Notable exhibitors

Companies exhibiting at Control International Trade Fair for Quality Assurance include 24 VISION a.s., 36ZERO Vision GmbH, [mu:v] GmbH, a3Ds GmbH and ACCRETECH (EUROPE) GMBH.

24 VISION a.s.
36ZERO Vision GmbH
[mu:v] GmbH
a3Ds GmbH
ACCRETECH (EUROPE) GMBH

Event overview

Overview

Control is the international trade fair for quality assurance. It provides a comprehensive overview of the current market for industrial quality assurance, presenting a range of products and services including measuring and testing technology, material testing, and optoelectronics.

The event serves as a central platform for industry professionals to discover new technologies, source equipment, and network with peers. The 2027 edition continues this tradition at Messe Stuttgart.

TL;DR

1World's leading trade fair for quality assurance
2Covers the full QA spectrum: metrology, NDT, material testing, and software
3Unique opportunity to compare leading international suppliers side-by-side
4Strong focus on practical applications and industry-specific solutions
5Key networking hub for the global QA and testing community

Why visit

Control offers an unparalleled overview of the global quality assurance market. Visitors can discover the latest innovations in measurement technology, test equipment, and QA software from leading international manufacturers. It is the ideal place to find practical solutions for production and quality control challenges, compare products in person, and build valuable industry contacts.

Why exhibit

Exhibiting at Control provides direct access to a highly qualified international audience of decision-makers and industry experts. As the world's leading QA fair, it offers a unique platform to present new products, strengthen brand presence, and generate high-quality sales leads. Exhibitors benefit from the event's reputation as a key marketplace for the entire quality assurance industry.

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Quality managers and engineers

Production and manufacturing managers

R&D professionals

Technical buyers and procurement specialists

Plant and maintenance engineers

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Manufacturers of measuring and test equipment

Suppliers of non-destructive testing (NDT) solutions

Companies offering material testing technology

Developers of software for quality assurance and management

Providers of optoelectronics and vision systems for QA

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Measurement Technology (coordinate measuring machines, dimensional gauges, precision metrology equipment)

Sensor Systems (force, pressure, displacement, temperature, optical sensors)

Image Processing & Machine Vision (industrial cameras, lenses, AI vision inspection platforms, optical measurement systems)

Testing Technology (destructive and non-destructive testing, material testing, surface and hardness testing)

Quality Assurance Software (CAQ, MES integration, statistical process control, digital twin simulation platforms)

Analytical Instruments (systems and components for water, air, gas, and material analysis)

Optoelectronics (fiber optic test products, laser measurement systems, optoelectronic measuring systems)

Automation & Integrated QA Systems (automated inspection workstations, robotic inspection units, closed-loop quality control systems)

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Messe Stuttgart

Messepiazza 1, 70629 Stuttgart, Germany

Facilities

Parking

Ample on-site parking available directly at Messe Stuttgart, with easy access via A8 and B27.

Accessibility

Messe Stuttgart is fully wheelchair accessible. Staff assistance available at North and East Entrances. Accessible toilets, lifts, and special parking spaces are provided. Detailed accessibility brochures are available online.

Cloakroom

Cloakroom available at entrance areas. Fee is approximately €3 per item. Security lockers are not available; items are checked in directly.

Luggage storage

Luggage storage is available alongside the cloakroom service at entrance areas. A fee of about €3 applies per item.

Charging points

Modern venue with comprehensive WiFi and power outlets available throughout halls and meeting rooms.

Food options

Restaurant im Westen, Restaurant am Park, Restaurant am Wasser

On-site dining

Parking: Messe Stuttgart offers on-site parking facilities directly at the exhibition grounds, with convenient access via the A8 and B27 road connections.

Gate: The exhibition grounds are directly adjacent to Stuttgart Airport. Access is via the main entrance on the exhibition grounds.

Attend

Entry & tickets

Trade-only

General admission
Access to exhibition halls and forums for one day
General admission
Access for multiple show days

Ticket info

Ticket notes

Trade-only quality assurance exhibition. Online pre-registration is required for all visitors. Day tickets and season tickets grant access to all exhibition halls and expert forums.

Who runs the show

Organisers

P. E. Schall GmbH & Co. KG

Organiser

Website

Control Team

Exhibitor Services

Email Call Website

What's on

Programme

Co-located seminars

Control Expert Days

Paid

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Current edition

2027 · 500 exhibitors

Current edition metrics not yet published by organiser. The event has shifted to biennial schedule with next Control in 2027 and Control Expert Days held in alternate years.

