MACH 2026, the UK’s national event for inspiring, innovating and connecting manufacturing, continued the strong momentum generated by the 2024 exhibition, with 26,000 attending the show again. This generated a terrific atmosphere at the show, with attendees taking advantage of the fantastic opportunity to network and explore all the great features on offer.
Held at the NEC Birmingham in April, the exhibition once again featured an impressive display of new machinery and advanced manufacturing technologies under one roof. Over 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 new technologies.
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.
Additionally, the CPD-accredited seminars provided attendees with practical insights into emerging technologies, evolving market trends and strategic approaches that can strengthen competitiveness and unlock new growth opportunities.
James Selka, CEO of the MTA, said: “Our core focus was to ensure this year’s show was designed to guide and support manufacturers in navigating challenges such as rising operational costs, skills shortages, supply chain disruption and geopolitical uncertainty. I believe we achieved that, and more, with 26,000 attendees seeking ways to remain competitive in the current challenging and uncertain environment in which we operate.”
Show highlights
The first day of MACH saw Mission Community, in partnership with the MTA, launch a new industry guide aimed at helping armed forces leavers transition into careers within the manufacturing sector.
Headline sponsor Lloyds welcomed senior representatives from HMRC for a guided tour of the exhibition. The visit highlighted the scale, innovation and industry significance of the event, whilst providing an opportunity for meaningful discussions around manufacturing, investment and future collaboration.
The MTA team was honoured to welcome His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh to the show, where he toured the exhibition and met exhibitors. His presence further emphasised the importance of the manufacturing and engineering sectors across the UK.
On the final day of MACH, the MTA was pleased to host the Minister of State for Skills, The Rt Hon Baroness Smith of Malvern,andthe Shadow Minister for Business and Trade, Dame Harriett Baldwin, for a guided tour of the exhibition. Their visit reinforced the show’s importance in showcasing opportunities to support manufacturers in addressing key challenges, including skills shortages and rising operational costs.
MACH 2028 takes place from 3–7 April 2028 at the NEC Birmingham. For more information, please visit:
