The summit addresses geopolitics, AI, cybersecurity and new growth markets
Europe’s mechanical and plant engineering sector convenes in Rome on March 12–13, 2026 for the third edition of the VDMA European Summit, the continent’s premier strategic forum for C-level executives in the machinery industry.
Held at the Shangri-La Rome, the event brings together 250–300 top decision-makers for two days of strategic dialogue, expert sessions, and high-level networking.
A platform built for Europe’s industrial future
As VDMA deepens its transformation into a truly European organisation, the European Summit has become an essential platform for cross-border exchange. In an era defined by geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and intensifying global competition, the Summit provides machinery manufacturers with the strategic orientation they need.
«In times of shared challenges, personal exchange on an equal footing continues to gain in importance», said VDMA President Bertram Kawlath. «Rome, with its history and openness, offers the ideal setting for perspectives, partnerships, and strategic thinking».
Key topics on the 2026 agenda
The Summit will address the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the European machinery sector through four high-level sessions:
Beyond the storm: what lies ahead for Europe’s machinery industry – Senior industry leaders and economists will assess the impact of geopolitical turmoil, rising competition from China, and U.S. trade policy shifts — and chart a path forward for European manufacturers.
Beyond the hype: achieving tangible results with AI in manufacturing – The session moves past AI experimentation to focus on measurable outcomes. Industry cases will show how artificial intelligence is already delivering value on the shop floor and transforming business models along the value chain.
Secure infrastructure and product development: two sides of the same coin – Cybersecurity has become a boardroom-level imperative. Speakers from ENISA, Philips, the Dürr Group, and Mettler Toledo will explain how NIS2 and the EU Cyber Resilience Act are reshaping industrial operations — and how companies can embrace security by design without stifling innovation.
Turning the tide: emerging fields and growth markets – The defence sector is transforming rapidly under shifting security priorities. This session and a keynote on humanoid robotics by Fabio Puglia (Oversonic Robotics) will explore concrete entry points and growth opportunities for machinery companies.
