Top 10 Automation Fairs 2023

Trade shows play an important role in promoting products and services, where companies showcase their latest and greatest innovations. These events provide great opportunities to meet industry partners, learn from competitors, and stay updated on new trends.

If you’re looking for the best trade shows to attend, look no further! We have curated a list of the top 14 automation trade shows that you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Whether you’re a professional, buyer, or seller, these events will give you a comprehensive understanding of the industry and help you find the right solutions for your business.

Mark your calendar for these must-attend automation trade shows:

Big Sight’s International Robotics Exhibition (IREX):

Date: 03.04.23 – 07.04.23
Duration: 5 days
City: Hannover
Country: Germany
Venue: Hanover Fairground
Top Categories Focused: Cobots, Industrial (Articulated) Robots, Grippers, Vision Systems (2D and 3D), Robot Software

Hannover Messe is a prominent trade show, serving as a global platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies, industrial innovations, and digital transformation across various sectors. The event takes place at the renowned Hanover Fairground, attracting industry professionals, experts, and decision-makers from around the world.

Date: 25.04.23 – 28.04.23
Duration: 4 days
City: Chicago
Country: United States
Venue: McCormick Place
Top Categories Focused: Cobots,Mobile Robots, Industrial (Articulated) Robots, Vision Systems (2D and 3D), Grippers

Automate is a major trade show focused on automation solutions and robotics, it brings together industry leaders, manufacturers, and technology enthusiasts. The event takes place at McCormick Place, providing a platform to explore the latest advancements in automation, AI, and related technologies.

Date: 28.11.23 – 30.11.23
Duration: 3 days
City: Nuremberg
Country: Germany
Venue: Nuremberg Exhibition Centre
Top Categories Focused: Industrial (Articulated) Robots, Vision Systems (2D and 3D), Grippers, Robot Software

SPS – Smart Production Solutions is a renowned trade show, focused on smart production and automation solutions, offering a comprehensive platform for networking and knowledge exchange.

Date: 10.09.24 – 15.09.24
Duration: 6 days
City: Chicago
Country: United States
Venue: McCormick Place
Top Categories Focused: Industrial (Articulated) Robots, Vision Systems (2D and 3D), Grippers, Linear Motion Systems, End of Arm Tools

IMTS, the International Manufacturing Technology Show, is a premier trade show that serves as a global platform for showcasing the latest manufacturing technologies, machinery, and industrial solutions. McCormick Place hosts this event, bringing together industry leaders, manufacturers, and technology enthusiasts.

Date: 17.06.24 – 20.06.24
Duration: 4 days
City: Munich
Country: Germany
Venue: Messe München
Top Categories Focused: Cobots, Industrial (Articulated) Robots, Grippers, Vision Systems (2D and 3D), Robot Software

Automatica is a significant trade show in Munich, Germany, focused on robotics, automation, and intelligent solutions, it brings together experts, researchers, and industry professionals. The event takes place at Messe München, offering a comprehensive platform for exploring the latest advancements in automation and related fields.

Date: 23.10.24 – 26.10.24
Duration: 4 days
City: Las Vegas
Country: United States
Venue: Las Vegas Convention Center
Top Categories Focused: Vision Systems (2D and 3D), Grippers, Cobots, Mobile Robots, Industrial (Articulated) Robots

Pack Expo is a prominent trade show that serves as a global platform for packaging and processing solutions, attracting industry professionals and decision-makers. The event takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center, providing opportunities to explore innovative packaging technologies and network with industry experts.

Date: 06.11.24 – 09.11.24
Duration: 4 days
City: Chicago
Country: United States
Venue: McCormick Place
Top Categories Focused: Industrial (Articulated) Robots, Grippers, Cartesian (Gantry) Robots, End of Arm Tools, Robot Accessories

Fabtech is a renowned trade show focused on metal fabrication, welding, and manufacturing technologies, it brings together industry professionals, suppliers, and experts.

Date: 26.03.24 – 28.03.24
Duration: 3 days
City: Barcelona
Country: Spain
Venue: CCIB – Centre de Convencions Internacional de Barcelona
Top Categories Focused: Cobots, Industrial (Articulated) Robots, 2D Vision Systems, Grippers, Robot Software

Advanced Factories is a significant trade show focused on industrial automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing technologies. The event takes place at the CCIB – Centre de Convencions Internacional de Barcelona, attracting professionals and experts seeking to explore the future of manufacturing.

Date: 03.10.23 – 05.10.23
Duration: 3 days
City: Birmingham
Country: United Kingdom
Venue: National Exhibition Centre (NEC)
Top Categories Focused: Mobile Robots, 2D Vision Systems, Grippers, Safety Scanners, Turnkey Robot Solutions

PPMA Total Show is a notable trade show that focuses on processing and packaging machinery, attracting industry professionals and suppliers. The National Exhibition Centre (NEC) serves as the venue for this event, providing a platform for networking, business opportunities, and exploring the latest industry trends.

