14 - 17 March 2028 | Jaarbeurs, Utrecht
Activities
Smart industry. Smart collaboration. Strategic outlook.
Where chains come together, innovation accelerates and the future of manufacturing takes shape.
ESEF Maakindustrie 2026 was more than just a trade fair. It is the meeting point for professionals working on a smart, sustainable and digitally connected manufacturing industry. Technology, supply, engineering and production come together here - with one common goal: stronger, more efficient and future-proof manufacturing.
With inspiring keynotes, theme squares, knowledge sessions, guided tours and exclusive programme elements such as Women in the Making, the TechniShow Innovation Award 2026 and a keynote by Mart de Kruif, the programme offers depth for decision-makers, engineers, supply chain partners and innovators.
ESEF is all about the power of collaboration in the supply chain. About smart solutions to complex issues. And about looking ahead: how do we organise production in a world in which digitalisation, geopolitics, sustainability and security of supply are increasingly decisive?
Discover the full content programme of ESEF Maakindustrie 2026 below.
Activities 2026
Official opening
Tuesday 10 March - Mainstage (12:00 - 12:30)
The official opening marks the start of ESEF Maakindustrie and TechniShow 2026. Led by Ires Veerman (FPT) and Ricardo Vivas (Jaarbeurs), leading industry representatives will discuss the position of the Dutch manufacturing industry and look ahead to the next five years.
With a panel discussion and keynote on the future of manufacturing, the tone is immediately set: ambitious, strategic and forward-looking.
Women in Manufacturing
Thursday 12 March - Mainstage (09.00 - 11.00)
This special morning session focuses on visibility, connection and leadership. Women in the Making brings together professionals, students, young professionals and lateral entrants to share experiences and empower each other.
Empower Breakfast Welcome (09.00 - 09.30)
A warm welcome with breakfast and plenty of space for networking.
Keynote by Marjorie Woudenberg (09.30 - 10.00)
Initiator of Women in Engineering. Her keynote focuses on personal leadership and the impact of gender diversity on team dynamics in technical organisations. With practical experience and concrete tools, she shows that real change is all about retention, culture and inclusion.
Panel discussion (10.00 - 10.30)
Led by Woudenberg, women leaders from the field share their insights on leadership, opportunities and challenges within technical organisations.
Networking opportunity (10.30 - 11.00)
Closing with space for meeting and new connections.
Tech vlogger: MasterMilo
Tuesday 10 March & Thursday 12 March (all day)
Tech-vlogger MasterMilo (Emile Luijben) is coming to TechniShow 2026 to share his passion for technology.
Known for his impressive engineering projects - from tank restorations to creative vehicle construction - he shows how engineering is all about curiosity, creativity and daring to experiment. During TechniShow, he walks around with working machines, interacts with visitors and inspires young and old to embrace technology.
His message is clear: technology is not only necessary for progress, it is also exciting, creative and accessible to all.
TechniShow Innovation Award 2026
Thursday 12 March - Mainstage (15.30 - 17.00)
The TechniShow Innovation Award 2026 puts concrete, applicable innovations in the spotlight. From smart automation and digitalisation to circular production methods: solutions that already contribute today to tomorrow's industry.
An independent expert jury with experts from industry, technology and innovation will judge the entries on innovation, applicability, circularity and market readiness.
Three finalists will present their innovation live at the official award ceremony in the Theatre (Hall 10), followed by a networking reception.
The award is an initiative of FPT - Federation of Manufacturing Technology and is presented biennially during TechniShow.
Keynote: Mart de Kruif
Friday 13 March - Mainstage (10.30 - 11.15 am)
"Who determines our future?"
On Friday, Mart de Kruif will enter the mainstage. A former Army Commander and internationally distinguished military leader, he is known for his sharp analyses of geopolitical developments.
During his keynote, he translates themes such as leadership under pressure, international cooperation, strategic decision-making and agility into concrete lessons for the manufacturing industry. At a time when security, international chains and technology are increasingly intertwined, this session offers valuable strategic insights.
Theme squares 2026
Innovate Manufacturing Hub
In the Innovate Manufacturing Hub, technology, innovation and product development come together. Suppliers, engineers and product developers present their latest solutions here. From automation and robotisation to data-driven processes and smart machines: you will immediately see how innovations can help your organisation move forward.
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