Ahead of its return to the NEC this September, UKCW Birmingham has unveiled The Construction Reset – a new theme designed to tackle the biggest challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the built environment, from improving productivity and scaling industrialised construction to accelerating digital transformation and delivering more sustainable outcomes.

Structured around three key pillars – Building Better, Building Smarter and Building Responsibly – this year’s event (NEC, 29 September – 1 October) features a packed programme designed to encourage fresh thinking, showcase innovation and support the industry’s drive towards a more productive, sustainable future.

Central to The Construction Reset is a refreshed Main Stage programme, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, clients, contractors, manufacturers and innovators to showcase what’s already working, where real progress is being made and the practical actions that can accelerate delivery, improve productivity, drive sustainability and unlock growth.

The three-day event will feature:

• Built-for-purpose sections:
  • Roofing, Cladding & Insulation – A dedicated destination for contractors, installers, specifiers and designers who want to explore the latest innovations in durability, efficiency and weather protection and architectural impact
  • Digitalisation & AI – See how technology, automation, and AI are redefining the way we plan and build
  • Futurebuild Innovation Showcase – New for 2026, bringing together the most innovative products, technologies, materials and solutions transforming the built environment
  • Building & Onsite Safety – Featuring product and systems supporting safer buildings and safer sites
  • Equipment, Tools & Hire – Explore the newest tools and equipment driving productivity
  • Construction Training & Services – Connect with experts in project delivery, compliance, training, and professional support

• Five theatres offering a varied programme of talks and workshops from industry experts and thought leaders:
  • Main Stage
  • Building and Occupational Safety Stage
  • Building Envelope Stage
  • Digitalisation & AI Stage
  • Futurebuild Innovation Stage

The Build Connect Lounge will be a chance to join focused partner-led conversations, workshops and clinics, The Build Connect Lounge will be more than a networking area. It will act as a live event hub where key partners can host their own roundtables, workshops and clinics aligned to the Construction Reset themes.

Another key UKCW feature will be the Client & Buyer Exchange, where visitors will be able meet buyers, specifiers and project teams, and turn conversations into commercial opportunities. It will be a more focused and purposeful evolution of traditional meet-the-buyer activity.

Martin Hurn, UKCW Birmingham Editorial Director, said: “As the construction sector faces growing challenges around skills, sustainability, productivity and delivery, UKCW Birmingham has been set to reflect the needs of today’s industry. Moving beyond the traditional exhibition format, the show is designed to create meaningful opportunities for businesses and professionals to connect and collaborate.”

Sponsored by Wyre, HotelPlanner and Build Warranty, UKCW Birmingham will feature over 250 leading brands; 200 speakers and over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars across four stages, alongside a series of built-for-purpose sections. Architect, TV presenter and UKCW ambassador, George Clarke will officially open the show and host the Main Stage discussions on Day One.

To find out more and to register free for UKCW Birmingham, visit https://register.visitcloud.com/survey/0hcnqiudc1lrv?actioncode=2068