Manufacturing Solutions Ireland, held in Limerick, has grown to become a key event for engineering and manufacturing businesses, providing a platform for suppliers, technology providers and industry organisations to connect with a highly engaged audience.

Manufacturing Solutions Ireland is organised by the GTMA in partnership with Technological University of the Shannon and supported by leading industry bodies. The event focuses on creating real business opportunities, fostering collaboration and showcasing the capabilities of the manufacturing sector.

"The GTMA already work closely with the MTA on a number of activities. It is fabulous to bring MTA in as Partners for the 2027 event, I am certain that this will be a successful initiative, continuing to grow the MSI event and providing MTA members with a platform to reach out to Irish manufacturing companies," said Alan Arthur, CEO of the GTMA. 

The expanded 2027 exhibition and conference will be a two-day event on 16-17 June and is expected to attract a strong line-up of exhibitors and visitors from across Ireland and the UK, with increased interest driven by the growing emphasis on supply chain resilience, reshoring and manufacturing strength.

"TUS welcomes this partnership with the MTA, helping us keep the exhibition vibrant and increasing visibility of MTA members to Irish manufacturers," stated Ciaran O’Loughlin, precision engineering programme leader at TUS. 

James Selka, CEO of MTA, said: "We are excited about the prospect of this new collaboration and believe it will offer opportunities for MTA Cluster members, strengthening links between manufacturing companies in Ireland and the UK."

manufacturingsolutions.ie

Filling five halls of the NEC, the UK’s national event for the manufacturing and engineering community is landing well with visitors and exhibitors alike. The UK’s true home of engineering and manufacturing showcases the latest cutting-edge technologies and solutions, including enthralling demonstrations and new product launches.

Owned and organised by the MTA, MACH is recognised as the industry leading event that brings together the very best suppliers of machine tools, cutting tools, metrology equipment, additive manufacturing (3D printing), surface engineering, robotics and automation, sheet metal, metal forming and fabrication technology, and specialist software which is both AI enabled and driving the digitisation of manufacturing. 

This year’s show includes a vibrant and informative Education & Development Zone, aiming to showcase the wide range of brilliant career opportunities the engineering sector offers. 

"Attracting new talent into the engineering-based manufacturing sector is a key aim of the MTA.  The dedicated E&D Zone at MACH, kindly sponsored by Iscar UK, continues to be our biggest opportunity to inspire a future generation into engineering as an exciting career," said James Selka, CEO at the MTA. 

Visitors can experience a huge variety of STEM focused activities including STEM Racing, University of Wolverhampton Racing and the Royal Navy.

The event also features four Knowledge Hubs, each focusing on a particular type of technology including Automation and Robotics, Additive Manufacturing, Consumable Tooling, and AI and Data.  The initiative showcases new technology that is readily available to UK manufacturers, helping them to understand the potential adopting such technology can bring to their operation, as well as when to adopt it and how to implement it to best effect

Being a genuine week long event, MACH is open through to Friday afternoon allowing designers, engineers, buyers and specifiers plenty of time to attend, experience the event and connect with like-minded members of the community.

www.machexhibition.com 

The findings, whose release coincided with the launch of MACH 2026 yesterday in Birmingham, reveal that thousands of firms are keen to support the national mission to reduce the UK’s manufacturing dependence on international partners, especially in the wake of recent global conflicts and economic uncertainty.

74% of the 358 manufacturers questioned said they would be willing to do more to build up capacity in key sectors like defence, energy and transport, but only a quarter of these can meet demand straight away.

The others said it would take up to six months to be able to help, which reveals a potential bottleneck in the supply chain if action isn’t taken now.

Manufacturing bosses said the biggest barrier was access to funding (34%), followed by lack of space (28%), cost of financing (27%) and economic uncertainty (24%).

They called on government to help the ‘sovereign push’ by providing grants (59%), greater tax incentives (50%) and more support for training.

"On the eve of the UK’s national manufacturing and engineering show, we felt it was the right time to take the temperature of firms when it comes to building ‘sovereign’ capability and reducing our critical overseas reliance," explained James Selka, CEO of the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), who host MACH every two years.

