AMUK to represent the UK as Formnext 2026 partner country named

The Formnext 2026 Additive Manufacturing event, scheduled to take place November 17-20 in Frankfurt, Germany, will feature the United Kingdom as its partner country. Leading the UK’s presence at Formnext will be Additive Manufacturing UK (AMUK) trade body, which will organise a dedicated national pavilion and a coordinated programme of events.

Each year, the exhibition organisers select a partner country based on a comprehensive assessment of global Additive Manufacturing activity, considering factors such as the size of the AM industry, user industries and the scale of R&D and innovation. The position is awarded to a nation that demonstrates a rapidly expanding AM market, supported by a dynamic and well-connected industry community.

“We’re delighted that the UK has been selected as Formnext’s partner country for the 2026 expo, and AMUK is excited to be representing the UK,” stated Joshua Dugdale, Head of AMUK. “Additive Manufacturing has enormous potential to transform the way we design and produce parts and products. That’s why we support our members and the wider UK industry across the entire AM value chain, whilst also educating potential users about the opportunities this technology offers.”

The current UK share of the global AM market is reportedly around 4-5.5%, equal to value in the range of $0.90-1.22 billion (£720-900 million). According to AMUK, the calculations show that, based on the level of AM R&D being undertaken in the UK, around 7% of the global market could be captured by the UK, translating to a market value exceeding $6 billion by 2030.

The partnership is intended to highlight the UK’s advanced capabilities in Additive Manufacturing and provide a significant platform for UK businesses to connect with global industry leaders, explore new markets and foster international collaboration across the sector.

Dugdale continued, “I would encourage all AMUK members and companies within the wider AM sector to take up this fantastic opportunity to exhibit at Formnext 2026. Any companies that book well in advance can take advantage of Formnext early-bird discount.”

This collaboration is said to be in recognition of the UK’s growing influence in the global Additive Manufacturing landscape and reflects the sector’s strategic importance to the country’s advanced manufacturing ambitions. AMUK aims to strengthen the international reputation of the UK’s research & development, industrial capability, positioning the country as a leading contributor to the future of intelligent manufacturing.

“The UK AM industry is set for significant growth, driven by benefits such as reduced waste, greater efficiency and lower production costs for small-batch manufacturing,” Dugdale concluded.

additivemanufacturinguk.org.uk