The UK’s largest annual gathering of engineering and manufacturing professionals is back and bigger than ever, and it’s not long until the doors open. Advanced Engineering 2025 returns to the NEC, Birmingham on 29 & 30 October, offering a powerful platform for the entire industrial ecosystem to connect, collaborate and chart the future of high-value manufacturing.
With over 400 exhibitors, including 130 new and 200+ expert speakers, this year’s show is poised to reflect the fast-changing needs of UK industry — from Net Zero targets and digital transformation to skills development and supply chain resilience.
A pivotal moment for UK manufacturing
This year’s event lands just months after the UK Government announced a 10-year industrial strategy that promises to reduce electricity costs by up to 25 per cent for more than 7,000 manufacturing firms, while unlocking billions in investment for R&D, AI and energy infrastructure.
The renewed long-term focus on industry is energising the sector — and Advanced Engineering is where that momentum will be felt most.
“Every year, we see the latest innovations on display and the energy from exhibitors and attendees proves just how important this event is,” said Simon Farnfield, Event Director at Easyfairs UK & Global. “The 2025 edition is set to deliver even more value for visitors and exhibitors alike.”
Innovation takes centre stage — especially for SMEs
For 2025, a key focus is on real-world problem-solving — and the SMEs leading the way. From cutting-edge automation and embedded systems to advanced composites and semiconductors, small and mid-sized innovators are given a major platform to shine.
The SME Village is one of several show zones that will champion early-stage innovation, allowing agile manufacturers to exhibit side-by-side with sector leaders. Nearby, the Electronics Zone and the AM2 Forum (Additive Manufacturing and Advanced Materials) offer even more opportunities to explore cutting-edge technology.
A growing focus on composites
This year also sees the return — and significant expansion — of the Composites Pavilion, now in its fourth year and fully booked well ahead of the event. Delivered in partnership with Composites UK, the pavilion offers easy-access pods for companies to exhibit with confidence. The surrounding Composites Networking Zone adds even more visibility, drawing in OEMs from aerospace, automotive, marine and renewable energy sectors.
“Composites UK’s partnership with Advanced Engineering is essential as it highlights the transformative potential of composite materials, fosters innovation and creates valuable business connections that contribute to the growth and development of the composite manufacturing sector,” said Dr Sue Halliwell, operations manager at Composites UK.
Live demonstrations from PRF Composite Materials will also headline the pavilion, showcasing high-performance prepreg systems and recycled carbon solutions. Meanwhile, the Composites Forum, reimagined for 2025, will present two full days of expert-led content on sustainability, material circularity and product innovation — all designed to help the sector collaborate more effectively and push its net-zero ambitions forward.
Connecting buyers and suppliers
Another highlight of this year’s event is the return of the Meet the Buyer programme, developed in collaboration with ADS Group. Taking place inside the ADS Pavilion, this curated matchmaking initiative pairs OEM procurement teams with suppliers across the advanced manufacturing industry.
Last year, more than 100 suppliers and 18 major buyer representatives took part — and 2025 is expected to raise the bar again. Successful applicants will benefit from pre-arranged one-to-one meetings, tailored introductions and a dedicated networking lunch, helping to build long-term relationships and unlock new business.
Smart factory transformation, front and centre
Advanced Engineering also sees the return of Atlas Copco as sponsor of the Automotive & Aerospace Networking Lounge. A standout feature from last year’s show, the lounge will again host demonstrations and discussions around Smart Factory transformation, covering automation, vision inspection, data-driven analysis and sustainable production.
“By harnessing digitalisation and advanced tooling, manufacturers are reshaping their production environments,” said Jessica Porter, Marketing & Comms Manager at Atlas Copco Tools & Industrial Assembly Solutions. “It’s all about making sustainability, productivity and profitability work together — not in isolation.”
Addressing the skills gap
As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting the UK’s industrial future, the show will also continue its #MINDTHEskillsGAP initiative. The campaign brings together industry, education and government to tackle the talent shortage in engineering and manufacturing. Visitors can expect a series of sessions, workshops and networking opportunities that explore how to attract, retain and upskill the next generation.
What’s more, Advanced Engineering is once again co-located with Lab Innovations, with all attendees receiving a single badge granting access to both shows. With over 9,000 professionals expected, the event continues to serve as a key meeting point for industry leaders, R&D teams and decision-makers across the supply chain.
The show is further supported by major industry bodies, including Make UK, Composites UK, UKRI, ADS, Engineering UK, Rail Industry Association and SMMT, helping keep the event aligned with the most current issues and sector needs.
Advanced Engineering UK 2025 is shaping up to be a milestone event. Whether you’re looking to discover new technologies, forge partnerships or futureproof your business, this is the place to do it.
Visitor registration is now open and early registrants will receive exclusive updates on exhibitors, speakers and feature areas. Visit https://www.advancedengineeringuk.com and confirm your attendance today.
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