From November 12 to 15, 3,480 exhibitors presented their innovations across the entire spectrum of electronics to some 80,000 visitors at the world's leading trade fair. In addition to sustainability, key topics such as artificial intelligence, the future of mobility, and the development of young talent sparked lively discussions at the exhibitors' booths and throughout the extensive support program. The equally successful SEMICON Europe was held simultaneously in two halls.
After four days at the fair, Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer, Managing Director of Messe München, reflected on a very positive outcome: "For 60 years, electronica has been the central meeting point for the global electronics industry. This year's fair in Munich, a leading technology hub, was once again an impressive demonstration of the sector's innovative strength. In the halls, visitors were able to see firsthand how the technologies of the future are already taking shape—from smart energy solutions to smart mobility—and the vital role the electronics industry plays in making this happen."
Dr. Gunther Kegel, President of the German Association of the Electronic and Digital Industries (ZVEI), commented on the current situation in the sector and noted that, although the electronics and digital industry has gone through difficult times, he believes that the current economic slowdown does not undermine the megatrends of electrification, digitalization, and automation, nor the vision of the All Electric Society. "I am confident that recovery is on the horizon, even for the electronic components sector, which has experienced a significant drop in sales after several strong years in Germany. The important thing is that the economic environment in Germany improves quickly."
The spirit of electronica was palpable in the halls.
“electronica 2024 was more international than ever. We are delighted that the trade fair returned to its pre-pandemic level and that the atmosphere was so positive despite the challenging times,” says Trade Fair Director Katja Stolle. “Walking through the halls and talking to people, you could once again feel the unmistakable spirit of electronica,” adds Caroline Pannier, Deputy Director of Exhibitions, who will take over as Director of electronica in December. The results of the trade fair survey also confirm the high level of satisfaction among participants.
“electronica 2024 set a new standard on its 60th anniversary: sold-out exhibition halls, insightful discussions with customers, and outstanding visitor numbers,” says Philip Harting, Chairman of the electronica Advisory Board and CEO of the HARTING Technology Group. “electronica is THE beacon and the dynamic, innovative driving force of the international electronics industry. We are already looking forward to electronica 2026.”
A first-class start to the trade fair.
Two highlights on the pre-fair program set the stage for a strong start to the electronics event. The Automotive Electronics Conference brought together international specialists and leaders from across the supply chain to discuss the current challenges facing the industry. Later in the afternoon, the renowned CEO Roundtable took place, with Jean-Marc Chery (STMicroelectronics), Jochen Hanebeck (Infineon Technologies), and Kurt Sievers (NXP Semiconductors) as special guests, along with Barbara Bergmeier (Executive Director of Industrial Operations at Jaguar Land Rover). Among other things, they emphasized the crucial role of international cooperation in the semiconductor industry and discussed how artificial intelligence can help ensure stable supply chains.
Knowledge transfer and the talents of tomorrow
The extensive electronics support program offered a wealth of specialized knowledge and new insights. Across six stages, experts shared their knowledge through application-oriented presentations in almost every area of electronics. New focal points of the forum program included AI Machine Learning, Industrial Control, and Women in Tech. Sustainability and the circular economy were also prominent themes in presentations, panel discussions, and special tours. Another key focus was on the talents of tomorrow: The Fast Forward platform provided selected startups with a stage to showcase their innovations, while the Career Area offered insights into career prospects in the electronics industry through one-to-one mentoring and an online job board. The Young Talent Day for students and pupils, held on the final day of the fair, was also very well received.
SEMICON Europe complemented the trade show.
As a perfect complement to electronics, SEMICON Europe exhibitors presented products and solutions for semiconductor manufacturing in two parallel halls. “SEMICON Europe, strategically located alongside electronics, brought together industry leaders from across the supply chain to share insights on the advancements driving sustainable growth in the semiconductor sector,” said Laith Altimime, President of SEMI Europe. “SEMI is delighted with this year’s results.”
Electronics 2024 in figures
A total of 3,480 exhibitors from 59 countries and regions traveled to the event, 76% of them from abroad. There were approximately 80,000 visitors from around 100 countries and regions. International visitors accounted for 54%. After Germany, the 10 countries with the most visitors were: Italy, China, France, Austria, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, the United States, Spain, the Netherlands, and Poland.
The next edition of electronica will take place from November 10 to 13, 2026.
