This autumn, UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham marks a major milestone as it returns to the NEC from 30 September to 2 October, celebrating 10 years as the UK’s largest and most influential event for the built environment.
With the 2025 theme ‘where decisions are made’, the show continues to be a vital meeting point for the entire construction supply chain. From tier one and tier two contractors to housebuilders, developers, architects, local authorities, and procurement professionals, UKCW Birmingham will once again provide the platform where major ideas are shared, partnerships are formed, and deals are done.
The organisers have announced the first wave of confirmed guest speakers. Among them are Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands; Oliver Novokovic, group technical & innovation director at Barratt Redrow; and Mike Raven, national sustainability lead at the East Riding of Yorkshire Council. Architect and broadcaster George Clarke returns to officially open the show, and will be joined by other high profile names including Alan Heron from Places for People, Emma Whigham from the New Hospital Programme, Rachael Owens from the National Retrofit Hub, Amanda Long of the Code for Construction Product Information, and Marie Claude Hemming, director of operations at ACE Net.
Face to face networking continues to be at the heart of the UKCW experience, supported by a show app to help visitors book meetings in advance, alongside hosted round tables and the ever-popular Build Connect Networking Lounge.
Neil Gaisford, divisional director for construction, described UKCW as a barometer for the state of the sector and a space where leadership, collaboration and innovation intersect. He noted that with the rapid pace of change, driven by net zero commitments, technological advancement, and a national push on infrastructure and housing, the show remains essential for anyone shaping the future of the built environment.
This year’s edition will feature a truly international showcase, with exhibitors confirmed from across Europe and Asia, including France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Turkey, China and the Czech Republic. Brands already confirmed include Lanes Group, Build Warranty, Reader Cement, Cure It Composites, PlanRadar, Don & Low, Licata and Unibond.
Four specialist show areas will provide focused content and displays. Onsite On Hire returns following its successful debut in 2024, spotlighting sustainable and green hire equipment. Roofing, Cladding and Insulation (RCI), supported by the NFRC, will showcase the latest solutions in energy efficiency and safety. Digital Construction sits at the centre of the event and will explore technologies such as AI, BIM, 3D modelling and automation. Meanwhile, Build X caters directly to the professionals delivering projects on the ground, with a wide range of product demos, services and business solutions.
Over 300 exhibitors and 200 speakers will take part in the event, which includes more than 150 hours of CPD-accredited seminars across five stages. Topics will range from low-carbon construction and housing delivery to skills development, mental health and planning reform – ensuring something for every professional in the sector.
Article submitted by UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham
