What's On at Drives & Controls

Education 

Drives & Technology Theatre

Drives & Technology Theatre

The Drives & Technology Theatre covers the latest developments around Cobots, Industrial Robots, Robotic Process Automation, Picking & Packing, Warehousing, Autonomous Guided Vehicles, Drones and more.

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Hosted Buyer Programme

Hosted Buyer Programme

Our specialist Connect+ Live partners will be on hand to connect visitors with the exhibitors they want to meet, to ensure the most efficient use of their time.

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Automation & Robotics Accelerator Symposium

Automation & Robotics Accelerator Symposium

The symposium is where automation-minded manufacturing executives from across the sector discuss best practices and share knowledge on implementation and optimisation of automation and robotics in their businesses.

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Programmes

STEM Programme

STEM Programme

Our dedicated STEM afternoon will be attended by hundreds of students and apprentices who want to learn more about the world of manufacturing and engineering, directly from the experts.

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IMechE Automation Challenge

IMechE Automation Challenge

Smart Manufacturing & Engineering Week and The Manufacturer are delighted to announce that the winning team of the Apprentice Automation Challenge will be exhibiting at the show in June. The challenge is open for teams to enter until 1 March 2024.

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VIP Programme

VIP Programme

Reserved for senior players from large scale operations, our VIP programme is a place for you to network with your peers away from the busy show floor. Including complimentary drinks.

JOIN THE PROGRAMME 

Live music & drinks

Live music & drinks

Gather round the stage to hear from our guest band the Shadow Monkeys! Enjoy a drink with your peers to celebrate the industry!

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FANUC Industrial Robots Qualifiers

FANUC Industrial Robots Qualifiers

FANUC is hosting the Industrial Robots Qualifiers during the two-day event. Teams of two (aged 16-20) will compete in an engaging challenge, demonstrating their ability to gather and apply information, collaborate effectively, follow instructions, and develop a successful robot program to industry standards. A FANUC robot will be available for hands-on experimentation following the competition, offering participants an opportunity to test their skills alongside a team member.

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Enginuity Skills Awards 2024

Enginuity Skills Awards 2024

We are delighted to announce that the 10th annual Enginuity Skills Awards will be taking place as part of Smart Manufacturing & Engineering Week!

Apply now

 

Best of British Showcase

Best of British Showcase

Join us in a celebration of domestic manufacturing, featuring world-beating new designs, innovative modes of manufacture, products that redefine categories, and export successes that plant the flag in overseas markets. 

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Smoothie Bikes

Smoothie Bikes

Engage in healthy competition at the Smoothie Bikes, using your own pedal power to create refreshing smoothies (literally seeing the fruits of your labour!).

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GAMBICA

GAMBICA

As our Strategic Partner, don't miss essential practical GAMBICA sessions covering standards, policies, regulations, and insights to enhance the profile of the sector.

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Drives & Controls Magazine - DFA Media

Drives & Controls Magazine - DFA Media

We are thrilled to continue our partnership with DFA Media’s Drives & Controls Magazine,  maximising our visibility and gaining extensive coverage in print and online throughout the event, both
prior to, during, and even after its conclusion. 

 

Press Room 

Press Room 

Visit our press room for the latest updates, media resources, and exclusive interviews.

Press room is located in Hall 4, Organisers Office 4.8.

EMAIL OUR PR TEAM

Visitor Trails

Visitor Trails

Crafted by our team to ensure you meet all exhibitors relevant to your needs, the visitor trails will guide you perfectly through the halls and put you where you need to be.

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FANUC UK begins search to find Britain’s best young robotics talent

FANUC UK is hosting the WorldSkills UK Industrial Robotics competition, inviting teams of young students and apprentices to showcase their robotics programming and operating skills, with the winners earning the chance to represent the UK at the international finals in Shanghai in 2026.

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FANUC UK reveals hottest automation trends for 2024

FANUC UK outlines seven key automation trends anticipated for 2024, including increased energy efficiency, application-specific software, new product features, smart functionality, engaging youth in robotics and engineering, reduced manual handling through robotics, and growing automation adoption in the aerospace industry.

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2024 Manufacturing Automation Maturity Survey 

This survey looks into various facets of automation within manufacturing operations, ranging from processes and technologies employed to the organisational strategies driving automation initiates.  

Report coming soon!

What else is on at Smart Manufacturing & Engineering Week ? 

Explore all the events happening during Smart Manufacturing & Engineering Week 2024 designed to bring inter-related sectors together to address all areas from hardware, software, connectivity and people. 

What's on

1 Event - 2 Halls 

Drives & Controls is co-located alongside other leading industry events. 1 Pass provides access to all.

See what else is on here  Register Now