44 n MACH PREVIEW April 2026 www.drivesncontrols.com Where the UK’s manufacturing sector comes together Mach 2026, the UK’s national event for inspiring, innovating and connecting manufacturing, returns to the NEC Birmingham from 20-24 April. As the UK’s longest-running exhibition of its kind, Mach will bring together more than 500 exhibitors to showcase the broadest range of manufacturing technologies. The five-day event’s unique scale and scope provide a platform for innovation, collaboration and industry insights. The event provides attendees with an ideal opportunity to explore the latest cutting-edge products and services which can improve the efficiency and sustainability of their businesses. Mach is owned and organised by the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), which incorporates a cluster of organisations including Engineering Supply Chain UK (ESCUK), Additive Manufacturing UK (AMUK) and MTA Training. The UK manufacturing industry plays a significant role in contributing to the success of the UK economy. There are more than 325,000 small and medium-sized UK manufacturing and engineering enterprises, which are regarded by many as being the backbone of the UK economy. The cross-industry Mach event is designed to address real manufacturing challenges, helping manufacturers to navigate through issues such as rising costs, skills shortages, supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainty. It offers opportunities to discover and explore technologies that will help manufacturers to remain competitive in this challenging environment. Mach 2026 will bring 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. It creates a valuable network of connections in sectors including aerospace, automotive, medical technology, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food, agriculture, defence, rail and transport. As the UK’s national showcase for the manufacturing community, Mach offers exciting developments 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 includes live technology demonstrations, expert-led insights, and sector-specific technologies. Attendees will leave the event equipped with knowledge and inspiration to enhance their businesses and to drive innovation, helping them find answers to their manufacturing challenges. More than 500 exhibitors from across the manufacturing spectrum will showcase their latest innovations live and in action, from automation and robotics, to grinding, sheet metal working, and surface finishing. This will give attendees first-hand experience of how they can enhance the efficiency and performance of their businesses. The event also offers extensive networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect directly with knowledgeable industry professionals. The show includes a seminar programme led by 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 incorporate improved Knowledge Hubs, offering attendees practical guidance and expert advice on the latest manufacturing technologies. Located throughout the show, these Hubs will focus on key topics, including: automation and robotics; additive manufacturing and 3D printing; data and AI; and machining and tooling. “Following the success of Mach 2024, the Knowledge Hubs return even bigger and better,”says MTA CEO, James Selka. “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.’ n Next month’s Mach 2026 manufacturing event will showcase a wide range of technologies, live and in action, as well as offering expert insights and the opportunity to catch up on the latest developments through a series of Knowledge Hubs around the show. SHOW FACTS Where: NEC, Birmingham When: 20–24 April, 2026 Entry: Free (register on Web site) Web site: www.machexhibition.com X: https://twitter.com/MACHexhibition LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/mach-exhibition Facebook: www.facebook.com/MACHExhibition Instagram: www.instagram.com/machexhibition
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