In 2021, however, the event will return in person from November 23 to 25 in Nuremberg. Following the cancellation of the physical SPS at the end of August last year, the event organizer, Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH, opted for a digital alternative: a concept focused on interaction between automation providers and users, supported by an AI-powered contact search function. This tool facilitated a total of 22,216 connections and 837,486 recommendations. As Dr. Josef Waltl, Program Director for the Main Group – Industrial IoT/Manufacturing, Microsoft Deutschland GmbH, states: “The expert presentations and the SPS Connect portal were the highlights of SPS Connect. Software and the application of innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence in industry resonated with many participants and exhibitors. The figures for SPS Connect demonstrate the great importance of exchanging ideas with other professionals in the sector, even if it has to be online. However, for 2021, the organizer Mesago is once again making plans for an in-person event: “Interest in SPS 2021 in November was high. Currently, booth space and exhibitor numbers are at last year's level, despite the ongoing pandemic.” This underscores the importance of the trade fair for the automation industry and demonstrates that even a year like 2020 hasn't significantly altered the landscape,” reports Sylke Schulz-Metzner, Vice President of SPS at MesagoMesse Frankfurt. As the organizer explains, a comprehensive range of on-site health and safety measures will be implemented to protect all participants, as was already planned for the in-person exhibition.
“We are proceeding cautiously,” explains Schulz-Metzner. “We plan to assess the situation regularly throughout the year and monitor the progress of the vaccination program so that we can respond accordingly.” A complementary digital program is also planned for SPS 2021.