"As you can see from the findings, there is a real appetite from industry to meet the challenge, but the message from our community is that it needs to be supercharged by the powers that be at No10 and the Treasury.

"Immediate access to finance appears to be the pivotal issue. With this in mind, it might be an idea for government to look at how they could support investment in critical sectors to help accelerate their expansion and access to capacity.

“We believe that this survey shows that there is a case for a ‘sovereign capability fund’ to support companies involved in defence, aerospace, med tech and energy for instance," he continued. 

"This is where the British Business Bank could step-up and support more of UK manufacturers to make vital components here. Germany’s Deutschlandfonds, which will lever in €130bn, is a great example of what can be done if a national government is prepared to work closer with industry to encourage investment. As a nation, we need to ambitiously step up and act now, or suffer the consequences."

The MTA’s snap survey also delved into early views of the much-anticipated Industrial Strategy. 

Feedback from the shopfloor suggests progress has been limited, with over half (55%) saying it has had no impact on their business and that they could not ‘see any way in which it would in the future’.

When asked about what the government says it is delivering, the most meaningful benefit to manufacturers would be ‘lower energy prices’ (57%), with UK firms battling some of the highest costs in the world.

A targeted skills package was the second most popular answer, with greater ‘investment in zero emissions vehicles manufacturing through grants and R&D support’ third.

"We are approaching the first anniversary of the Industrial Strategy, and it is clear from our survey that industry, at best, remains unconvinced that it will deliver what is required," Selka added.

"It came as no surprise that help with energy came out as the area where most support is required. This is what our members are telling us every day, and the impact of rising costs is making the UK uncompetitive against international rivals who enjoy far cheaper prices.

"Importantly, this is a message that must be heard and acted on. Our firms are feeling the pinch now and can’t wait five years for a raft of sustainable energy improvements to kick in."

Set over five days at the NEC (20-24 April) in Birmingham, MACH 2026 is the biggest week in the UK’s industrial calendar and attracts an anticipated 30,000 people from the manufacturing community and more than 500 companies.

More than £250m of business is expected to be completed during the five days, as some of the country’s most innovative firms unveil new technologies and machines designed to boost productivity and global competitiveness.

MACH, which has a huge focus on sustainable manufacturing and carbon reduction through its six Knowledge Hubs and fourteen Technology Zones, is also a big attraction for young people looking for a career in industry, with 4000 students (aged between 12 and 18) set to attend the show.

This year sees a packed CPD certified seminar programme, with topics including ‘how AI is reshaping manufacturing’, ‘strategy for technology adoption’ and ‘unleashing the power of automation’.

"MACH 2026 has been designed to guide and support manufacturers in addressing threats to business prosperity, such as rising operational costs, skills shortages and supply chain disruptions, enabling them to remain competitive in an evolving marketplace," concluded James Fudge, head of operations at the MTA. 

"This is reinforced by a recent visitor survey, revealing that 68% of attendees are actively seeking new technologies and services during their planned visits. There is no other event like it in the UK industrial calendar."

MACH is owned and organised by the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), which also encompasses a cluster of organisations, including Engineering Supply Chain UK (ESCUK), Additive Manufacturing UK (AMUK) and MTA Training.

To view the full results of the snap survey, please visit www.machexhibition.com

AS THE UK’s longest-running exhibition of its kind, MACH 2026 brings together over 500 leading exhibitors to showcase the broadest range of manufacturing technology solutions in the country. 

Taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 20-24 April 2026, the five-day event provides attendees with a perfect opportunity to explore the cutting-edge products and services, which can improve the efficiency and sustainability of business operations.

A national showcase for manufacturing

The UK manufacturing industry plays a significant role in contributing to the success of the UK economy. There are over 325,000 small and medium-sized UK manufacturing and engineering enterprises, which are recognised as the backbone of the UK economy. This cross-industry event is specifically designed to address real manufacturing challenges, helping manufacturers navigate through issues such as rising operational costs, skills shortages, supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainty. MACH 2026 offers plenty of opportunities to discover and explore solutions that will help manufacturers remain competitive in this challenging environment.

