Top Trade Shows for Manufacturers in 2026

Industry publications and online resources are great for staying in the loop. But there’s a ceiling to what you can get from them.

Reading about a new methodology or innovation is like learning about a car through a brochure.

When it comes to the latest innovations, how do you move beyond the brochures and actually see them in action? It’s simple: trade shows.

Trade shows give you the unique experience of seeing the latest innovations in action right in front of you. If you’re in the manufacturing sector, there’s nothing quite like witnessing a live demonstration of breakthrough technologies while engaging directly with the engineers and experts who developed them.

If you’re looking for technologies that will drive measurable improvements for your manufacturing operations, there’s a trade show out there waiting for you. So we’re making things easy by listing the top manufacturing trade shows in 2026 that will help you discover innovations and connect with experts to help your business grow.

Key Takeaways

  • What are the top manufacturing trade shows to watch out for? Start the year with a massive consumer electronics showcase at CES 2026 and wrap it up with the Valve World Expo in Düsseldorf, Germany.
  • Where should you go to see the latest developments in medical device and component manufacturing? MD&M West is the biggest trade show for the category, bringing together MedTech, Automation, Design, and Packaging under one roof.
  • Best trade show for construction? COEXPO, North America’s largest construction trade show, showcases everything from heavy machinery to cutting-edge innovations in construction equipment.
  • Which event showcases the best of industrial automation? Hannover Messe and Automate are the world’s top trade fairs for industrial technology that give you front-row access to the widest range of automation technologies.
  • What’s the biggest trade show to look out for outside North America and Europe? Manufacturing World in Tokyo is one of Asia’s largest manufacturing trade shows that covers ten different niche areas, including 3D printing, factory AI, and smart maintenance, to name a few.

Industrial Trade Shows for Manufacturing Happening in 2026

  • Event Name
  • CES 2025
  • MD&M West
  • CONEXPO
  • Hannover Messe
  • Sensors Converge
  • Automate
  • MEDevice Boston
  • IMTS
  • FABTECH
  • Valve World Expo
  • Date
  • January 6-9, 2026
  • February 3-5, 2026
  • March 3-7, 2026
  • April 20-24, 2026
  • May 5-7, 2026
  • June 22-25, 2026
  • August 16-27, 2026
  • September 14-19, 2026
  • October 21-23, 2026
  • December 1-3, 2026
  • Location
  • Las Vegas, NV, USA
  • Anaheim, CA, USA
  • Las Vegas, NV, USA
  • Hannover, Germany
  • Santa Clara, CA, USA
  • Chicago, IL, USA
  • Boston, MA, USA
  • Chicago, IL, USA
  • Las Vegas, NV, USA
  • Düsseldorf, Germany
  • Ticket Price
  • Exhibitor Plus Pass: USD 350 Deluxe Conference Pass: USD 1700
  • MedTech Conference 3-Day: USD 824 MedTech Conference 2-Day: USD 714 MedTech Conference 1-Day: USD 494 MiniTech Presented by SPE 2-Day: USD 714 Sustainable Manufacturing Conference: USD 379
  • Show Admission: USD 289 FRI-SAT & Workshop: USD 349 Premium: USD 719 Premium+: USD 919
  • Day Ticket: EUR 35 Full Event Ticket: EUR 90 Special Trade Fair Ticket (Day Ticket): EUR 99 Special Trade Fair Ticket (Full Event): EUR 165
  • Expo Pass: Free Conference Pass: USD 495 VIP Pass: USD 695
  • Daily Pass: USD 395 All Access Pass: USD 1095
  • Undisclosed
  • Individual Visitor Ticket: USD 50
  • Undisclosed
  • Undisclosed

January

CES 2026

Accenture keynote at CES
CES Keynote Session. Credit: Consumer Technology Association (CTA).

Date: January 6-9, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, NV, USA
Categories: Consumer Electronics, Manufacturing, Technology

About CES

CES is the ultimate event to check out the coolest new tech. It brings together big brands, cutting-edge startups, industry leaders, and innovators from all over the world. Whether you’re into AI, consumer electronics, automotive tech, or health innovations, CES is the place to experience the future of tech firsthand.

