Exhibitor FAQs

A: The term 'Space Only' is used to describe the stand option where you rent floor space only and arrange for your own stand construction (including floor coverings). Space Only stands do come with the full marketing support offered to all exhibitors at MACH, as well as stand cleaning and first lift of exhibits free of charge.

A: The term 'Shell Scheme' is used to describe the stand option where the organiser arranges for a basic stand to be constructed for you; the floor space is provided with walling, carpet, basic electrics, fascia and name board.

A: The floor plan is designed so that each block of stands will fall over service ducts which run throughout the halls at 6m intervals. These are used for all utility supplies from fibre optics to compressed air.

You can access the technical floor plans via the Contractor Zone.

A: Space Only stands can be built up to 4m for any stand fitting, towers, banners, graphics, etc. Shell Scheme exhibitors are requested to keep displays to within the height of the stand (normally 2.5m). There is no restriction on the height of actual machines (not replicas) displayed on either Space Only or Shell Scheme stands.

The full stand build regulations can be down loaded here.

A: There is no reason why an exhibitor cannot build their own stand, but all materials and building practices must be consistent with the strict safety regulations demanded by the MTA.

A:  The Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) is the premier UK trade association representing the engineering and allied sectors, who lead the world in manufacturing technologies. We represent UK companies and their associates who drive UK manufacturing, technology, innovation and quality.

A: As a trade association the members own the MTA, which supports MACH’s claim to be run for the industry by the industry. An active  Exhibition Committee, representing a variety of MTA members and MACH exhibitors, closely guides management policy and show direction.

A: The Association of Event Organisers (AEO) is the UK trade body for exhibition organisers and includes all the other industry sectors (venues, service suppliers & contractors). More details can be found at  www.aeo.org.uk.

A: The Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA) represents the myriad of stand design and construction companies vying to assist Space Only exhibitors with their stands. ESSA offers a bond, which ensures that should an ESSA company get into any difficulty and be unable to build / finish a client’s stand, ESSA will step in and guarantee the stand is delivered.

A: MACH has been running since 1912 and remains the UK’s largest manufacturing event. 

A: Basic power and lighting is provided for Shell Scheme stands only. Space Only exhibitors must use the appointed electrical contractors for the show to provide and install all the exhibit power and stand lighting. Details of the appointed contractors can be found within the online manual, which may be accessed through the Exhibitor Zone once this area is active.

A: All accessible areas of the stands are cleaned at night by the NEC’s appointed cleaning contractor; exhibitors are responsible for the cleaning of exhibits and machinery, although a free swarf removal service operates each evening.

A: Each stand is allocated a number of free exhibitor parking passes based on stand area; these passes are valid for the entire exhibition period. Any additional parking spaces required may be purchased via the NEC website. 

A: Part of the inclusive package offered to Space Only exhibitors is the free lift of the first machine or exhibit.The first lift means simply taking an unpacked / un-palletted machine off the vehicle and placing it exactly into position on the stand, and the reverse after the exhibition. Not included is the lifting of any stand or display material, or the re-location or assembly of exhibits. Any alterations made after this first lift will incur a cost to the customer.

Yes, these are particularly applicable to Space Only exhibitors who will be constructing their own stands. A full copy of the stand build regulations can be accessed here, with set back regulations located in Section 3. 

A: Modern furniture and floral displays, as commonly used in the office environment, may be utilised at MACH. Provided that displays are of the same high standard of materials and fire retardant standards as expected within an exhibition, exhibitors may bring their own. Any such items must be removed from the exhibition halls in line with the breakdown schedule.

A: Full details of the build up schedule will be available within the exhibitor manual and via the  Contractor Zone as soon as they have been finalised.

A: Breakdown is from the 29th - 30th January. Limited breakdown by exhibitors only will be permitted after the exhibition closes on 28th January; please see the timetable within the Contractor Zone for more detailed information. 

A: Machines can be commissioned during build up. De-commissioning takes place on 29th January for two hours after the close of the show.

A: No. The NEC simply provides the venue for the exhibition, renting the halls to the MTA. MACH’s management, policies and objectives are all under the control of the MTA with the support of the Exhibition Committee.

The MACH Exhibition is free to attend, so no specified number of invites are allocated to each exhibitor. Once visitor registration has opened - this will occur in 2019 - exhibitors may direct their clients or customers to this MACH website. There will be a link on the Home Page to register for your free ticket; there is no limit to the number of people you invite.

A: The MTA is committed to assisting first time exhibitors, please contact  Nicola Harrison for advice and support.

A: The MTA will organise an 'exhibitor training day' targeted to be held in 2021. This will be an opportunity to meet the contractors who provide services to the show and ask them questions, there will also be a session on exhibition tips and techniques to help exhibitors and their staff get the most out of MACH