Formnext 2026 will spotlight the United Kingdom as its partner country. With its strong manufacturing base and leading role in additive manufacturing, the UK brings a powerful ecosystem of AM systems, software solutions and industrial applications to the event. At the same time, Formnext is introducing fresh momentum and further expanding its activities in key user industries such as orthopaedics, aerospace and automotive. Exhibitors looking to benefit from this dynamic environment can still secure an attractive early-bird discount for participation until March 2.
“The United Kingdom has traditionally been one of the world’s most important AM players thanks to its close integration with a highly capable manufacturing industry. For years, the country has maintained a strong presence with established system manufacturers such as Renishaw, as well as rapidly growing companies like Wayland Additive and innovative start-ups,” says Sascha F. Wenzler, Vice President Formnext at Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH.
Joshua Dugdale, Head of Additive Manufacturing UK (AMUK), adds: “The United Kingdom plays a leading role in the global additive manufacturing ecosystem – not least thanks to its strengths in research, materials, machine development and software, as well as high-value industrial applications in aerospace, defence, energy and healthcare.” AMUK aims to strengthen collaboration between industry, research and government, accelerate adoption and increase the industrial use of AM technologies in order to raise the international visibility of the UK’s AM capabilities.
Even stronger focus on specific user industries
Formnext is also intensifying its engagement in key user sectors such as orthopaedics, aerospace and automotive through targeted activities at leading industry trade fairs.
“Together with our exhibitors and stakeholders, we will highlight the specific advantages and potential of additive manufacturing even more clearly and make them accessible to a broader user base,” explains Christoph Stüker, Vice President Formnext at Mesago.
This commitment will be reflected at selected trade shows, including AERO Friedrichshafen (April 22–25, 2026), OTWorld in Leipzig (May 19–22, 2026), and Automechanika Frankfurt (September 8–12, 2026), where Formnext will be represented with a range of activities.
“This allows us to reach an even broader target group – including users who have had little or no contact with AM so far. Our goal is to inspire them about industrial 3D printing. These events give them the opportunity to connect with exhibitors throughout the year and then experience the full spectrum of additive manufacturing at Formnext in Frankfurt in November, where they can develop concrete solutions together with our exhibitors,” Stüker adds.
Further innovations and early-bird discount until early March
With a record 38,282 visitors, Formnext 2025 already set strong benchmarks during its tenth anniversary, laying the foundation for a successful Formnext 2026.
At the same time, the event is optimizing its hall structure and will be presented across three exhibition levels in Halls 11.0, 12.0 and 12.1. “The new sustainable hall layout creates shorter walking distances, clearer visitor flows and an even more vibrant trade fair experience,” explains Wenzler. “Formnext continues to grow in both content and quality, and the optimized planning provides the ideal framework for this development.”
Exhibitors wishing to take advantage of the growing potential of the AM market can secure an early-bird discount until March 2, 2026.
Further information and registration options: www.formnext.com/exhibitors
