Research, innovation and cutting-edge technology at NordBau 2026
22.06.2026NordBau has always offered a comprehensive range of services for commercial, public and private developers – and its 71st edition, taking place once again at the Holstenhallen Neumünster from 9 to 13 September, is no exception. Among other things, it focuses on major road construction projects, modern technologies and forward-looking career opportunities.
© Holstenhallen Neumünster – Messe NordBau – SixConcept
Infrastructure Forum: Major projects put to the test – discussion on equal terms
With funding now secured for the A 20, A 26 and A 39 motorways, the focus is on modern transport infrastructure development in northern Germany. As an example of other major public projects, the planned implementation of these construction measures will be discussed in a live podcast at the NordBau Infrastructure Forum in Hall 1. With a view to speed, efficiency, cost-effectiveness and transparency, the projects will be put through a reality check. This also applies to planning certainty for machinery manufacturers. On Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, between 12 noon and 1 pm each day, the focus will be on the motorway sector, the German Armed Forces and DBInfraGo. Interested parties are warmly invited to attend. The Infrastructure Forum creates a dynamic space that promotes direct dialogue between industry, politics and public administration. Technical coordination of the Infrastructure Forum is the responsibility of VDBUM e.V. (Association of the Construction Industry, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering).
Construction machinery featuring state-of-the-art technology
Manufacturers and dealers will be showcasing the right equipment for such large-scale construction projects in the outdoor exhibition area at NordBau. They will demonstrate their state-of-the-art construction machinery and equipment in practical use. Also on display will be attachments and accessories, processing, compaction and crane technology, site equipment, and everything else required for building construction, civil engineering, road construction and recycling. Electric-powered equipment with increasing power and range is gaining ground. Furthermore, automated construction machinery technology is becoming increasingly important. Sensors, AI and digital connectivity are being used for autonomous control. As a result, companies and construction processes are achieving greater precision, maximum efficiency and significantly lower material and labour costs.
Construction firms are also showcasing their work at NordBau and are on hand with their expertise and innovative strength to deliver infrastructure projects, major developments and bespoke construction projects.
Research into the construction challenges of today and tomorrow
Further developing construction and making it more efficient and sustainable is also the aim of students and researchers. 3D concrete printing technology offers one such possibility. At NordBau, Lübeck University of Applied Sciences (TH Lübeck), together with its Department of Civil Engineering, is exhibiting a demonstrator in Hall 1 that clearly illustrates what 3D concrete printing technology is already capable of achieving. In collaboration with industry partners Instatiq and Nelcon, work has been carried out on processes, surfaces and design details that are both visible in the model and are being used in current construction projects. This development marks a further step forward for digitalisation in the construction sector and has the potential to ease capacity pressures on construction companies.
The other partners in the Construction Initiative, as well as the Network for Recycling in Building and Civil Engineering and the Schleswig-Holstein Materials Testing Institute, complement the programme and the joint meeting point “Teaching, Research and Student Exchange”. All are demonstrating what is already possible and what construction might look like in the future.
Zukunft Bau: Securing talent. Strengthening expertise.
The construction industry is facing a massive transformation. Whilst the demand for housing and modern infrastructure is rising, digitalisation and sustainability are radically changing day-to-day work. However, innovations such as BIM, automated construction machinery or smart building services are only as good as the people who develop and operate them. For companies in the construction industry, NordBau has therefore also developed into a platform where they can raise their profile as employers. Through dialogue with interested skilled workers, students and the next generation of industry professionals, they can showcase both their company profile and their products and services.
The “NordJob Bau:Technik” programme is specifically aimed at school pupils to introduce them to trades and construction careers. Around 1000 future school leavers will attend the fair on Thursday alone for specific meetings with exhibitors. After all, genuine craftsmanship and the skilful execution of processes remain the foundation, combined with the new skill sets required by state-of-the-art technology. This is what makes careers in the construction industry attractive and turns skilled workers into the driving force behind progress.
