The University of Birmingham and Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) led the successful bid, supported by the West Midlands Growth Company and ICC Birmingham.
Birmingham has won the bid to host the 18th edition of the European Robotics Forum (ERF) in 2027, selected over high-profile European capital cities to host the influential event; the conference will bring more than 1,500 international delegates to the West Midlands, with an estimated £1.55m economic impact.
The Birmingham bid was won by leading ambassadors in the region from the University of Birmingham and the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry, with the support of the Birmingham and West Midlands Convention Bureau, part of the West Midlands Growth Company, and the ICC Birmingham – part of the NEC Group – who will host the event from 1 - 5 March 2027. The bid attracted over 50 letters of support, including the Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation, Lord Patrick Vallance, Birmingham City Council and the West Midlands Combined Authority.
Professor Samia Nefti-Meziani OBE, Chair in Robotics and AI and Director of the Birmingham Robotics Institute at University of Birmingham, said: "We are thrilled to announce that Birmingham will host the 2027 European Robotics Forum, for the very first time in England. This very prestigious event is set to foster collaboration, innovation, and growth, providing innovators in the robotics field – both within the region, across the UK, and internationally – with an incredible opportunity to exchange ideas, showcase advancements, and drive forward the future of robotics.
"Birmingham's selection highlights the city's growing significance as a global Hub in research and technology in Robotics and AI powering smart machines and systems for Circular and Sustainable Manufacturing and Materials, Healthcare, and Infrastructure renewal. We're excited about the profound impact ERF2027 will have."
The event started in San Sebastián, Spain in 2010, established by the euRobotics association. Recent editions have taken place in Odense, Denmark (2023), Rimini, Italy (2024) and Stuttgart, Germany (2025). It has grown into a major annual forum that aims to strengthen Europe's competitiveness in robotics.
Birmingham's selection highlights the city's growing significance as a global Hub in research and technology in Robotics and AI powering smart machines and systems for Circular and Sustainable Manufacturing and Materials, Healthcare, and Infrastructure renewal. We're excited about the profound impact ERF2027 will have.
Cllr Sharon Thompson, Deputy Leader at Birmingham City Council, said: "We are thrilled that Birmingham has been selected to host the European Robotics Forum 2027 – a true recognition of our region's world-class innovation, research and industrial strength. Welcoming over 1,500 global leaders in robotics is not only a huge boost for our visitor economy, but also a fantastic opportunity to showcase the West Midlands as a powerhouse for advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge technology."
The West Midlands has been a global hub of invention and innovation for over two centuries. The region has officially the UK's fastest growing tech sector, and, coupled with its industrial heritage, is a natural home for innovations in robotics.
Chair in Robotics and AI
Staff profile for Professor Samia Nefti-Meziani OBE.
