For operators of petrol stations, forecourt shops, and convenience outlets, few industry events are as relevant as The Forecourt Show. Held at NEC Birmingham, this premier trade fair brings together industry experts, suppliers, and retailers in one place, showcasing the latest in fuel technology, convenience retail, and profitable forecourt services. Whether you’re an independent dealer, a symbol-group member, or part of a national oil company, this event delivers actionable ideas to elevate your business.
Let’s explore what makes it a must-attend, and why you’ll want to stay engaged until the very end.
Event Overview: When and Where
The upcoming edition of The Forecourt Show will take place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, running from 13th to 15th April 2026. Open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on the first two days and 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on the last day , the event is timed for easy travel before and after business hours.
Located adjacent to Birmingham International Airport and train station, the NEC is well served by rail, road, and air transport, with more than 16,500 on-site parking spaces .
Who Attends and Why It Matters
The Forecourt Show is the UK’s leading trade forum for forecourt industry professionals—especially those in fuel retail, shop management, vehicle services, car wash, and food-to-go. Attendees typically include:
- Independent and symbol-group forecourt operators
- National and regional oil company site managers
- Shop managers and convenience retail buyers
- Service providers for EV charging, car care, and food prep
- Suppliers of fuel equipment, packaging, merchandise, and tech
Participants return with insights on boosting margins, enhancing on-site experiences, and future-proofing their outlets.
Cost and Access
Entry is free of charge for trade professionals, with complimentary passes granting access to The Forecourt Show and its sister events—National Convenience Show, Farm Shop & Deli Show, and the Food & Drink Expo. All four run concurrently under a single admission, making it a powerful value for attendees.
Where to Stay and How to Get Around
Ideal accommodation near the NEC includes:
- Hilton Birmingham Metropole – connected by covered walkway, ideal for executives
- Premier Inn NEC – budget-friendly and comfortable
- Ibis Styles Birmingham NEC – stylish and practical
- Crowne Plaza NEC – premium with full business amenities
The venue is connected to Birmingham International train station and airport via a free shuttle bus, and national rail and motorway links make it easily accessible nationally.
What You’ll See and Do
1. Exhibition Floor
Explore hundreds of exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge forecourt solutions—fuel station hardware, shop fit-out, technology, EV charging, vehicle care, and car wash systems.
2. Innovation & Brand Reveal Zones
These curated areas highlight new products, services, and technologies aimed at improving forecourt profitability and customer experience.
3. Live Demo Theatre
In sessions hosted by Forecourt Trader and other industry experts, you’ll discover real-world tactics for upselling, forecourt layout optimization, shop range planning, loyalty schemes, and site technology.
4. Seminar Programme
More than 80 free sessions cover topics like EV charging strategies, convenience store merchandising, fuel management, payment systems, forecourt compliance, and tower-to-shelf trends.
5. Peer Networking
With over 25,000 attendees and 1,200+ exhibitors across four shows, you’ll connect with site operators, central group buyers, and supplier representatives. Many site managers report meeting key decision-makers they hadn’t before .
6. Profit-Boosting Ideas
Catering, coffee, EV—growth areas with proven profitability. Expect focused advice on launching or upgrading these for your site.
7. Awards & Recognitions
Industry awards celebrate the most forward-thinking and high-performing operators and suppliers—perfect for benchmarking or aiming for excellence.
Key Benefits of Attending
- Boost profitability – adopt tested concepts that drive onsite revenue
- Upgrade operations – learn about automation, cashless tech, and site efficiency
- Spot emerging trends – from EV to low-carbon fuel innovations
- Select new suppliers – compare multiple vendors in one location
- Network effectively – plan meetings with peers and decision-makers
- Receive expert guidance – from free seminars led by top industry voices
Attendee Preparation Tips
- Register early to reserve seminar and networking space
- Pre-book meetings through apps or connect with key suppliers
- Bring multiple business cards or QR business cards
- Map your priorities—EV, shop, payment, foodservice zones
- Attend demo and seminar sessions tailored to your development goals
- Note implementation strategies and follow-up tasks post-show
Measuring Event Success
Your event return will be clear through:
- Actionable tactics implemented in shop or forecourt
- Supplier agreements signed during or after the show
- Efficient tech investment or rollout inspired by live demos
- Enhanced trade relationships built through face-to-face discussions
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about maximising forecourt profitability, enhancing customer experience, or leading in convenience retail, The Forecourt Show is where you need to be. It’s the UK’s premier trade event, with content, innovation, and relationships that deliver real business difference—not just hype.
Plan to immerse yourself, absorb adaptable ideas, and return home with a clear plan for site improvement.
Book Your Free Ticket Now
Don’t miss out on the UK’s essential forecourt industry event. Secure your complimentary pass today and gain full access to The Forecourt Show and co-located expos: