April 21, 2026
Line-up revealed for TradesTalk theatre at Painting & Decorating Show
Visitors to InstallerSHOW 2026 and the co-located Painting & Decorating Show (PDS) can expect a strong focus on practical business insight this year, with the TradesTalk theatre hosted within the PDS hall.
The theatre will host a packed programme of sessions aimed at tackling the day-to-day realities of working in the industry, with straightforward, experience-led advice from tradespeople.
Across the three-day event, the agenda will cover a range of topics reflecting the challenges and opportunities facing trades in 2026. Sessions will explore how tradespeople can win more work through digital channels, including the growing role of short-form video content in building trust and attracting customers.
Industry insights will also be a key feature, with discussions examining the current state of the UK trades sector, from workload pressures to pricing trends, giving attendees a clearer picture of where the market is heading.
For those looking to grow their businesses, the programme will include honest conversations around making the leap from sole trader to employer, with a focus on hiring, managing staff, and avoiding common pitfalls when scaling up.
Another emerging theme is personal branding, with sessions highlighting how tradespeople can position themselves as local experts, including leveraging social media and project work to build a reputation beyond traditional word-of-mouth.
The TradesTalk theatre is intended to complement the hands-on nature of the wider event. While the Painting & Decorating Show continues to showcase live demonstrations, new products, and practical techniques, TradesTalk adds a dedicated space for business-focused learning and open discussion.
With InstallerSHOW and the Painting & Decorating Show running side by side at the NEC – alongside Professional Woodworking Expo – visitors will have access to a broad mix of skills development, networking opportunities, and industry knowledge, all under one roof.
Register for your free tickets to the event here: https://www.paintshow.co.uk/