Connecting the manufacturing ecosystem

MACH 2026 brings together organisations from across the UK and beyond, attracting professionals from all areas of manufacturing, including design and engineering, production and operations, maintenance and asset management, and supply chain management. This creates a valuable network of connections that operates in a wide range of rapidly evolving sectors, including aerospace, automotive, medical technology, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food, agriculture, defence, rail and transport.

As the UK’s national showcase for the manufacturing community, MACH 2026 provides exciting developments for experienced machinery users to explore. The exhibition offers live technology demonstrations, expert-led insights, and practical, sector-specific solutions. Attendees leave equipped with actionable knowledge and inspiration to enhance their businesses and drive innovation, helping them find solutions to their manufacturing challenges and prepare for the future.

Insights from industry experts

In addition, MACH features a comprehensive seminar programme led by leading industry experts, offering attendees the chance to gain insights, stay abreast of the latest industry developments, and benefit from a wealth of practical knowledge and expertise.

Building on this learning and insight, MACH 2026 will also feature the improved Knowledge Hubs, offering attendees practical guidance and expert advice on the latest manufacturing technologies. Strategically located across the show floor, the Knowledge Hubs will focus on key industry topics: automation and robotics, additive manufacturing and 3D printing, data and AI, and machining and tooling.

"Following the success of MACH 2024, the Knowledge Hubs return even bigger and better for 2026. These interactive hubs give manufacturers practical guidance on adopting new technologies, connecting them with experts and suppliers, and providing insights that drive productivity, efficiency and competitiveness," said MTA CEO James Selka. 

For more information: 

www.machexhibition.com

Tel: 020 7298 6402

IPE: The MTA often plays a bridging role between industry and government. What are your early priorities as President in terms of advocacy and shaping future policy discussions?

Stewart Lane: My absolute priority is to make sure that Government, both officials and ministers, really understand the challenges UK manufacturers face so that they can build policies that support a sector key to national growth and our long-term resilience. Government has already taken some important steps, but I want to see continued efforts to accelerate investment in the latest manufacturing technologies, real support for skills development and an unrelenting focus on bringing down the cost of operating in the UK. That might include taking action on energy costs where the Government has already made some important announcements, but it also includes the shape of future employment policy
IPE: The decision to raise the Living Wage in the Autumn Budget looks set to place additional pressure on businesses and, in particular, SMEs. What are some of your major policy asks from the Government as 2026 gets underway?

SL:  Never forget that the sector, as a whole, delivers above average pay rates and we pride ourselves on offering great quality employment opportunities, but there can be no doubt that continued upward pressure on entry point pay will have its impact, particularly for the smallest firms. Beyond that, we’ve got some real concerns around the Employment Rights Act. I see a real danger that if we introduce over-restrictive regulation, we will deter companies from creating more of those great quality, well-paying jobs.

IPE: Manufacturers continue to report skills shortages across machining, automation, and digital roles. From your perspective, what practical steps could help firms attract and retain the next generation of engineers?

SL: It’s vital that we as the MTA, and our members continue to shine a spotlight on the incredible companies and opportunities that exist in our industry to shape the world. As an association, we also work very hard to showcase our sector by bringing over 3,000 students to the MACH exhibition and ensuring the next generation are able to see the exciting technologies and job opportunities within our industry. It’s interesting to note that elsewhere in the world, manufacturing, engineering and technology roles are seen as high value esteemed occupations. Here, too often perceptions of manufacturing are trapped in the Nineteenth Century. We’ve got to change that - make clear that it’s our manufacturers who are changing the world, taking us to the heavens, cleaning up our planet and putting food on our tables.

IPE: Many MTA members are still dealing with long and unpredictable lead times for components and raw materials. How do you see supply chain resilience evolving in 2026, and what support do members need most?

SL: I’m pleased to see that there is growing attention to the supply chain challenges we face. Technology is increasingly enabling us to viably manufacture to demand, allowing competitive manufacturing at or near home. 

Similarly, we’ve seen a number of members reevaluating their supply chains and looking at reshoring or near-shoring suppliers. The UK has a strong supply base and, together with Engineering Supply Chain UK (one of our cluster trade associations) we continue to showcase the capacity and capability of the UK market, but we also need Government to be an active partner. It has a key role to play in attracting those inward investments that flesh out UK supply chains hollowed out by years of under-investment, stimulating and supporting domestic investment, striking the trade deals that ensure our ability to access key components or, crucially, rare earth substances. That’s not just good news for the sector, it’s also key to our national security and resilience as the Government’s Resilience Action Plan makes clear.

