04 Jun Photonics industry pushes for faster scale-up
At the Photonics Germany – Future Summit and Industry Meeting 2026, representatives from industry, research and politics emphasized the strategic importance of photonics and quantum technologies for Germany’s innovation ecosystem and industrial competitiveness. Held in Berlin on May 21, 2026, the event focused on how research achievements can be translated more effectively into industrial value creation and technological sovereignty.
Photonics Germany, the event organizer, is the joint alliance of Spectaris and OptecNet Deutschland. The organization represents the interests of Germany’s photonics and quantum technology sectors in discussions with policymakers, industry stakeholders and international partners, while advocating improved framework conditions for funding, regulation and workforce development.
Beyond Development: Scaling Up Production
Representatives from leading companies and research organizations, including Zeiss, Jenoptik, Trumpf, ASML, Hensoldt and the Fraunhofer Society, discussed current developments in quantum technologies, space applications, security and satellite-based communications.
Gitta Connemann, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, described photonics as a key technology for numerous future-oriented industries, including microelectronics, medical technology, aerospace and quantum communications. According to Connemann, Germany is home to more than 1,000 photonics companies employing around 190,000 people and generating annual revenues of approximately €50 billion.
According to Spectaris Managing Director Jörg Mayer, Germany benefits from a strong research landscape and internationally competitive companies. The next challenge, he noted, is to further develop the framework conditions so that new technologies are not only invented in Germany but can also be manufactured at scale within the country.
“Germany has excellent research capabilities and strong companies in this field. The key challenge now is ensuring that we can scale up our innovations in Germany in the future,” Mayer said during the event.
Andreas Ehrhardt, Board Member of OptecNet Deutschland, also emphasized the importance of close collaboration between industry, academia and policymakers. He noted that the Photonics Germany alliance has developed into Europe’s largest national photonics platform and aims to further strengthen the sector’s competitiveness.
Regular Exchange Among Decision-Makers
The Photonics Germany Future Summit is held every two years and brings together key stakeholders from across the photonics industry. Discussions focus on current economic and technological developments and on the role of photonics in addressing broader societal challenges.
Image: OptecBB
Source: www.spectaris.de