Mark your calendars for June 23-25, 2026, because Hillhead is about to deliver its most spectacular show yet.
Taking place at Tarmac’s legendary Hillhead Quarry near Buxton in Derbyshire, this biennial exhibition is already generating unprecedented buzz across the construction, quarrying, and recycling sectors.
Breaking Records Before the Gates Even Open
With 77% of outdoor exhibition space already reserved a year before the event, Hillhead 2026 is shattering previous booking records.
Event Director Richard Bradbury confirms that all major original equipment manufacturers have already committed, with demand for both indoor and outdoor space continuing to surge.
The show is expected to surpass 600 exhibitors and attract nearly 20,000 industry visitors, cementing its position as the UK’s premier construction equipment exhibition. This represents significant growth from the 2024 edition, which drew 19,560 unique visitors and 599 exhibitors.
What Makes Hillhead Unmissable
The magic of Hillhead lies in its authenticity. Unlike conventional exhibition halls, this event takes place in an active limestone quarry, allowing visitors to see equipment performing real work in genuine operating conditions.
The show features four specialized demonstration areas where heavy machinery tackles actual quarrying tasks, giving buyers and operators invaluable insight into equipment performance.
The event will showcase thousands of products across three days of live demonstrations, covering everything from crushing and screening equipment to material handling solutions and recycling technologies.
Game-Changing Innovation: The Startup Zone
One of the most exciting additions to Hillhead 2026 is the brand-new Startup Zone. This dedicated area will give emerging companies in the quarrying, construction, and recycling industries a unique platform to connect with industry leaders, investors, and potential customers.
For an industry often dominated by established giants, the Startup Zone represents a refreshing commitment to innovation and fresh thinking. It’s where tomorrow’s breakthrough technologies will get their first major industry showcase.
Sustainability and Digital Transformation Take Center Stage
Hillhead 2026 is positioning itself at the intersection of tradition and transformation. Organizers have indicated expanded zones for sustainability solutions and digital transformation tools, reflecting the industry’s rapidly evolving priorities.
Expect to see:
- Electric and hydrogen-powered machinery demonstrating viable alternatives to diesel
- Smart monitoring systems and AI-driven maintenance platforms
- Automation and robotics reshaping operational efficiency
- Circular economy practices addressing environmental pressures
The focus on these technologies isn’t just about ticking boxes—it reflects genuine industry shifts driven by regulatory requirements, client demands, and the urgent need for decarbonization.
Why This Matters for Construction Professionals
The construction and quarrying sectors face critical challenges: decarbonization mandates, skills shortages, and pressure to improve productivity while reducing environmental impact. Hillhead 2026 isn’t just a marketplace; it’s where the industry gathers to address these challenges head-on.
For contractors, plant managers, quarry operators, and construction business owners, this is your chance to:
- Compare equipment from hundreds of manufacturers in one location
- See machinery working in realistic conditions before making purchasing decisions
- Network with peers facing similar operational challenges
- Discover emerging technologies that could give your business a competitive edge
- Attend specialized forums including the Strategic Safety Forum
Planning Your Visit
Visitor registration opens in November 2025 at www.hillhead.com, and entry is free for trade visitors. The show runs:
- Tuesday, June 23: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday, June 24: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday, June 25: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Given that Buxton and the surrounding Peak District fill up quickly during the event, early accommodation booking is strongly advised.
The Bottom Line
Hillhead 2026 isn’t just another trade show – it’s where the industry meets, competes, and collaborates.
With its unique quarry setting, comprehensive equipment demonstrations, and focus on the technologies shaping the sector’s future, this event deserves a prominent place in every construction professional’s calendar.
Whether you’re in the market for new equipment, looking to stay ahead of industry trends, or seeking solutions to operational challenges, Hillhead 2026 is positioning itself as the must-attend event of the year.
The countdown is on. Will we see you there?
For more information and to register for Hillhead 2026, visit www.hillhead.com or contact Event Manager Harvey Sugden at harvey.sugden@qmj.co.uk
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