Perhaps one of the most efficient ways to achieve this is to visit a major industry event such as the SPS (Smart Production Solutions, Nuremberg, 25-27 November 2025). This year the SPS includes over 1,200 individual stands, with over 200 of these exhibitors already actively working in the UK – 50 or more have established in-country bases.
“Engineering, manufacturing and production are very much people businesses. Success comes though bringing together expert teams that work together to harness technology and innovate to create solutions to real-world requirements. The SPS creates a forum where people can meet and do business in a friendly environment that promotes efficiency and cooperation,” said Sylke Schulz-Metzner, Vice President, SPS.
The SPS is far more than just an exhibition. It also offers a full lecture programme, discussion forums, product and technology demonstrations, and creates a platform where discussions can lead to ideas, agreements and ultimately to systems and solutions.
Technical topics that are likely to be discussed at the SPS 2025 include digital twins and transformations, communications and cybersecurity, data management, safety, artificial intelligence and sustainability. Business-wise, visitors can exchange views on taxes and tariffs, international trade, geopolitical developments, emerging markets and tomorrow’s technologies.
“Automation is a fast-moving world,” added Sylke. “Keeping abreast of the latest developments is critical for success. The multi-faceted approach presented by the SPS is the best way to ensure a thorough understanding of current trends and future requirements.”
Companies with a UK base that will be exhibiting at the SPS include inverter makers Hitachi and Control Techniques; precision motion specialists Trio, ACS, Portescap, Maxon and Oriental; drive train engineers Bonfiglioli and Harmonic; instrumentation company Horner; motor suppliers SEW and Lenze; process management company Endress; and safety engineers Fortress and Mechan. Alongside these will be multinational, multi-faceted organisations, such as ABB, Emerson, Mitsubishi, Rockwell and Siemens, all of whom are well-established in the UK.
“Internationalism is a hallmark of modern engineering. British visitors to the SPS are positioning themselves to generate opportunities and forge links for the future,” said Sylke.