Why Attend CES

At CES, you get to see thousands of exhibitors showing off game-changing products before they even hit the market. You’ll also have the chance to attend keynotes from the big names who are shaping the future of the industry. It’s the perfect place to network with professionals, partners, and investors from around the world. 

CES makes it easy for its attendees to personalize their schedules and add must-see exhibitors to their favorites list on a mobile event app, making the whole experience easier to plan and navigate.

About Tickets

You can register online on the CES website for a variety of ticket options

  • Exhibitor Plus Pass: USD 350
  • Deluxe Conference Pass: USD 1700

Learn more about CES 2026 here.

2. AIAA SciTech Forum

Manufacturing tradeshow - AIAA SciTech Banner
Credit: AIAA

Date: January 12-16, 2026
Location: Orlando, FL, USA
Categories: Aerospace Technology

About SciTech

The AIAA Scitech Forum is where experts and leaders in aviation, space, and defense come together to reveal the science and technologies changing the aerospace world. The event is set to give attendees an exciting look at the future of AI, high-speed propulsion, and how quantum computing is shaping the next wave of aerospace tech.

Why Attend SciTech

This year, the world’s biggest aerospace R&D event is packed with content from over 60 technical disciplines in aerospace and more than 100 exhibitors. Attendees will also have the chance to connect with aerospace leaders through speed networking and mentoring sessions. Plus, there will be special sessions hosted by Lockheed Martin on their “AI Fight Club” — a head-to-head competitive environment designed to speed up the development and deployment of AI in aerospace.

About Tickets

  • Full Conference (Non-Member): USD 1599
  • Full Conference (Member): USD 1299
  • One Day Rate: USD 400

Visit the AIAA website to learn more about the event.

February

Manufacturing Trade show - MD&M West Banner
Credit: MD&M West

3. MD&M West

Date: February 3-5, 2026
Location: Anaheim, CA, USA
Categories: Medical Design and Component Manufacturing

About MD&M West

MD&M West is a key event in the medical device industry and North America’s largest manufacturing trade show. It brings together sectors like MedTech, Automation, Design, Manufacturing, and Packaging, creating the perfect platform where innovation meets practical manufacturing.

Why Attend MD&M West

Attendees can explore cutting-edge solutions in medical device development and manufacturing from over a thousand exhibitors. The trade show offers direct access to experts ready to help tackle design and production challenges. You’ll also get a chance to see practical demos, attend educational sessions, and exchange ideas with peers across the medical tech and manufacturing sectors.

About Tickets

  • MedTech Conference 3-Day: USD 824
  • MedTech Conference 2-Day: USD 714
  • MedTech Conference 1-Day: USD 494
  • MiniTech Presented by SPE 2-Day: USD 714
  • Sustainable Manufacturing Conference: USD 379

For more information about the event, visit their official website here.

4. GlobalChem

Manufacturing Trade show - GlobalChem Banner
Credit: GlobalChem

Date: February 22-24, 2026
Location: Washington, DC, USA
Categories: Chemical Manufacturing, Materials, Compliance

About GlobalChem

Hosted every year by the American Chemistry Council (ACC), GlobalChem brings together leaders from the industry, government, and academia to discuss the latest in chemicals management. This year, the conference will feature participation from federal agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), along with global regulatory experts from Canada, Europe, and Asia.

Why Attend GlobalChem

GlobalChem gives you direct access to regulators, industry experts, and key government figures who influence the policies impacting your business. With a focused two-day format, the conference makes the most of your time through expert-led sessions on crucial topics like TSCA implementation, global regulatory trends, and emerging compliance challenges. Whether you’re tackling complex regulations or staying ahead of policy changes, GlobalChem has you covered.

About Tickets

Tickets for GlobalChem are available on the official event website. Here are the ticketing options:

  • Member Registration – Early Bird: USD 1095
  • Non-Member Registration – Early Bird: USD 1345
  • Trade Association Staff Registration: USD 895
  • Government Registration: USD 500

Visit the GlobalChem website to learn more.

