The European robotics forum Birmingham announcement marks a major milestone for the city’s growing reputation in advanced manufacturing, AI and automation.
Birmingham will host the European Robotics Forum (ERF) at the International Convention Centre in March 2027. As a result, the event will bring more than 1,000 researchers, engineers and industry leaders from across Europe to the West Midlands.
Importantly, the forum will focus on robotics, artificial intelligence and automation, three areas shaping the future of global industry. Therefore, the event strengthens Birmingham’s position as a leading innovation hub.
European Robotics Forum Birmingham Boosts Tech Profile
The European robotics forum Birmingham event represents a significant opportunity for the region to showcase its capabilities. ERF has taken place in major European cities since 2010. However, this will be the first time Birmingham hosts the forum.
Because of this, the event highlights the city’s growing influence in high-value manufacturing and research. In addition, it reflects the West Midlands’ wider transformation into a centre for advanced technologies.
The forum will bring together experts working on cutting-edge developments. Consequently, it will create opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange and investment across sectors.
MTC and University of Birmingham Lead Delivery
The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and the University of Birmingham will lead delivery of the European robotics forum Birmingham event. They will work in partnership with euRobotics, the European robotics association.
The MTC plays a key role in scaling industrial technologies across sectors such as aerospace, defence and energy. Meanwhile, the University of Birmingham contributes world-class research expertise and a global academic network.
Together, these organisations will ensure the forum connects research with real-world industrial applications. As a result, the event will support both innovation and commercialisation.
This collaboration reflects the region’s broader strengths in engineering and technology. For example, recent investment in innovation and skills continues to drive growth across the West Midlands, as highlighted in our coverage of West Midlands Jobs Funding Boosts Innovation Growth.
Industry Opportunities and Global Visibility
Organisers are now inviting sponsors and exhibitors to participate in the 2027 forum. Therefore, businesses will have the opportunity to showcase products and services to a highly specialised European audience.
In addition, the event will attract attention from investors, policymakers and technology leaders. Consequently, it could unlock new partnerships and commercial opportunities for companies based in the UK.
Karol Janik, ERF2027 General Chair at MTC, said the West Midlands has a long history of industrial innovation. Furthermore, he emphasised that the region continues to shape technological progress across sectors including robotics and AI.
Strengthening the West Midlands Innovation Ecosystem
The European robotics forum Birmingham event reinforces the region’s ambition to lead in next-generation technologies. By hosting a major international forum, Birmingham can showcase its strengths while attracting global talent and investment.
Moreover, the event supports the UK’s wider industrial and innovation strategy. As automation and AI continue to evolve, regions that lead in robotics will play a central role in future economic growth.
Overall, hosting ERF 2027 signals a clear step forward for Birmingham and the West Midlands. By bringing together industry, academia and policymakers, the forum will help shape the future of robotics and automation across Europe.
