14
Apr 2026
19th Apr 2026
As the UK manufacturing sector gathers momentum this week with the return of MACH 2026, Birmingham-based precision engineering specialist Rowan Precision is highlighting the critical role of advanced CNC machining capability in securing the future of British industry.
Taking place from 20–24 April, MACH brings together more than 26,000 attendees and over 600 exhibitors, creating a focal point for investment, innovation and collaboration across the UK’s manufacturing technologies sector. For Rowan Precision, the event represents far more than a trade show — it is a barometer of confidence in the UK’s engineering capability.
Glenn Aston, Chief Financial Officer at Rowan Precision, believes the timing of MACH 2026 is significant.
“Events like MACH are essential because they showcase the very best of what UK manufacturing can deliver,” said Aston. “They bring together the technology providers, the engineers and the decision-makers who are all driving the next generation of production capability. That ecosystem is vital if we are serious about competing globally.”
With more than 40 years of experience, Rowan Precision has evolved from a subcontract CNC machining business into a strategic manufacturing partner for customers across aerospace, defence and medical sectors. Its investment in fixed head and sliding head CNC technology reflects a broader shift within UK manufacturing towards high-value, high-precision production.
“We manufacture high-quality, precision machined components for critical industries where performance, reliability and traceability are non-negotiable. But beyond that, we work as an extension of our customers’ engineering teams — supporting design for manufacture, improving efficiency and helping reduce total lifecycle cost.”
That positioning aligns closely with the themes underpinning MACH 2026, where digitalisation, automation and advanced machining technologies are front and centre. The event is widely regarded as a catalyst for business growth, with hundreds of millions of pounds in orders and investments influenced during the week.
For Aston, the UK machine tool sector remains a cornerstone of that progress.
“The strength of the UK machine tool industry is something we should be proud of,” he said. “The innovation, the engineering expertise and the ability to deliver cutting-edge machining solutions are all here. MACH gives that sector a platform to demonstrate its capability — and just as importantly, it inspires manufacturers like us to continue investing.”
Rowan Precision’s own facility reflects that commitment. Operating modern CNC sliding head and fixed head machines, the company is able to produce complex, high-precision components in volume, often in a single operation. This not only improves consistency and repeatability but also reduces lead times and risk — key considerations for customers operating in tightly regulated industries.
“MACH reinforces the importance of staying at the forefront of technology,” Aston added. “UK Investment in CNC capability is fundamental. If UK manufacturers want to remain competitive, we need to embrace advanced machining, automation and digital integration.”
Beyond technology, the event also plays a crucial role in strengthening the UK’s manufacturing community. With engineers, buyers and innovators under one roof, MACH creates opportunities for collaboration that extend long after the exhibition closes.
“There’s a real sense of energy around MACH,” said Aston. “It’s where ideas turn into action — where businesses find new partners, new technologies and new ways of working. That’s incredibly important for the resilience and growth of UK manufacturing.”
As the doors open on MACH 2026, Rowan Precision’s message is clear: the UK already possesses world-class CNC machining capability — but continued investment, collaboration and confidence will be key to unlocking its full potential.
In an increasingly competitive global market, events like MACH serve as both a showcase and a statement — that British manufacturing remains innovative, capable and ready to lead.