MACH 2026 — an event designed to inspire UK manufacturers

MACH 2026, the UK’s national event for inspiring, innovating and connecting manufacturing, returns to the NEC, Birmingham from 20-24 April 2026. As the UK’s longest-running exhibition of its kind, the show brings together over 500 leading exhibitors to showcase the broadest range of manufacturing technology solutions in the country. Its unique scale and scope make it an essential event for the sector, providing a platform for innovation, collaboration and industry insight.

The five-day event provides visitors with a perfect opportunity to explore the latest cutting-edge products and services, which can improve the efficiency and sustainability of business operations. The UK manufacturing industry plays a significant role in contributing to the success of the UK economy. There are over 325,000 small and medium-size UK manufacturing and engineering enterprises, which are recognised as the backbone of the UK economy.

This cross-industry event is specifically designed to address real manufacturing challenges, helping manufacturers navigate through issues such as rising operational costs, skills shortages, supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainty. MACH 2026 offers plenty of opportunities to discover and explore solutions that will help manufacturers remain competitive in this challenging environment.

The exhibition brings together organisations from across the UK and beyond, attracting professionals from all areas of manufacturing, including design and engineering, production and operations, maintenance and asset management, and supply chain management. This creates a valuable network of connections that operates in a wide range of rapidly evolving sectors, including aerospace, automotive, medical technology, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food, agriculture, defence, rail and transport.

Technologies and innovations
As the UK’s national showcase for the manufacturing community, MACH 2026 brings together exciting technologies and innovations for experienced machinery users to explore. At the same time, it provides those new to the industry with ample opportunities to learn, discover and engage with the innovative and thought-provoking world of manufacturing.

The exhibition offers live technology demonstrations, expert-led insights, and practical, sector-specific solutions. Visitors leave equipped with actionable knowledge and inspiration to enhance their businesses and drive innovation, helping them find solutions to their manufacturing challenges and prepare for the future.

MACH 2026 offers compelling reasons to attend this April. More than 500 exhibitors from across the manufacturing spectrum will showcase their latest innovations live and in action, from automation and robotics through to grinding, sheet metalworking and surface finishing. This will give visitors a first-hand experience of solutions that can enhance efficiency and performance within their businesses. The event also provides extensive networking opportunities, allowing visitors to connect directly with knowledgeable industry professionals.

Knowledge Hubs
In addition, MACH features an inspiring seminar programme led by leading industry experts, offering attendees the chance to gain insights, stay abreast of the latest industry developments, and benefit from a wealth of practical knowledge and expertise. Building on this learning and insight, MACH 2026 will also feature the improved Knowledge Hubs, offering attendees practical guidance and expert advice on the latest manufacturing technologies.

Strategically located across the show floor, the Knowledge Hubs will focus on key industry topics: automation and robotics, additive manufacturing (3-D printing), data and artificial intelligence (AI), and machining and tooling. MACH is owned and organised by the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), which also encompasses a cluster of organisations, including Engineering Supply Chain UK (ESCUK), Additive Manufacturing UK (AMUK) and MTA Training.

James Selka, CEO of the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), concluded: “Following the success of MACH 2024, the Knowledge Hubs return even bigger and better for 2026. These interactive hubs give manufacturers practical guidance on adopting new technologies, connecting them with experts and suppliers, and providing insights that drive productivity, efficiency and competitiveness.”

There is still time to register via the website here to get a free pre-registration pack — start planning your visit today.