IPE: Across the sector, firms are investing in automation to improve productivity, but adoption varies widely. Where do you think the biggest untapped opportunities lie for UK manufacturers, particularly SMEs?

SL: We lag behind other advanced economies on the adoption of robotics and other automation technologies. There is massive scope for not just repetitive and dirty tasks but for increasingly complex tasks so that the current workforce can be redeployed to other parts of the business.  Automation not only frees up talent for use in other spaces, we’ve seen time and again the role it has to play in cutting down errors and defects, reducing waste and clamping down on energy use. The difficulty is that initial investments can be challenging. I’ve been pleased to see the growth of equipment leasing but any help the Government can give to encourage companies to invest would be very welcome. 

IPE: Export conditions have remained challenging, with shifting standards, documentation requirements and international competition. What are you hearing from members about trading overseas, and what steps would help in terms of removing barriers?

SL: Overseas trading remains tough for many businesses, both in terms of agreements with other countries and increasingly complex paperwork when selling overseas. We’re working with a number of bodies to provide advice and assistance for our members and liaising with government to encourage more frictionless trading agreements. Our message to Government is ‘keep doing what you’re doing’ - keep pushing forward on new trade deals and - please - never let up on working to eradicate bureaucracy at the borders.
IPE: The UK’s productivity gap remains a persistent issue. From the vantage point of the MTA, what practical levers could make the biggest near-term difference? 

SL: The single biggest change would obviously come from accelerated adoption of new technologies. Our members deliver the tools that can help all of UK manufacturing to design and make market leading products. Our industry has the answer and I would urge UK manufacturers to visit the MACH show in April to see how our members and other exhibitors can assist them, and also utilise our Knowledge Hubs to receive impartial practical advice on adopting and successfully implementing new technologies. We look forward to seeing you at the NEC between 20-24 April!

Stewart Lane is president of the Manufacturing Technologies Association

For more information:

www.mta.org.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7298 6400

The biennial event offers an unmissable opportunity to experience new technology, live and in action and is perfectly timed for UK manufacturers preparing for growth in capacity and capability. 

Registration is now open for the event owned and organised by the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), and sponsored by Lloyds, which is the UK’s largest for inspiring, innovating and connecting the manufacturing community and is due to take place across five halls of the NEC from 20-24 April 2026. 

All aspects of manufacturing technology will be on display at the event, and the MTA is delighted to welcome back exhibitors who’ve been strong supporters of the show over many years in addition to many first-time exhibitors and those returning to the show after a period of absence. 

Building on the overwhelming success of their debut at MACH 2024, the Knowledge Hubs will return and are even bigger and better for MACH 2026. These interactive hubs are designed to provide manufacturers with practical guidance on adopting new technologies, helping them tackle challenges, boost performance and improve competitiveness by connecting with the right experts and suppliers. 

Strategically located across the show floor, the Knowledge Hubs will focus on key industry topics including subjects including automation and robotics, additive manufacturing, data and AI and consumable tooling. They are designed to provide visitors with impartial advice and signpost them around the show, as well as provide invaluable insights into when and how to invest in technology that drives improvements in productivity, efficiency and operational costs. 

The Machining & Tooling Knowledge Hub is a particular focus for MACH 2026 and is supported by a wide range of tooling companies including Ceratizit, Iscar Tools, Horn, Guhring, ZCC Cutting Tools, Kyocera, Europa Tools, Mapal and Mitsubishi. A key part of the Hub is a seminar theatre where informative presentations will take place covering subjects including how to apply the latest cutting tool technologies plus pointers on selecting the most suitable insert geometries. The programme is designed to empower manufacturers to work faster, better, and more cost-effectively. 

