Alice Chambers |
The opening ceremony of Hannover Messe 2025 set the stage for a week of industrial innovation, with leaders emphasising the need for technological transformation, international cooperation, and economic resilience in challenging times.
The event kicked off with a performance. The solo dancer took the stage, seamlessly blending art and technology. As the music built, she introduced a series of robots, each joining the choreography in perfect sync. The spectacle reached its peak when she performed acrobatics atop one of the robots, showcasing the harmony between human movement and cutting-edge engineering.
The event began with a keynote address by Stephan Weil, prime minister of lower Saxony, Germany, acknowledging the turbulent global landscape. With political and economic uncertainties at the forefront, Weil highlighted the importance of strong trade relations and collaboration. The presence of Canada as a key partner was warmly welcomed, with 230 Canadian companies participating in the fair, reflecting the country’s commitment to industrial cooperation.
Despite economic challenges and trade pressures, speakers highlighted that fair competition and innovation remain the driving forces of progress. Hannover Messe 2025 aims to answer a critical question: how can companies navigate these challenges while leveraging technological advancements?
Representatives from the VDMA (Association of German Mechanical and Plant Engineering) reinforce Europe’s role as a reliable economic region and a leader in high-tech industries. They rejected the notion that Europe is a static economic entity, instead positioning it as a centre for open collaboration and innovation. Canada was highlighted as a valuable partner, offering opportunities for European businesses.
Sustainability was also a key theme, with calls for governments to provide greater reliability in climate-related initiatives. There was shared optimism about the future, expressing confidence that collaboration could drive efficiency, productivity, and economic growth.
A major highlight of the ceremony was a speech by Roland Busch, CEO of Siemens, who underscored the transformative power of AI in industry. He stressed that technological disruption is reshaping markets, and companies must act swiftly to remain competitive.
“In a few years from now there will be a divide in the companies who embrace AI technology and those who don’t,” he said. “AI for consumers still makes the headlines but AI for industry will make the impact.”
Siemens showcased its Industrial Copilot, an AI-driven tool that enables manufacturers to interact with machines in real time, significantly improving efficiency. Collaboration between Siemens, Microsoft and Amazon on this project was recognised with the prestigious Hermes Award, highlighting the significance of AI in the future of industry. Other nominees included Igus for its Mobile Shore Power Outlet, a shoreside power supply of ports, and Schaeffler for its XZU rolling bearing designed with the same connection dimensions as standard cross-roller bearings but to increase tilt stiffness, reduce friction and improve energy consumption per machine component.
Busch also called for a new operating model where businesses and governments work together to unlock the potential of AI and digital transformation. He warned that merely adding AI to existing processes would not be enough – companies must fundamentally rethink their approach to technology. A separate award was presented to a start-up focused on energy solutions, reinforcing Hannover Messe’s commitment to fostering next-generation innovation.
In addition, Cem Özdemir, Germany’s federal minister of education and research, addressed the critical role of science and research in ensuring national prosperity. He warned against threats to democratic values and the freedom of scientific inquiry, stressing that innovation is only possible in an environment that guarantees these freedoms. Affordability of energy and power also emerged as key discussion points, emphasising the role of governments in shaping a sustainable industrial future.
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