CHEMUK 2026: Key themes and focus areas

CHEMUK returns to the NEC Birmingham on 20–21 May 2026, bringing together the UK’s chemicals, process engineering and formulated products sectors under one roof. With more than 600 exhibitors and over 100 speaker sessions, the event offers a focused snapshot of current priorities across the industry.

The exhibition is organised into five zones covering chemicals supply, chemicals management, process and chemical engineering, laboratory R&D, and formulated product manufacture. This structure is designed to help visitors navigate the breadth of the sector, from raw materials and logistics through to downstream product development.

A key feature of the 2026 programme is the introduction of multi-session stakeholder streams. These coordinated sessions aim to move beyond standalone presentations, enabling deeper exploration of major industry challenges across a connected agenda. Contributing organisations include the Royal Society of Chemistry, Institution of Chemical Engineers, Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Chemical Business Association and British Coatings Federation, alongside input from UK Government and the Henry Royce Institute.

Several themes are expected to dominate discussions. Regulatory developments, particularly UK REACH, remain a central concern, alongside decarbonisation, energy transition and green chemistry. Digitalisation is also gaining traction, with increasing interest in the role of AI and data-driven approaches in improving efficiency across process industries.

Other areas of focus include PFAS and wider compliance challenges, reflecting ongoing pressure on organisations to balance innovation with safety and environmental responsibility.

Across the exhibition floor, suppliers and technology providers will showcase solutions spanning production, automation, testing and formulation. Dedicated content streams will also highlight sectors such as home and personal care, cleaning products, adhesives, lubricants, pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, underlining the importance of application-led innovation.

Alongside the technical programme, networking remains a core element of the event, with tools and meeting spaces intended to support more targeted connections between attendees.

With its structured layout and emphasis on current industry challenges, CHEMUK 2026 offers a practical overview of where the sector is heading and the technologies shaping its future.

More information online