June 15, 2026
P&D Show returns NEXT WEEK
The Painting & Decorating Show returns next week, and this year it has a new location, refreshed format, broader audience, and a packed content programme. Now co-located with InstallerSHOW and Professional Woodworking Expo at the NEC in Birmingham, the event brings painting and decorating into a wider conversation about the built environment while retaining its trade-first focus.
At its core, the 2026 show continues to deliver what it has long been known for: practical, hands-on learning. The content programme is built around live demonstrations, expert-led seminars, and interactive sessions designed to reflect the day-to-day challenges faced by decorators on site. From surface preparation and application techniques to achieving high-end finishes under tight deadlines, the emphasis is firmly on what works in practice, not just in theory. Exhibitors this year include Dulux Trade, Farrow & Ball, Bradite, Caparol, Crown Paints, Geocel, Isomat, Osmo UK, PaintTech Academy, Mirka UK, Shurtape, Purdy, Flex Power Tools and Rhino Trade.
A major highlight of this year’s programme is the expanded demo offering. Across the show floor, visitors will be able to see the latest tools, coatings, and materials put through their paces in real time. These sessions go beyond product showcases, offering insight into technique, efficiency, and best practice. Whether it’s mastering spray application, refining cutting-in skills, or exploring new decorative finishes, the live demos provide a valuable opportunity to learn directly from experienced professionals and product specialists.
TradesTalk theatre
Alongside the demonstrations, the seminar programme within the TradesTalk theatre brings together a range of industry voices to tackle topics affecting all tradespeople today, from job pricing and client expectations to mental health and finding a niche. In an industry where margins can be tight and competition fierce, this business-focused content is increasingly vital, helping decorators not only improve their craft, but also strengthen their operations.
Highlights include:
- How to win customers with video content
- Taking on an apprentice
- An update on the tool theft campaign
- Finding the right tools and products for each job
- Building a brand that gets you work
Networking with other tradespeople
What sets this year apart is the show’s integration within a much larger, multi-trade environment. With a single badge granting access to multiple halls, attendees can explore adjacent sectors including kitchen installation and flooring. This cross-sector approach is reflected in the content itself, with a growing emphasis on collaboration and understanding how decorating fits into the wider project lifecycle, from first fix to final finish.
Networking plays a key role in the overall experience. With manufacturers, suppliers, and fellow tradespeople all under one roof, the show provides a rare opportunity to share knowledge, compare approaches, and build relationships. The presence of both established brands and emerging companies adds another dimension, making it as much about discovery as it is about education.
Products and trends
The programme also mirrors key trends shaping the industry. Sustainable solutions, for example, are expected to feature prominently, with discussions around low-VOC coatings, environmentally responsible materials, and waste reduction. At the same time, advances in tools and application technology, such as spraying and dust control, will be explored through both demos and seminars, highlighting how innovation is reshaping productivity on site.
Ultimately, the 2026 Painting & Decorating Show reflects an industry that is evolving and by combining hands-on learning with broader industry insight, it offers a comprehensive snapshot of where the trade stands today and where it is heading next.
For visitors, it’s not just about seeing new products; it’s about gaining the knowledge and confidence to work smarter, deliver better results, and stay competitive in a fast-changing market.
To see our 2026 exhibitors: https://www.paintshow.co.uk/exhibitor-list
The event takes place 23-25 June 2026,. Register for free tickets: https://www.paintshow.co.uk/
