At the 2026 Hannover Messe, the SCALE-MX project showcased its work at the Industry 4.0 Platform’s joint booth in Hall 13. Under the umbrella of Manufacturing-X, progress in the practical implementation of industrial data spaces and data-driven value creation was demonstrated through concrete use cases and demonstrators. The focus was particularly on the integration of digital twins into production and supply chains, the integration of components and machines into data spaces, the scaling of federated data ecosystems, and the use of Industrial AI. This shifted the focus significantly from conceptual classification to concrete industrial application and the scaling of interoperable data infrastructures in practice.

The solutions presented by the X-Projects demonstrated how companies can unlock the potential of their data: for more efficient processes across value chains, more informed analyses, and the development of new, data-driven business models.

Interactive insights and hands-on demonstrations

At the SCALE-MX booth, visitors could experience the data room firsthand. A variety of formats brought the potential applications to life and encouraged visitors to get involved:

• EcoChain Simulation Game: Debuting at the trade show, this interactive format offered daily insights into a value chain network designed to enhance sustainability.
• Virtual demonstrator: Clearly illustrated how a data room-integrated after-sales service model works.
• Interactive infographic: Clearly and visually communicated the benefits of seamless data exchange across various industrial sectors.

Exchange, interest, and new ideas

Direct dialogue with representatives from industry, research, and politics confirmed the strong interest in concrete solutions for data exchange. It became particularly clear that companies are increasingly seeking practical approaches to leveraging data ecosystems.

Shaping the industrial data economy together

The strong response and high level of interest in the Industry 4.0 platform’s booth at the X-Projects underscores the relevance of Manufacturing-X to the industry. Together with its partners, SCALE-MX provides information and drives the development of open, scalable, and sovereign data infrastructures, thereby making a key contribution to the digital transformation of the industry.

Conclusion

The 2026 Hannover Messe has clearly demonstrated that the shift toward a connected, data-driven industry is in full swing. The technologies are already available; now it is up to companies to take the first step toward putting them into practice.