Nissan will be a headline speaker at the North East Automotive Expo 2026, further reinforcing its position as the region’s flagship automotive supply chain event.
Nissan’s participation is a major addition to this year’s programme and reflects the strength of the North East’s automotive cluster. As the company marks 40 years in the region, attendees will gain valuable insights from one of the UK’s leading manufacturers.
Taking place on 24 September 2026 at the Beacon of Light in Sunderland and organised by the North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA), the Expo brings together vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, technology providers and industry stakeholders from across the supply chain to explore the latest developments, forge new partnerships and unlock future growth opportunities.
The NEAA has also confirmed that Unipres UK has joined the Expo as a Partner Sponsor. As a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier with a significant presence in the North East, Unipres plays an important role in the UK’s automotive manufacturing sector, supporting vehicle production through the delivery of high-quality, precision-engineered components. Its support reflects continued industry backing behind this year’s event and will help create opportunities for networking, business development and collaboration across the automotive supply chain.
Expressions of interest are now open for the Meet the Buyer programme, offering suppliers the opportunity to engage directly with buyers and procurement teams through focused one-to-one discussions designed to open up new business opportunities and strengthen supply chain relationships.
New for 2026, the Expo will introduce a dedicated Grants Clinic in partnership with Clive Owen LLP. It will provide businesses with access to expert guidance on funding opportunities, bid writing and grant applications, helping companies identify and secure support for innovation, investment and growth.
The Expo will bring together more than 100 exhibitors from across the automotive and advanced manufacturing supply chain, alongside a programme of industry presentations hosted by returning compere Alfie Joey. Attendees can explore the latest technology showcases, discover new innovations and take advantage of a wide range of networking opportunities, creating the ideal environment for businesses to connect, collaborate and showcase their capabilities.
Visitors will also have the unique opportunity to experience a selection of British-built Nissan vehicles through outdoor demonstrations and test drives, providing a first-hand insight into the cutting-edge products designed, developed and manufactured within the region.
Paul Butler, chief executive, North East Automotive Alliance, said: “The North East Automotive Expo has become a key fixture of the automotive industry’s calendar, bringing together businesses from across the supply chain to share expertise, explore opportunities and build valuable connections. Nissan’s participation is a significant addition to this year’s programme, particularly as we recognise their 40-year presence in the region.
“Alongside the support of Unipres UK as a Partner Sponsor, the introduction of a new Grants Clinic with Clive Owen LLP and the return of Meet the Buyer, Expo 2026 will provide even greater opportunities for businesses to engage with industry leaders, strengthen relationships and drive future growth.”
Alan Johnson, Senior Vice President Manufacturing, Nissan said: “The North East has been Nissan’s home for four decades, and our success is built on the strength, skill and resilience of the region’s people and supply chain.
“We’re delighted to be part of the North East Automotive Expo 2026 and to celebrate the partnerships that continue to drive growth and innovation across the sector. This event showcases the best of the region, and we’re excited to contribute to that story.”
Registration for the North East Automotive Expo 2026 is now open, with further speaker announcements to be made in the coming months.
Spaces for the Grants Clinic, along with Meet the Buyer appointments, can be booked via the Meet the Buyer Expression of Interest process, now open at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MTB2026
For more information about the North East Automotive Expo 2026, including exhibitor, sponsorship and registration opportunities, visit the NEAA website.
