Formnext 2026 to offer extended supporting programme

In addition to showcasing the latest solutions across the entire additive manufacturing (AM) process chain, Formnext 2026 (17–20 November, Frankfurt am Main) will once again offer an extensive supporting programme featuring expert presentations, panel discussions, showcases, awards and networking opportunities.

As a leading trade show for additive manufacturing and modern industrial production, Formnext complements the exhibitors' offer with additional knowledge-sharing formats, practical insights and numerous opportunities for professional exchange. Highlights include the Industry & Application Stage, the Technology Stage featuring exhibitor presentations on the latest technologies and innovations across the AM process chain, the new Formnext Defence Summit, the Formnext Awards, as well as a variety of symposia and showcases.

Applications, industrialisation and future technologies on the stages

The two stages are a central element of the supporting programme. While the Industry & Application Stage focuses on current applications, market trends and future developments in additive manufacturing, exhibitors on the Technology Stage will present their latest innovations and solutions in areas including materials, software, AM production and post-processing, providing insights into emerging technology trends and new approaches to industrial manufacturing.

Through real-world case studies and strategic perspectives, the Industry & Application Stage demonstrates how additive manufacturing is driving the development of new products, processes and business models across user industries. The programme covers topics from aerospace, architecture and construction, automotive and mobility, energy, electronics, medical technology, tooling and mould making, defence, as well as consumer and lifestyle applications, highlighting the growing role of additive technologies in industrial value creation.

A key focus will be the continued industrialisation of additive manufacturing. Discussions will explore current market and investment trends, successful business models, and the challenges and opportunities associated with scaling additive production processes. The stage will also present innovative developments and future perspectives in advanced manufacturing. Presentations and panel discussions will address topics such as artificial intelligence, automation and digitalisation throughout the AM value chain. AI-driven design and production processes, robotics, digital twins, simulation-based manufacturing and data-driven quality control illustrate how digital technologies are accelerating the industrial maturity of additive manufacturing. Further topics include 4D printing, supply chain resilience, sustainability and workforce development.

Formnext Awards

The Formnext Awards will again be part of the 2026 supporting programme. Providing an international platform for new ideas, technologies and projects from across the additive manufacturing industry, the awards recognise achievements in six categories. The official award ceremony will take place on 19 November during the show. The Formnext Awards are supported by Renishaw, the Fomas Group, FKM Sintertechnik and Sutosuto.

Formnext Defence Summit makes its debut

With the introduction of the Formnext Defence Summit, Formnext expands its conference portfolio with a new topic. The event, organised in cooperation with the Additive Manufacturing Defence Network e.V., will focus on the opportunities and challenges of additive manufacturing for defence and security applications, with particular emphasis on resilient supply chains, technological sovereignty and the operational readiness of security-critical industries. The summit will bring together representatives from industry, research institutions, government agencies and defence organisations, creating a platform for discussion on current developments and future requirements.

Standards, qualification and certification

Ahead of the exhibition, the AM Innovation and Standards Summit, organised by the U.S. Commercial Service, ASTM International, ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and America Makes, will provide an opportunity to discuss key issues related to standardisation, qualification and certification in additive manufacturing. The event brings together representatives from industry, government and standards organisations to address challenges and solutions supporting the continued industrialisation of additive manufacturing. This year's focus will be on defence and security applications.

Start-ups, talent development and showcases

Through the Start-up Area and the Pitchnext event, Formnext supports emerging companies by providing a platform to present their technologies, business models and ideas to an international professional audience. The Discover3DPrinting seminars offer a concise and practical introduction to additive manufacturing. The programme is further complemented by the Career Area, which connects skilled professionals and companies through networking opportunities, a job board and career-focused offerings.

Additional highlights include the showcase presented by the VDMA Additive Manufacturing Working Group, the BE-AM showcase and symposium dedicated to AM in construction, guided tours and a new showcase focusing on current developments in post-processing, as well as insights into this year's partner country, the United Kingdom. Together with the conference and networking formats, these offerings provide further opportunities to learn about emerging trends, explore real-world applications and build new connections within the international AM community.

Further information about the full programme is available at formnext.com/program.