Graham Dewhurst, director general, of the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), organiser of MACH, says: “This impressive early exhibition sales performance for MACH 2014 is a reflection on the importance of MACH to the UK engineering-based manufacturing sector. The fact that sales are up by 25% on this time two years ago is a further indication of the resilience of UK advanced engineering and its determination to work towards a positive future.”

MACH 2014 will include representation from large OEMs, including aircraft manufacturer Airbus. Colin Sirett, head of research & technology, business development and partnerships, Airbus UK, says: “Airbus recognises the importance of developing strong relationships with world class suppliers. By exhibiting at MACH 2014 Airbus is participating in the UK manufacturing sector’s pre-eminent event and bringing us into closer contact with a diverse range of the leading manufacturers.”

Another feature of MACH 2014 will be a strong Education & Training Zone including, for the first time, the regional heats of World Skills.