MACH is the biennial event that brings together the manufacturing community. It is owned and organised by the MTA, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to being the voice of the engineering and manufacturing community. The association is committed to driving innovation, creating value, attracting new talent into the sector and supporting the continued growth of UK manufacturing.  MACH is also supported by other key manufacturing organisations including the High Value Manufacturing Catapult and its centres, the MMMA, and for the first time, by Automate UK and Make UK. 

The MTA operates as a organisational cluster which includes the trade associations Additive Manufacturing UK (AMUK) and Engineering Supply Chain UK (ESCUK), with both represented at MACH with their own dedicated zones. The AMUK Knowledge Hub will provide impartial advice on how additive manufacturing technology can be adopted into the manufacturing process and applied for best results. As sponsors of the Supply Chain Zone, ESCUK will help promote capacity and capability from within the UK, supporting its members to do more business. 

Commenting on the exciting plans for MACH 2026, James Fudge, head of operations at the MTA, said: “MACH is the only show that offers thousands of visitors a fantastic opportunity to explore and see live demonstrations of a wide range of the latest manufacturing technologies and techniques, all under one roof, in one week - without leaving the UK. This year’s event is a fabulous opportunity to learn about new technology and how this can be harnessed to improve productivity and efficiency. The Knowledge Hub areas are spearheading our drive to help manufacturers integrate new technologies into their processes and manufacturing systems. The event also offers invaluable face-to-face opportunities to meet new suppliers and strengthen existing relationships, helping businesses stay ahead in a rapidly evolving sector." 

The Education and Development Zone (E&D Zone), sponsored by Iscar Tools, is the educational hub at MACH 2026, designed for students keen to explore what engineering-based manufacturing can offer them as a future career and to help them find their ‘pathway to engineering’. 

"The E&D Zone showcases the MTA’s commitment to attracting new talent into the sector.  We have nearly 3,000 students due to attend in the key age range of 11-18. The zone is designed as an engaging experience and will demonstrate what a career in advanced manufacturing looks like," stated Fudge.

The cutting-edge manufacturing technology on display at MACH 2026 will include machine tools, cutting tools, metrology equipment, additive manufacturing (3D printing), surface engineering, robotics and automation, sheet metal, metal forming and fabrication technology, and specialist software which is both enabling and driving the digitalisation of manufacturing. 

To find out more about MACH 2026 and to register your attendance, please visit: www.machexhibition.com

The E&D Zone is the educational hub at MACH 2026 and is designed for students, keen to explore what engineering-based manufacturing can offer them as a future career and to help them find their ‘pathway to engineering’.

"We are delighted to be sponsoring the E&D Zone at MACH 2026, ensuring the event can showcase the engineering-based manufacturing sector to the next generation of engineers," said David Jones, general manager at Iscar Tools in the UK.

Like many other industries and sectors, manufacturing has had to work hard to attract new talent over recent years. "We have all experienced the shortage of engineers in our sector and it remains a key issue for many exhibitors and visiting companies alike. Iscar Tools are keen to inspire interest in the sector from a young age and we believe the MTA’s work with schools, encouraging new talent to visit the show, is very worthwhile," Jones continued.

A lynchpin of the E&D Zone is the guided tours of the exhibition. These tours, delivered by apprentices from MTA member companies, allows students to learn more about the latest manufacturing technologies being developed and deployed, discover different career paths and opportunities and meet companies looking for new talent. 

Commenting on the new agreement with Iscar Tools, James Selka, CEO at the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), who own and organise MACH said; "Attracting new and retaining existing talent in our sector is a significant challenge - but one that the MTA is determined to tackle. The dedicated E&D Zone at MACH is designed to inspire a future generation to consider the advanced manufacturing sector as an exciting career."

With nearly 3,000 students in the key age range of 11-18 expected to attend, MACH 2026 promises to provide hands on activities and be a showcase of what a career in advanced manufacturing looks like.

The zone is supported by The Royal Navy STEM Outreach team, STEM Racing (formerly F1 in Schools), University of Wolverhampton, VEX Robotics, Worldskills UK, Siemens Plc, Harper Adams University, Imagineering Foundation and Renishaw - with further companies expected to be announced over the coming months.

"We are delighted that Iscar Tools have agreed to take the role of headline sponsor in this area – their invaluable support ensures the MTA can continue to fund transport for those schools and colleges who otherwise might not be able to visit the event," Selka stated.

