Subcon — a key gateway to the future of manufacturing

Subcon, which takes place 5-6 June at the NEC, Birmingham, is the premier event for buyers across all sectors of UK manufacturing. As a cornerstone event for the industry, the show is an ideal platform for visitors to source their next manufacturing solutions from a wide variety of exhibitors. With over 150 sub-contractors and outsourced engineering services, Subcon is an event that has something for everyone.

New this year is a refreshed and innovative format, with new features introduced to adapt and enhance the experience for both visitors and exhibitors alike. Attendees can look forward to a packed programme of interactive CPD-accredited workshops, cutting-edge product demonstrations, and insightful keynote presentations. Additionally, visitors can engage in meaningful discussions through round table sessions that are designed to foster collaboration and idea-sharing. Whether visitors are looking to benchmark their capabilities, seeking innovative solutions, or simply looking to stay ahead of the game, Subcon is a key gateway to the future of manufacturing.

Those attending will have the opportunity to meet with over 150 leading UK and international suppliers, all under one roof, who will be showcasing the latest innovations and solutions available in a range of sectors, including CNC machining, metal fabrication, electronics, component parts, and more, all dedicated to advancing the capabilities of the supply chain.

Thousands of new products and innovations will be on display across the full range of advanced engineering technology, systems and services — from additive manufacturing (AM) and metrology solutions to frictionless bearings, cables and controls, and everything in between. This is a show geared to help manufacturers to increase capacity, optimise productivity, improve flexibility, and remain competitive.

New for 2024, Subcon has announced a significant enhancement to its conference and workshop programme, with the introduction of different session formats that will take place within three specialised areas that are designed to cater to a wide range of interests and professional needs within the manufacturing industry: the Innovation Zone; Workshops and Learning Space; and the Manufacturing Insights Theatre.

CPD accredited
Additionally, the programme is now officially CPD accredited, ensuring attendees can gain valuable professional development credits while engaging with top industry experts and cutting-edge technologies. Visitors can attend insightful keynote presentations and engage in lively panel discussions at the Manufacturing Insights Theatre. This forum will feature thought leaders discussing the latest trends and challenges in manufacturing. Each session includes interactive Q&A segments, making it a dynamic platform for learning and engagement.

Attendees can experience hands-on learning with round table discussions and sector-focused peer-to-peer meetings in the Workshops and Learning Space. Tailored to address specific industry challenges, these sessions offer practical insights and networking opportunities, facilitated by industry experts. Meanwhile, the Innovation Zone area is dedicated to hands-on demonstrations, showing how new technologies and products operate in real-time. It is the perfect place to see ‘cutting edge’ innovations in action and discover how they can enhance manufacturing processes.

New features at Subcon will include: motorsport simulators and a prize draw — visitors will have the chance to compete against each other in professional motorsport simulators operated by FP Zero, and enjoy the thrilling world of F1 racing right on the exhibition floor. The fastest lap will also win a PalmerSport Driving Day Experience valued at over £600.

Furthermore, there will be dedicated work and meeting spaces — visitors needing a quiet spot for a meeting or just to catch up on emails will be able to take a break in these areas. All visitors, exhibitors, and speakers are also invited to unwind at a drinks reception, complete with entertainment, starting at 5pm on the first day of the exhibition.

Another new feature for 2024, the Subcon Manufacturing Solutions Show Awards, is set to take place within the exhibition on Thursday, 6 June. The awards are designed to celebrate the best and brightest in the industry, are free to attend, and are open to all visitors.

Award categories include: Start-up of the Year; UK Manufacturing Partner of the Year; International Manufacturing Partner of the Year; Product Innovation of the Year; The Rising Star Award; and Lifetime Achievement Award.

Registration for Subcon is free at the website here.