Date: 09.10.23 – 12.10.23
Duration: 4 days
City: Stuttgart
Country: Germany
Venue: Messe Stuttgart
Top Categories Focused: Industrial (Articulated) Robots , SCARA Robots, Delta Robots, Linear Motion Systems, End of Arm Tools

Motek is a significant trade show focused on assembly and handling technology, it serves as a platform for industrial automation and robotics. The event takes place at Messe Stuttgart, attracting professionals and experts seeking to discover the latest advancements in assembly technology and related fields.

Date: 06.02.24 – 08.02.24
Duration: 3 days
City: Anaheim
Country: United States
Venue: Anaheim Convention Center
Top Categories Focused: Mobile Robots, 2D Vision Systems, Grippers, Robot Software, Safety Scanners

ATX West is a prominent trade show, it focuses on automation technology and solutions, attracting industry professionals, engineers, and manufacturers. The event takes place at the Anaheim Convention Center, offering a platform to explore the latest advancements in automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing.

Date: 19.03-24 – 21.03.24.
Duration: 3 days
City: Stuttgart
Country: Germany
Venue: Messe Stuttgart
Top Categories Focused: Mobile Robots, Industrial (Articulated) Robots, Cartesian (Gantry) Robots, End of Arm Tools, Robot Accessories

LogiMAT is a premier trade show dedicated to intralogistics and process management solutions, it attracts industry professionals, logistics experts, and supply chain management specialists. Hosted at the renowned Messe Stuttgart, LogiMAT provides a platform to explore the latest innovations in logistics technologies, warehouse automation, and efficient material handling systems.

Date: 17.03.25 – 20.03.25
Duration: 4 days
City: Chicago
Country: United States
Venue: McCormick Place
Top Categories Focused: Mobile Robots, Industrial (Articulated) Robots, Grippers, Linear Motion Systems, Cartesian (Gantry) Robots

ProMAT is a premier trade show focused on material handling and supply chain solutions, it attracts industry professionals, manufacturers, and logistics experts. The event takes place at McCormick Place, providing a platform to explore the latest innovations in warehouse automation, robotics, and efficient supply chain management.

(Note: While some of these trade shows may have already concluded, make sure to explore the remaining ones to unlock the full potential of your industry experience!)

Face-to-Face Interaction & Networking:

Trade shows offer valuable face-to-face interaction and networking opportunities. You can personally engage with representatives, address concerns, compare products, and establish direct relationships. This direct interaction is especially beneficial as it can be more challenging to achieve through virtual platforms.

Hands-On Experience & Immersive Understanding:

Attending physical trade shows offers hands-on experience with products and services. Witness live demonstrations of cobots, SCARA robots, and more, allowing you to assess them in action and test their worth. This tactile experience and direct interaction enhance understanding of product features, facilitating informed decision-making.

Enhanced Brand Visibility & Awareness:

Physical trade shows enhance brand visibility, differentiate companies, and facilitate face-to-face interaction. Engaging booths and displays create a lasting impression, attracting potential customers. Attending trade shows offers hands-on product experience and networking opportunities. These advantages contribute to informed decision-making and a strong brand presence, difficult to achieve virtually.

Cost and Logistics:

Participating in physical trade shows often involves significant costs related to booth setup, travel, accommodation, and shipping products or promotional materials. Additionally, coordinating logistics and managing the setup can be time-consuming and complex, especially for small businesses or companies with limited resources.

Limited Reach:

Physical trade shows have a limited reach compared to virtual events. Attendees are typically restricted to those who can travel to the event location, which may exclude potential customers or partners who are unable or unwilling to attend. This can limit the exposure and reach of companies, particularly for global markets.

Time Constraints:

Attending physical trade shows requires dedicating a specific period of time for the event. This can be challenging for busy professionals who have limited availability or conflicting schedules. Furthermore, attendees may need to prioritise certain sessions or booths due to time constraints, potentially missing out on valuable networking or learning opportunities.

Uncertain Return on Investment:

Physical trade shows offer networking and business opportunities, but immediate returns aren’t guaranteed. Success depends on factors like attendee interest, competition, and market conditions. Assessing costs and benefits is crucial to determine if attending aligns with business objectives.

​​Shift to Online Research:

The online research trend has grown, offering convenience and flexibility for product exploration and demonstrations. Unlike trade shows, Qviro provides round-the-clock accessibility, allowing you to access information and make informed decisions at your own pace throughout the year, without being constrained by trade show schedules.

In conclusion, trade shows offer valuable opportunities to meet potential customers and generate leads, but success is not guaranteed and costs are involved. Before attend ing, weigh the pros and cons, assess the value, and carefully plan your participation to maximise benefits.

Looking for the latest trade shows in industrial automation and robotics? Save hours of research by exploring our comprehensive 2024 database now! Discover events that matter to you. View the full database here.