The UK’s flagship water leisure trade exhibition, SPATEX, will return to the Coventry Building Society Arena from 3–5 February 2026, celebrating its 30th anniversary with the largest and most comprehensive edition in the event’s history.
Responding to unprecedented demand—particularly from companies looking to exhibit for the first time—the 2026 show will feature an expanded floorplan and a record number of stands. In total, 125 exhibiting companies from 13 countries are expected, including strong representation from France, Germany, Belgium, the United States, Spain, the Czech Republic, Switzerland and the Netherlands, reinforcing SPATEX’s position as a key gateway to both the UK market and international business opportunities.
Focus on Innovation and Market Trends
SPATEX 2026 will provide industry professionals with early access to new products, emerging trends, and energy- and cost-efficient technologies across the water leisure sector. Many exhibitors are expected to offer show-specific promotions, adding further commercial value for visitors.
Largest Seminar Programme to Date
Complementing the exhibition is SPATEX’s largest-ever free educational programme, delivered across two dedicated seminar arenas. The dual-stream programme includes 42 expert-led talks, many presented by speakers new to SPATEX, and is designed to deliver practical, up-to-date guidance on the management, operation and future development of water leisure facilities.
In Arena 1, the technical programme includes 21 CPD-accredited ISPE (Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers) workshops, with more than 300 CPD certificates typically issued each year. Topics include:
- Practical applications of AI in the pool industry
- Swimming pool ventilation system design
- Modern pool and outdoor lighting: efficiency, control and design
- Swimming pool trends for 2026
Two SPATEX Foundation-funded research projects will also be presented, reporting headline findings relevant across the sector:
- A University of Portsmouth study into the use of hot tubs to support older adult health
- A Coventry University study on the health benefits of ice baths and cold plunge pools
Arena 2: Operations, Safety and Standards
Arena 2 will host a further 21 sessions covering a broad range of operational, regulatory and management topics. Highlights include:
- Keynote presentations by the Swimming Teachers Association (STA) on Legionella and hidden risks in pools, spas and water features
- The Pool Plant Theatre, a collaborative programme involving STA, ISPE, RLSS UK, the Institute of Swimming and the Chemical Business Association, aimed at leisure centre managers
- Sessions on digital logging and trend analysis in pool testing and inspections
- A series of talks by PWTAG (Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group), including guidance on temporary pools
- A presentation by Chris Hayes, Managing Director of the British Swimming Pool Federation, on the role of international collaboration in supporting UK companies
International Accessibility and Networking
SPATEX continues to actively support international attendance. Overseas visitors can benefit from reimbursement of a taxi transfer from Birmingham International Airport to the Coventry Building Society Arena, making even day visits from mainland Europe straightforward. A wide range of nearby accommodation options is available for those wishing to stay overnight.
An industry networking event on the Wednesday evening will provide additional opportunities for informal discussion and relationship-building.
