With the event opening in just a few days, over 210 exhibiting companies are set to showcase solutions aimed at navigating the complex economic and regulatory hurdles currently facing the sector.
The international surface technology sector is preparing to gather in Stuttgart from 5-7 May for SurfaceTechnology GERMANY 2026, the industry's most significant trade fair.
“2025 was a very difficult year for electroplating and surface technology companies. SurfaceTechnology GERMANY 2026 provides the right platform for doing precisely that,” has stated Christoph Matheis, CEO of the Central Association of Surface Technology.
The industry remains under significant pressure due to several factors:
- Weakening global economic conditions tied to geopolitical and policy uncertainties.
- Increasing regulatory requirements and shifting market dynamics.
- A heightened need for transformation to turn ongoing crises into opportunities for strategic realignment.
This year’s exhibition features a mix of domestic and international exhibitors, including joint stands from the ZVO and the Surface Technology Process Chain. The VDMA (German Engineering Federation) will also be present, highlighting digitalisation as a primary tool for maintaining competitiveness.
The STG.ExpertForum will run concurrently with the exhibition, offering approximately 50 presentations delivered in 20-minute sessions with simultaneous English and German translation. The forum is fully booked and will cover critical topics such as:
- AI support and digitalisation in surface technology.
- The avoidance of PFAS and improving carbon footprints.
- New electroplating and physical surface treatment processes (PVD/CVD).
- Addressing the shortage of skilled workers through employee training.
Additionally, the Fraunhofer IPA will present the prestigious Stuttgart Surface Technology Award, “DIE OBERFLÄCHE,” during the event.
Moreover, attendees will benefit from a three-for-one ticket system, as SurfaceTechnology GERMANY coincides with two other major trade fairs at the venue: GrindingHub and MedtecLIVE. This arrangement allows visitors to explore cross-industry innovations in grinding technology and medical manufacturing alongside surface treatments.