CEDIA adds Manchester stop to 2026 UK Tech + Business Summits

CEDIA 2026 UK Tech + Business Summits are returning to four locations, including a new stop in Manchester, the trade body has confirmed. Running from April to July 2026, the roadshow offers integrators and suppliers an opportunity to connect with architects, interior designers, and construction professionals who are increasingly influencing technology decisions in residential projects.

The expanded programme reflects a continued effort by the organisation to widen engagement beyond the core custom installation sector.

“This year, the CEDIA Tech + Business Summits are focused on bringing complementary industries together to strengthen collaboration and create new partnerships,” says Matt Nimmons, Managing Director of CEDIA EMEA. “A major focus for 2026 is expanding our engagement with design and build professionals through hosting panel discussions, and offering targeted, accredited CPD sessions aimed at supporting the professional development of design and build professionals.”

The initiative builds on insights gathered from recent industry events where designers and architects have become increasingly involved in conversations about residential technology infrastructure. Nimmons adds: “After seeing the benefits of involving designers at ISE, we’re excited to expand the summits to further engage the design and build community.”

A central element of the 2026 programme will be a curated panel discussion titled Collaboration to Build Success: Aligning Design, Space, and Technology on Home Integration Projects. The session will bring together voices from integration, architecture, and interior design to explore how early-stage collaboration can improve project delivery.

Topics will include balancing technology with aesthetics, improving communication between project stakeholders, and addressing common points of friction during installation and commissioning. Organisers say the discussion will draw on real-world case studies and established workflows to provide practical guidance for integrators and design professionals alike.

In addition to the panel series, the summits will host an accredited continuing professional development (CPD) presentation aimed specifically at architects and design professionals. The session is intended to offer practical insight into integrating residential technology systems into contemporary building projects, covering both infrastructure considerations and client expectations.

As in previous years, the events will also serve as networking and product engagement opportunities for the wider residential technology community. A number of manufacturers and distributors are scheduled to exhibit at each stop, including ADI, Aldous, AWE, Alltrade, KEF, Lutron, Silent Gliss, One AV, and Sonos.

CEDIA has also developed a visitor app designed to support the event experience, offering programme updates, exhibitor information, and access to exclusive attendee offers.

The 2026 UK Tech + Business Summit schedule is as follows:
21 April 2026 – Manchester, Etihad Stadium
20 May 2026 – Edinburgh, Murrayfield Stadium
9 June 2026 – Bristol, Ashton Gate Stadium
7 July 2026 – London, Business Design Centre

The summits are free to attend for industry professionals, with registration available through CEDIA’s website.