AMB 2026 will combine a full exhibition floor with new formats for defence manufacturing, international business relations and skilled workers. The metalworking exhibition takes place in Stuttgart from 15 to 19 September. Around 1,150 exhibitors are currently confirmed. Automation, artificial intelligence and the circular economy will feature throughout the exhibition and its supporting programme.
All ten halls at Messe Stuttgart are occupied for the 2026 edition. They cover 120,000 m² of exhibition space. Around 31 per cent of exhibitors come from outside Germany. They represent 34 countries. Machines, tools, software and services will be on display. In addition, the organiser has scheduled more than 107 supporting events with around 50 speakers. The programme addresses several current requirements in metal cutting. It covers cost-effective manufacturing, circular economy approaches, artificial intelligence, maintenance, robotics and international market access. AMB will also provide practical formats for different visitor groups. These include company representatives, suppliers, skilled workers and young people exploring manufacturing technology.
Defence manufacturing moves into focus
A new closed-door format, Defence & Security Opportunities, will examine how the metal-cutting industry can support the rapid and reliable expansion of defence manufacturing. The programme was developed with the VDMA. It focuses on the transition from individual parts to series production. This challenge requires suitable manufacturing capacity and scalable processes. The format is intended to bring defence OEMs and suppliers into direct contact with AMB exhibitors. Companies will present scalable manufacturing approaches in keynote sessions. Guided tours through selected exhibition halls will follow. These tours will connect the discussions with technologies and suppliers represented at the exhibition. Defence & Security Opportunities will take place on Wednesday 16 September and Friday 18 September. Participation requires advance registration, and places are limited. Therefore, the organiser is giving the subject a defined setting within the broader AMB programme. It will not be treated solely as a stage topic.
International contacts and regional exchange
International business relations are another new element at AMB 2026. The International Gallery powered by BW_i, Baden-Württemberg International, will be located at the East Entrance in front of Hall 1. Ten international associations and organisations are expected to participate. They include representatives connected with India, Italy, Taiwan and Spain. Country-specific happy hours will provide opportunities for national and international visitors to discuss their respective markets. BW_i will also host a session on Thursday 17 September from 15:00 to 16:00. The programme will include a presentation on Baden-Württemberg as a business location.
Before the exhibition begins, the AMB Roadshow will visit more than ten regional locations during the summer. The project team is using these visits to engage directly with turners and millers. During the exhibition, the roadshow vehicle will be located in the Messepark as an additional meeting point. Friday afternoon will also see the introduction of AMB Night. The after-work event is aimed particularly at skilled workers. A discounted ticket includes entry to the exhibition and the subsequent event. Industry content creators will take part in a meet-and-greet.
AI, maintenance and manufacturing economics
The VDMA Technology Forum in Hall 1 will feature specialist presentations. Topics include the circular economy and cost-effective manufacturing. The AMB Stage will focus on a different theme each day. Aerospace is scheduled for Tuesday, while maintenance will feature on Friday. Artificial intelligence in manufacturing will be the focus on Wednesday 16 September. The day begins at 12:00 with a programme from VDMA Software and Digitisation. At 14:00, the AMB Stage will host the panel discussion AI in Production: From Hype to Value Creation. WIN-Verlag is organising the discussion. Topics include AI for process optimisation, predictive maintenance, AI-supported quality control and the economic viability of AI projects. A subsequent Meet the Expert session in the VIP Lounge will allow visitors to speak directly with the panellists.
Further elements include a Start-up Area at the East Entrance, the AMB Award for new and further developments, and an Education exhibition in the Atrium. The Young Engineers Foundation will offer hands-on opportunities to try CNC machining, automation and digital production processes. The Business Breakfast will focus on robotics on Wednesday. Quantum technologies and sensor technology will follow on Thursday. A separate India Opportunities seminar is aimed at companies considering the Indian market.
