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5 MIN. READ
Trade shows and live events are tremendous opportunities for marketers to learn more about industry providers. Not only are key personnel from large enterprises presenting, but you can actually see the products and services different companies offer firsthand. For marketing and sales professionals, this level of immersion allows you to speak with authority when working with these companies.
Related: Top 5 Reasons for Attending a Trade Show
Trade shows are also perhaps the most effective way for marketers to get their foot in the door with industry representatives. Since trade shows are usually attended by a majority, if not all, of a company's senior and C-level staff, finding the right people is quite literally a walk in the park (or in this case, a walk on the showroom floor).
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It's not a one-sided relationship, either. There's a reason company executives and senior officers attend trade shows so regularly. Brands need to get their products or services in front of marketers to succeed. For brands that make a standout appearance at a trade show, the return on investment in contacts made and contracts negotiated is sizable. The fact that both marketers and businesses are so invested in the success of their trade show appearances makes these shows the go-to location for good firms and marketers to outpace the competition.
If you would like to benefit from face-to-face meetings and extensive education on the industry, consider the following can't-miss events.
Design-2-Part
Date: Multiple dates/locations in Spring and Fall of 2025
Featuring 300 service categories, the Design-2-Part Show is America’s longest running and most trusted events for sourcing custom parts and services. For over 40 years, the Design-2-Part shows have provided job shops and contract manufacturers the opportunity to meet in-person with OEM engineers and buyers. In 2025, Design-2-Part shows are upcoming in:
Spring 2025
• Florida: Orlando, FL - March 11 & 12
• Northern California: Santa Clara, CA - March 26 & 27
• Texas: Irving, TX - April 9 & 10
• New England: Ucasville, CT – April 23 & 24
• Greater Chicago: Schaumburg, IL - May 7 & 8
• Southeast: Charlotte, NC - June 11 & 12
Fall 2025 (to be announced)
International Wireless Communications Expo
Date: March 17-20, 2025
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
If you're invested in the communications industry, this trade show is for you. From revolutionary developments in 5G technology to communications devices that look like they were stolen from the set of Star Trek, this show is one of the best places to mingle with the best minds the wireless communications industry has to offer.
FABTECH
Date: September 8-11, 2025
Location: McCormick Place--Chicago, IL
If there's one trade show on this list that's a must-visit for marketers regardless of the industry they target, it's FABTECH.
FABTECH covers the metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing industries. The event averages more than 1,900 exhibitors and 48,000 attendees per year, making it one of the largest trade shows for the fabrication industry.
FABTECH is dedicated to showcasing cutting-edge advancement in fabrication technology from all the most prominent industry players, as well as scrappy start-ups and medium-sized enterprises. As part of this focus, it regularly features presentations on the most significant advancements in fabrication technology.
The wealth of exhibitors at FABTECH and the presentations the event offers make it uniquely valuable to marketers. Not only can you make vital connections with company executives and senior officers, but you can also leave the event completely up to date on the latest in fabrication technology. You can't ask for much more from a trade show than that.
The ASSEMBLY Show
Date: October 21-23, 2025
Location: Rosemont, IL. (Donald E. Stephens Convention Center)
The ASSEMBLY Show is a comprehensive event for assembly professionals, focusing on technologies, equipment, and solutions for optimizing assembly processes. Featuring a wide variety of assembly equipment and technology from leading manufacturers, attendees can expect educational seminars on a variety of assembly topics, networking events, and live demonstrations.
Advanced Manufacturing Expo (AME)
Date: August 6th and 7th, 2025
Location Grand Rapids, MI
Dive into the heart of metalworking with AME, showcasing cutting-edge equipment and technologies for metal-forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing. Explore live demos, network with industry experts, and discover solutions to optimize your metalworking processes. Whether you're a machine shop owner, an engineer, or a buyer, AME offers valuable insights and connections.
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International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS)
Date: September 14-19, 2026
Location: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL.
Looking to check out the latest advanced machinery, devices, and digital equipment powering innovation in manufacturing today? Managed by the Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT), the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) is the largest industrial technology event in America, showcasing the latest in manufacturing equipment, software, and services.
