UK Construction Week 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Britain’s Biggest Building Event

Looking to shape the future of construction in the UK? UK Construction Week stands as the nation’s largest construction event, bringing together over 100,000 visitors and thousands of international participants showcasing innovative products, materials, and services.

Launched in 2015 at Birmingham’s NEC, this cornerstone industry exhibition has expanded to include a London edition at ExCeL. The Birmingham event runs from 30 September to 1 October 2025, while London’s takes place from 7-9 May 2025. You’ll find everything from access control systems and BIM to sustainable solutions and timber frames, making it an indispensable opportunity for construction professionals to network, share knowledge, and discover groundbreaking innovations.

What Is UK Construction Week?

UK Construction Week (UKCW) stands as the UK’s largest built environment event, running twice yearly in London and Birmingham. Established in 2015 at Birmingham’s NEC, the event has grown to become a cornerstone for the construction industry.

The exhibition brings together thousands of international participants showcasing innovative products, materials, and services to over 100,000 visitors. It’s a central meeting point for construction professionals, including architects, engineers, planners, manufacturers, and suppliers.

UKCW features eleven specialized shows and core sections, including Timber Expo, Modern Methods of Construction, Concrete Expo, The Offsite Show, and Grand Designs Live. Each section addresses specific aspects of the construction industry.

The London edition, launched in 2022, takes place annually at ExCeL London. The upcoming London event runs from 7-9 May 2025, while the Birmingham event is scheduled for 30 September to 2 October 2025.

Beyond just exhibiting products, UKCW offers dedicated CPD-certified conferences designed to support the evolving construction industry. These sessions address changing politics, economic conditions, regulations, and technology developments.

Organised by Media 10 Limited, an experienced event organiser with expertise in industry-specific trade fairs, UKCW serves as a platform for:

• Knowledge exchange on current trends
• Exploring sustainable working methods
• Problem-solving industry challenges
• Testing and viewing new products and services
• Business networking opportunities
• Celebrating innovation in construction

For construction professionals, UKCW provides opportunities to connect with peers, discover cutting-edge solutions, and gain insights into addressing key challenges such as late payments and debt default in the current economic climate.

Key Event Details

UK Construction Week (UKCW) takes place bi-annually with dedicated events in London and Birmingham. These exhibitions serve as essential gatherings for construction professionals across the UK, offering opportunities to discover new products, network with industry peers, and gain insights into sector innovations.

Dates and Venue

UK Construction Week London runs from 7-9 May 2025 at ExCeL London. The exhibition opens from 10:00am to 5:00pm on Wednesday and Thursday, closing slightly earlier at 4:00pm on Friday. This strategic London location provides excellent transport links for both domestic and international attendees.

The Birmingham edition takes place at the NEC from 30 September to 2 October 2025. This central UK location makes it accessible for attendees from across Britain. Both venues offer state-of-the-art facilities designed to accommodate large-scale exhibitions with thousands of participants and visitors.

For professionals planning ahead, the upcoming Birmingham event in 2024 runs from 1-3 October, with consistent daily opening hours from 10:00am to 5:00pm across all three days.

Exhibition Areas

UK Construction Week features specialised exhibition zones that cater to different segments of the industry. A standout area is The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces, which showcases an extensive range of materials and finishes for construction professionals.

Each exhibition zone is arranged to maximise visitor flow and enhance the experience for both exhibitors and attendees. The layout encourages discovery of complementary products and services, fostering connections between different sectors of the construction industry.

These dedicated spaces enable visitors to efficiently focus on areas of specific interest, saving time and ensuring they connect with the most relevant suppliers and innovations for their projects.

Main Attractions and Features

UK Construction Week 2025 promises to deliver exceptional content and exhibitions as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. The event combines industry-specific showcases with educational opportunities across its three-day programme at ExCeL London from 7-9 May 2025.

Industry Showcases

The industry showcases at UK Construction Week 2025 offer targeted exhibitions for specific construction sectors. Onsite On Hire brings together the latest tools, compact plant, and equipment from innovative industry names, allowing you to explore cutting-edge construction technology in one dedicated area. This showcase is perfect for site managers and contractors looking to upgrade their equipment inventory.

The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces, co-located with UKCW for the first time in its history, displays a diverse palette of stone from around the world alongside the best of British materials and finishes. You’ll discover everything from decorative surfaces to structural stone solutions that can enhance your projects with quality and durability.

