Chicago Manufacturing Show Drew Record Engagement
As durable goods firms face a 435,000-worker shortage, attendees at this month’s trade show prioritized automation technology.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Manufacturing
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Do you believe increased adoption of industrial automation strengthens the national economy and workforce?
The International Manufacturing Technology Show at McCormick Place hosted 91,295 registrants from Sept. 14-19, 2026. The event emphasized industrial productivity tools as manufacturers continue to navigate significant labor gaps.
Why it matters
Operators are turning toward artificial intelligence and automation to bypass a 435,000-worker shortfall in the durable goods sector. Integrating these technologies is increasingly viewed as a requirement for maintaining output against competitive labor constraints.
The 2026 event attracted 91,295 registrants, an increase of 2.56% over the 2024 show, while exhibiting companies totaled 1,788. Manufacturing technology orders recently topped $500 million, though the industry continues to struggle with a reported shortage of 435,000 workers.
The players
McCormick Place
A major convention center in Chicago serving as a central hub for industrial and trade expositions.
The details
Spanning 1.17 million square feet at Chicago’s McCormick Place, the event showcased robotics and AI systems designed to offset persistent labor shortages. By automating routine production tasks, manufacturers aim to stabilize output and reduce reliance on a thinning pool of skilled labor. This shift requires operators to evaluate the high capital expenditure of new equipment against the rising cost of unfilled production roles.
Timeline
Sept. 13, 2026: Manufacturing technology orders exceeded $500 million.
Sept. 14-19, 2026: IMTS 2026 took place at McCormick Place.
Sept. 11-16, 2028: The next International Manufacturing Technology Show is scheduled.
Market Landscape
The surge in automation interest follows the established trend of a 435,000-worker shortfall in the durable goods manufacturing sector. This focus marks a transition from manual expansion to technology-driven efficiency as the primary strategy for scaling national industrial capability.
Operators should assess their current production lines for automation feasibility given the rising cost of labor in durable goods. Review equipment financing options before the next major industry gathering in 2028 to maintain pace with technology-enabled competitors.
The takeaway
Productivity gains through automation are essential for firms struggling to fill vacancies in the current market. Monitor your production uptime metrics to determine if the capital investment in new manufacturing technology outweighs your present recruitment costs.
What happens next
The next iteration of the International Manufacturing Technology Show is scheduled to take place Sept. 11-16, 2028.
Further reading
For more on industry shifts, see Manufacturing.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Trade Show News Network.
Live Poll
Do you believe increased adoption of industrial automation strengthens the national economy and workforce?
