The event provides a platform for discussion on the opportunities and challenges for the automotive industry in the region and regularly attracts delegates from a wide range of companies including vehicle manufacturers, global and local suppliers.
Free for SMMT members to attend and lunch is included.
Join SMMT at the next Regional Networking events:
The event is free to attend and open to all SMMT members (limited to two per company). Lunch is included.
30 January 2026, 12:00-14:00
Wrightbus
201 Galgorm Road, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT42 1SA
Wrightbus has been at the forefront of transport innovation since 1946, relentlessly pushing the boundaries with its commitment to technology, quality and safety. Headquartered in Ballymena, the company initially established itself as a reputable traditional vehicle bodybuilder before evolving into a pioneer of low-emission public service buses.
Now under the ownership of JCB heir, Jo Bamford, Wrightbus has combined its long-standing engineering heritage with cutting edge technologies to position itself as the UK and Europe’s leading zero-emission bus manufacturer with a full range of next-generation battery electric, hydrogen fuel cell and low emission diesel buses, supported by a production capacity exceeding 1,200 vehicles annually.
The event is free to attend and open to all SMMT members (limited to two per company). Lunch is included.
12 February, 12:00-14:00
DS Smith
Dodwells Rd, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 3BX
The event is free to attend and open to all SMMT members (limited to two per company). Lunch is included.
12 May, 12:00-14:00
RARUK Automation
14 Old Bridge Way, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5HQ
RARUK Automation is a leading UK supplier of advanced automation and robotic solutions, dedicated to helping manufacturers streamline operations, boost productivity, and achieve greater efficiency.
Renowned for technical excellence and long‑standing partnerships, RARUK offer a comprehensive portfolio that includes collaborative robots (cobots), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), AI‑driven robotic vision, cartesian systems, and feeding and disentangling technologies. These state‑of‑the‑art solutions empower businesses to reduce costs, enhance flexibility, and adapt seamlessly across manufacturing and logistics. With AI vision, robots can intelligently recognise, locate, and handle components—unlocking new possibilities in precision assembly, inspection, and adaptive automation.
As one of the first Universal Robots distributors worldwide, RARUK Automation provides both off‑the‑shelf and customised solutions. Typical applications range from bin picking, assembly, and quality inspection to sanding, polishing, screwdriving, and warehouse logistics.
RARUK recognise that successful automation requires more than technology alone. That’s why we deliver exceptional aftersales support, including spare parts, repairs, technical assistance, and product training. Our dedicated lab also enables feasibility studies, ensuring every solution is tested and tailored to customer requirements.
Whether enhancing warehouse efficiency, improving manufacturing precision, or enabling intelligent material handling, RARUK Automation is a trusted partner for OEMs, system integrators, and manufacturers ready to embrace the future of smart, vision‑enabled automation.
The event is free to attend and open to all SMMT members (limited to two per company). Lunch is included
