From February 3–5, 2026, Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026 returned to the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, marking its most successful edition in its 29-year history.
The event drew 10,722 attendees and hosted 571 exhibitors, marking a 5.6 percent increase in attendance compared to the previous year.
The exhibition’s opening featured a pre-recorded address from Chris McDonald, Minister for Industry at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department for Business and Trade. McDonald highlighted manufacturing’s role in the UK economy and the value of ongoing innovation for future progress. The event allowed attendees to engage with exhibitors and learn about investment opportunities and new solutions.
Among the exhibitors was first-time attendee MPE Electronics, presenting contract electronics manufacturing services, including PCB assembly and box build. Newbury Electronics attracted attention with its integrated, in-house manufacturing capabilities, showing how services from design to testing can address sector needs. Companies such as Sony, Panasonic, Matsuura, and Mazak were also present, contributing to the event’s appeal for UK manufacturers.
Attendees noted that the exhibition enabled direct, meaningful connections. Andre Oliveira of McLaren Automotive commented on the value of face-to-face interaction with suppliers, saying, “Trade shows are important because there’s sometimes a gap in know-how when it comes to properly transferring knowledge and information.” Jarrett Cowell, Manufacturing Services Manager at Rolls-Royce, added, “Trade shows are a good opportunity to see all of these companies in one place, otherwise doing it throughout the year would be really heavy on us.”
A seminar program offered CPD-accredited sessions across two theaters, covering topics like digital transformation, supply chain resilience, sustainability, process optimization, and advanced manufacturing. Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK, gave an overview of the manufacturing landscape, discussing challenges and opportunities facing UK industry, particularly for SMEs aiming to innovate and invest for future growth. Speakers from Siemens, Rolls-Royce, Renishaw, Airbus, and Sourceability contributed further expertise.
Headline sponsors Syn-Star, The Electronics Group, and CDT/TTiL/Siemens highlighted new technologies and solutions. The Global Electronics Association hosted two skills competitions: the IPC Hand Soldering Competition and the Cable & Wire Harness Competition, held in Europe for the first time. Winners included Justyna Mikolajczyk of Zettlex/Novanta, who earned the UK Champion 2026 title, and Adam Fidura of Oxford Instruments Plasma Technology.
Simon Farnfield, Portfolio Director at Easyfairs, said, “This year’s event showed the appetite across the industry for practical, solutions-focused discussion.” Attendees and exhibitors provided positive feedback, and Southern Manufacturing & Electronics continues to offer value and support informed decision-making across the sector.
Southern Manufacturing & Electronics will return to Farnborough International Exhibition Centre from February 2–4, 2027. Interested participants can register or book a stand via the event’s website.
Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026
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