Manufacturing has entered 2026 with renewed momentum, and according to XPO Exhibitions, the timing could not be better for EMEX 2026.
New data shows the sector has recorded its highest level of activity since December 2021. The latest BNZ – BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index revealed the seasonally adjusted PMI for December rose 4.4 points to 56.1. A reading above 50 indicates expansion, reinforcing what many in the sector are already feeling.
“For us, this is a very strong signal heading into 2026,” says Jack Heslin, exhibition sales and event manager at XPO Exhibitions. “Manufacturing has started the year strongly, and that momentum creates real confidence as we move toward EMEX in May.”
Heslin says the result provides an important backdrop for the industry’s largest biennial gathering. “A PMI of 56.1 tells us businesses are investing, planning and looking forward. EMEX is perfectly timed to harness that energy.”
Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of the New Zealand economy, employing more than 220,000 people and contributing over 8% to GDP. Against that context, EMEX 2026 returns to Auckland Showgrounds from May 26-28 under the theme ‘Reimagining the future of manufacturing’.
“With sector activity strengthening, the May show lands at exactly the right point in the cycle,” Heslin says. “Companies are reviewing performance, planning capital investment and thinking strategically about the year ahead. EMEX provides the platform to turn that intent into action.”
Held only once every two years, EMEX brings together more than 250 exhibitors and 4,000 visiting industry professionals. The exhibition floor will showcase technologies and service innovations across artificial intelligence, robotics, industrial automation, laser technologies, welding, precision engineering and advanced manufacturing solutions.
“EMEX is where people can see industry and manufacturing-related technology working in real time,” Heslin says. “It is not theoretical. It is hands-on, practical and commercially focused.”
Across three days, attendees can compare solutions, speak directly with suppliers and gain clarity on emerging tools reshaping production environments.
A key feature of the 2026 programme is Make NZ’s fourth New Zealand Manufacturing Industry Conference. The conference explores the sector’s fast-changing technological landscape, with a focus on people, technology and changing ownership structures.
“The industry is evolving rapidly,” Heslin says. “We are seeing Industry 4.0, robotics and human-robot collaboration move from discussion to implementation. The conference is designed to provide practical guidance, not just commentary.”
Sessions will examine future skills, workforce development, start-up growth, investment readiness and succession planning, supported by case studies and expert insight aimed at preparing manufacturers for a globally connected future.
Complementing the conference, the Epicor Knowledge Theatre will present a curated programme of keynote sessions exploring AI, smart manufacturing, aerospace, robotics and automation, along with training and workforce development.
Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa will again partner at EMEX, presenting the AMA Showcase, a dedicated space celebrating local manufacturers and their innovation and capability. AMA will also host the annual Minister for Manufacturing Awards on May 27, recognising individuals and businesses driving progress and impact.
“The awards are an important benchmark for the sector,” Heslin says. “They recognise excellence, but they also give businesses an opportunity to understand their contribution to a stronger and more resilient manufacturing future.”
With manufacturing activity growing and strategic planning underway across the sector, XPO believes EMEX 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment.
“It’s been a great start for manufacturing,” Heslin says. “EMEX is about capitalising on that strength and reimagining what comes next.”
Sponsored content: For more information or to register visit www.emex.co.nz.