1284 Communications returns to the exhibition floor as the region debates how to turn uncertainty into sustainable growth at the East Midlands Manufacturing and Trade Conference 2026.

Regional manufacturers and exporters will gather to explore to unlock barriers to expansion, understand shifting market dynamics in technology and international trade, support better skills development, boost productivity, and identify emerging supply chain opportunities.

Hosted by East Midlands Chamber, the event brings together industry leaders, education providers, policymakers and innovators for a day of keynotes, panel debates, workshops and exhibitions. 

The aim is not only to analyse the challenges facing the region, but to pinpoint where change can be enacted - and how policy and practice can be shaped to protect the East Midlands’ industrial heritage while driving competitiveness in a sustainable and inclusive way.

The agenda opens with a sector overview from Chris Corkan, Regional Director at Make UK, setting the context for manufacturers amid global pressures and domestic shifts. 

International trade is a central theme, with an update from Lucy Granger, Head of International Trade at East Midlands Chamber, followed by a business case study from Abacus Lighting’s International Sales Manager, Darren Kokuciak - whose export strategy helped secure the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade 2025.

Trade will be further scrutinised in a panel discussion featuring:

• Jonathan Rawcliffe, Inward Investment Lead, East Midlands Freeport
• Ioan Reed-Aspley, Head of Corporate Affairs, East Midlands Airport
• Hollie Coxon, International Freight Forwarder, Nationwide Courier Service

Together, they will examine how the region can attract inward investment, streamline trade routes and support businesses looking to grow internationally.

Alongside the key speakers and workshops, exhibitors will be at the event to showcase what they do, start conversations and help shape the wider discussion about growth in East Midlands manufacturing and trade.

For 1284, exhibiting at the conference is an opportunity to connect directly with the businesses, educators and innovators shaping the East Midlands’ economic future. 

As organisations grapple with new technologies, complex supply chains and shifting markets, the ability to communicate clearly with stakeholders - from investors and policymakers to employees and local communities - is becoming a strategic necessity.

1284 MD George Oliver said: “As a company deeply involved with our regional Chamber, we’re proud to be exhibiting at a conference that’s focused on real-world growth rather than abstract headlines. This event brings together the manufacturers, exporters, educators and policymakers who are actually shaping the region’s future. 

“Our job at 1284 is to help those organisations tell their story clearly - whether that’s about innovation, skills or international trade - so it’s a privilege to be in the room as those conversations are happening and to play a small part in amplifying them.”

A people and skills panel discussion will focus on the retention of talent, and improving productivity through people and technology. The panel includes 1284 client James Ferraby, of Loughborough-based Digital Planning, alongside:

• Shabir Ismail, Principal/CEO, Leicester College
• Dr Gareth Thomas, LSIP Engagement Lead, Pro Excellence Partnership
• Professor James Flint, Loughborough University

They will explore how collaborations between providers and employers can underpin long-term growth, ensuring the workforce keeps pace with technological change rather than being undermined by it.

George added: “By taking part in EMC Manufacturing and Trade Conference, 1284 aims to be part of the wider conversation of helping regional organisations not only adapt to change, but explain their role in it - and make sure the East Midlands’ industrial story continues to be heard.”