Formnext 2026 programme to focus on industrial AM, defence and emerging technologies
Formnext 2026, taking place in Frankfurt, Germany, November 17–20, will showcase the latest solutions across the Additive Manufacturing process chain, alongside an extensive supporting programme of expert presentations, panel discussions, showcases, awards and networking.
Formnext will complement its exhibitors’ innovations with knowledge-sharing sessions, practical insights and opportunities for professional exchange. Highlights include the Industry & Application Stage, Technology Stage, new Formnext Defence Summit, Formnext Awards and a range of specialist symposia and showcases.
Applications, industrialisation and future technologies
The Industry & Application Stage and Technology Stage will form a central part of the supporting programme, covering current applications, market trends, emerging technologies and developments across the AM process chain.
Through case studies and strategic perspectives, the Industry & Application Stage will explore how Additive Manufacturing is enabling new products, processes and business models across industries including aerospace, architecture and construction, automotive and mobility, energy, electronics, medical technology, tooling and mouldmaking, defence, and consumer and lifestyle applications.
A key focus will be the continued industrialisation of Additive Manufacturing, with discussions examining market and investment trends, successful business models, and the challenges and possibilities associated with scaling production.
Presentations and panel discussions will also address the role of artificial intelligence, automation and digitalisation across the AM value chain. Topics will include AI-driven design and production, robotics, digital twins, simulation-based manufacturing and data-driven quality control, highlighting how these technologies are accelerating the industrial maturity of Additive Manufacturing. Further areas of discussion will include 4D printing, supply chain resilience, sustainability and workforce development.
On the Technology Stage, exhibitors will present their latest innovations in materials, software, AM production and post-processing, offering insights into emerging technology trends and new approaches to industrial manufacturing.
Formnext Awards recognise outstanding innovations
The Formnext Awards will return in 2026, recognising achievements in six categories and providing an international platform for new ideas, technologies and projects from across the Additive Manufacturing industry.
The official awards ceremony will take place on November 19, honouring pioneering developments from across the AM ecosystem. The awards are supported by Renishaw, the Fomas Group, FKM Sintertechnik and Sutosuto.
Formnext Defence Summit debut
The new Formnext Defence Summit will expand the event’s conference programme, addressing the opportunities and challenges of Additive Manufacturing for defence and security applications.
Organised in cooperation with the Additive Manufacturing Defence Network e.V., the summit will focus on resilient supply chains, technological sovereignty and the operational readiness of security-critical industries.
Representatives from industry, research institutions, government agencies and defence organisations will come together to discuss current developments and future requirements.
Standards, qualification and certification
Ahead of the exhibition, the AM Innovation and Standards Summit will bring together representatives from industry, government and standards organisations to discuss standardisation, qualification and certification in Additive Manufacturing.
Organised by the US Commercial Service, ASTM International, ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and America Makes, the summit will examine challenges and solutions supporting the continued industrialisation of AM, with a particular focus this year on defence and security applications.
Start-ups, talent development and knowledge sharing
Formnext will continue to support emerging companies through its Start-up Area and Pitchnext event, providing opportunities to present new technologies, business models and ideas to an international professional audience.
The Discover3DPrinting seminars will offer a concise, practical introduction to Additive Manufacturing, while the Career Area will connect skilled professionals with companies through networking sessions, a job board and other career-focused activities.
Showcases and thematic highlights
Further highlights will include a showcase presented by the VDMA Additive Manufacturing Working Group, alongside the BE-AM showcase and symposium dedicated to Additive Manufacturing in construction.
Guided tours and a new showcase focusing on developments in post-processing will provide additional insights into AM technologies and applications. Visitors will also have the chance to learn more about this year’s partner country, the United Kingdom.
Together, these activities will offer visitors opportunities to explore emerging trends, discover practical applications and establish connections within the international AM community, reinforcing Formnext’s position as a leading platform for Additive Manufacturing and the future of industrial production.
The full programme is available here.
