Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for electronics manufacturing in the UK and Ireland, has announced a comprehensive programme of more than 25 expert presentations for Factory of the Future 2026, offering practical insight into the latest manufacturing technologies, processes and equipment investment decisions.
Taking place from 22–24 September at
EMPEL Systems in Milton Keynes, the event will combine presentations from leading industry specialists with live equipment demonstrations, factory tours and opportunities for one-to-one technical discussions.
Each day will focus on a different stage of the electronics manufacturing process. The opening day will cover SMT assembly, followed by through-hole assembly on day two and back-end manufacturing and component management on the final day.
Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: “Investing in manufacturing equipment involves much more than comparing individual machines. Companies need to understand how a technology will fit into their production environment, the problems it can solve and the improvements it can deliver.
“The presentations will give visitors direct access to specialists with extensive knowledge of their respective processes. They will be able to hear about current developments, ask questions about their own applications and gather useful information to support future manufacturing plans. Combined with the equipment demonstrations and discussions available throughout the event, this will make Factory of the Future a highly informative three days for electronics manufacturers.”
The programme will begin on 22 September with a focus on SMT assembly, including the UK electronics manufacturing sector and the practical considerations involved in bringing PCB assembly in-house.
Further presentations will cover developments in pick-and-place technology, AI-powered 3D inspection, vacuum reflow, flexible SMT assembly, vapour phase soldering and smart material handling.
Day two will turn to through-hole assembly, with specialists discussing subjects including hybrid SMT and THT production, inspection of through-hole components, selective soldering, robotic automation and digital work instructions.
The final day will focus on back-end processes and component management. Topics will include post-reflow cleaning, conformal coating and potting, depaneling, nano-coating technology, component storage, traceability and automated material logistics.
Speakers will be available throughout the event for individual discussions, giving visitors the opportunity to ask questions and discuss specific production requirements or manufacturing challenges.
Alongside the presentations, an exhibition area will bring together equipment manufacturers and suppliers from across the electronics industry. Visitors will also be able to see equipment and processes in operation through live demonstrations, hands-on sessions and factory tours.
To view the full programme and register for Factory of the Future 2026, visit
www.altusgroup.co.uk/FoF