IMTS 2026 : All you need to know

The International Manufacturing Technology Show, commonly known as IMTS, is one of the largest and most influential manufacturing trade shows in the world. Held every two years in Chicago, the event brings together manufacturers, engineers, innovators, and decision-makers to explore the technologies shaping the future of industrial production.

IMTS 2026 will once again position itself as a global meeting point for automation, machining, robotics, additive manufacturing, and digital manufacturing solutions.

What Is IMTS? 🚀

IMTS is the leading manufacturing technology trade show in North America. It showcases cutting-edge solutions across the entire industrial production chain, from raw material processing to fully automated smart factories.

More than a traditional exhibition, IMTS is a platform for live machine demonstrations, business networking, technical education, and strategic insights. It attracts a highly qualified audience looking to invest in new technologies, improve productivity, and stay competitive in an evolving industrial landscape.

The show typically covers:

• Automation and robotics

• CNC machining and tooling

• Additive manufacturing

• Industrial software and controls

• Quality inspection and measurement

• Motion, drive, and factory systems

  
  

IMTS 2026 Dates 📅

IMTS 2026 will take place from Monday, September 14 to Saturday, September 19, 2026.The event runs over six full days, allowing visitors to explore the exhibition halls, attend conferences, and meet exhibitors at their own pace.

Where Is IMTS 2026 Held? 📍

IMTS 2026 will be hosted at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois. This venue is the largest convention center in North America and offers multiple interconnected halls designed to host large-scale industrial exhibitions.

Its size and infrastructure make it perfectly suited to IMTS, where exhibitors often present large machines, production lines, and live demonstrations.

How to Get to IMTS 2026 ✈️🚆🚕

Chicago is a major international hub and is easily accessible from anywhere in the world.

If you arrive by plane, you can land at O’Hare International Airport or Midway International Airport. O’Hare is the largest airport and serves most international flights, while Midway is closer to downtown and convenient for domestic travel.

From the airports or downtown Chicago, you can reach McCormick Place by:

• Taxi or rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft

• Rental car

• Public transportation using CTA trains and buses

• Event or hotel shuttle services during IMTS week

Public transportation and shuttles are often the most efficient options due to high traffic during the show.

Who Should Attend IMTS? 👥

IMTS is a B2B trade show designed for professionals involved in manufacturing and industrial technology. The event attracts a diverse yet highly qualified audience, including engineers, plant managers, executives, and technology buyers.

Typical attendee profiles include:

• Manufacturing engineers and production managers

• Automation and robotics specialists

• CNC machine and tooling buyers

• Industrial decision-makers and executives

• Technology vendors and integrators

This professional environment encourages meaningful business discussions and long-term partnerships.

IMTS 2026 Ticket Prices 💰

IMTS offers affordable visitor access compared to its size and importance. Ticket prices vary depending on registration timing and attendee category.

Estimated IMTS 2026 Registration Prices

Registration Type	Estimated Price
Early Registration	Around $65
Standard Registration	Higher closer to the event
Group Registration	Discounted rates
Students & Media	Complimentary (approval required)
Exhibitor Badge	Complimentary (with qualification)

Registration generally provides access to all exhibition halls for the full duration of the show.

What You’ll See at IMTS 2026 🛠️

IMTS 2026 will feature a wide range of manufacturing technologies presented through live demonstrations and interactive exhibits.

Visitors can expect to see:

• Advanced CNC machines in operation

• Robotics and automation systems

• Industrial software and digital factory solutions

• Additive manufacturing equipment

• Measurement, inspection, and quality systems

The scale and diversity of the exhibition make IMTS a unique opportunity to compare solutions and technologies in one place.

Exhibitor & Booth Cost Estimates 💼

Exhibiting at IMTS requires a significant investment that includes floor space, booth design, logistics, and technical services.

Estimated Exhibition Booth Budgets at IMTS

Booth Type	Typical Size	Estimated Budget
Basic Inline Booth	10x10 ft	$15,000 – $30,000
Custom Booth	10x20 ft	$30,000 – $60,000
Island Booth	20x20 ft	$60,000 – $120,000
Large Custom Exhibit	30x30 ft and above	$120,000 – $250,000+

Budgets vary depending on booth complexity, machinery installation, audiovisual equipment, labor, and logistics.

Education & Conferences at IMTS 🎓

In addition to the exhibition floor, IMTS offers a strong educational program. Conferences, workshops, and technical sessions allow attendees to deepen their knowledge of emerging manufacturing trends and best practices.

These sessions focus on innovation, productivity, automation, digital transformation, and workforce development, making IMTS both a commercial and educational event.

How to Prepare for IMTS 2026 📈

To maximize the value of attending or exhibiting at IMTS, preparation should begin several months in advance.

Successful participants typically:

• Define clear objectives before the event

• Identify key exhibitors or technologies to visit

• Book travel and accommodation early

• Schedule meetings ahead of time

• Plan sufficient time to explore multiple halls

A structured approach ensures better ROI and a more productive experience.

Conclusion: What You Need to Remember 🏆

➡️ IMTS 2026 will take place from Monday, September 14 to Saturday, September 19, 2026, in Chicago.

➡️ The event is hosted at McCormick Place, the largest convention center in North America.

➡️ IMTS is one of the most important manufacturing technology trade shows worldwide.

➡️ Visitor access is affordable, while exhibiting requires a well-planned budget.

➡️ Early preparation is essential to fully benefit from IMTS 2026.