ADDRESSING THE MANUFACTURING SKILLS SHORTAGE AT THE PPMA SHOW® 2026

Organisers of the UK’s biggest processing and packaging machinery, robotics and industrial vision event will address one of the sector’s biggest challenges when it returns to the NEC Birmingham in September: the skills gap and how to bridge it.

The PPMA Show® 2026, taking place from 22-24 September, is the must-attend event for manufacturing professionals, offering access to new technologies, live equipment demonstrations, expert advice and networking opportunities.

Scott McKenna, Chief Operating Officer at Automate UK, said: “Of all the challenges facing the manufacturing industry at present, a diminished workforce and shortage of skills is perhaps the most pressing.

“Automate UK has an established reputation for encouraging and supporting young people seeking careers in engineering, automation, robotics, and manufacturing, and the PPMA Show® is the perfect platform for those looking to work in the sector, and businesses addressing workforce challenges to find out more about the work we do.”

“This year’s show will be the first since the launch of our Apprenticeship Cluster programme. Combined with our expert seminar sessions, it will provide employers and young people entering the workforce with huge opportunities,” he explained.

Launched in January 2025, the fully funded Apprenticeship Cluster programme brings together businesses, educators and apprentices to help develop the future manufacturing workforce. Funded through Automate BEST, Automate UK’s charitable arm, the initiative creates sustainable career pathways across the sector.

Scott added: “One of the best-attended seminars at last year’s PPMA Show® was a panel discussion focused on addressing the skills gap, focusing on both education and training, and attracting, developing, and retaining talent.

“We hope that this year, alongside showcasing the latest technologies, we can help bring new talent into the sector, providing routes into the industry through hands-on experience and high-quality training, while helping businesses thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.”

With more than 350 exhibitors and 1,500 brands in attendance, The PPMA Show® 2026 is free to attend. To register, visit: https://www.ppmashow.co.uk.

For full details of Automate UK’s Apprenticeship Cluster initiative, visit http://www.automate-uk.com/.