MACH 2026

Marks & Clerk is delighted to be taking part in MACH 2026, the national showcase for innovation, inspiration and connection across the UK’s engineering and advanced manufacturing community. Taking place at the NEC in Birmingham from 20 to 24 April, MACH brings together the latest thinking, technologies and real‑world expertise shaping the future of industry.

On 22 April, two of our specialists, Philip Cupitt and Tobias Eriksson, will deliver a joint presentation titled Beyond the Wild West: Navigating IP Risks in Additive Manufacturing. Their session will address one of the most common misconceptions in modern manufacturing: the belief that 3D printing exists in a space free from intellectual property concerns. As additive manufacturing shifts rapidly from a design and prototyping tool to a core production method, understanding the legal landscape has never been more important.

Philip and Tobias will explore the hidden risks that businesses often overlook, including infringement of third‑party trademarks, registered designs and patents. They will explain how these issues can arise whether a company is creating original designs, sourcing files from online platforms or operating as a contract manufacturer. The session will highlight why IP due diligence should be considered an essential stage of the design process and will offer practical guidance to help manufacturers protect themselves from costly disputes.