IMTS 2026 shows ways to increase productivity in manufacturing

Visitors to IMTS will find cobots in all 10 technology areas of the show. "If you're looking at cobots at IMTS, why not try out the programming for yourself?" says Rob Goldiez, CEO of Hirebotics.

© AMT

IMTS 2026 in Chicago focuses on technologies that manufacturers can use to increase productivity and mitigate skills shortages. The trade fair (September 14-19, 2026) brings together around 86,000 visitors, 1,800 exhibitors and ten technology sectors, from machine tools, automation and software to metrology, clamping technology and tool management.

In the automation sector, the focus will be on collaborative robots, low-cost models ("no CapEx") and easy-to-operate systems, such as adaptive robots and CNC-based automation solutions. On the software side, exhibitors will be showing AI-supported systems for calculation, CAM programming and CNC operation that reduce set-up times and programming effort. New CNC controls and retrofit solutions are designed to facilitate entry into modern manufacturing.

Tool and clamping device suppliers present networked tool management systems and automated tool assembly. Quality solutions bundle measurement data and image processing in central platforms. Accompanying conferences such as the Job Shops Workshop will address practical issues relating to automation and AI in contract manufacturing.