The PPMA Show® 2026 has closed to superb feedback from visitors, with organisers Automate UK reporting an enthusiastic response to the launch of the comprehensive, co-located show taking its place next year.
The UK’s biggest processing and packaging machinery, robotics and industrial vision event, which took place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 22-24 September, showcased more than 350 exhibitors and 1,500 brands, and hosted an extensive programme of innovation and expertise courtesy of guest speakers.
Scott McKenna, Chief Operating Officer at Automate UK, said he was delighted with the response from attendees.
“This year was the 39th year we’ve hosted the PPMA Show®, and every year we are committed to delivering an experience that surpasses its predecessor. Once again, we are thrilled with the feedback we’ve received from exhibitors and visitors alike, and proud of the environment we created to inspire a new generation entering the industry, engage with those already operating with it and showcase the next phase of innovation to look forward to.
“As expected, our keynote addresses from Dr Kevin Fong, Jeremy Schwartz and Martin McCourt generated record attendance from visitors keen to hear about their experiences and learn from their expertise, while the comprehensive calendar of seminars we organised attracted a great deal of engagement from visitors”
Scott said that the show also acted as an official platform to launch Automate UK Week, which will be the organisation’s first combined exhibition, taking place in September 2027.
The event, taking place from 28-30 September, will bring both of its award-winning PPMA and UK Automation Shows under one roof in a strategic step forward to create an integrated, future-focused event that reflects the evolving needs of the industry.
Scott added: “Automate UK Week has been a long time in development, and we felt that the 40th anniversary of hosting the UK’s leading events for the industrial automation sector was an opportune time to bring it to fruition.
“Taking place across two halls at the NEC, it will focus on every aspect influencing the industry, from traditional manufacturing, processing and packaging applications, right through to AMRs, warehouse automation, logistics systems and the enabling technologies that sit around them.
“Our team has discussed the new event at length with exhibitors and visitors over the past week, and we are thrilled with the response to our continued commitment to showcasing the latest innovations, developing connections and supporting growth across the sector, with a significant number of exhibitors taking advantage of early-bird booking rates to secure prime spots at the show,” he added.
In co-locating its flagship shows to create a ‘super-show’, Automate UK aims to establish a one-stop shop for industrial automation in the UK, enabling exhibitors and visitor to maximise their experience and get the best possible return on their investment.
Automate UK Week will take place in Halls 1 and 5 at the NEC. For further details, and to book, visit: https://www.automate-uk.com
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