Forecast — not final

Visitors

20,166

Exhibitors

500

Visitor countries

Growth over time

New this edition

1
Biennial Schedule Transition
Control has shifted from annual to biennial schedule. The next Control is in 2027, with Control Expert Days launching as a new event format in 2026.
Source
2
Control Expert Days
New exclusive expert meeting format for industrial quality assurance, held in alternate years (e.g., May 2026).
Source

Testimonials

Control is one of the most important industry get-togethers.
Nadeem Sawani · Vice President Sales EMEA · Mahr · 2025

For us, Control is the most important meeting place for the measurement technology industry.
Manuel Müller · Senior Product Marketing Manager · Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence Germany · 2025

Next edition outlook

2027

confirmed

The 38th Control will be the first biennial edition, running May 11-14, 2027 at Messe Stuttgart. The event will focus on modern QA solutions including AI-powered measurement technology, optical metrology, X-ray inspection, and fully automated inspection processes in closed-loop workflows. The transition to biennial scheduling aims to offer a more sustainable rhythm and greater innovation depth between editions, with the Control Expert Days bridging the gap in 2026.

Biennial scheduling (shift from annual format) Enhanced focus on AI and automation in QA systems Greater emphasis on optical and non-contact measurement methods Integration of Fraunhofer expertise and special exhibitions Presence of Control Expert Days as a new bridging format in non-Control years

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The 2025 Control edition successfully concluded as a strong annual event with 500 exhibitors and over 20,000 visitors from 70 countries, confirming its position as the world's leading trade fair for quality assurance and metrology. The show marked the end of the annual cycle, transitioning to a biennial format from 2027 onward to align with exhibitor demand for a sustainable, innovation-focused schedule. Key industry players praised the event for its role as a critical industry meeting point for the measurement technology community.

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

Control 2025 attracted 20,166 trade visitors from 70 countries, demonstrating strong international reach. The high international visitor count, combined with 36% international exhibitor participation, confirmed the show's status as a global meeting point for QA professionals. Exhibitors consistently described the audience as highly qualified decision-makers from key manufacturing sectors.

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitor feedback was strongly positive, with industry leaders describing Control as the most important meeting place for the measurement technology industry. While specific ROI figures are not published, the strong exhibitor retention and request for a biennial schedule suggest sustained satisfaction with lead quality and business outcomes.

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

Germany / Europe (Global)

Why it matters

Control is the world's leading trade fair for quality assurance, serving as the primary global meeting point for international market leaders, decision-makers, and expert practitioners. As the QA sector undergoes rapid transformation driven by AI, robotics, and software-defined manufacturing, Control provides a uniquely comprehensive overview of the entire QA technology landscape, from metrology and non-destructive testing to AI-powered inspection systems. The event is critical for buyers to compare solutions side-by-side and make informed investment decisions, and for exhibitors to showcase innovations, generate high-quality sales leads, and maintain visibility in a consolidating global market. The transition to a biennial schedule makes each Control edition a more concentrated display of genuine innovation, reinforcing its strategic importance as a 'must-attend' event for the global QA community.

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

AI as the Core Enabler of Next-Generation QA

Artificial intelligence has emerged as the most disruptive megatrend across industries, with AI-powered inspection, predictive maintenance, and real-time data analysis fundamentally reshaping quality assurance processes. AI is transitioning from experimental to operational in metrology and non-destructive testing.

Source

Robotics and Autonomous Production Drive Automation Investment

A 2026 survey of engineering and manufacturing professionals by IMI's Industrial Automation sector found that 41% view robotics and autonomous production as the automation investments most likely to deliver competitive advantage over the next five years, followed by smart/connected factories at 33%. The survey highlighted that the greatest value comes when these technologies interconnect and are underpinned by AI-driven data insights.

Source

Shift from Tactile to Non-Contact Measurement and Optical Inspection

Manufacturers are accelerating the transition from traditional tactile measurement methods to non-contact, optical, and X-ray inspection technologies. This shift is driven by the need for higher speed, flexibility, and the ability to inspect complex geometries and soft materials without damage, a core theme prominently featured at Control through Fraunhofer Vision's special exhibitions.

Source

Software-Defined Quality and Closed-Loop Manufacturing

Quality assurance is evolving from a final inspection step to a software-defined process characteristic embedded throughout the production cycle. The 'Industrie 4.0 Barometer 2026' shows that quality is becoming a strategic value driver, enabled by real-time data capture, digital twins, and integrated IT/OT architectures. The integration of QA data into closed-loop manufacturing systems is a rising priority, supported by organiser statements for Control 2027.

