steinexpo 2026: Inside Europe’s Largest Basalt Quarry

After the record-breaking 2023 edition, steinexpo is preparing for its next chapter in 2026. In an exclusive interview with LECTURA Press, Dominik Rese, Managing Director of steinexpo, explains what makes the exhibition venue so unique, how the event is evolving, and why live demonstrations in an active basalt quarry remain one of steinexpo’s strongest advantages. The interview looks back at the record-breaking success of steinexpo 2023, while also outlining the main focus areas for 2026: efficiency, digitalisation, automation, energy supply solutions and artificial intelligence.

Patrik Eder: What makes the steinexpo venue unique?

Dominik Rese: The unique feature of the steinexpo exhibition grounds is undoubtedly that steinexpo takes place in the heart of Europe’s largest basalt quarry, within an active extraction operation.

Through the live demonstrations, trade visitors have the unique opportunity to experience firsthand the performance and capabilities of the machines and equipment under real-world operating conditions.

In addition to the demonstration aspect, the impressive setting itself is a major highlight: spread across three elevation levels and four demonstration areas, visitors can explore solutions tailored directly to their specific applications, while engaging with the appropriate technical experts and industry specialists on site.

PE: Looking back at steinexpo 2023, what were the biggest achievements or highlights from that edition?

DR: In 2023, following a six-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we recorded a record-breaking steinexpo: with 61,700 visitors, 305 exhibitors, and approximately 185,000 m² of exhibition space, all expectations were significantly exceeded. A particular highlight was the inaugural presentation of the “QuarryVision” Innovation Park, which established a strong thematic focus for the event.

PE: What are the primary themes and focus areas for steinexpo 2026?

DR: The topics covered at steinexpo are highly diverse, reflecting the broad range of products and solutions on display. Among the key focus areas, the long-standing priorities of increasing efficiency, digitalization, and automation remain firmly at the forefront. In addition, energy supply solutions and the integration of artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly important.

As has always been the case at steinexpo, the practical benefits for quarries, gravel plants, and building materials producers remain the central focus. The emphasis is on showcasing solutions that deliver tangible value and can be directly applied in day-to-day operations.

PE: What can visitors anticipate in terms of new features or experiences at the 2026 edition?

DR: For steinexpo 2026, we have implemented a number of new features and improvements. The most noticeable change is undoubtedly the new steinexpo branding, including a redesigned logo and additional visual elements.

There have also been several updates on site: from the new arrival and traffic concept featuring the new North Main Parking Area, to the decentralized placement of the QuarryVision 2.6 innovation exhibits and a completely new catering concept.

In addition, numerous innovations can be found across all demonstration areas. In short, a great deal has changed, making steinexpo 2026 more modern, visitor-friendly, and innovative than ever before.

PE: Could you provide details on the expected number of visitors and exhibitors for steinexpo 2026?

DR: It is no secret that the current global political and economic environment is presenting the raw materials and construction materials industry with new challenges. Against this backdrop, we expect visitor attendance to be at a level similar to that of 2023.

The significant post-pandemic increase we experienced between 2017 and 2023 is unlikely to be repeated in terms of visitor numbers. The situation is different on the exhibitor side, however. Here, we are currently heading toward an increase of approximately 10% compared to 2023.

Overall, these figures reflect the continued strength and importance of steinexpo as a leading industry platform, even amid challenging market conditions.

PE: Looking ahead, what is your vision for the future of steinexpo beyond 2026?

DR: The next steinexpo will take place in late August / early September 2029. For this edition, we will develop a new site planning concept and introduce numerous innovations, both in the digital sphere and in the on-site execution and overall event design.

Trade visitors can look forward to further developments and exciting new features. While it is still too early to reveal specific details, steinexpo 2029 will continue to evolve in line with the industry's changing requirements and expectations.