CONTROL International Event Goes Biennial
The 37th edition of the CONTROL international trade fair for quality assurance concluded with strong participation in Stuttgart this May according to the organizers. More than 20,000 visitors from 70 countries explored the latest advancements in metrology and quality control technologies, showcased by 500 exhibitors — 180 of them from outside Germany. While CONTROL 2025 demonstrated continued vitality as a global platform for QA innovation, it also marked a significant turning point: beginning immediately, the trade fair will adopt a biennial schedule, with the next edition confirmed for April 2027.
This change reflects growing sentiment among exhibitors who have advocated for a more sustainable event rhythm. Many companies have expressed that a two-year cycle allows for more meaningful technological progress between shows and reduces the financial and operational pressure of exhibiting annually.
Responding to Industry Needs
Though not officially framed as a response to exhibitor feedback, the decision to skip 2026 and return in 2027 speaks volumes. Over recent years, major industry players have voiced concerns that annual trade fair schedules can dilute impact, particularly in sectors where development timelines are lengthening and resource optimization is increasingly important. CONTROL organizer P.E. Schall acknowledged the evolving demands on exhibitors and visitors alike.
Strong 2025 Edition Reinforces CONTROL’s Global Standing
Despite the upcoming change in rhythm, CONTROL 2025 delivered on its promise as a world-leading quality assurance event. A major highlight was the launch of the new “CONTROL Quality Talks” format, where industry leaders discussed the role of artificial intelligence in defect prevention and real-time inspection. The sessions drew a full audience and sparked lively discussion — a sign of the growing appetite for expert insight alongside hardware demonstrations.
The Fraunhofer Vision-organized special exhibition on contactless metrology also underscored a clear industry trend: manufacturers are accelerating their shift toward optical and inline systems. From digital holography to high-speed 3D microscopy, innovations on display showed how modern metrology is being embedded more deeply, and intelligently, into the production process.
Biennial Schedule Begins with CONTROL 2027
Looking ahead, the 38th edition of CONTROL will take place from April 27 to 30, 2027. Organizers promise to deliver a more streamlined and impactful format, better aligned with current technological cycles and industry expectations.
As quality assurance becomes increasingly central to manufacturing performance, CONTROL’s new biennial rhythm may prove to be both a strategic and timely response — one that maintains the fair’s influence while supporting deeper innovation and engagement.
For more information: www.control-messe.de