March

5. CONEXPO

Manufacturing trade show - CONEXPO Banner
Credit: CONEXPO

Date: March 3-7, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, NV, USA

Categories: Construction Technology and Heavy Industrial Manufacturing

About CONEXPO

One of North America’s largest trade shows for construction and industrial professionals. COEXPO showcases everything from heavy machinery to cutting-edge innovations in construction equipment and manufacturing for infrastructure and industrial development. Expect to meet experts from all major sectors, including asphalt, aggregates, concrete, earthmoving, lifting, mining, and utilities.

Why Attend CONEXPO

This year, CONEXPO will feature over 2,000 exhibitors and offer firsthand access to the latest construction equipment, technologies, and innovations that are shaping the future of the industry. The event will also offer more than 150 educational sessions, covering everything from emerging technologies and sustainability to workforce development and mental health in construction.

About Ticketing

Here are some ticketing options you can register for:

  • Show Admission: USD 289
  • FRI-SAT & Workshop: USD 349
  • Premium: USD 719
  • Premium +: USD 919

For more information about the trade show, visit the official CONEXPO website.

6. IPC Apex Expo

Manufacturing trade shows - Apex Expo
Credit: IPC Apex Expo

Date: March 17-19, 2026
Location: Anaheim, CA, USA
Categories: Electronics Manufacturing, PCB design, and Assembly Innovation

About IPC Apex Expo

As North America’s leading conference and exhibition for the electronics manufacturing industry, the IPC Apex Expo brings together professionals from around the globe. The event will feature Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Printed Circuit Board (PCB) manufacturers, and Electronic Manufacturing Service (EMS) providers, all showcasing the latest innovations in the electronics manufacturing sector.

Why Attend IPC Apex Expo

This year’s expo promises a top-tier trade show with professional development courses led by industry experts and plenty of networking opportunities. Attendees from 47 countries will be on hand, and there will be technical sessions covering the latest trends in automated manufacturing, AI integration, sustainable processes, and advanced materials.

About Ticketing

Here are some ticketing options you can avail for the IPC Apex Expo. For a full range of registration and ticketing options, visit the official event website here.

  • All Access Package (Member): USD 1820
  • All Access Package (Non-Member): USD 3020
  • Committee Meetings Plus Conference (Member): USD 840
  • Committee Meetings Plus Conference (Non-Member): USD 1175
  • Full Technical Conference (Member): USD 745
  • Full Technical Conference (Non-Member): USD 900 

April

7. MODEX

Manufacturing trade show - MODEX banner
Credit: MODEX

Date: April 13-16, 2026
Location: Atlanta, GA, USA
Categories: Supply chain, Logistics, and Material Handling

About MODEX

MODEX offers a complete look at supply chains from every angle. With over 1,000 exhibits, 200 educational sessions, and keynotes from industry leaders, the event covers everything from supply chain optimization to emerging technologies and industry best practices, all through expert-led sessions.

Why Attend MODEX

MODEX will bring together top solution providers to showcase the full range of material handling, logistics, and supply chain technologies. Attendees will get the chance to explore innovations in warehouse automation, Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), conveyor and sortation systems, supply chain visibility and analytics, and intralogistics technologies through hands-on demos and live showcases.

With over a thousand exhibits to see, the event features an interactive floor plan to help attendees easily find exhibitor booths and allows them to narrow down their search by product category.  

About Tickets

Attendee Pass: Free

For more information about MODEX, visit their official website here.

April

Manufacturing trade shows - Hannover Messe Image
Credit: Hannover Messe

8. Hannover Messe

Date: April 20-24, 2026
Location: Hannover, Germany
Categories: Automation, AI, and Industry 4.0

About Hannover Messe

Hannover Messe is the world’s top trade fair for industrial technology, where attendees can explore the innovations shaping a more sustainable, efficient, and connected future. The event offers a unique chance to discover new technologies, forge strategic partnerships, and attend world-class conferences.

