Formnext, the world’s leading exhibition for additive manufacturing (AM), has named the UK as its partner country for the 2026 event. Scheduled for 17–20 November 2026 in Germany,
Formnext will once again serve as the global hub for AM, industrial 3-D printing and next-generation intelligent manufacturing solutions.
Additive Manufacturing UK (AMUK), the only trade body representing UK companies in this sector, will lead the UK’s presence and showcase the nation’s innovation and leadership.
Formnext brings together more than 800 exhibitors covering every stage of the additive manufacturing process chain, with 61% of participants from international companies. Over four days, the event attracts more than 34,000 visitors from across key manufacturing sectors, nearly half travelling from outside Germany. Each year, organisers select a partner country based on a detailed assessment of global additive manufacturing activity, considering industry size, user sectors and the scale of R&D and innovation. The position is awarded to a nation demonstrating a rapidly expanding AM market supported by a dynamic and well-connected industry community.
Joshua Dugdale, head of AMUK, said “We are delighted that the UK has been selected as
Formnext’s partner country for the 2026 expo, and AMUK is excited to be representing the UK. AM has enormous potential to transform the way we design and produce parts and products. That’s why we support our members and the wider UK industry across the entire AM value chain, whilst also educating potential users about the opportunities this technology offers. The UK AM industry is set for significant growth, driven by benefits such as reduced waste, greater efficiency and lower production costs for small-batch manufacturing.”
The UK currently holds around 4–5.5% of the global AM market, valued between $0.90 billion (£720 million) and $1.22 billion (£900 million). Based on the level of R&D being undertaken, this share could rise to 7%, representing a market worth more than $6 billion by 2030.
National pavilionAMUK will lead the UK’s presence at
Formnext 2026 through a dedicated national pavilion and a coordinated programme of events. This partnership will highlight the UK’s advanced capabilities in AM and provide a significant platform for UK businesses to connect with global industry leaders, explore new markets and foster international collaboration.
Mr Dugdale said: “I would encourage all AMUK members and companies within the wider AM sector to take up this fantastic opportunity to exhibit at
Formnext 2026. Any companies that book well in advance can take advantage of a
Formnext early-bird discount.”
This collaboration reflects the UK’s growing influence in the global AM landscape and underlines the sector’s strategic importance to the country’s advanced manufacturing ambitions. AMUK aims to strengthen the UK’s international reputation for innovation, research excellence and industrial capability, positioning the nation as a leading contributor to the future of intelligent manufacturing worldwide.