WESTEC 2025
Date: October 7-9 2025
Location: Anaheim, CA
WESTEC 2025 is a leading manufacturing technology event, set to take place in Anaheim, CA. This event attracts professionals from various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, and industrial machinery, showcasing the latest innovations in manufacturing technology. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge solutions, attend educational sessions, and network with industry leaders.
EASTEC 2025
Date: May 13-15, 2025
Location: West Springfield, MA
EASTEC 2025 is one of the largest manufacturing trade shows in the Northeast, taking place in West Springfield, MA. This event focuses on industry advancements and provides a platform for professionals to explore new technologies, attend informative sessions, and network with peers. EASTEC 2025 is the perfect opportunity to stay ahead of the curve in the manufacturing industry, discover innovative solutions, and connect with key players in the field.
Automate Show 2025
Date: May 12-15, 2025
Location: Detroit, MI
Get ready for the largest automation event in North America! The Automate Show 2025 will take place in Detroit, MI, from May 12-15. This premier event will showcase the latest in robotics, machine vision, artificial intelligence, motion control, and related technologies. With over 30,000 decision-makers from more than 100 countries and 40 industries, Automate 2025 is the perfect place to discover cutting-edge solutions, attend educational sessions, and network with industry leaders. Whether you’re looking to enhance your business operations or stay ahead of technological advancements, Automate 2025 is a must-attend event for anyone involved in the automation industry.
Automation Fair 2025
Date: November 19-21, 2025
Location: Chicago, IL
Automation Fair 2025, hosted by Rockwell Automation, will be held in Chicago, IL, from November 18-21. This event is dedicated to automation and manufacturing solutions, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and experts. Attendees will have the chance to explore the latest automation technologies, participate in hands-on labs, and attend educational sessions. Automation Fair 2025 is a must-attend event for anyone looking to enhance their automation processes and stay updated on the latest industry trends.
Specialty Equipment Market Association
Date: November 4-7, 2025
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada
If your niche is in the premium auto parts market, you'll want to attend this one. Averaging over 100,000 attendees and 2,000 exhibitors, the Specialty Equipment Market Association is a seminal event for premium auto parts manufacturers and marketers. The sheer size and scope of this event make it well worth a visit for any marketer focused on specialty auto parts or cars.
National Business Aviation Association
Date: October 14-16, 2025
Location: Las Vegas, NV
The National Business Aviation Association's convention is one of the premier trade shows for the aerospace and aviation industry. This convention is dedicated to exploring and promoting the interests of business-related aerospace manufacturers and organizations. Whether you aim to do business in the aerospace industry internationally or locally, this is one trade show you shouldn't miss.
SAE AeroTech Expo
Date: May 6-8, 2025
Location: Vancouver, BC
A premier event for the aerospace industry, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovations in commercial aviation, the AeroTech Expo is your go-to for a comprehensive view of the most innovative advancements in aerospace technology such as supersonic aircraft to sustainable aviation.
Modex 2026
Date April 13-16, 2026
Location: Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, GA
This trade show focuses on supply chain, logistics, and material handling technology. It gathers professionals interested in warehousing, distribution, and manufacturing solutions
PackExpo
Held in multiple locations, PACK EXPO showcases the world of packaging and processing. The show features full scale machinery and highlights the latest advancements in packaging and processing. Attendees can expect educational sessions and discussions on several topics, ranging from containers, printing, processing, materials, and more. Other shows are upcoming in:
• Southeast: Atlanta, GA - March 10-12, 2025
• West: Las Vegas, NV – September 29-Oct 1, 2025
• East: Philadelphia, PA – Feb 17-19, 2026
• Midwest: Chicago, IL – October 18-21, 2026
Date: February 4-6, 2025
Location: Anaheim, CA
IME West 2025 is the premier advanced manufacturing event in the United States, taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center from February 4-6. This event brings together five interconnected expos: MD&M West, WestPack, ATX West, D&M West, and Plastec West, covering a wide range of industries from medical technology to packaging, automation, design, and plastics.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore hundreds of innovative products and solutions, attend expert-led educational sessions, and network with over 14,000 professionals from around the globe. Whether you’re looking to discover the latest advancements in manufacturing technology, connect with industry leaders, or gain insights into future trends, IME West 2025 is the place to be.