Why Attend Hannover Messe

The 2026 edition of Hannover Messe will feature a unique structure with three main exhibition hubs: Automation & Digitalization, Energy & Industrial Infrastructure, and Research & Technology Transfer. This year, Brazil will be the partner country, and the event will showcase over 4,000 exhibitors, 300+ startups, and more than 2,000 new product launches across mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, digital industries, and the energy sector.

About Tickets

  • Day Ticket: EUR 35
  • Full Event Ticket: EUR 90
  • Special Trade Fair Ticket (Day Ticket): EUR 99
  • Special Trade Fair Ticket (Full Event): EUR 165

To learn more about the Hannover Messe, visit their official website.

May

9. Sensors Converge

Manufacturing trade shows - Sensors Converge banner
Credit: Sensors Converge

Date: May 5-7, 2026
Location: Santa Clara, CA, USA
Categories: Sensors, IoT, and Connectivity

About Sensors Converge

Sensors Converge 2026 is where sensing, processing, and connectivity come together to shape the future of intelligent systems. With over 40 years of history, this event unites the global design engineering community to explore the groundbreaking innovations that are driving smarter, more connected technologies.

Why Attended Sensors Converge

This year’s theme, “Design Smarter, Build Faster, Power What’s Next,” brings together engineers, innovators, and technology leaders to explore advancements in edge computing, IoT, and AI-driven engineering. The event will feature 200 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technologies, experiential demos, keynotes from industry pioneers, over 150 technical sessions, and plenty of opportunities to encourage collaboration and spark innovation.

About Ticketing

  • Expo Pass: Free
  • Conference Pass: USD 495
  • VIP Conference Pass: USD 695

You can find detailed ticketing information and how to register guidelines on the Sensors Converge official website here.

June

10. Automate

Manufacturing trade shows - Automate Cover
Credit: Automate

Date: June 22-25, 2026
Location: Chicago, IL, USA
Categories: Automations and Robotics

About Automate

From AI and robotics to motion control, machine vision, and material handling solutions, Automate gives you front-row access to the widest range of automation technologies. The event includes hands-on demos, keynotes from industry leaders, and expert-led educational sessions, all designed to help you find practical solutions to your business challenges.

Why Attend Automate

Automate provides the insights, innovations, and connections you need to stay ahead. With automation reaching farther than ever before and transforming how we work and live, this is the must-attend event for anyone working with or curious about the future of automation. 

Automate also hosts preview webinars leading up to the event, to help get attendees up to speed on all they need to know about automations and robotics.

About Tickets

Here are some ticketing options for Automate 2026:

  • Daily Pass: USD 395
  • All Access Pass: USD 1095

For detailed ticketing information, visit the official Automate website here.

11. Welding Automation Expo and Conference (WAEC)

Date: June 2-4, 2026
Location: Minneapolis, MN, USA
Categories: Welding, Babrication, and Robotics for Metal Manufacturing

About Welding Automation Expo and Conference

A focused event dedicated to helping companies improve productivity and quality through automated welding solutions. WAEC, organized by the American Welding Society, addresses manufacturing’s most pressing challenges and the need to explore automation as a viable solution.

Why Attend Welding Automation Expo and Conference

WAEC offers an intimate setting where attendees can directly speak with automation experts, learn from real-world implementation case studies, and network with peers facing similar production challenges. Whether you’re exploring automation for the first time or looking to expand existing capabilities, WAEC provides the knowledge, tools, and connections necessary to move forward with confidence.

About Tickets

Ticketing information was not available at the time of publishing this blog. To stay up to date on the latest information about the event, visit the official website here.

July

12. Manufacturing World Tokyo

Manufacturing trade shows - MW Tokyo cover
Credit: Manufacturing World Tokyo

Date: July 1-3, 2026
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Categories: Factory Automation and Additive Manufacturing

About Manufacturing World

One of Asia’s largest manufacturing events is designed for professionals across the board. Whether you’re a design engineer looking for new materials, a factory manager interested in automation, or a procurement officer scouting for reliable global suppliers. Manufacturing World serves everyone from the automotive and electronics giants to medical device startups and aerospace innovators.