Workwear and PPE Live, developed in partnership with the Professional Clothing Industry Association Worldwide Ltd (PCIAW®), focuses on construction apparel and safety gear innovations. This area highlights advances in comfort, protection, and sustainability in construction clothing and personal protective equipment.

The dedicated HVAC+R Section spotlights advancements in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. This showcase demonstrates how modern HVAC solutions contribute to building efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort in contemporary construction projects.

Guest Speakers and Seminars

UK Construction Week features a comprehensive programme of seminars led by industry experts addressing the most pressing issues facing construction today. You’ll hear from thought leaders discussing innovative approaches to sustainability, digitisation, and modern construction methods that are reshaping the industry landscape.

The seminars provide practical insights into regulatory changes, emerging technologies, and best practices that you can apply directly to your projects. Each session is designed to deliver actionable knowledge rather than theoretical concepts, ensuring you gain real value from your attendance.

CPD-certified conferences run throughout the three-day event, supporting your professional development while exploring solutions to common industry challenges. These sessions cover topics ranging from supply chain resilience to skills development, offering a balanced perspective on the opportunities and obstacles in today’s construction environment.

Expert panels bring together diverse viewpoints from across the construction spectrum, creating dynamic discussions that challenge conventional thinking. You’ll benefit from hearing multiple perspectives on complex issues, helping you form more nuanced approaches to your own construction challenges.

Networking Opportunities

UK Construction Week connects the entire construction supply chain through various professional gatherings and interactive platforms. With over 300 exhibitors across three days, this event creates a rich environment for meaningful industry connections. The 2025 edition, scheduled for 7-9 May at ExCeL London, offers enhanced networking prospects for all attendees.

Industry Meet-ups

UK Construction Week features specialised co-located events that bring together diverse construction professionals. The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces attracts architects, designers, and material suppliers interested in stone applications and surface innovations. Workwear and PPE Live gathers safety specialists, site managers, and equipment providers to discuss advancements in protective gear. The HVAC+R section facilitates connections between building services engineers, contractors, and technology providers focused on climate control solutions. These targeted meet-ups create natural networking clusters where professionals with shared interests can exchange knowledge and develop business relationships.

Professional Connections

The event structure at UK Construction Week 2025 deliberately fosters professional connections through exclusive networking sessions and thought leadership activities. Exhibitor stands are arranged to maximise interaction, enabling attendees to engage directly with leading suppliers and industry stakeholders. The conference programme includes dedicated networking events where construction professionals can discuss industry challenges, share best practices, and form partnerships. These structured opportunities allow site managers, planners, architects, public-sector clients, housing associations, and investors to use UKCW as an effective platform for business development and knowledge exchange. The London location at ExCeL, with its excellent transport links and modern facilities, further enhances accessibility for both national and international participants seeking to expand their professional networks.

Sustainability and Innovation Focus

UK Construction Week showcases cutting-edge technologies and practices that prioritize sustainability and innovation in the building sector. These twin priorities are reshaping the construction landscape through practical solutions and forward-thinking approaches.

Green Building Technologies

Green building technologies take centre stage at UK Construction Week, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The 2025 London event places special emphasis on sustainability, featuring dedicated zones where exhibitors showcase eco-friendly solutions and materials. Companies like Air Spectrum Environmental highlight advances in air quality management, while sustainable coating systems demonstrate practical applications of green chemistry in construction.

The event’s “Building a Safer Future” initiative connects safety considerations with broader sustainability goals, creating a more holistic approach to responsible building practices. The Sustainability Hub, located at the heart of Timber Expo, addresses specific strategies and presents case studies that help construction professionals meet net zero targets. Attendees gain direct access to expert insights on implementing sustainable practices across projects of various scales.

UK Construction Week’s sustainability focus extends beyond materials to include energy efficiency solutions and low-emission technologies. Sessions cover practical applications of sustainable building methods, offering actionable knowledge for companies looking to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining profitability. The event creates opportunities for professionals to connect with suppliers of innovative green materials, technologies, and systems that comply with evolving regulations.

Digital Construction Solutions

Digital construction solutions transform how building projects are planned, executed and maintained. The Digital Construction Hub serves as the innovation centrepiece at UK Construction Week, delivering presentations and panel discussions on critical topics including Building Information Modelling (BIM) and information management. These digital tools help construction professionals visualize projects before breaking ground, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

The event showcases AI-driven project management systems and virtual reality applications that are changing how construction teams collaborate. Digital tools demonstrated at the event enable real-time monitoring of construction projects, allowing for quicker decision-making and adjustment to unexpected challenges. The Digital Construction zone provides focused access to expertise in automation, artificial intelligence, and other technologies transforming the building process.

