Birmingham to Host Prestigious European Robotics Forum in 2027
By Anushka Malhotra
1 minute 13 seconds
Growth

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Quick Read: Birmingham will host the 2027 European Robotics Forum, attracting over 1,500 global experts and boosting the region’s economy while spotlighting UK innovation in robotics and automation.
Birmingham has been selected as the host city for the 2027 European Robotics Forum (ERF), one of Europe’s most influential gatherings in robotics and automation.
The International Convention Centre (ICC) Birmingham will welcome over 1,500 global robotics experts, including engineers, researchers, investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, from March 1 to 5, 2027. The forum, now in its 18th edition, is expected to bring a £1.55 million boost to the region’s visitor economy.
The successful bid was led by robotics and innovation leaders from the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry and the University of Birmingham, supported by the Birmingham and West Midlands Convention Bureau, the West Midlands Growth Company, and the ICC Birmingham.
The West Midlands overcame stiff competition from European cities including Brussels, Zurich, Tallinn, and Belgrade. The bid was bolstered by over 50 letters of support from key stakeholders, including Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation Lord Patrick Vallance, Birmingham City Council, and the West Midlands Combined Authority.
Cllr Sharon Thompson, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, said:
“Hosting more than 1,500 global leaders in robotics is a massive win for our visitor economy and a great platform to showcase the West Midlands as a hub of advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.”
Karol Janik, Robotics and Automation Technology Manager at MTC and General Chairperson for ERF2027, added:
“We’re honoured to bring ERF to the UK. It reflects the growing influence of robotics innovation not only in the West Midlands but across the country. ERF 2027 will shine a global spotlight on the UK’s thriving robotics ecosystem.”
The final day of the conference will feature exclusive industry tours of world-leading robotics and automation facilities in the region, further showcasing the West Midlands' expertise in high-tech manufacturing.
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West Midlands Poised to Lead UK’s AI Revolution, Says KPMG Partner

Private firms in the West Midlands are outpacing the rest of the UK in their plans to adopt artificial intelligence (AI), positioning the region at the forefront of digital innovation, according to KPMG’s Andy Bostock.
With the UK Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan aiming to cement the country as a global leader in artificial intelligence, the West Midlands is already taking significant steps in that direction. The plan, launched earlier this year, highlights how AI can modernise public services — and private sector companies across the region are responding to the call with enthusiasm.
According to KPMG’s Private Enterprise Barometer, published in December, 83% of West Midlands private firms are planning AI investments — well above the national average of 73%.
Andy Bostock, Senior Partner at KPMG, said:
“The most successful companies are those viewing AI not as a cost, but as a strategic investment in long-term growth and resilience.”
The West Midlands, with its strong roots in engineering and manufacturing, is well-positioned to reap the benefits of AI. From optimising supply chains to enhancing talent acquisition and predictive maintenance, AI applications are already transforming business models.
A recent joint report by KPMG and UKTN found that accelerating AI adoption across manufacturing and engineering will be essential to meet the region’s tech sector goal of reaching a £100 billion valuation by 2030.
The region is home to over 300 AI-focused businesses employing more than 11,000 people, forming one of the most dynamic digital clusters in the UK. Yet, Bostock stressed that the journey is just beginning.
To fully harness AI’s potential, businesses must establish strong, adaptable data frameworks and integrate AI solutions that align with their existing operations. This includes practical tools like chatbots for customer service, predictive analytics for inventory management, and AI-driven insights for marketing and long-term planning.
Andy Bostock added:
“Real business value comes from identifying where AI can enhance existing strengths. It’s not about starting over, it’s about getting smarter.”
As the region doubles down on digital transformation, Bostock believes cutting through the AI hype and focusing on measurable outcomes will be key to unlocking its full potential.
By Anushka Malhotra
11 Apr
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