“For us, MedtecLIVE serves as a barometer, a sounding board, and a reality check all at once.”

Anyone who speaks with Stephan Hüwel immediately senses his close connection to the medical technology market. As Head of Sales and Marketing at JÜKE Systemtechnik GmbH, he operates in an industry that functions differently from others in many ways: development cycles are demanding, regulatory requirements are strict, and quality standards and reliability are non-negotiable. Changes along the supply chain often have immediate implications for safety, regulatory approval, and market access. It is precisely this close interplay of technological innovation, regulatory safety, and reliable production that makes medical technology a particularly sensitive and, at the same time, highly dynamic market environment. It is exactly this interconnection that makes the market so demanding. For him, MedtecLIVE is therefore more than just an industry gathering. It is the place where relevant developments converge, perspectives can be compared, and valuable guidance for strategic decisions emerges. 

Mr. Hüwel, how important are trade shows like MedtecLIVE to your company? 

Before we delve into technological and regulatory developments, Stephan Hüwel first explains why trade shows are so important to JÜKE. From his perspective at the trade show, he sees it primarily as a place where theory and practice converge: “Trade shows like MedtecLIVE serve as a central marketplace for us—a place for orientation, exchange, and initiating concrete projects. There, we meet decision-makers, developers, and buyers across the entire value chain—from concept and engineering to contract manufacturing and regulatory affairs.” He particularly emphasizes the value of dialogue: simply reading about requirements and trends is one thing—understanding them through direct conversation is another. It is precisely this that leads to “robust use cases, partnerships, and orders” for JÜKE. 

Before we discuss technological and regulatory developments, Stephan Hüwel explains why trade shows like MedtecLIVE play a central role for JÜKE. For him, they are far more than just traditional industry gatherings: they bring together precisely the topics that shape the medical technology sector—innovation, regulatory compliance, quality, and feasibility. “MedtecLIVE is a key platform for us for orientation, exchange, and initiating concrete projects. There, we meet decision-makers, developers, and buyers across the entire value chain—from the initial idea through engineering and production to regulatory affairs.” For him, the trade show’s true value lies in direct dialogue. After all, requirements and trends can not only be analyzed but, above all, precisely categorized through personal exchange—and it is precisely this that gives rise to sustainable partnerships and new projects. 

In your opinion, what trends will shape MedtecLIVE 2026? 

Amid regulatory pressure, geopolitical tensions, and rapid technological change, Stephan Hüwel identifies three trends that will have a particularly significant impact on MedtecLIVE 2026 in Stuttgart. 

“In my view, three trends stand out: the productive use of AI, geopolitical conditions conducive to stable and ‘unencumbered’ supply and trade relationships, and cybersecurity as a key prerequisite for regulatory approval and market access.” 

He clearly outlines these areas: 

• By 2026, AI will finally move from vision to implementation. 
• Global uncertainties require more resilient production and procurement strategies. 
• Cybersecurity will finally take center stage in product development due to EU regulation. 

According to Hüwel, these areas of tension “will be reflected in solutions, best practices, and very concrete project questions at the trade show.” 

Which trends do you consider particularly forward-looking? 

Looking ahead, it becomes clear just how closely technology, regulation, and supply chains in the medical technology sector are now intertwined—and what dynamics this will create in the coming years.  

“In my view, five key trends are emerging for the coming years: First, AI and automation are moving from pilot projects into full-scale production. Second, cybersecurity-by-design is gaining importance because the EU Cyber Resilience Act structurally embeds lifecycle obligations. Third, supply chain resilience is becoming a strategic engineering issue. Fourth, data access and interoperability are taking center stage. Fifth, material and sustainability requirements are having a noticeably greater influence on product development.” 

His response makes it clear that the industry has reached a point where innovation must be viewed in the context of new regulatory, technological, and structural requirements. 

How do the insights and discussions from MedtecLIVE influence your product strategy? 

This clearly demonstrates how directly trade show experiences influence engineering practice and strategic positioning.  

“For us, MedtecLIVE serves as both an early warning system and a reality check. We take away very concrete insights from our conversations: What new technical possibilities are available for innovative device design? What functionalities are possible and in demand? Some of this can be directly incorporated into our client projects. Sometimes it comes down to individual discussions at the booth”. 

For JÜKE, the trade show thus serves as a direct reflection of the market, where theoretical analyses and personal conversations come together to form a particularly precise overall picture. 

What added value does MedtecLIVE offer you compared to other formats? 

In the end, it becomes clear why, in Hüwel’s view, MedtecLIVE clearly stands out from other event formats on the market.  

“Its greatest strength is its focus. In a short amount of time, you get a clear overview of all relevant topics—without any wasted effort. Precisely because it’s compact, it quickly fosters in-depth and meaningful conversations. In addition, the trade show has a strong European focus and promotes collaboration within the European medtech ecosystem. For us, as a company active in regulated markets and committed to partnership-based collaboration, this is a significant advantage.” 

If you want to do more than just observe the medical technology of tomorrow—if you want to actively shape it—MedtecLIVE 2026 is the perfect setting for you. Meet experts like Stephan Hüwel, experience innovations firsthand, and make connections that will advance your next development project. 

Secure your ticket for MedtecLIVE 2026 today and become part of the European medtech ecosystem.