UK Construction Week’s Infrastructure Hub complements the digital focus by exploring how digitalisation improves quality and sustainability across infrastructure projects. The three-day programme includes case studies, debates, and networking opportunities specifically designed for professionals working on large-scale infrastructure. Attendees learn how digital tools integrate with traditional construction methods to create more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective building processes.

The combination of sustainability initiatives and digital innovation at UK Construction Week provides attendees with a comprehensive view of construction’s future. The event’s structure facilitates connections between various sectors of the industry, encouraging collaboration between traditional builders and technology providers to develop integrated solutions for modern construction challenges.

Practical Information

UK Construction Week offers two major events in 2025, taking place in London and Birmingham. Here’s what you need to know to plan your visit effectively.

Registration and Tickets

Registration for UK Construction Week 2025 events is free for industry professionals. The straightforward registration process has been rated positively by previous attendees. You can secure your ticket through the official website for either the London or Birmingham event. Registration typically opens several months before each event, giving you ample time to plan your schedule. Early registration is recommended as it provides access to event updates, exhibitor information, and seminar scheduling options before your visit.

Travel and Accommodation

London Event (7-9 May 2025)

ExCeL London offers excellent transport connections for visitors. The venue is directly accessible via the DLR (Custom House station), making it easy to reach from central London. For international attendees, London City Airport is conveniently located nearby. The Elizabeth Line provides additional connectivity options with fast connections to major London stations and Heathrow Airport.

Multiple accommodation options exist around the ExCeL area and Canary Wharf district, ranging from budget hotels to luxury accommodations. If you’re visiting for multiple days, consider booking accommodation well in advance, especially since the May timing coincides with London’s busy tourism season.

Birmingham Event (30 September – 1 October 2025)

The NEC Birmingham is centrally located in the UK with excellent transport links. Birmingham International railway station connects directly to the venue, with regular services from major cities. For drivers, the NEC offers ample parking and is easily accessible from the M42 motorway.

The surrounding area features numerous hotels catering to different budgets, many within walking distance of the venue or offering shuttle services. The nearby Resorts World complex provides additional dining and accommodation options for visitors attending the two-day event.

Opening hours for both events run from 10:00am to 5:00pm each day, except for the final day of the London event which closes at 4:00pm. Plan your visit to maximise your time, allowing sufficient hours to explore the various exhibition zones relevant to your interests.

UK Construction Week London

• Dates: 7-9 May 2025
• Location: ExCeL London
• Opening Hours:
• Wednesday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
• Thursday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
• Friday: 10:00am – 4:00pm

UK Construction Week Birmingham

• Dates: 30 September – 1 October 2025
• Location: NEC Birmingham
• Opening Hours:
• Tuesday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
• Wednesday: 10:00am – 5:00pm

The Impact on British Construction

UK Construction Week significantly shapes the British construction landscape through innovation, sustainability, economic growth, and industry collaboration. This major event delivers tangible benefits across multiple sectors, transforming how construction professionals approach their work.

Innovation and Technology Showcase

UK Construction Week serves as the primary platform for introducing cutting-edge construction technologies to the British market. The event’s specialized sections—Build X, Infrastructure Live, Digital Construction, Offsite, Concrete, Timber, and Roofing—create focused environments where exhibitors display advanced solutions. Construction professionals gain direct access to innovations that improve efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration throughout projects. The technology showcases help companies identify tools that can streamline operations and reduce costs while maintaining quality.

Driving Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainability stands at the core of UK Construction Week’s mission, with dedicated features like the Net Zero Hub and Net Zero Trail. These initiatives connect construction professionals with sustainable materials, methods, and expertise essential for meeting Britain’s climate goals. Attendees discover practical approaches to reduce carbon footprints, carry out circular economy principles, and adopt resource-efficient practices. The event has become instrumental in accelerating the adoption of green building technologies across the UK construction sector.