Schools and students can register their interest in attending the E&D Zone via the MACH website where there is a dedicated group registration portal for schools and colleges. Spaces are limited so booking early is strongly recommended. In addition, parents and guardians are welcome to register to attend the show and bring students with them - students aged between 11 and 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

As well as supporting the E&D Zone, Iscar Tools have a showcase stand within the Tooling Zone at MACH 2026 (18-340), displaying their innovative, leading edge technologies and unique cutting tools.  Additionally, their products will feature in live demonstrations on many machine tool company stands throughout the show.

www.machexhibition.com 

"I am deeply honoured to accept the presidency of the MTA at what is a critical time for UK manufacturing. The sector faces both significant challenges and opportunities. I look forward to working with member companies, stakeholders, and government to ensure that advanced manufacturing continues to flourish in the UK," said Lane.

With a degree in Manufacturing Systems Engineering and over 30 years’ experience in the industry, 25 of them at Renishaw, Lane has held a wide range of roles at the global FTSE250 engineering business. He also spent several years working within quality and management functions for a number of French and Swedish industrial businesses, and speaks both languages fluently. He has also managed Renishaw’s French sales organisation.  

Lane joined Renishaw in 2000, initially performing roles within the company's quality and design functions before combining his technical and commercial skills to develop metrology products for the global machine tool industry. He has also headed Renishaw’s corporate business development function and UK Sales division, becoming a member of its International Sales and Marketing Board, and has helped drive the development of the company’s metrology, encoder and additive manufacturing (AM) businesses.  

Outside of Renishaw, Lane has contributed significantly to the wider UK manufacturing sector. He is a past Board member of the West of England Aerospace Forum (WEAF) and joined the MTA Board in 2016, where he became chair of the MTA’s Education Committee and its representative on the Board of CECIMO, the European Association of Manufacturing Technologies. 

In recent years, a key focus for Lane has been supporting the growth of additive manufacturing (AM) both within Renishaw and the wider industry. He was until recently chair of both AMUK and CECIMO’s European AM Committee. He continues to represent the UK internationally, working alongside fellow MTA Board member, Marcus Burton, and MTA CEO, James Selka. 

"Stewart brings to the role an exceptional breadth of experience across the technology spectrum. Having served on our Board since 2016, his understanding of both the technical and strategic dimensions of manufacturing positions him well to guide the Association forward," stated Selka.

As president of the MTA, Lane will champion the association’s mission to represent and advance the interests of UK manufacturing technology companies, collaborating closely with government, industry and research institutions, building on the legacy of outgoing president, Tony Bowkett. 

Objectives and Vision for the MTA 

In taking on the presidency, Lane has set out a clear vision and priorities for his term: 

• Strengthening the Industry Voice: Enhancing the collective influence of MTA members in policy discussions on regulation, trade, and innovation. 
• Skills and Talent Development: Supporting initiatives to nurture technical expertise, apprenticeships, and workforce development across the sector. 
• Embracing Advanced Technologies: Championing the adoption of next-generation manufacturing technologies, including additive manufacturing, digital tooling, metrology, and automation. 
• Global Competitiveness: Promoting export growth and strengthening the international profile of UK manufacturing technology companies. 
• Sustainability and Resilience: Driving sustainable practices, building supply chain resilience, and fostering innovation aligned with net-zero objectives. 

MTA members and industry partners have expressed strong support for Lane's appointment, recognising his leadership as timely and well aligned with the evolving needs of the sector.

www.mta.org.uk

THE COUNTDOWN to MACH 2026, the UK’s national event for inspiring, innovating and connecting manufacturing, continues to gather momentum with the announcement that Lloyds has once again confirmed its role as headline sponsor, marking over 16 years of continuous support for the event and reaffirming its long-standing commitment to the UK’s manufacturing sector.

MACH, owned and organised by the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), is the UK's premier showcase for engineering-based manufacturing, bringing together the latest innovations in sustainable technologies and digital advancements.

Bringing Together Technology, Talent, and Sustainability

"It is fantastic to have the continued support of Lloyds for MACH 2026. Over more than 16 years, their partnership has been instrumental in supporting both the event and the wider manufacturing sector. Lloyds has shown that their support goes far beyond finance - they are deeply engaged in helping manufacturers transition to a more sustainable future and bring new skills into the industry. Their backing for MACH once again demonstrates their unwavering belief in the strength and potential of UK manufacturing," said James Selka, CEO at the MTA. 

Beyond its core role in business finance, Lloyds plays a vital role in supporting manufacturers as they rise to the challenges of sustainability and skills development, helping businesses reduce their carbon footprint and futureproof their workforce.

"We’re proud to continue our long-standing relationship with the MTA by sponsoring MACH 2026. Manufacturing is a sector that drives growth and innovation across the UK economy, and it’s crucial we help companies take advantage of opportunities like the transition to net zero. Our role goes beyond finance - we’re committed to supporting manufacturers with the investment, advice, and skills they need to thrive in a competitive and evolving global marketplace," stated Dave Atkinson, UK head of manufacturing at Lloyds.

Green Innovations at MACH

MACH 2026, which takes place from 20-24 April 2026 at the NEC in Birmingham will once again place a strong focus on sustainability. Live demonstrations from exhibitors will show how the latest technologies and processes are reducing energy use and material waste, while enhancing productivity.

The event’s popular Education and Development Zone will return, showcasing initiatives to close the sector’s skills gap and attract the next generation of engineers. In 2024, the zone welcomed over 3,000 students aged 11-18, offering hands-on experiences and careers advice from industry professionals.

With thousands of visitors and hundreds of exhibitors expected once again in 2026, the show will serve as a key catalyst for business growth, innovation, and collaboration across the sector.

For more information:

www.machexhibition.com

Tel: +44 (0)20 7298 6420

I AM delighted that this year marks a decade since the MTA signed the Armed Forces Covenant, it’s an absolute privilege and a commitment that remains as important to me personally as it does to our association. I believe that there is no business that cannot benefit from stronger links with the Armed Forces.

As an Honorary Colonel at Yorkshire North and West Army Cadet Force, I have seen first-hand the invaluable skills, dedication, and leadership that the Armed Forces Community brings to the workplace. Since signing the Covenant in 2015, we have worked to support veterans, reservists, and forces families in manufacturing, ensuring they are not disadvantaged when transitioning to civilian careers. Over the years, we have raised more than £40,000 for forces charities, including Mission Motorsport, The Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers Charity, and the Fallen Fusiliers, and we remain committed to continuing this vital work.

Showcasing Armed Forces Charities at MACH

Beyond fundraising, our efforts have focused on practical action. We have provided free exhibition space at MACH for Armed Forces charities, ensuring their work is showcased to the wider manufacturing sector, and we have welcomed Cadet Forces to the show, helping inspire the next generation of engineers and technicians.

We have volunteered at the National Transition Event, promoting manufacturing and engineering as career paths for those leaving the Services, and we have also made real commitments within our own team, employing veterans and an adult cadet force volunteer. We are proud to have achieved Silver Award Holder status in the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme, and we are now working towards achieving Gold in 2025 a goal that reflects our deep-rooted belief in supporting those who have served.

The Reward of Supporting the Armed Forces Community

On a personal note, one of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been seeing the support from across our industry. To see an increase in the number of companies waking up to these incredible organisations that not only can we be proud of as a nation but that can benefit businesses in many ways, through cadets, reservists and people leaving the armed forces.

The commitment to integrating service leavers into manufacturing has grown significantly over the last decade, but there is always more to do. I have also taken on my own challenges along the way, completing seven Big Battlefield Bike Rides in aid of Help for Heroes, and I’m always inspired by the generosity of those who continue to contribute to these important causes.

Looking ahead, we remain dedicated advocates for the Armed Forces Community within the manufacturing sector, encouraging businesses to break down employment barriers and recognise the extraordinary skills and expertise that ex-service personnel bring. As we celebrate this milestone, we are once again supporting The Children’s Hospital Charity and Mission Motorsport, and we look forward to raising even more awareness and funding in the years to come.

James Selka is CEO of The Manufacturing Technologies Association

For more information:

www.machexhibition.com

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7298 6400