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

AI Emerges as Most Disruptive Megatrend for Industries to 2050, Says BMI

A new report from BMI, a Fitch Solutions company, identifies AI as the most disruptive megatrend shaping industries over the coming decades. The analysis, backed by a survey of 741 senior executives, found that AI is driving 27 industry megatrends related to tech disruption across 14 sectors, surpassing climate change and trade pattern shifts in immediate transformative impact.

Read

Robotics and Interconnectivity Top Automation Investment Priorities, Survey Shows

A survey of over 100 engineering and manufacturing professionals by IMI's Industrial Automation sector found that robotics and autonomous production (41%) and smart/connected factories (33%) are the top areas for automation investment. The survey emphasised that interconnectivity and AI-driven data are critical to unlocking the full commercial benefits of these investments.

Read

Special Exhibition on Non-Contact Measurement Technology at Control 2027

Fraunhofer Vision, in cooperation with organiser P. E. Schall, is organising the 20th edition of the 'Noncontact Measurement Technology' special exhibition at Control 2027. The call for exhibits has been issued until October 30, 2026, highlighting the continued importance of this technology in industrial QA.

Read

Control International Event Goes Biennial

Following the 2025 edition, Control has shifted to a biennial schedule, responding to exhibitor calls for a more sustainable rhythm that allows for meaningful technological progress between shows. The next edition is confirmed for April 2027.

Read

QA, Metrology & Manufacturing Technology Event Circuit 2026

October 2026 to September 2027

This circuit covers major events in quality assurance, metrology, and industrial automation. Control 2027 is the flagship European event for QA, with complementary events spanning advanced manufacturing, automotive quality, and regional technology showcases across Europe and Asia.

Pre-Control Events

AMB StuttgartTooling & Production ExpoNorddeutsche QualitätstageQuality in the Automotive IndustryIndustrial Transformation ChinaJIMTOFMECSPE

Circuit events in late 2026 and early 2027 provide a regional and sectoral view before the flagship Control fair.

Control 2027

The biennial flagship event, concentrating global QA market leadership and innovation.

Event dates and positions are based on the organisers' websites and historical timing. All facts are sourced from official event pages or credible trade show directories.

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · EUR

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

STR

Stuttgart Airport

Stuttgart Airport is directly next to Messe Stuttgart. The exhibition centre is within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from the terminals.

Adjacent to the exhibition grounds

to venue

5 minutes

by car

FRA

Frankfurt Airport

Major international hub with extensive intercontinental connections. High-speed ICE train from Frankfurt Airport to Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof takes about 1.5 hours, then onward by S-Bahn to the venue.

Approximately 210 km

to venue

2.5 to 3 hours by car

by car

MUC

Munich Airport

Major international hub with excellent global connectivity. Direct ICE train service to Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof in about 2 hours, then transfer to local transport to Messe Stuttgart.

Approximately 230 km

to venue

2.5 to 3 hours by car

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Budget / 3-Star

Stuttgart city center (near Hauptbahnhof) and Leinfelden-Echterdingen (near airport)

USD 90–150 / night

Basic comfort with essential amenities. Reliable choices include B&B Hotels, Ibis, and Motel One. Public transport (S-Bahn) easily connects these areas to Messe Stuttgart.

Mid-Range / 4-Star

Stuttgart city center and Leinfelden-Echterdingen

USD 160–280 / night

Comfortable stays with restaurants, fitness centers, and business facilities. Includes properties like Mövenpick, NH Stuttgart Airport, and Steigenberger Graf Zeppelin. Most offer direct S-Bahn or shuttle connections to the exhibition grounds.

Premium / 5-Star

Stuttgart city center (Schlossplatz area) and Leinfelden-Echterdingen

USD 300–550 / night

Luxury accommodation with exceptional service, fine dining, spas, and prime locations. Notable hotels include the Le Méridien Stuttgart and the Althoff Hotel am Schlossgarten. Many are within walking distance of Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof for direct S-Bahn to Messe Stuttgart.

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

S-Bahn (Commuter Rail)

Estimated costSingle ticket (Zone 2): approx. €3.20; Day pass (Zones 1-2): approx. €7.50

Best forStuttgart Hauptbahnhof (main station) to 'Flughafen/Messe' station

Lines S2 and S3 provide the fastest public transport connection, with trains every 15-30 minutes. The journey from the city center to the exhibition grounds takes about 27 minutes. The S-Bahn station is shared with Stuttgart Airport, offering a covered walkway to the venue.

