Plastics industry advances through AI integration and major trade exhibitions

The plastics industry is undergoing significant digital transformation, highlighted by recent developments in artificial intelligence and upcoming major trade exhibitions.

The AI Forum 2026, hosted by Kunststoff-Netzwerk Franken e. V. at Neue Materialien Bayreuth GmbH, showcased practical AI applications in plastic processing. Experts presented scenarios moving beyond simple chatbots, focusing on intelligent interfaces that assist operators directly at machine controls and enhance manufacturing and development processes.

Looking ahead, the 30th anniversary of the Fakuma trade fair will take place in Friedrichshafen from October 12 to 16, 2026. The event is expected to host approximately 1,600 exhibitors from 40 nations, covering the entire value chain including injection molding, extrusion, 3D printing, and recycling. To mark the jubilee, organizers will introduce the Fakuma Innovation Award and the Paul-Eberhard-Schall Medal.