Tuesday, August 19, 2025

The Professional Woodworking Expo 2026 is set to return to the NEC Birmingham from May 17–19 2026. As the UK’s only dedicated event for woodworking professionals, the Expo will once again provide a comprehensive platform for industry leaders, manufacturers, and suppliers to explore the latest innovations in the woodworking and joinery manufacturing sectors.
The event, which has grown significantly in recent years, promises to be an exciting opportunity for professionals to discover new products, solutions, and cutting-edge technologies. From advanced machinery and tools to coatings, varnishes, finishes, and materials, attendees can expect a wide range of exhibits designed to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
In 2024, the Expo attracted more than 6,000 visitors, many of whom held purchasing power and were ready to make important business decisions. A notable 90% of attendees planned to make purchases within 12–15 months of the event. The 2026 edition will likely see even more industry professionals, with many being new prospects for exhibitors.
Exhibitors at the event will showcase everything from specialist woodworking machinery and consumables to hand and power tools, paint, coatings, and software. The diversity of products on display will allow visitors to see firsthand the tools and technologies that are shaping the future of the woodworking industry.
A standout feature of the Professional Woodworking Expo 2026 will be the Live Demo Zone. The Demo Zone provides an interactive space where visitors can see the latest products and techniques in action. In this hands-on area, attendees will have the opportunity to witness live demonstrations of the most advanced woodworking machinery available.
The success of the 2024 Live Demo Zone has created great anticipation for the upcoming event. Expect even more brands, increased expertise, and a greater level of interactivity. With live demonstrations, industry experts will be on hand to explain the workings of the machinery, offering invaluable insights into the tools and techniques driving innovation in woodworking.
For David Todd, the Event Director, the Demo Zone is a key highlight that will return even stronger in 2026. He stated, “I’m most excited to see the return of our live demo zone, a stand-out feature from 2024. This area promises to feature more brands, more expertise, and be more interactive than ever before!”
One of the key aspects that makes the Professional Woodworking Expo a unique event is its ability to foster a sense of community within the industry. Tom Lane, the Marketing Manager for the event, expressed his excitement about seeing the woodworking community come together. “What I’m most excited about for Professional Woodworking Expo is seeing people come together! There are so many industry leaders and partners all in one place, and they’ll be making meaningful connections, sharing ideas, and sparking collaborations that can drive the sector forward and get actual business done.”
The Expo has always been a space where professionals can connect, share ideas, and collaborate. As the event continues to grow, these opportunities for networking and innovation will be enhanced, ensuring that attendees leave the event with fresh insights and business opportunities.
For Jess Hardisty, the PR and Content Manager, the 2026 edition is about using content to connect the community. She looks forward to the energy and creativity that will come from bringing the woodworking community together. She shared, “I’m most looking forward to the energy and creativity that comes from bringing the woodworking community together—especially in how we tell those stories. For 2026, we’re putting a real focus on content that connects: from collaborating with industry influencers who share authentic, hands-on insights, to spotlighting the next generation of woodworking professionals through competitions and live social coverage.”
In addition to the live demos, the event will feature more real-time demonstrations, behind-the-scenes content, and opportunities for visitors to engage directly with both experts and creators. The goal is to amplify new voices, celebrate craftsmanship, and inspire the industry as a whole.
The 2026 Professional Woodworking Expo will build on the success of previous editions, offering even more opportunities for attendees to engage with cutting-edge tools, techniques, and industry experts. The event promises to be more interactive and content-rich than ever before, providing a perfect space for professionals to learn, share, and grow.
The Live Demo Zone will be bigger and better, with more brands offering hands-on experiences and showcasing their innovations. Additionally, the event will feature new competitions, live social coverage, and interactive experiences that aim to spotlight the next generation of woodworking professionals.
For woodworking professionals, the Professional Woodworking Expo 2026 at the NEC Birmingham is not just an exhibition—it’s an experience. It’s where the latest innovations in machinery, materials, and techniques will be on full display, and where connections will be made that shape the future of the woodworking industry.
Whether you’re looking to invest in new equipment, discover the latest trends, or network with peers and industry leaders, the Expo is the must-attend event of 2026 for anyone in the woodworking sector.
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