U-Bahn / Light Rail (U6)

Estimated costSame as VVS single/day pass; integrated ticketing with S-Bahn

Best forStuttgart city center to 'Messe West' or 'Flughafen/Messe' terminus

The U6 line is another direct public transport option to the venue. It stops at both 'Messe West' and the 'Flughafen/Messe' terminus, providing convenient access to different parts of the exhibition grounds. Stuttgart's U-Bahn is a light rail system that operates underground in the city center and on surface tracks in the suburbs.

Bus

Estimated costVaries by distance; day pass covers all VVS bus services

Best forMultiple regional bus routes serving the Messe Stuttgart/airport area

Several bus lines complement the S-Bahn and U-Bahn network, connecting the exhibition grounds with nearby districts and residential areas. These are integrated into the VVS public transport tariff system.

Ride-Hailing (Uber / FREENOW)

Estimated costApprox. €25–€40 from city center to Messe Stuttgart, depending on demand and traffic

Best forCity-wide, with specific pickups from hotels, airport, or anywhere in Stuttgart

Uber and FREENOW operate in Stuttgart. FREENOW is a European app that offers taxi, private hire, and other mobility services in over 180 cities. Prices surge during peak times and trade fair periods.

Taxi

Estimated costApprox. €30–€50 from city center to Messe Stuttgart

Best forAll areas, with taxi stands at hotels, airport, and city center

Official licensed taxis are available throughout Stuttgart. They can be hailed on the street, found at designated ranks (e.g., Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof), or ordered by phone/app. Fares are regulated.

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
Schengen Business Visa (Short-stay, Type C)	Nationals of countries that do not have a visa-waiver agreement with Germany and the Schengen Area. This includes citizens from most African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries. UAE residents holding non-exempt passports (e.g., Indian, Pakistani, Philippine, Egyptian, Russian, South African) require this visa for trade fair attendance and business meetings.	$98.00	15 calendar days

Germany offers visa-free access for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) to citizens of 62 countries outside the EU/Schengen Area. Key visa-exempt nationalities include: United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Israel, United Arab Emirates, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Singapore, Malaysia, and several others. Citizens of EU and EEA member states also have freedom of movement. A select group (including USA, UK, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand) may also apply for residence permits after arrival.

Germany, as an EU member state, accepts the ATA Carnet for the temporary import of trade fair goods, professional equipment, and product samples. From 1 June 2026, the digital ATA Carnet (eCarnet) became mandatory for EU countries, Switzerland, Norway, and the UK. The previous paper version is discontinued, though paper carnets issued before this date remain valid. The eCarnet is applied for online via the e-ata portal of the relevant Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) in Germany and processed through the ATA Carnet app using a QR code. The Carnet is valid for a maximum of 12 months and eliminates the need for cash deposits or security for duties at customs.

Official visa page

Weather

Stuttgart in May is mild and pleasant with average high temperatures of 19.3°C and lows of 8.3°C. May is one of the sunniest months, averaging 202 hours of sunshine, but is also one of the wettest with about 72 mm of precipitation. 'Ice saints' (May 12-15) can bring a brief cold snap, though frost in the city centre is rare. Pack layers including a light rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes.

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Messe Stuttgart enjoys outstanding transport connectivity. The venue is directly adjacent to Stuttgart Airport (STR) and has its own S-Bahn stop (Flughafen/Messe) served by lines S2 and S3, connecting to Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof in about 27 minutes. The U6 light rail line also terminates at Flughafen/Messe and stops at Messe West, providing another direct public transport option. Direct highway access via A8 and B27 makes the venue easily reachable by car, with ample on-site parking. The VVS network integrates S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and buses for seamless regional travel.

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

German Business Culture and Punctuality

German business culture values punctuality, direct communication, and thorough preparation. For Control, arrive on time for meetings and take a structured approach to discussions. Use the formal 'Sie' form in initial professional exchanges unless invited to use 'du'.

International Networking Atmosphere

Despite being a German fair, Control attracts a highly international audience (70 countries represented in 2025). This creates a multicultural environment where English is widely spoken among exhibitors and attendees.

Swabian Regional Pride

Stuttgart is in Baden-Württemberg, the heart of Swabia. Swabians are known for their practicality, precision, and hospitality. Local specialties like Maultaschen (stuffed pasta) and Käsespätzle (cheese noodles) are worth trying at the venue's restaurants.

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Stuttgart Airport (STR)

Stuttgart Airport is served by about 36 airlines with over 120 destinations. Book flights early for the Control period. High-speed rail from Frankfurt or Munich airports to Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof is a viable alternative for European travellers.

