The International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago is a great place for manufacturers to network, troubleshoot problems, and learn about the newest developments in manufacturing. But with over 1.2 million square feet of exhibit space, it can also be overwhelming.  

Some attendees struggle to make the most of their time at trade shows, especially one as large as IMTS. To maximize value, ask yourself: what do you want to get out of the show? Are you looking for a specific solution? Do you need inspiration to improve your manufacturing processes? 

For example, some common goals for IMTS attendees include: 

• Reducing setup time 

• Speeding up production 

• Improving tool or part quality 

• Filling in skill or labor gaps 

• Lowering costs 

• Improving safety 

Here are steps you can take to get the most out of IMTS:
 

1. Do your research. 

With a sprawling layout and over 2,000 exhibitors, there’s a lot of ground to cover at IMTS. Planning ahead is crucial if you want to find the booths, attractions, and events most relevant to your business.  

One of the easiest ways to do this is with the IMTS Show Planner, which offers recommendations, assisted scheduling, and suggested itineraries. You can use Find Exhibitors or the floor plan view to find exhibitors, access digital showrooms, and save exhibitors to your planner. 

This year, for example, ZOLLER Inc. will be on level three of the West Building, Booth 432018.  

Visit our profile to add ZOLLER Inc. to your show planner

2. Reach out to exhibitors in advance…and bring your own tools! 

Once you’ve identified your must-see events and booths, consider reaching out to exhibitors before the show starts. This will give you an opportunity to talk through your unique challenges and goals and evaluate whether they’re worth a visit on your trade show tour. 

At the ZOLLER booth, for example, attendees can bring their own tools for a more tailored discussion with our experts. Although time constraints prevent us from doing a showroom-level demo, we can do a quick consultation. (An appointment is required.) 

Schedule a meeting with a ZOLLER team member.

3. Look for special events. 

The IMTS hosts conferences, technology hubs, special attractions, and more. Some individual exhibitors plan special events, too! This year, the ZOLLER team is bringing together customers, industry experts, and the latest technology for: 

A half-day workshop for job shop professionals. 

• When: Tuesday, September 15 from 1 to 4:30 p.m. 

• Where: West Building, Room W196-A 

• What: This half-day workshop will feature dynamic sessions on automation, AI, and the future of manufacturing. A reception and opportunity to network will follow. 

Learn more about IMTS 2026 Job Shops Workshop

The announcement of competition winners driving innovation in the toolroom. 

• When: Thursday, September 17 at 3:30 p.m. 

• Where: Booth W-432018 

• What: ZOLLER will announce the winners of the 2026 Toolroom of the Year competition. 

Learn about Toolroom of the Year finalists 

The world premieres of new solutions like the »coraVarion« and »pombasicMTI « 

• When: Day 1 and Day 2 

• Where: Booth W-432018 (»coraVarion«) and Booth 237406 (»pombasicMTI«) 

• What: ZOLLER is premiering several new ground-breaking solutions at IMTS 2026, including the »coraVarion« flexible automation solution and the »pombasicMTI« machine for micro tool inspection. 

Get a sneak peek at ZOLLER world premieres. 

The ZOLLER booth at IMTS is a great place for networking, fun, and German hospitality. Please come and enjoy a pretzel and a beer!