The Materials and Finishes Show will become the Professional Woodworking Expo in 2026

Professional Woodworking Expo 2026: What to Expect

Professional Woodworking Expo 2026: What to Expect

The Professional Woodworking Expo is the UK’s only dedicated event for woodworking professionals, offering a comprehensive showcase of workshop essentials.

From cutting-edge machinery and tools to innovative software, coatings, varnishes, finishes, and materials, the Expo is designed specifically to meet the needs of the woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry.

The event will return to NEC Birmingham from 17–19 May 2026, bringing together exhibitors and visitors to explore the latest innovations and solutions in the sector.

Exhibitors and Visitors

Over 6,000 woodworking professionals attend the Expo, most of whom have purchasing power and are ready to make business decisions. In 2024, 90% of attendees planned to buy within 12–15 months, with 85% being new prospects for exhibitors. Exhibitors showcase everything from specialist woodworking machinery, consumables, and components to hand and power tools, paint and coatings, hardware, and software.

The Live Demo Zone

A highlight of the event is the Demo Zone, where visitors can experience the latest products and techniques in action. This hands-on area features live demonstrations of advanced woodworking machinery, giving attendees a close-up look at the precision, power, and innovation behind today’s leading tools.

As anticipation builds for the upcoming Professional Woodworking Expo 2026, the event team has shared their personal highlights and what they are most looking forward to at the show.

Tom Lane, Marketing Manager, is particularly inspired by the sense of community the event fosters:
“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.”

For David Todd, Event Director, one standout attraction is set to return stronger than ever:
“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!”

Jess Hardisty, PR and Content Manager, is looking forward to the creativity and storytelling that will shape this year’s experience:
“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.

“We are also building on the success of the 2024 live demo zone, making it even more interactive and content-rich for 2026. Expect to see more real-time demonstrations, behind-the-scenes content and opportunities for visitors to engage directly with both experts and creators. For me it’s about using every PR and content channel—on the show floor and online—to amplify new voices, celebrate craftsmanship, and inspire the whole industry.”

The countdown is on!

With its focus on community, innovation, and live interactive experiences, the 2026 Professional Woodworking Expo organisers are promising it to be the most dynamic and engaging yet.

To learn more about exhibiting at PWE 2026, visit: https://www.professionalwoodworkingexpo.com/exhibit/stand-enquiry-37md

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