Reinforces Its Role as North America’s Premier Manufacturing Event
CHICAGO, IL — September 18, 2025 — FABTECH 2025, North America’s largest event for metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing, concluded its four-day run in Chicago with a record-breaking show floor and unmatched industry engagement. With over 1,700 exhibitors spanning 885,000 square feet, the event welcomed 42,000 manufacturing professionals to explore cutting-edge technologies, forge partnerships, and advance workforce development.
“The energy on this year’s show floor was a clear reflection of the manufacturing industry’s confidence and forward momentum,” said Tracy Garcia, CEM, FABTECH Group Director at SME. “FABTECH is where real business gets done.”
FABTECH 2025 by the Numbers
- 42,000 attendees
- 1,700+ exhibitors
- 885,000+ square feet of exhibit space
- 300 first-time exhibitors
- 800+ new product launches
- 200+ education sessions across 13 tracks
- $80+ million estimated economic impact to Chicago
Manufacturing Innovation on Display
FABTECH 2025’s expansive show floor served as a dynamic marketplace for live demonstrations, product launches, and hands-on evaluations. Specialized pavilions, including the new Job Shop Pavilion, helped attendees compare solutions efficiently. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker toured the floor, meeting with local manufacturers and reinforcing the state’s commitment to industrial growth.
Exhibitors reported strong ROI, with many exceeding lead generation goals and closing deals directly on the floor.
“We sold two machines off the floor and generated over 400 qualified leads,” said Jack Smith, Global Director of Business Development at Pacsize. “FABTECH is our Super Bowl,” added Jesse Imse, Head of Marketing at TRUMPF.
Spotlight on Manufacturing Trends
FABTECH 2025 showcased over 800 new products, with key themes reflecting the industry’s push for efficiency, productivity, and sustainability:
- Automation & Robotics: Addressing labor shortages and boosting throughput
- Smart Manufacturing: AI-driven platforms and connected equipment for real-time insights
- Advanced Technologies: High-performance lasers, welding systems, and finishing tools
- Sustainability Solutions: Energy-efficient systems and waste-reduction strategies
“I come to FABTECH to see new technology and new ways to improve production,” said Derek Wilson, Shop Manager at Flint Energy.
Education, Keynotes & Community Building
FABTECH’s conference program featured 200+ sessions, including keynotes from Emmitt Smith, Andy Papathanassiou, and Harry Moser of the Reshoring Initiative. GE Appliances and Marlin Steel received the 2025 National Metalworking Reshoring Award, recognizing leadership in revitalizing U.S. manufacturing.
The Women of FABTECH celebrated its 10th anniversary with a keynote from Dr. Amber Selking, while networking events like the Industry Night Party fostered collaboration and mentorship.
Investing in Workforce Development
FABTECH 2025 emphasized workforce development through its Emerging Leaders Program, mentorship opportunities, and sessions focused on recruitment, training, and retention. These initiatives support the next generation of manufacturing talent and reinforce FABTECH’s role in building a resilient workforce pipeline.
Looking Ahead to FABTECH 2026
FABTECH will return to Las Vegas for the first time in a decade, taking place October 21–23, 2026.
“This year’s record-setting event was a powerful reminder of FABTECH’s legacy,” said Mark Hoper, Senior Vice President of Media & Expositions at FMA. “We look forward to building on this success in Las Vegas.”
About FABTECH
FABTECH is the leading manufacturing trade show in North America, offering a one-stop venue for sourcing solutions, discovering innovations, and connecting with industry leaders. The event is produced by five industry associations: the American Welding Society, Chemical Coaters Association International, Fabricators & Manufacturers Association International, Precision Metalforming Association, and SME.
For more information, visit fabtechexpo.com and follow FABTECH on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.
For more industry news and event coverage, visit ExpansionSolutionsMagazine.com.