Why Attend Manufacturing World

A big reason to make the trip to Tokyo is the wide variety of technology you can see in action. The Manufacturing World event covers ten different niche areas, with 3D printing, factory AI, and smart maintenance being the highlights. 2026 will feature speakers from companies like Honda and Subaru on how they’re using autonomous machines to solve labour shortages.

You can expect faster event entry with zero wait time through badge printing. All you need to do is scan your registration QR code at the reception desk and get your visitor badge printed in seconds.

Ticket Information

General Entry: Free

Visit the official website to learn more about the event.

13. Farnborough International Airshow

Date: July 20-24, 2026
Location: Farnborough, UK
Categories: Aerospace Manufacturing and Technology

About Farnborough International Airshow

The famous international airshow will host leading innovators from the aerospace, aviation, and defence industries. Held once every two years and recognized as the world’s second-largest airshow after Paris, Farnborough has served as the launchpad for iconic aircraft since 1948, including Concorde, the Eurofighter, Airbus A380, and the F-35 Lightning II.

Why Attend

The five-day event will bring together over 1,200 exhibitors from more than 40 countries. Over 250 civil, military, and space delegations and attendees from across the globe will get an opportunity to witness spectacular flying displays and explore cutting-edge exhibitions. Farnborough provides unique opportunities for business development and showcases the innovations that will define the future of flight.

About Tickets

Ticketing information was not available at the time of publishing this blog. To stay up to date on the latest information, visit the official event website here.

August

14. MEDevice Boston

Manufacturing trade shows - MEDevice Boston
Credit: MEDevice Boston

Date: August 16-27, 2026
Location: Boston, MA, USA
Categories: Medical Technology Manufacturing

About MEDevice

MEDevice is a dedicated meeting place for the entire medical device manufacturing community. It serves a wide range of professionals, including design engineers, R&D specialists, and business leaders from some of the biggest OEMs in the world, like Medtronic and Boston Scientific.

Why Attend MEDevice

MEDevice promises a hands-on experience where attendees can get a close look at the innovation that will power the next generation of healthcare tools. The event features over 200 suppliers showcasing the newest tech in 3D printing, robotics, and digital health. This year will also feature educational keynotes that dive into AI diagnostics and cybersecurity for medical devices.

If you’re looking for more reasons to attend, MEDevice also offers curated networking and matchmaking. The format will pair attendees with suppliers, peers, and executives for meaningful one-on-one conversations.

About Tickets

Ticketing information was not available at the time of publishing this blog. For more information about the MEDevice, visit the official website here.

September

15. IMTS

Manufacturing trade shows - IMTS Banner
Credit: IMTS

Date: September 14-19, 2026
Location: Chicago, IL, USA
Categories: Advanced Machinery, Digital Manufacturing, and Production Technologies

About IMTS

The International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) brings together the global manufacturing community to explore the latest trends in machinery, devices, and digital technologies that drive productivity, innovation, and competitiveness across all manufacturing sectors.

Why Attend IMTS

IMTS is a six-day event that gives you access to the latest in manufacturing solutions, from advanced machines and automation systems to additive manufacturing and digital transformation tech. With over 70 conference sessions, hands-on demos, and a student summit to introduce the next generation to careers in manufacturing, IMTS is packed with education and innovation for all attendees.

About Tickets

Individual visitor ticket: USD 50

For more detailed event and ticketing information, visit the official website here.

October

16. FABTECH

Manufacturing trade shows - FABTECH banner
Credit: FABTECH

Date: October 21-23, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, NV, USA
Categories: Metals, Fabrication, and Welding

About FABTECH

FABTECH is a one-stop venue where attendees can meet world-class suppliers, explore the latest innovations in metal processing technology, and discover practical solutions to boost productivity and profitability. The event features seven specialized technology pavilions covering automation, forming and fabricating, tube and pipe, stamping and press automation, welding, finishing, and job shop operations, making it easy to navigate the comprehensive show floor and find exactly what you need.

