Meet the manufacturers: Countering the industry’s challenges at the PPMA Show® 2026

Automate UK has confirmed some of the manufacturers secured for the PPMA Show® 2026 to date and offered a preview of the some of the solutions being exhibited to counter the challenges facing the industry today.

The UK’s largest processing and packaging machinery, robotics and industrial vision event, which will take place at the NEC, Birmingham from 22-24 September, giving visitors access to insight from a host of expert speakers and practical demonstrations of the latest state-of-the-art technology created to enhance operations.

Scott McKenna, Chief Operating Officer, said: “The industry is facing a number of complex challenges, and the PPMA Show® provides manufacturers with the chance to future-proof their businesses and tackle some of those challenges head-on thanks to the insight, expertise and world-class innovations they will have access to during the course of the show.

“Manufacturers across food, beverage, pharmaceutical and consumer goods sectors are seeking solutions that will streamline operations, increase efficiency, optimise performance and offer production flexibility, while addressing labour shortages and improving safety and quality - all while reducing costs. 

“As the must-attend event for industry professionals, we have the solutions to these problems within our show. The PPMA Show® provides visitors an opportunity to compare technologies side by side, hear directly from industry experts, discover practical solutions to current manufacturing challenges and gain insight into the future of processing, packaging and automation,” he said.

One of the most significant, and well-documented challenges facing the industry remains the shortage of skilled labour, with collaborative robotics, intelligent palletising and integrated production systems playing a vital role across all facets of the sector.

PAL Ready, one such solution, and the industry’s first fully production-ready palletizing cell, will be showcased by Robotiq (stand E74). With more than 900 palletizers worldwide, the cell is provided assembled, tested, and ready to run upon arrival. The PAL Ready bas been created to facilitate shorter timelines, fewer integration challenges, predictable ROI, and a safer, more productive workforce.

Dinnissen Process Technology (H40), world leader in process technology in the world of powders, particles and granules, will demonstrate integrated powder handling, conveying and processing such as its Lump Breaker and Sample Taker technology, as well as its DIMA® Bag and Big-Bag emptying systems, all of which automate complex manufacturing processes from raw ingredient intake through to packaging.

A key theme throughout the show will be operational efficiency, with exhibitors including Industrial Trading Solutions (G30), Arnott Conveyors (B90), Continuous Process Solutions (G100) and AE Mixers (H10) demonstrating technology engineered to improve production reliability, maximise output, reduce operational risk and simplify maintenance throughout he manufacturing sector.

As always, the PPMA Show is the perfect platform for launching groundbreaking innovations to the industry. Among those showcasing their latest production-enhancing technologies are Flux Pumps (A41), with the launch of the FBM 4100 battery motor, a major breakthrough in drum and IBC pump technology designed to reduce cost, cut waste and improve productivity, and Dustcontrol UK (E120), who will introduce the DC AirCube 600, its high-performance, lightweight industrial air cleaning technology designed to improve workplace safety, reduce airborne contamination and help manufacturers manage ATEX risks across food, pharmaceutical and processing environments.

Further exhibitors and their innovations will be revealed in the coming weeks. 

Attendance for The PPMA Show® 2026 is free. For a complete list of confirmed exhibitors, full details of the event, and details of how to register, visit: https://www.ppmashow.co.uk.