The International Plastics Showcase
Date: May 3-7, 2027
Location: Orlando, Florida
This trade show is essential to have it on your radar. The International Plastics Showcase is perhaps the only trade show where you can find all the biggest movers and shakers in the international plastics industry in a single location.
For marketers invested in the plastics industry, this is simply a show that you can't afford to miss - so start planning to attend!
Plastics Technology Expo (PTXPO) 2025
Date: March 18-20, 2025
Location: Rosemont, IL
Join industry leaders and innovators at the Plastics Technology Expo (PTXPO) 2025, a premier event dedicated to the latest advancements in plastics technology. Held in Rosemont, IL, this three-day trade show will feature cutting-edge exhibits, insightful presentations, and networking opportunities with professionals from around the globe. Whether you’re looking to discover new materials, explore state-of-the-art machinery, or connect with key players in the plastics industry, PTXPO 2025 is the place to be. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of plastics technology!
The Powder Show (International Powder Bulk Solids) 2025
Date: April 29 – May 1, 2025
Location: Rosemont, IL
The Powder Show, also known as the International Powder Bulk Solids, is the premier event for professionals in the powder and bulk solids handling and dry processing sector. Taking place in Rosemont, IL, this three-day event will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and experts to showcase the latest advancements in technology, equipment, and solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge exhibits, participate in educational sessions, and network with peers from around the world. Whether you’re looking to improve your processes, discover new products, or connect with key players in the industry, The Powder Show 2025 is the place to be. Don’t miss out on this essential event for anyone involved in the powder and bulk solids industry!
CAMX (Composites and Advanced Materials Expo) 2025
Date: September 9-11, 2025
Location: Orlando, FL
CAMX 2025, the Composites and Advanced Materials Expo, will be held in Orlando, FL, from September 9-11. This premier event is dedicated to the composite materials and advanced manufacturing industries, featuring a wide range of exhibits, educational sessions, and networking opportunities. Attendees will discover the latest advancements in composite materials, explore innovative manufacturing techniques, and connect with industry experts. CAMX 2025 is an essential event for anyone involved in the composites and advanced materials sectors.
San Antonio Manufacturers Association Trade Show
Date: May 7th, 2025
Location: San Antonio, TX
Looking to make things bigger in Texas? Add the SAMA Trade Show to your list and enjoy panel discussions, breakout sessions, and conference talks. Featuring in-person presentations from top industry leaders, this is a great avenue to learn more about manufacturing in Texas and meet many new faces.
Advanced Manufacturing Minneapolis
Date: October 21-22, 2025
Location: Minneapolis, MN
The Advanced Manufacturing Minneapolis event, set for October 21-22, 2025, is gearing up to be a significant gathering for professionals across manufacturing, medtech, automation, and other industrial fields. Taking place at the Minneapolis Convention Center, this conference and expo will feature over 575 exhibitors and is expected to attract around 5,300 attendees.
The expo will unite five interconnected events, showcasing a diverse array of technologies such as rapid prototyping, packaging, robotics, and more. It's an excellent opportunity for businesses to discover new solutions and make industry connections.
American Manufacturing Summit 2025
Date: March 19-20, 2025
Location: Schaumburg, IL
The American Manufacturing Summit 2025 is set to take place in Schaumburg, IL, from March 19-20. This influential event will bring together industry leaders and experts to focus on key areas such as process optimization, modern facilities, talent management, and innovation. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in insightful discussions, attend educational sessions, and network with peers who are shaping the future of manufacturing. Whether you’re looking to enhance your operational efficiency, explore the latest technological advancements, or connect with top talent, the American Manufacturing Summit 2025 is the place to be.
Want to see how you can make the most of your trade show? Check out this video from MNI University from industry expert Cherise Kennerley on how to maximize your investment!
Whether you're looking to do a big new year mailing, launch an email campaign, or just need better leads for your sales team, IndustrySelect is your best ally to getting your message across to the right contacts in 2025. Set up your free demo account, loaded with 500 real company profiles and get a firsthand look at how you can find new customers with this powerful software!
Don't miss out on this opportunity to fire up your prospecting and lead generation. Get on board today!
Editor's note: This article was originally published in October 2019. It is updated annually to reflect new dates and trade show information.
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