IG Metall at Hannover Messe 2026

Alongside innovations and international exhibitors, this year’s focus is on a high-profile industry panel with IG Metall taking part.

Free access to the world’s leading industrial trade fair

From 20 to 24 April 2026, Hannover will once again become a global meeting point for industry, politics and science. HANNOVER MESSE is regarded as the key platform for industrial transformation – covering everything from climate-neutral production and AI in manufacturing to resilient supply chains and Europe’s technological sovereignty.

For IG Metall members, access is particularly straightforward: admission is free. This offer has been part of the union’s service for many years, giving employees the chance to learn first-hand about technological developments, new business models and the industry trends that will shape the future.

How to get your e-ticket

Getting your free ticket is simple:

1. Register via the IG Metall registration link (to follow).
2. Enter your registration details.
3. Your personalised e-ticket will then be sent to you by email.

The ticket is valid for all days of the event. Please note, however, that it cannot be used as a travel pass for local public transport in Hannover.

An overview of exhibitors, hall plans and the full programme can be found on the official Hannover Messe website.

IG Metall on the Centre Stage: industry in transition

A particular highlight is IG Metall’s appearance on the main stage at the heart of the fair. Leading figures from the union, politics, business and academia will be discussing the future of Germany as an industrial location.

“Made in Germany: museum piece or promise for the future?”

On the panel:

• Christiane Benner, First Chair of IG Metall
• Olaf Lies, Minister-President of the State of Lower Saxony
• Arndt G. Kirchhoff, President of the Metal and Electrical Employers’ Association of North Rhine-Westphalia
• Moritz Schularick, President of the Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW)

The discussion will centre on key questions for employees and companies alike:
How can German industry hold its own in global competition? What role do investment, innovation and good work play in making the location fit for the future? And how can transformation, energy issues and safeguarding employment be brought together? Has the German business model gathered dust – or can it be turned around towards a sustainable, future-ready direction?

IG Metall’s message is clear: an industrial future is not decided solely in boardrooms, but together with the workforce.

International perspectives: Brazil as partner country

In 2026, the fair will be looking particularly towards Brazil, the official partner country of HANNOVER MESSE. Against the backdrop of geopolitical shifts, Brazil is becoming increasingly strategically important – including for German industry.

Brazil is not only one of Germany’s most important economic partners in Latin America, but also a pioneer in renewable energy. A high share of sustainable electricity generation, significant industrial potential and a growing demand for modern production technology are opening up new areas for cooperation – from energy efficiency and automation to climate-friendly industrial production.

For employees in Germany, this goes beyond foreign trade: international partnerships influence investment decisions, supply chains – and therefore jobs and skills requirements.

A meeting place for good industrial work

Whether digitalisation, decarbonisation or new global alliances – Hannover Messe shows where industry around the world is heading. For IG Metall members, a visit offers the chance to spot trends early, make contacts and take fresh ideas back into workplace practice.

Free admission, a strong union voice on stage and the industry’s key future issues – good reasons to be in Hannover in 2026.