08 Aug, 2023

UK Manufacturing Trade Shows: Which One Should You Exhibit?

If you’re a manufacturer, supply chain operator or distributor you’ve probably attended a few events – both as a visitor and exhibitor.

If you’re thinking of exhibiting in 2026, you need to know the best expos to attend. Here are some of the key benefits of attending a trade show:

Trade shows create a lasting impression if you do them right.
Trade shows are the best face-to-face marketing tactics you can use to promote your business.
Trade shows help you generate leads for your business.
Trade shows target specific audiences and key decision-makers, so you know you’re connecting with the right people.
Trade shows CAN help you make money despite investment costs.
Small and big businesses have access to the same pool of people, so everyone can exhibit regardless of business size.

Here’s our updated list of notable UK manufacturing and engineering trade shows for 2026, so you can choose wisely:

UK Manufacturing Trade Shows: Which One Should You Exhibit?

1. LAMMA 2026

What is it?: LAMMA brings together the whole of the farming community in one busy event with over 40,000 visitors. In the UK’s premier agricultural machinery and technology event, there are 11 halls packed with new ideas and cutting-edge equipment and over 700 exhibitors showcasing the latest tractors, combines, drills and cultivation kit and a wide range of other products and tools.

Who should exhibit?: Agri-tech firms, farming machinery manufacturers, and agricultural equipment suppliers.

When & where?: 14–15 January 2026 at NEC Birmingham.

Website: https://www.lammashow.com/

2. MACH 2026

What is it?: The UK's national exhibition for manufacturing technologies—automation, engineering, and innovation all under one roof.

Who should exhibit?: Companies focused on digital manufacturing, robotics, additive manufacturing, and industrial innovation.

When and where?: 20–24 April 2026 at NEC Birmingham.

Website: https://www.machexhibition.com/

3. Smart Manufacturing Week 2026

What is it?: A festival celebrating advanced manufacturing—from hardware to software, with peer discussions, demos, and expert content.

Who should exhibit?: Suppliers of smart tech, AI-driven manufacturing solutions, industrial software, and automation.

When and where?: 3–4 June 2026 at NEC Birmingham.

Website: https://www.smartmanufacturingweek.com/

4. Subcon 2026 (Manufacturing Solutions Show)

What is it?: The UK's largest supply chain and subcontract manufacturing expo - connecting buyers with suppliers across sectors.

Who should exhibit?: Subcontractors, component suppliers, engineering solution providers, and manufacturers serving multiple verticals.

When and where?: 3–4 June 2026 at NEC Birmingham.

Website: https://www.subconshow.co.uk/

5. IFE Manufacturing 2026 (Part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week)

What is it?: A key event for food & drink product development - bringing together brand owners, manufacturers, and innovation experts

Who should exhibit?: Suppliers, advanced engineering companies and businesses that can offer sound strategy advice to manufacturers.

When and where ?: 30 March–1 April 2026 at ExCeL London.

Website: https://www.ifemanufacturing.co.uk/

6. Wales Manufacturing & Supply Chain Expo 2026

What is it?: A brand-new regional expo showcasing manufacturing, supply chain and engineering solutions.

Who should exhibit?: Suppliers and manufacturers looking to grow across Wales and the wider UK.

When and where ?: 26 February 2026, ICC Wales.

Website: https://www.manufacturingevent.com/premier-manufacturing-supply-chain-expo-expands-to-wales-in-2026/

7. Farnborough International Airshow 2026

What is it?: One of the world’s biggest aerospace and defence shows, featuring flying displays, innovations and networking.

Who should exhibit?: Aerospace manufacturers, defence contractors and supply chain partners.

When & where?: 20–24 July 2026, Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre.

Website: https://www.farnboroughairshow.com/

Which Show Are you Attending this Year?

Regardless of your manufacturing niche, there’s a show for you to attend this year. Once you’ve determined which show you’re going to attend, you can start planning.

Start thinking about:

Creating a primary goal for your event
Picking your exhibitor space
Commissioning someone to design and build your booth
Designing trade show banner and handouts
Selecting booth staff
Arranging transport
Creating a list of supplies
Marketing your appearance at the show

FAQs About UK Manufacturing Trade Shows in 2026

How much does it cost to exhibit at a trade show in the UK?

Costs vary depending on venue size, stand design and extras. Smaller regional shows may cost a few thousand pounds, while major exhibitions like MACH or Farnborough can run well into five figures once you factor in stand space, logistics and marketing.

Are trade shows worth it for small businesses?

Yes — many shows provide affordable stand packages, and smaller exhibitors benefit from access to the same decision-makers as big brands. With the right stand and pre-event promotion, even SMEs can generate high-value leads.

What are trade show stands?

A trade show stand (sometimes called a booth) is the exhibition space where businesses showcase their products or services. A professional stand design helps attract footfall and boosts brand credibility.

What should I do to prepare for exhibiting?

Key steps include setting a clear event goal, booking the right space, investing in a strong stand design, preparing promotional materials, training booth staff, arranging logistics, and marketing your attendance before the show.