Why Attend FABTECH

The event promises keynotes from industry leaders, expert-led conference sessions, and hands-on demonstrations. FABTECH will also feature networking opportunities, including special programs like Women of FABTECH and the Emerging Leaders Program. The event also features a mobile event app to keep you updated on the latest exhibitor, speaker, and event information.

Whether you’re a job shop owner, plant manager, manufacturing engineer, production supervisor, or industry decision-maker, FABTECH provides the tools, knowledge, and connections essential for staying competitive in today’s manufacturing landscape.

About Tickets

Ticketing information was not available at the time of publishing this blog. To stay updated on the latest information about FABTECH, visit their official website here.

November

17. Formnext

Manufacturing trade show - Formnext
Credit: Mesago

Date: November 17-20, 2026
Location: Frankfurt, Germany
Categories: Additive Manufacturing

About Formnext

Formnext brings together thousands of international players in the 3D printing industry, from the aeronautical sector to small start-ups, to the medical, automotive, and even large chemical groups. The event features the latest innovations in additive production systems, materials, software solutions, automation, post-processing technologies, and quality assurance equipment.

Why Attend Formnext

Formnext serves as the world’s leading international trade fair for additive manufacturing and industrial 3D printing. The event will feature more than 800 exhibitors and 38,000 visitors, creating the industry’s most comprehensive showcase for the entire AM process chain.

About Tickets

Ticketing information was not available at the time of publishing this blog. To stay updated on the latest information about Formnext, visit their official website here.

December

18. Valve World Expo

Manufacturing trade show - Valve World Expo Banner
Credit: Valve World Expo

Date: December 1-3, 2026
Location: Düsseldorf, Germany
Categories: Industrial Valves, Sealing Technology, and Instrumentation

About Valve World Expo

Valve World Expo provides a platform where professionals from oil and gas, water management, power generation, and other critical industries can discover the latest innovations in valve technology, components, and engineering services. The expo has been held every two years at the Düsseldorf exhibition center since 2010, bringing together the global valve industry under one roof.

Why Attend Valve World Expo

The Valve World Conference offers attendees access to technical presentations, workshops, and panel discussions featuring insights from engineers, end users, and suppliers. The event also features special initiatives that promote sustainable innovations, the Valve Stars Awards recognizing industry excellence, and countless networking opportunities. Valve World Expo stands as the essential event for discovering solutions, expanding technical knowledge, and connecting with the global flow control community.

About Tickets

Ticketing information was not available at the time of publishing this blog. Stay up to date on the latest information about Valve World Expo by visiting their official website here.

Wrapping Up

Manufacturing trade shows are one of the best ways to stay competitive in an ever-evolving industrial landscape. You’ll meet new component suppliers, witness live demonstrations of cutting-edge machinery, and gather technical insights that can optimize your production line. 

The events we’ve listed are packed with opportunities to learn from world-class engineers, discover breakthrough materials, and connect with peers who are solving the same operational challenges as you. Make sure to mark your calendars for these manufacturing and industrial automation expos to take your facility’s production efficiency to the next level.

FAQs

What is a manufacturing trade show?

A manufacturing trade show is a business event where equipment makers, technology providers, and service firms showcase products, network, and attend educational sessions focused on manufacturing and supply chain topics.

Who typically attends manufacturing trade shows?

Attendees usually include plant managers, engineers, operations leaders, procurement and sourcing managers, technology and digital transformation teams, business owners, and industry consultants.

What types of topics are usually covered?

Common themes include Industry 4.0, smart factories, automation and robotics, supply chain resilience, sustainability, advanced manufacturing processes, and workforce skills development.

Will there be live product demonstrations?

Manufacturing trade shows feature live demonstrations of machinery, automation systems, and software, allowing attendees to compare technologies in real time.​

How do I register to attend the show?

Attendees typically register online through the event website, where they can choose between free expo-only registration and paid conference or workshop passes if available.

Top Trade Shows for Manufacturers in 2026

Maham Ali

Maham is a seasoned content specialist with five years of experience in creating compelling content for the SaaS, event tech, and events industries. She is passionate about helping brands effectively share their stories and build strong connections with their audience.

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