The development of drugs is lengthy, complex and expensive. Approaches from organ-on-a-chip research promise to shorten the time to approval of new active ingredients. Together with experts from TU Darmstadt, Festo has developed an exhibit that demonstrates the automated production of such mini-organs: A bioprinter applies human cell material to a microfluidic chip, on which organ-like tissue then grows. Festo is combining two future technologies for the first time: SupraMotion and Diffusion Bonded Manifolds.

At Next-Gen Life Science Automation, Festo is researching new solutions for medical technology and laboratory automation. At Hannover Messe 2026, Festo and Fraunhofer IPA will be demonstrating the construction of a cassette for the process step of modifying cells in CAR-T cell therapy. Automation significantly reduces manufacturing times and costs, making individualized cancer therapies faster, cheaper and available to more patients.

Festo, one of the world's leading manufacturers of automation technology, is fully integrating Eichenberger Gewinde AG from Burg in Switzerland as of April 1, 2026. In future, the Swiss company will operate under the name "Festo Gewindetriebe AG".

"Seamless Automation combines our broad-based solution portfolio with end-to-end connectivity and an intuitive digital experience for our customers," explains Frank Notz, Chief Sales Officer at Festo. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of seamless automation at the Festo stand in Hall 13 at the Hannover Messe.