Top 20 Manufacturing Trade Shows

Innovation doesn’t happen in a vacuum. In 2025, manufacturing events are where ideas converge, partnerships form and the future of the industry takes shape.

Why Manufacturing Events Matter in 2025

The move toward AI-enabled, low-touch planning is transforming how businesses forecast demand and manage production cycles. This evolution is driven by necessity. Today’s supply chains face mounting pressures from widespread inflation, tightening regulations and rapid geopolitical shifts, making resilience more crucial than ever.

For companies looking to stay ahead of the curve, there’s no better place to be than the biggest trade shows in the US. These events are where you’ll meet industry peers, scout out competitors and get a glimpse of what’s next in supply chain innovation. 

Below, we’ve listed some of the top manufacturing events and supply chain conferences to attend in 2025. Explore our curated list designed to keep supply chain professionals at the forefront of emerging technologies.

Who Shows Up at Manufacturing Events?

Manufacturing events bring together a dynamic mix of professionals shaping the future of the supply chain industry. You’ll encounter executives setting strategic priorities, logistics experts tackling everyday supply chain challenges and vendors showcasing breakthrough products. Alongside them, investors, media representatives and PR professionals converge to network, gain insider knowledge and cover major industry developments. 

Whether you’re looking to learn about cutting-edge developments or connect with key players, these events offer great opportunities to engage and grow.

Ready to explore what else is on the event calendar?

