Celebrating the innovation shaping the future of UK manufacturing + engineering

Discover the products, processes and ideas that are redefining British manufacturing + engineering on the global stage.

The Best of British Showcase, hosted at Smart Manufacturing Week 2026, brings together ground-breaking designs, pioneering manufacturing methods and export successes that proudly champion UK innovation. From world first technologies to iconic engineering excellence, this is where Britain’s manufacturing + engineering story is told boldly, credibly and at scale.

Curated in partnership with The Manufacturer, the showcase features:

  • Finalists from The Manufacturer MX Awards

  • Companies from the prestigious Top 100 programme

  • Exclusive editorial selections, chosen for their impact, ingenuity and leadership

Previous showcases have shone a spotlight on some of the most respected names in UK manufacturing and engineering, including LEVC Taxi, JLR, BMW MINI, MINI Heritage, Leonardo, Farm Urban, Aurrigo, Aston Martin, BAC Mono, Airbus and A-Safe. These organisations continue to push boundaries across automotive, aerospace, defence, food, automation and advanced engineering.

A platform with unrivalled reach

Located across the Smart Manufacturing Week expos, the Best of British Showcase is open to 13,500+ senior manufacturing and engineering professionals, offering participants unparalleled visibility among decision makers, innovators and industry influencers.

Already confirmed for 2026 are Apprentice Automation Challenge winners, NiftyLift, continuing the showcase’s tradition of recognising both established leaders and emerging talent.

Past featured innovators include:

  • Yunex Traffic – Intelligent traffic and transport solutions driving safer, smarter and more sustainable mobility
  • MasterMover – Showcased award winning AGV innovations, including the MasterTow AGV and FlatBed AGV, redefining material handling with outdoor capable autonomous solutions
  • LISI Aerospace – Multi award winning manufacturer recognised for leadership, people and skills, and emerging talent
  • Nim’s Fruit Crisps - Founded by Nimisha Raja MBE, celebrated for services to business and enterprise
  • JJA Snack - Delivering an immersive Mini Chocolate Factory Experience, blending food manufacturing with engineering creativity
  • ThrustWSH - The team behind the World Water Speed Record project

best of british

Interested in taking part?

Exhibitors are required to:

  • Arrange delivery of exhibits on Monday 1 or Tuesday 2 June 2026, depending on location

  • Ensure collection after the show closes on Thursday 4 June 2026

Spaces are limited and editorially curated to ensure the highest standard of innovation and impact.

Put your innovation centre stage and take your place among the very best of British manufacturing + engineering!

Ready to showcase your innovation? Apply below to join us in celebrating British manufacturing excellence.