CeMAT 2016 - the last stand-alone event

One of the biggest dedicated global materials handling and logistics events, CeMAT, has come to an end with the announcement that it will be fully integrated into "the revamped HANNOVER MESSE".

CeMAT's core focus will be one of several display categories "that cover the topics that were until now branded as separate trade shows", according to organiser Deutsche Messe.

In even years, starting in 2020, the Logistics sub-show will be housed in Halls 2, 3 and 4. This will encompass material flow and warehousing technology; warehouse and factory equipment; industrial trucks and accessories; automated guided vehicles; packaging technology; and logistics services. However, HANNOVER MESSE will feature topics such as logistics automation and digital logistics on an annual basis within other sections, organisers say.

Next year's event, from 20-24 April, is expected to attract more than 6,000 exhibiting companies and more than 200,000 visitors.

"HANNOVER MESSE enjoys an unrivalled reputation globally," says Jochen Köckler, chairman of the managing board of Deutsche Messe. "To further strengthen the HANNOVER MESSE brand, we are integrating all individual tradeshow brands into the umbrella brand HANNOVER MESSE. We have a new site layout that stimulates growth in participation as well as further development of HANNOVER MESSE as the driver of industrial transformation."

As Industry 4.0 drives the convergence of production and logistics, Deutsche Messe - in close consultation with industry stakeholders - is incorporating the intralogistics topics covered by CeMAT into HANNOVER MESSE, so that logistics is a pillar of the new format, the organiser explains.

The new format also brings greater clarity to the role that HANNOVER MESSE will play in the years to come. "Under the lead theme of 'Industrial Transformation', our exhibitors will present the future of manufacturing in the age of Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence and 5G, and highlight the benefits of highly automated material flow," Köckler adds.

In 2018, CeMAT was staged for the first time as a sub-show within the giant HANNOVER MESSE. After the show, organisers confirmed that CeMAT would again be held in conjunction next year. However, a number of exhibitors expressed concerns. The show's largest exhibitor, Jungheinrich, later announced that it would no longer be participating.

Deutsche Messe will continue to run stand-alone CeMAT shows internationally in markets like Asia, Russia and Australia.