CONEXPO 2026: What’s New and Why You Should Attend

The Biggest Tradeshow in North America Will Be Back Soon!

The construction world is gearing up for CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, the largest tradeshow in North America dedicated to construction equipment, technology and innovation. Set for March 3-7, 2026, in Las Vegas, this massive event will bring together industry leaders, groundbreaking equipment launches and hands-on experiences designed to shape the future of construction. Before CONEXPO, the global stage will be set at bauma 2025 in Munich, Germany, this April. But before we get sidetracked, let’s talk about what contractors, dealers and construction professionals can expect at CONEXPO 2026.

New at CONEXPO 2026: Fresh Features and Expanded Focus

CONEXPO 2026 isn’t just about size — it’s about impact. The upcoming show promises new experiences tailored to the evolving needs of the construction industry.

1. Ground Breakers Stage: Big Ideas, Big Conversations

A brand-new Ground Breakers Stage will feature key industry discussions, focusing on:

• Cutting-edge construction technologies.
• Public policy and its impact on the industry.
• Workforce development and the ongoing labor shortage.
• Sustainability and environmentally friendly construction practices.
• Mental health and well-being in the construction sector.

2. EmpowerHER: Women in Construction Workshop

Held during Women in Construction Week, this workshop will:

• Highlight the contributions of women in the industry.
• Sponsorship opportunities to support and promote women-focused initiatives. 
• Offer networking opportunities and mentorship sessions.
• Feature discussions led by top female construction professionals.

3. Small Business Workshop: Practical Insights for Growth

Recognizing the critical role of small businesses in construction, this workshop will:

• Offer targeted networking opportunities.
• Provide practical strategies for business growth.
• Highlight sponsorships that support small contractors and entrepreneurs.

4. Shop Talks and Walks: Maintenance-Focused Training

Hands-on sessions will cover:

• Preventative maintenance strategies.
• Maximizing uptime with smart equipment solutions.
• Troubleshooting tips for key construction machinery.

A Look Back: CONEXPO 2023 by the Numbers

The last CONEXPO-CON/AGG, held in March 2023, was a record-breaking success:

• 139,000+ attendees from 133 countries.
• Over 2,400 exhibitors from 36 countries.
• More than 3 million square feet of exhibit space.
• Focused on sustainability, alternative fuels and smart jobsite solutions.

Many manufacturers used the event to showcase electric and hydrogen-powered construction equipment. Notable electric, hydrogen and hybrid equipment announced at CONEXPO 2023:

• Volvo CE introduced the EC230 electric excavator and HX04 hydrogen hauler.
• Caterpillar displayed four battery-electric machines.
• Kubota showcased its V3307 Micro-Hybrid engine for better fuel efficiency.
• John Deere unveiled its 310 X-Tier E-Power backhoe and 244 X-Tier electric compact wheel loader.
• Bobcat brought the T7X all-electric compact track loader.

CONEXPO vs. bauma: Why Both Matter

Before heading to Las Vegas in 2026, Compact Equipment and crew will turn its attention to bauma 2025, happening April 7-13, 2025, in Munich, Germany. bauma is the world’s largest construction equipment trade fair, and it often sets the stage for the technology and equipment that later debuts at CONEXPO. Many major manufacturers roll out their most advanced products at bauma before adapting them for the North American market. For contractors and dealers, bauma provides an opportunity to see the latest in automation, sustainability and alternative fuel construction equipment — insights that will be invaluable for understanding what’s next at CONEXPO 2026.

The Heart of CONEXPO: New Equipment Launches

While the events and workshops are a major draw, the real highlight of CONEXPO is always the newest and most advanced construction equipment. Manufacturers time their biggest product reveals to align with the show, giving attendees an exclusive first look at what’s next in the industry. In 2026, expect:

• More electric and hydrogen-powered machinery.
• Advanced automation and robotics for jobsite efficiency.
• AI-powered construction equipment with smart controls and predictive maintenance features.
• Compact equipment innovations for tighter jobsites and urban environments.

Get Ready for CONEXPO 2026

With 2023’s record-breaking attendance and an ever-growing exhibitor lineup, CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 is shaping up to be the most influential construction tradeshow yet. If you’re in the compact equipment industry, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for more updates as the event approaches, and don’t forget to mark your calendars for bauma 2025 in the meantime. Compact Equipment will be covering both events, bringing you the latest in new machines, industry trends and expert insights.

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

Check out our Machine Heads video detailing John Deere’s 334 P-Tier skid steer and 335 P-Tier track loader.