Critical Manufacturing, a provider of Manufacturing Operations Platforms that combine manufacturing execution, connectivity, analytics, and trustworthy AI, will demonstrate at HANNOVER MESSE 2026 how manufacturers can transform increasing production complexity into secure and intelligent processes.

More than a traditional MES

According to the provider, the focus goes beyond a traditional MES: As the execution core, the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) forms the foundation of a more comprehensive Industrial Operations Platform in which execution, data, and intelligence are continuously interconnected. This creates a closed-loop system in which shop floor data is captured in real time, transformed into insights, and fed directly back into production.

Connected platform for complex manufacturing environments

As complexity increases, manufacturers—for example in the fields of mechanical engineering, semiconductors, electronics, and medical technology—face growing pressure to manage variability, meet the highest quality standards, and respond flexibly to changes. Critical Manufacturing addresses these requirements with an integrated system that captures and contextualizes manufacturing data directly at the source.

This creates a reliable foundation for transparency, analysis, and continuous improvement.

Continuous feedback loop between data and execution

At HANNOVER MESSE 2026, visitors can experience how this foundation powers the Industrial Operations Platform: It combines the MES with an integrated Enterprise Data Platform and a growing native application ecosystem. Together, these components enable the networking of machines, processes, and data across the entire manufacturing landscape, expanding transparency and insights across locations and systems. At the same time, a continuous feedback loop between data and execution is created: insights from the data platform can be directly incorporated into operational processes in the MES and optimize them in real time.

From the machine to the AI co-pilot: the platform in action

Live demonstrations at the booth bring the platform approach to life. Using a connected scenario—including a coffee machine—the demonstration shows how the MES coordinates execution on the shop floor and implements connectivity in practice. At the same time, the Enterprise Data Platform structures manufacturing data across systems and locations. Building on this, applications and analytics tools provide the necessary transparency to monitor performance, identify trends, and respond more quickly to operational challenges. In addition, visitors will experience AI co-pilots directly within the MES: users can query production data in natural language and receive real-time charts, dashboards, and meaningful insights that accelerate and simplify decision-making.

Expanded Partner Ecosystem

Another key component of the trade show presence is the partner area, where Critical Manufacturing’s global ecosystem is showcased, including FrontWell, Athena, Regenesia, LTTS, and Manufacture Next. These partners support the implementation and integration of the Industrial Operations Platform worldwide. The ecosystem is complemented by Twinzo, a digital twin application that integrates seamlessly with the MES and further highlights the value of connectivity and real-time transparency.

No longer viewing execution, data, and analytics in isolation

“Our industry has reached a point where execution, data, and analytics can no longer be viewed in isolation,” says Francisco Almada Lobo, CEO and co-founder of Critical Manufacturing. “Manufacturers need a system that connects shop floor processes with the intelligence required to improve performance across the entire enterprise. The MES forms the foundation for this by capturing and contextualizing production data at the source. At HANNOVER MESSE, we’ll demonstrate how this data can be transformed into actionable insights that enable better decisions and continuous improvement.”

Ask Jeff: Discussion on the Future of Manufacturing

On April 20 and 21, visitors will also have the opportunity to engage in conversation with Jeff Winter, Strategic Advisor at Critical Manufacturing, in the “Ask Jeff” area. The focus will be on topics such as leadership in manufacturing, digital transformation, and the role of modern software platforms.

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