The Top 20 Manufacturing Trade Shows and Supply Chain Conferences

1. MODEX
   MODEX 2025 is a leading event for the manufacturing, supply chain and material handling industries. Known for its vast exhibit floor and immersive experiences, MODEX is the place to learn about the newest developments in supply chain automation and logistics technology. From best practices for optimizing last mile delivery to integrating smart factory solutions, MODEX can connect you with the innovators transforming how products move from warehouse to consumer.
2. IMTS (International Manufacturing Technology Show)
   The IMTS draws designers, engineers, manufacturers and technology leaders from more than 110 countries worldwide. Covering everything from precision CNC machining and robotics to AI-powered automation, the event offers unique insights into cutting-edge manufacturing advancements.
3. ProMat
   Held biennially, ProMat draws thousands of supply chain professionals and decision-makers seeking the latest advancements in robotics, automation and warehouse management systems. As the sister event to MODEX, which occurs in alternating years, ProMat helps ensure continuous access to emerging technologies and fresh industry insights. Together, these flagship shows provide a year-over-year pulse on innovation shaping the future of the supply chain.
4. FABTECH
   For more than 40 years, FABTECH has been the cornerstone event for professionals in metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing. It features a record-breaking show floor of over 850,000 square feet, with 1,500+ exhibitors and 500+ product launches covering everything from robotic welders and laser cutters to CNC machines and finishing systems. Attendees, ranging from design engineers and plant managers to procurement leaders and skilled operators, can engage with live equipment demos, dive into more than 180 expert-led sessions and attend standout keynotes.
5. Automate
   The Automate Show and Conference brings together more than 800 exhibitors and thousands of attendees from sectors like automotive, healthcare and logistics. Taking place in Detroit, it offers deep-dive sessions on AI, robotics and smart manufacturing, as well as keynote speeches from senior executives at established brands like Schneider Electric and NVIDIA. Participants benefit from innovation recognitions and special programs including the Women’s Empowerment Forum and Student Challenge.
6. PACK EXPO
   Hosted by PMMI, this large-scale expo offers a hands-on opportunity to explore live demonstrations of the latest packaging machinery, automation systems and sustainable materials. For example, improving product shelf life and meeting changing consumer preferences are hot topics at PACK EXPO’s workshops. Attendees can even test materials themselves, interact directly with OEMs and learn about turnkey solutions designed to address production challenges across the supply chain.
7. Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo
   The Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo is an executive event designed to equip supply chain leaders with the insights and tools needed to lead through volatility. Gathering CSCOs, VPs and senior supply chain executives from global enterprises, the symposium offers a powerful mix of analyst-led sessions, real-world case studies and high-level peer networking. Attendees gain guidance to address critical challenges, including geopolitical risk, inflation, labor shortages and the integration of AI—while building resilient, future-ready supply chains.
8. EDGE
   EDGE is a dynamic, content-rich forum hosted annually by the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP). It offers actionable, ranging from adaptable, AI-driven sourcing strategies to last-mile delivery optimization. Attendees gain firsthand insights from Fortune 500 executives and academic pioneers through over 100 sessions, workshops and case studies. The event also features a robust Supply Chain Exchange Exhibition, where technologies like digital twins and blockchain platforms are showcased.
9. Supply Chain USA
   Supply Chain USA 2025 gathers over 500 supply chain leaders for two days of strategic insights.The conference features 75 expert speakers from companies like NASA, BIC and Michael Kors, delivering insights on AI and tariff strategies. Attendees can participate in interactive workshops and executive panels designed to help businesses drive growth. This conference is a must-attend for professionals aiming to strengthen their supply chains against volatility.
10. AMUG (Additive Manufacturing Users Group) Conference
    The AMUG Conference is a user-driven event that unites additive manufacturing professionals for hands-on training and interactive workshops. With nearly 150 sessions covering practical applications, attendees explore innovations in aerospace and automotive 3D printing. The conference also features the popular AMUGexpo, Technical Competition and networking events designed to foster knowledge sharing. AMUG offers a unique environment for engineers, designers and educators to tackle and solve real-world challenges together.
11. RAPID + TCT
    Every spring, RAPID + TCT convenes thousands of additive manufacturing professionals and hundreds of exhibitors from across the globe to uncover the latest 3D printing innovations. With hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of attendees, the conference location rotates annually to highlight regional innovation hubs. The event offers an immersive experience through technical presentations and comprehensive exhibits.
12. Assembly Show
    Over three action-packed days, the Assembly Show hosts 200 exhibitors showcasing the latest assembly technologies, from automation to quality control. The event features expert-led education tracks, including the new QUALITY Deck powered by Quality magazine. Networking thrives through events like the “Taste of Rosemont” reception, while the show’s partnership with SMTA International expands opportunities for further learning and connection.
13. American Supply Chain Summit
    The American Supply Chain Summit brings together over 200 senior-level executives including CPOs, SVPs and VPs from leading companies like Starbucks and Ulta Beauty for focused discussions on international supply chain strategy. Featuring 400 onsite business meetings, the summit hones in on prevalent topics such as profit-driven risk management bolstered by advanced analytics and AI. This event offers a rare opportunity for forward-thinking learning in logistics leadership.
14. Global Supply Chain and Logistics Summit
    The Global Supply Chain and Logistics Summit takes place in Amsterdam. Designed for decision-makers across logistics, procurement and operations, the event features sessions on topics like AI in forecasting, blockchain for supply chain transparency, as well as ESG compliance. With a curated audience of 100-150 delegates, the summit fosters in-depth conversations through masterclasses and executive panels.
15. ISM World Annual Conference
    With over 2,000 attendees from 40+ countries, the ISM World Annual Conference features strategic keynotes and specialized sessions focused on supplier innovation, digital transformation and supply chain resilience. Highlights include exclusive networking events like the Awards Gala and VIP reception. It’s a must-attend for professionals looking to influence sourcing strategy.
16. ATX WEST
    ATX WEST is an international automation technology expo showcasing the latest advancements in custom automation, assembly, robotics, control software, motion control and more. Automation technology suppliers from around the world present products that promote lean manufacturing, cost reduction, enhanced productivity and process control.
17. WESTEC
    WESTEC, which takes place annually at the Anaheim Convention Center, features over 400 exhibitors and over 90,000 square feet of exhibits. The show attracts professionals from across the aerospace, medical and automotive sectors, many of whom are purchasing decision-makers with substantial equipment budgets. Attendees gain access to digital manufacturing solutions, plus insightful presentations and panel discussions. 
18. WEST PACK
    WESTPACK gathers innovators, engineers and executives from food & beverage, pharmaceuticals and consumer goods sectors. Held at the Anaheim Convention Center, WESTPACK features 250 exhibitors presenting breakthrough packaging machinery, sustainable materials and smart solutions designed to optimize production efficiency. Attendees benefit from sessions on packaging trends, regulatory compliance and automation.
19. EASTEC
    EASTEC has served the Northeast manufacturing community for 35+ years, drawing participants from aerospace, defense and medical fields. Hosted at the Eastern States Exposition, the show highlights the latest in CNC machining, robotics and advanced manufacturing technologies. With hundreds of exhibitors and a rich educational program, EASTEC offers unique opportunities for networking.
20. HOUSTEX
    HOUSTEX showcases cutting-edge technologies in automation, CNC machining, robotics, additive manufacturing and more. Held at Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center and produced by SME and AMT, the event draws thousands of decision-makers for hands-on demos and workforce development programs. Highlights include the Small Shop Digital Solutions Showcase and the Bright Minds Student Summit, connecting innovation with future talent.

Actively network with industry journalists at every event.

How to Choose the Right Manufacturing Events for Your Business

With so many manufacturing events on the calendar in 2025, finding the one that aligns with your goals can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. The key is to begin with clarity—what are you really looking to achieve?

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Are you searching for game-changing technologies to automate key processes?
• Are you looking to learn from industry thought leaders and stay ahead of the market?
• Do you want to build strategic relationships with suppliers and partners?
• Are you focused on attracting top-tier talent to scale your operations?

Once your objectives are defined, the next step is to evaluate each event through a strategic lens. Go beyond the event title or location and take a deep dive into the conference agenda, speaker lineup and the types of organizations that typically attend. Look for sessions that address your business challenges or areas of interest. 

Equally important is the quality of the networking experience. Prioritize conferences that go beyond passive lectures and offer curated opportunities to engage, such as supplier roundtables, talent meetups, interactive workshops, innovation showcases and peer-to-peer discussions. These formats foster more meaningful connections and open the door to partnerships, recruiting opportunities and vendor relationships that can drive impact.

PR is all about maximizing opportunity.