The must-attend event for UK subcontract manufacturing buyers

Bringing together the industry for 50 years

Subcon is the UK’s largest subcontract manufacturing supply chain show, bringing the manufacturing industry together for nearly 50 years to source, benchmark and learn.

Designed for procurement teams from OEMs and tiered suppliers, Subcon helps visitors benchmark subcontract manufacturing capabilities, discover new partners and strengthen their supply chain.

50 years

Subcon in numbers

5000+

Visitors

 

200+

Exhibitors

50+

Speakers

1000+

Products

Why does Subcon matter?

Hear from industry voices at IBM, Bentley Motors and LTi Metaltech as they share how the show helps manufacturers meet the right people, discover solutions, exchange ideas and build valuable connections face to face.

Who should attend?

At its core, Subcon is an event designed for manufacturing buyers, specifiers and key decision-makers to meet and source suppliers across all industry sectors. Some of the key sectors we cover are listed below.

Aerospace

Automotive

Defence & Security

Medical

Our exhibitors span the full manufacturing supply chain. Here is a snapshot of what this includes:

Machining &
Precision
Engineering

Fabrication & Metal
Processing

Plastics &
Composites

Casting & Forging

Electronics &
Electrical

Additive
Manufacturing

Assembly & Finishing

Components & Parts

Celebrating 50 years of Subcon – get ready for our special anniversary show!

50 years of Subcon

A look back at 50 years of Subcon – take a trip down memory lane in our special feature area.

PUBCON

Pull up a stool at PUBCON, our relaxed networking hub with old-school pub games, ice-cold pints and the Subcon pub quiz. Bring your best teammates and get ready for a little friendly competition.

Awards

At The Manufacturing Solutions Show Awards celebrate the very best of UK manufacturing and engineering innovation. Our industry awards will recognise the suppliers, products and partnerships driving the industry forward.

Metrology & Materials Lab

All new demo area for precision measurement, inspection and materials innovation. Accompanied by dedicated live sessions.

Exhibitor breakfast

Start the day with a complimentary breakfast for all exhibitors. It’s the perfect chance to fuel up, connect with fellow exhibitors and get ready for a busy day on the show floor.

VIP buyers lounge

A dedicated space for senior buyers to take meetings and network with peers. 

50th anniversary party

Join exhibitors, visitors and the wider Subcon community as we celebrate 50 years of the show. Expect refreshments, live entertainment and a few special surprises as we mark five decades of manufacturing connections.

Expert Speakers

Hear from leading voices across manufacturing, engineering and supply chain, with practical sessions, industry insight and a few special moments planned to celebrate Subcon’s 50th year.

Talk & Walk Trails

Visitors can join guided trails across Subcon’s core sector and receive tailored supplier recommendations to help them make the most of their time at the show.

FAQ's

Attending the Subcon Show offers numerous benefits, including the opportunity to discover new suppliers, see the latest innovations in manufacturing, attend insightful seminars, and network with industry professionals. It's a key event for anyone involved in supply chain management, and engineering.

Attendance at the Subcon is free for visitors. However, pre-registration is required.  

Yes, Subcon features a comprehensive seminar program with presentations from industry experts. Topics cover the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in manufacturing and supply chain management.

We offer several networking opportunities, including the Subcon Party, where you can meet and mingle with exhibitors, visitors, and speakers in a relaxed and informal setting. Additionally, you can visit the Networking Lounge, a dedicated space for making connections and discussing with industry peers throughout the event.

Absolutely! The event is a great opportunity for team members to learn and network together. 

Yes, the event features a variety of technical workshops and seminars led by industry experts. These sessions cover various topics, from manufacturing processes to advanced engineering solutions, providing valuable insights and knowledge to attendees.

Visit the When & Where section for transportation and parking information.