EVENT REPORT
MACH IN FOCUS
Over 500 exhibitors and 26,000 visitors attended MACH 2026 from 20-24 April 2026 in the UK. ISMR was an international media partner at the event.
MACH 2026 showcased the strengths of UK manufacturing with demonstrations, seminars, Technology Zones, Knowledge Hubs and a new Speakers Corner.”
MACH 2026, a UK national event for inspiring, innovating and connecting manufacturing, attracted 26,000 visitors from 20-24 April 2026 at the NEC in Birmingham, UK. ISMR was an international media partner of the trade show.
“ More than 500 exhibitors showcased cutting-edge solutions, live demonstrations and new product launches, creating an exciting and forward-looking environment for manufacturers and engineers seeking to invest in technologies shaping the industry’ s future,” the show organiser, MTA( the Manufacturing Technologies Association), told ISMR. The MTA encompasses a cluster of organisations, including Engineering Supply Chain UK( ESCUK), Additive Manufacturing UK( AMUK) and MTA Training.
MACH brought together suppliers of machine tools; cutting tools; metrology equipment; additive manufacturing( 3Dprinting); surface engineering; robotics and automation; sheet metal; metal forming and
James Selka, CEO of the MTA.
fabrication technology; and specialist software.
“ The show provided attendees with valuable opportunities to explore the benefits of adopting new technologies, alongside practical guidance on improving productivity, increasing efficiency and reducing operational costs. This was particularly relevant considering the difficult trading conditions faced by the UK manufacturing sector,” continued the MTA.
The MACH exhibition floor was organised into several dedicated technology zones including sheet metal; metalworking and fabrication; tooling; automation and robotics; additive manufacturing and a wide range of other specialist areas. The Sheet Metal, Metalworking & Fabrication Zone was colocated with the well-established MMMA Village, which is hosted by the Metalworking Machinery Makers’ Association( MMMA), the UK’ s dedicated trade association for the industry.
Seminars and Speakers Corner
The MACH 2026 seminar programme was designed to inform and educate manufacturers, featuring a strong line-up of expert and leading speakers. The seminars, all of which were CPD-accredited, provided attendees with practical insights into emerging technologies, evolving market trends and strategic approaches that can drive productivity, strengthen competitiveness and unlock new growth opportunities. The sessions also delivered actionable knowledge to help businesses enhance operations, improve efficiency and future-proof their organisations in an increasingly competitive global market.
A new feature at MACH 2026 was the launch of Speakers Corner, a dedicated platform designed to connect attendees directly with exhibitors and their innovations. These fast-paced presentations gave visitors immediate access to the latest products, services and technological advancements driving UK manufacturing forward. The format enabled attendees to quickly absorb new ideas, engage with experts and gain practical answers to their challenges.
14 | ismr. net | ISMR June 2026