here, too, there are options for shaping the future: The McKinsey Global Institute, for example, has found that demand for AI-integrated machines is increasing by 30 to 40 percent annually. And the issue of sustainability is not off the table either: Many customers are still involved in CO2-Interested in discounted products. Perhaps it makes sense for your company to invest more in research and development and to work on solutions that open up new markets and secure your company in the coming years. By the way: This will also make you interesting for skilled workers. Because they prefer to go to innovative companies that offer the future.
Based on my many years of consulting experience in mechanical and plant engineering, I can support you with specific solutions for your company. We are happy to talk to you before or during the Hanover Fair so that you can optimally plan your visit to the trade fair. Or we'll talk to you afterwards if you come back with new ideas and want to test them for feasibility in your company.
Please send me a short email with the keyword “Hannover Messe 2026" — I will answer you within 24 hours with specific suggested dates.
The crisis is here. And the opportunities too. Use them—before your competitors do.
