15.01.2026 • News

Robotics and automation: optimism despite economic challenges

A long-term analysis of the exhibitor surveys at the leading trade fair automatica shows that the industry is optimistic about the future despite a challenging economic environment

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© Messe München

Turnover increased by seven percent compared to the previous quarter and six percent compared to the same quarter of the previous year. Incoming orders also recorded an increase of seven percent, with a book-to-bill ratio of 1.02, which indicates a slight excess demand. A further increase in turnover of three percent is expected for the fourth quarter, signaling a cautious upward trend, albeit with subdued momentum.

Philipp Gutmann, Managing Director of the AMA Association, emphasizes the stabilization of the industry, although 11% of companies have registered short-time work. The economic situation remains uneven and demand in the user industries must pick up sustainably.

IT security is a key issue: 77% of companies are actively addressing it, while 5% do not consider it relevant. Despite the challenges, companies are cautiously optimistic about the future, boosted by automation and AI.

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Messe München GmbH

Messegelände
81823 Munich
Germany

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Event

AKL – International Laser Technology Congress in Aachen

AKL – International Laser Technology Congress in Aachen

From April 22 to 24, 2026, the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT invites you to AKL'26. The photonics congress with over 500 participants is taking place for the 15th time, this year with a significantly expanded program, over 80 presentations, and 54 exhibitor booths.

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inspect award 2026
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inspect award 2026

Submit a product or solution from the field of industrial machine vision or optical metrology for the inspect award 2026.

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