Stone+tec Nuremberg Provides Strong Momentum for Technology and the Market

Nuremberg – The range of exhibits at Stone+tec 2026 continues to expand. The natural stone segment in particular is experiencing strong growth. Visitors can expect a wide variety of materials from German-speaking countries and international markets. Insight into current stone trends will be provided, among others, by renowned industry heavyweights such as Rossittis and Brachot. Exhibitors in this segment will present natural stones across various application areas, showcasing kitchen countertops, natural stone tiles and floor slabs, as well as massive façade elements.
Well-known names will also be present among the tool and technology suppliers at Stone+tec 2026. For full-range suppliers such as Ludwig Hietel GmbH & Co. KG, Stone+tec has been one of the most important trade fair participations for decades. As a leading technology exhibitor with a clear focus on the German-speaking market, the company uses the Nuremberg trade fair specifically as a central marketing and sales platform. Although the event is smaller in terms of exhibition space today than in the 1980s and 1990s, its thematic breadth remains intact, according to Managing Director Jens Niebergall:

“The combination of construction, memorials and technology continues to represent the natural stone industry in its entirety. Compared to other trade fairs, whose focus is more strongly on architecture and large-scale industrial production, Stone+tec offers a comprehensive overview – particularly by including the memorial sector. At the same time, we see the trade fair as the most important meeting point for German-speaking natural stone processors. In addition to the exhibition business, personal exchange is central for many visitors – reconnecting with long-standing partners, colleagues or former master-class students. This established, family-like atmosphere underlines the special significance of the event within the industry.”

Market Development: Investments Picking Up Again

After an overall restrained year in 2025, market signals for 2026 are clearly pointing upwards, according to Jens Niebergall. While consumables indicated stable capacity utilization in companies, the capital goods sector was marked by noticeable caution. Since the fourth quarter of 2025, however, the picture has changed: the willingness to invest has returned, and 2026 is already shaping up to be a strong year for machinery. Many stonemasonry businesses are entering the season with well-filled order books.

About Stone+tec – International Competence Forum for Natural Stone and Stone Technology

Stone+tec Nürnberg – the international trade fair for natural stone and stone technology – will take place from 17 to 20 June at Messe Nürnberg. Stone+tec addresses all stone processors from the fields of construction, cemetery, monument and design, as well as property developers, planners and architects. In addition to the exhibition itself, a forum in Hall 11, open to all visitors, provides professional information as well as opportunities for networking and further training. Since 2024, Stone+tec has been accompanied by Tile+tec, which offers products and solutions for tiles and design.
 

Text and Research: Richard Watzke