Economic Growth Catalyst

UK Construction Week generates substantial economic activity both during and after the event. With over 100,000 visitors and hundreds of exhibitors participating annually, the event creates immediate economic benefits for host cities Birmingham and London. More importantly, the business relationships formed during UKCW lead to contracts, partnerships, and investments that stimulate growth throughout the year. The exhibition plays a crucial role in connecting British construction companies with international markets, opening export opportunities and attracting foreign investment into UK construction innovation.

Industry Knowledge Exchange

The seminar programme at UK Construction Week featuring expert speakers transforms industry understanding of key challenges. Construction professionals gain insights into regulatory changes, technical innovations, and market trends that directly impact their operations. The knowledge exchange extends beyond formal presentations through networking sessions where practical experiences are shared. This collaborative learning environment helps companies adapt to industry changes more effectively, raising standards across the sector.

Supply Chain Integration

UK Construction Week bridges the traditional gaps between different construction disciplines. Architects, engineers, contractors, manufacturers, and suppliers interact in ways that improve supply chain efficiency. The exhibition layout encourages cross-sector collaboration, helping to reduce the fragmentation that has historically limited construction productivity. By bringing together all elements of the supply chain, UKCW creates opportunities for more integrated approaches to project delivery, resulting in better outcomes for clients and end-users.

Conclusion

UK Construction Week stands as the industry’s premier gathering point where innovation meets opportunity. As it marks its 10th anniversary in 2025 across both London and Birmingham locations you’ll find unparalleled access to the latest construction technologies sustainable solutions and industry expertise.

Whether you’re seeking to expand your professional network discover cutting-edge products or gain valuable CPD-certified knowledge UKCW delivers exceptional value for every construction professional. With free registration specialised zones and carefully designed networking opportunities the event offers a comprehensive experience that addresses the industry’s most pressing challenges.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of shaping the future of UK construction at this essential industry event that continues to drive progress innovation and collaboration across the sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where will UK Construction Week 2025 take place?

UK Construction Week 2025 will be held in two locations. The London edition will take place from 7-9 May 2025 at ExCeL London, with hours from 10:00am to 5:00pm (Wednesday and Thursday) and 10:00am to 4:00pm (Friday). The Birmingham event is scheduled for 30 September to 2 October 2025 at the NEC. Both venues offer excellent transport links for national and international attendees.

What specialised shows are featured at UK Construction Week?

UK Construction Week comprises eleven specialised shows and core sections, including Timber Expo, Modern Methods of Construction, Concrete Expo, The Offsite Show, and Grand Designs Live. The 2025 event will also feature The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces, Workwear and PPE Live, Onsite On Hire showcase, and the HVAC+R Section, each addressing specific aspects of the construction industry.

Is registration required for UK Construction Week?

Yes, registration is required but is free for industry professionals. The registration process is straightforward and can be completed on the official UK Construction Week website. Registering early is recommended to receive updates and effectively plan your visit, including accommodation options in either London or Birmingham.

What networking opportunities are available at UKCW?

UKCW offers enhanced networking prospects through specialised co-located events, exclusive networking sessions, and thought leadership activities. With over 300 exhibitors, the event creates a rich environment for meaningful industry connections, deliberately fostering professional relationships between diverse construction professionals, from architects to safety specialists and building services engineers.

How does UKCW address sustainability in construction?

UKCW features dedicated zones for green building technologies, with exhibitors demonstrating eco-friendly solutions and materials. The event includes initiatives like “Building a Safer Future” and the Sustainability Hub, which offers strategies and case studies to help professionals meet net zero targets. The 2025 London event will particularly emphasise environmentally responsible practices and innovations.

What educational opportunities are available at UK Construction Week?

The event offers CPD-certified conferences and a comprehensive programme of seminars led by industry experts. These sessions address pressing issues such as sustainability, digitisation, and modern construction methods. Expert panels foster dynamic discussions on complex industry challenges, ensuring attendees gain actionable insights and diverse perspectives to support their professional development.

Who typically attends UK Construction Week?

UK Construction Week attracts over 100,000 visitors from across the construction industry, including architects, engineers, planners, manufacturers, and suppliers. The event serves as a vital platform for construction professionals looking to discover cutting-edge solutions, gain industry insights, and connect with peers from throughout the entire construction supply chain.

What digital construction innovations will be showcased at UKCW 2025?

The Digital Construction Hub will present advancements in digital tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), AI-driven project management systems, and digitalisation solutions for infrastructure projects. These technologies aim to transform project planning and execution, enhancing efficiency and promoting collaboration between traditional builders and technology providers.