MT Magazine November/December 2025

THE INDUSTRY OUTLOOK ISSUE

IMTS

26

Plan Your Path to Success at the IMTS Exhibitor Workshop Enhancements for 2026 include programs for first-time exhibitors. BY MICHELLE EDMONSON VICE PRESIDENT, EXHIBITIONS

Build Key Connections The workshop offers opportunities to build relationships with AMT staff and IMTS service providers. Having these contacts in place can make solving last-minute issues before, during, and after the show much easier.

Success happens when preparation meets opportunity – and IMTS – The International Manufacturing Technology Show 2026 is that opportunity. Preparation gets into full swing with the IMTS Exhibitor

Workshop, held Jan. 27-29 at Chicago’s McCormick Place. The free workshop helps exhibit planners, marketing and communications professionals, and executives from exhibiting companies take advantage of all the support services IMTS staff offer. Attendees will learn how to enhance every aspect of exhibit planning, strategy, and execution, from equipment load-in to following up with prospective leads after the show. Insights From Experts “Attending the IMTS Exhibitor Workshop is a game changer for any company serious about success,” says show veteran Rita Conroy-Martin, director of marketing and customer experience at Zoller. “The insights gained – from both design and marketing strategy through to lead generation and logistics – provide a clear roadmap to maximize our presence at IMTS.” Workshop Lineup The 2026 Exhibitor Workshop agenda is designed to cover every aspect of a successful show: • Executive Insights: Sessions on the state of the industry, state of the show, and economic forecasts, plus commentary from the leadership of AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology. • Execution Essentials: Ten operations sessions covering setup, logistics, and hands-on strategies for managing your exhibit effectively. • Marketing and Communications: Eight sessions focused on brand presence, lead generation, and messaging strategies. • Specialty Topics: Five focused sessions on unique or advanced topics to enhance your IMTS experience. • Mini Trade Show: Exhibits from IMTS service providers, including A/V, catering, electrical, sponsorships, press, and more. • Networking Events: Receptions on Jan. 27 and 28 to connect with peers, AMT staff, and service providers in a relaxed setting. • Roundtable Discussions: Personalized, in-depth conversations to address specific needs and questions.

Learn From Peers and Seasoned IMTS Exhibitors

The IMTS community is eager to strengthen its connections between attendees and help newcomers expand their knowledge base and gain valuable experience. After all, ensuring the quality of exhibits across a trade show reflects well on all exhibitors. Dana Super, general manager at Kaiser Manufacturing, says, “Exhibiting at IMTS is a big job, and the workshop will help you get on track to reach your goals. Whether it’s your first show or your tenth, there’s always something new to learn and fellow exhibitors to learn from.” Longtime attendees and members of the IMTS Show Committee will also freely share their experiences and offer guidance to new exhibitors. In fact, to support first-timers, the 2026 workshop is introducing a first-timer meetup on the Tuesday afternoon prior to the opening reception, as well as a dedicated educational session. Fresh Perspectives From New Attendees Emily Starinieri, content creator for Zeiss, has attended IMTS before but never the workshop. After reviewing the agenda, attending just made sense. “Our team pours a lot of energy, passion, and creativity into creating a memorable IMTS experience,” she says. “Each show is an opportunity to deliver even greater impact, and this workshop will equip us with the latest strategies to make it happen.”