NORTEC 2026 to Mark 20th Anniversary with ‘Solution Dock’ Debut in Hamburg

Hamburg, Germany – Twenty years of NORTEC will be celebrated from February 3-5, 2026, on the grounds of Hamburg Messe, jointly organized by Messe Stuttgart and the German Machine Tool Builders’ Association (VDW). This trade fair for production is the most important event on the business calendar for northern German manufacturing, bringing together mechanical engineering, electronics production, and innovative technology under one roof. The spotlight at next year’s anniversary event will be on the new ‘Solution Dock’ special area, a strong selection of start-up companies, top-quality exhibitors, both new and returning, as well as a comprehensive program of accompanying events.

20th NORTEC Anniversary Edition

NORTEC has always been a key event for decision-makers, operators, and young professionals involved in production. At next year’s 20th anniversary event, taking place in February 2026, visitors can expect a program incorporating both new and proven formats—including everything from practical live demonstrations to expert forums and innovative special areas. The entire production process will be brought to the NORTEC trade fair stage.

New ‘Solution Dock’ Spotlight

One highlight at NORTEC 2026 will be the new special area ‘Solution Dock’, which will provide an interactive platform for innovation, information, and expertise. At the heart of it all is the ‘OpenDock’ stage, where keynote speeches, panel discussions, and project presentations will be held on all three trade fair days. The Industrialized Additive Manufacturing Hub Hamburg (IAMHH) e.V. will also be involved in the Solution Dock, sharing expertise and practical approaches to industrial 3D printing. The focus here will be less on theoretical visions for the future and more on concrete solutions to current production challenges. With its network of industry leaders and experts representing users, service providers, manufacturers, and research facilities, it will demonstrate how additive manufacturing is already being efficiently, profitably, and strategically applied. Whether SME or corporate group, launching or scaling—visitors can expect valuable advice on how 3D printing can truly benefit production.

“We’re looking forward to taking part in the Solution Dock and discussing everything from initial ideas to concrete plans with the visitors. As a network, we have the means to demonstrate how 3D printing can be effectively integrated into existing processes: efficiently, deliberately, and with a clear benefit for production. We’re not only in a position to provide companies with the right technology, but also the right partners for its successful implementation,” explains Max Heres, Managing Director, IAMHH e.V.

In addition to the Solution Dock, there will be a start-up area, regional initiatives, and research institutes from Hamburg. A tried-and-trusted program of accompanying events also awaits visitors to the Hamburg grounds: the VDMA Workshop, the BME Purchasers’ Day, the North Germany Simulation Forum, HAWKS Racing Team, and several contributions from the hansesupplier company group, as well as the Electronics Manufacturing Forum. One particular highlight will be the live demonstration of an electronics assembly production line, set to impressively illustrate the successful partnership of electronics manufacturing and mechanical engineering. Furthermore, companies at the Electronics Manufacturing Joint Stand will be showcasing the entire value chain of assembly production.

Start-up Zone Registration

NORTEC 2026 will also be providing tailored start-up offers with attractive conditions for young companies in the production sector. Registration is now possible via the NORTEC website. The focus here will be on visibility and the expansion of networks, as well as direct access to industry decision-makers.

Early Exhibitor Highlights

The preliminary exhibitor list is already available on the NORTEC website and includes plenty of leading companies, and hidden champions, as well as innovative service providers. There will be both new and familiar faces among the exhibitors attending NORTEC 2026, including Bechtle PLM, E. Zoller, and Bernd Siegmund.

“NORTEC 2026 is more than just a trade fair for us. This is where we gain inspiration, share expertise, and make future plans. Our experience in digital product development is met here with what medium-sized industrial companies in northern Germany represent: close proximity to the product, an openness for innovation—and the desire not only to find solutions, but to implement them too. During our time in Hamburg, we’ll be demonstrating the latest developments, which include SOLIDWORKS 2026, AI-supported design, CAD/CAM, and PDM as an integrated process. We’ll be focusing on what happens when digitalization becomes more than simply an abstract concept and is implemented in real life. Mostly, though, we’re looking forward to meeting with visitors, customers, and industry colleagues directly—because the future is shaped by people who connect and collaborate!” says Stefanie Dieterich, Team Lead - Regional Sales Hamburg, Bechtle PLM Deutschland GmbH.

The significance of NORTEC as a key platform for innovation and networking was also emphasized by Michael Kirschneck, Trade Fair and Event Manager, Bernd Siegmund GmbH: “In addition to attending what we consider the established trade fairs, we strive to continuously expand our profile and gain access to new markets. NORTEC represents a strategically important platform here—as one of the earliest trade fairs to take place in the calendar year, along with its strong position in the region of northern Germany. Visitors to the event are presented with exclusive opportunities to experience and thoroughly test new products. We are very much looking forward to presenting the best welding and clamping tables to next year’s expert audience—the finest in quality, functionality, and innovation.”

Long-standing attendees also appreciate NORTEC as a reliable opportunity to showcase their latest products and engage directly with others. “We’ve been coming to NORTEC since the very beginning and are delighted to be returning again, having taken a few years off. We were last here in 2020—and will be making the most of this regional platform next year to showcase our latest innovations. We’ll also be providing exciting insights into our Smart Factory in Pleidelsheim via video link or even live stream,” added Alexander Zoller and Christoph Zoller from E Zoller GmbH & Co KG.

Image Source: NORTEC