With over 400 exhibitors and over 6,500 professionals from the Netherlands and abroad, the Precision Fair 2025 once again proved its position as the premier meeting place for precision technology in the Benelux. On November 12th and 13th, the Brabanthallen in 's-Hertogenbosch hosted two days of technological innovation, knowledge sharing, international exchange, and collaboration.
A rich program with depth and topicality
The 24th edition of the Precision Fair offered a broad and richly informed program. Visitors immersed themselves in the latest developments in ultra- and high-precision technology. More than 400 exhibitors presented their latest solutions on the show floor, including product launches from companies like MTA Group, Mitutoyo, and Microsure. In-depth sessions explored topics such as Model-Based Definition and Additive Manufacturing in greater depth.
"We see that the need for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and new technologies is stronger than ever," says Bart Kooijmans, Program Manager of the Precision Fair at Mikrocentrum. "The fact that innovations are being developed at this fair, such as the introduction of a surgical robot, proves the importance of a physical meeting place for the entire precision chain."
The substantive program was enhanced by prominent keynotes, culminating in a lecture by astronaut André Kuipers. Technological innovations were also discussed, such as the latest developments in vacuum technology, presented by VDL ETG. This year's key themes were: mechatronic engineering & systems, metrology, vacuum & clean, microprocessing & motion, and laser & photonics for high precision. Special attention was given to the overarching theme of Aero & Space, which served as a common thread throughout the program.
Precision technology on a cosmic level
Under the Aero & Space theme, visitors discovered how Dutch precision technology contributes to groundbreaking space projects. For example, SRON (Netherlands Institute for Space Research) made its debut at the Precision Fair and demonstrated how science and manufacturing converged in an X-ray mission to black holes.
"Building a space instrument is the perfect marriage between science and manufacturing. Without precision, we get nowhere," says Martin Grim, Manager of Electronic Engineering at SRON.
The Einstein Telescope project focused on extreme vacuum and contamination-free construction: 120 kilometers of stainless steel tubes, deep underground, made possible in part by companies like VDL Groep. NOVA demonstrated how Dutch optics and mechanics contribute to the world's largest telescopes. The student team DARE brought rocket technology to life with their self-built Stratos.
In his keynote address, ESA astronaut André Kuipers called for increased national investment in space technology: "We have the knowledge, but we lack the clout. Countries like Germany are investing four times as much. The time to step in is now."
Exhibition floor full of product launches, premieres, demonstrations and new connections
Besides knowledge sharing, the Precision Fair 2025 focused primarily on doing, demonstrating, and collaborating. One of the most talked-about firsts was the live demonstration of Microsure's MUSA-3 surgical robot. A partnership agreement was even signed at the MTA stand to actually put the robot into operation.
Mitutoyo also attracted attention with the introduction of products including the QM-Fit (2D image measurements), SmartMeasure-AL (automatic CMM measurements), and the CV-2100M4 contour measuring instrument. Visitors could also try out the interactive Small Tools Display.
Another example of technological innovation with social impact was the collaboration between Femto Engineering and Project MARCH XI from Delft University of Technology. Together, they are working on an intelligent exoskeleton that helps people with spinal cord injuries walk independently again. Visitors to the trade fair had the opportunity to meet the team and see previous prototypes.
Visitors and exhibitors about the fair
Visitors particularly appreciated the combination of in-depth content, hands-on technology, and accessible networking opportunities. "An inspiring day full of new insights, great conversations, and valuable connections, both on the trade show floor and during the networking sessions," said Pim de Korte, Technical Sales Manager at Fastmicro. "The open and collaborative atmosphere really made it worthwhile."
Exhibitor representatives who explored the show floor to expand their networks also spoke of a successful and exceptional edition. Both the quality of the visitors and the results were paramount. "We spoke with over 400 visitors, from brief introductions to in-depth discussions. For us, it was a resounding success," says Joost van Rooij (Cleanroom Building & Construction Systems BV). Johan Verboort-Brink (Vervos Technologies) adds: "The quality was high, the discussions were substantive, and the projects were impressive. We will definitely be back."
Preview of the anniversary edition
The Precision Fair demonstrates the power of combining technology, collaboration, and curiosity. The fair will return in 2026 on November 18th and 19th for its 25th anniversary. Preparations have begun, and the bar has been raised once again.