Book flights

Visa

All visitors travelling from countries without a Schengen visa-waiver agreement must obtain a Schengen Business Visa (Type C) before travelling to Germany. This visa covers trade fair attendance, business meetings, and professional networking. The application requires proof of purpose (event registration, invitation letter), financial means, accommodation, and valid travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 coverage.

Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

Processing: 15 calendar days

Processing time starts only once the application reaches the consulate; additional time should be allowed for logistics and delivery. It is essential to book an appointment well in advance and not to purchase non-refundable flights until the visa is approved. An official letter of invitation from the Control organiser (P. E. Schall) may be required to support the application.

Official

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Areas to stay

Near Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof (central station) for direct S-Bahn access to Messe Stuttgart · Leinfelden-Echterdingen (close to airport and venue) for proximity · Stuttgart city center (Schlossplatz, Charlottenplatz) for dining and culture · Plieningen (residential area near Messe Stuttgart) for convenience

Budget / 3-Star

$90–$150 per night

Mid-Range / 4-Star

$160–$280 per night

Premium / 5-Star

$300–$550 per night

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: Stuttgart Airport (STR) is directly adjacent to Messe Stuttgart. A covered walkway connects the airport terminals to the exhibition grounds, taking approximately 5-10 minutes on foot. The S-Bahn station 'Flughafen/Messe' (S2/S3 lines) is also shared by the airport and the venue.

Hotel → venue: The S-Bahn (S2/S3) from Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof to 'Flughafen/Messe' station is the fastest public transport option, taking about 27 minutes. The U6 light rail also serves Messe Stuttgart with stops at 'Messe West' and 'Flughafen/Messe' terminus. Many hotels also offer shuttle services or are within walking distance of S-Bahn stations.

Ride-hail: Uber and FREENOW operate in Stuttgart. Expect fares from the city center to Messe Stuttgart to range from €25–€40, depending on traffic. Taxis are available at hotel stands and can be booked via apps.

Public transit: The VVS network (S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses) provides extensive coverage. A single ticket from the city center (Zone 1) to the airport/Messe (Zone 2) costs approximately €3.20. Day passes for Zones 1-2 are around €7.50 and offer unlimited travel. The S2 and S3 lines are the most direct rail connections to the venue.

Parking: Messe Stuttgart has large on-site parking areas with direct highway access via A8 and B27. Parking fees apply (typically €8–€15 per day). Pre-booking is not usually required but can be advisable during major trade fairs. There is no free parking at the venue.

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: May

Temperature: Highs 18-22°C (64-72°F), lows 8-10°C (46-50°F)

Seasonality: Average precipitation 72 mm; May is one of the wetter months with frequent but short showers.

Packing: Pack layers including a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and business attire for meetings. Sun protection may be needed on clear days.

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:30Arrive at Messe Stuttgart, register, and pick up badge
09:30Visit key product category halls (metrology, NDT, software)
12:30Lunch break at venue restaurants
14:00Attend a technical presentation or network with exhibitors
17:00Depart venue, optional visit to Mercedes-Benz Museum

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: May 12, 2027 (Wednesday)

Wednesday is the second full day of the show, allowing exhibitors to have settled in and resolved any early setup issues. It avoids the opening day rush (Tuesday) and the potential for some exhibitors to begin teardown or have reduced staff later in the week. Most exhibitors and visitors are fully engaged mid-week, making it the optimal day for focused meetings and comprehensive hall coverage.

Define your primary objectives for attending Control (e.g., evaluate CMMs, find NDT suppliers, network with European partners) — Control's biennial schedule means the 2027 edition is a key milestone. Clarify goals to make the most of the 4-day event.

Book flights and secure accommodation. Confirm travel dates (May 11-14) — Stuttgart Airport (STR) is adjacent to the venue. Hotels near the airport and city center fill quickly; book early for best rates.

Register online for your visitor ticket and complete real-name verification — Control requires pre-registration with real-name verification. Bring the same ID (passport) used for registration to collect your badge on-site.

Review the exhibitor list and floor plan. Identify key exhibitors and mark must-see booths — The floor plan and exhibitor list are typically published on the official Control website. Prioritise halls to cover the 9 halls efficiently.

Schedule meetings with key exhibitors and prepare your questions for technical discussions — Control draws 20,000+ visitors from 70 countries. Pre-scheduling meetings ensures you connect with the right people.

Check weather forecast and pack accordingly. Confirm all travel and accommodation arrangements — May weather in Stuttgart is mild but changeable. Pack layers, comfortable shoes, and a light rain jacket.

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day