Driving the Future Forward: Your Essential Guide to ATX Minneapolis, USA

In today’s fiercely competitive manufacturing landscape, the ability to produce goods with speed, precision, and efficiency is paramount. The linchpin of this modern industrial triumph is automation – from sophisticated robotic systems to intelligent sensors and seamless software integration. For businesses and professionals across the dynamic Midwest, a region deeply rooted in manufacturing and technological advancement, one event stands out as the ultimate nexus for discovering and implementing these transformative solutions: ATX Minneapolis.

ATX Minneapolis isn’t just an isolated exhibition; it’s a vibrant and indispensable part of MD&M Midwest, a powerhouse collection of co-located events presented by Informa Markets. This strategic grouping brings together ATX (Automation Technology Expo) alongside MD&M (Medical Design & Manufacturing), D&M (Design & Manufacturing), Plastec, and Pack (previously MinnPack). This unique, integrated format offers attendees an unparalleled, holistic view of the entire product lifecycle. Imagine exploring cutting-edge robotics, then stepping into the next aisle to discover advanced materials, precision plastics, or innovative packaging solutions. If you’re an engineer, a manufacturing executive, a supply chain specialist, or an R&D professional in the Midwest looking to boost productivity, enhance quality, reduce operational costs, or simply stay ahead of the curve, ATX Minneapolis, as part of MD&M Midwest, is your crucial annual destination.

The Heart of Midwest Innovation: The Venue and Its Time

ATX Minneapolis consistently takes place in Minneapolis, Minnesota, a city strategically chosen for its strong industrial base, particularly its leadership in the medical technology sector, and its central location within the Midwest. The event is held at the Minneapolis Convention Center, located at 1301 Second Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55403, USA.

The Minneapolis Convention Center is a modern, expansive facility, well-equipped to host large-scale industrial expos. It offers vast exhibit halls, flexible meeting spaces, and comprehensive amenities to ensure a comfortable and productive experience for thousands of attendees. Its prime downtown location provides excellent access to a diverse range of hotels, world-class dining, and cultural attractions, making it an appealing destination for visitors. The convention center is easily accessible via Minneapolis’s public transportation system, including light rail and bus services, and is a convenient drive from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), facilitating travel for both domestic and international participants. The availability of ample parking and dedicated ride-sharing zones further enhances its convenience.

ATX Minneapolis is an annual event, typically held in the autumn, allowing companies to showcase their latest innovations and technologies developed throughout the year. For 2025, the MD&M Midwest co-located event, including ATX Minneapolis, is scheduled for October 21-22, 2025.

The exhibition floor hours are generally from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Alongside the bustling expo, a comprehensive conference program (often part of the MD&M Conference) runs concurrently, typically from 9:00 AM to 4:15 PM on both days. This concise two-day format ensures maximum efficiency for attendees, allowing for focused exploration of the show floor, participation in educational sessions, and targeted networking within a productive timeframe.

The Automated Frontier: Key Product and Solution Categories

The exhibition floor at ATX Minneapolis is a dynamic showcase of the advanced technologies and intelligent solutions that are redefining manufacturing processes across industries. Attendees can expect to discover a wide array of products, services, and innovative applications designed to optimize production, enhance precision, and drive operational efficiency:

• Industrial Robotics & Collaborative Robots (Cobots):
  • Demonstrations of various robotic systems (articulated, SCARA, Delta, Cartesian) for tasks like assembly, material handling, welding, painting, and inspection.
  • Collaborative robots (cobots) designed for safe human-robot interaction, ideal for tasks requiring flexibility and adaptability.
  • Specialized robotic end-effectors, grippers, vision systems, and force sensors that enhance robotic capabilities.
• Motion Control & Drives:
  • Precision servo motors, stepper motors, and linear motors for accurate positioning and movement control.
  • Advanced motor drives, controllers, and power supplies that enable high-performance automation.
  • Linear actuators, ball screws, linear guides, and precision gearing for robust mechanical systems.
• Sensors & Vision Systems:
  • A vast array of industrial sensors (proximity, photoelectric, ultrasonic, laser, inductive, capacitive) for detecting, measuring, and inspecting objects and conditions.
  • Cutting-edge machine vision systems, including high-resolution cameras, specialized lighting, lenses, and sophisticated software for automated quality control, defect detection, part identification, and robotic guidance.
  • Solutions for barcode reading, RFID tracking, and other data capture technologies crucial for traceability and smart factories.
• Control Systems & Software:
  • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Programmable Automation Controllers (PACs) as the backbone of industrial control.
  • Intuitive Human-Machine Interface (HMI) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for real-time monitoring and control of operations.
  • Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software for optimizing factory-wide processes, scheduling, and resource management.
  • Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) platforms, edge computing, and data analytics tools for connecting devices, collecting vast amounts of data, and extracting actionable insights for predictive maintenance and process optimization.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications for intelligent automation, anomaly detection, quality prediction, and adaptive control.
• Assembly & Fabrication Automation:
  • Automated assembly lines, custom assembly machines, and robotic work cells for high-speed, high-precision product assembly.
  • Automated fastening equipment (nut runners, screw drivers), dispensing systems for adhesives and sealants, and welding/soldering solutions.
  • Automated material feeding, sorting, and handling systems, including conveyors, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).
• Testing & Inspection Automation:
  • Automated test equipment (ATE) for functional and performance testing of products.
  • Automated optical inspection (AOI) systems for surface and component inspection.
  • Integrated metrology solutions for in-process dimensional measurement and quality control.
• System Integration Services & Consulting:
  • Expert companies offering end-to-end services for designing, integrating, and deploying complex automation solutions tailored to specific industrial needs.
  • Consulting services for digital transformation, lean manufacturing, and smart factory initiatives.
• Pneumatics & Hydraulics:
  • Components and systems for fluid power automation, including cylinders, valves, pumps, and power units.
• Safety Solutions:
  • Comprehensive industrial safety systems, including safety light curtains, interlocks, safety controllers, and emergency stop devices, ensuring a safe automated environment.

This comprehensive range ensures that attendees, whether seeking individual components or fully integrated automated systems, can find the precise technologies and expertise needed to elevate their operations.

The Driving Force: Visitor Count and Demographics

ATX Minneapolis, as a key part of the larger MD&M Midwest event, consistently attracts a significant and highly engaged audience of professionals keen on embracing the latest in automation and manufacturing technology. The co-located event draws a substantial crowd, with organizers reporting approximately 5,000 attendees and featuring over 575 exhibiting companies spread across more than 77,900 square feet of show floor space. These impressive numbers highlight ATX Minneapolis’s standing as a premier automation event in the Midwest.

The attendee profile at ATX Minneapolis is exceptionally targeted and influential, comprising key decision-makers and technical experts from various roles and industries:

• Automation Engineers & Robotics Specialists: Actively seeking new robotic systems, motion control solutions, and software.
• Manufacturing Engineers & Managers: Focused on optimizing production lines, improving efficiency, and integrating advanced automation.
• Production & Operations Managers: Exploring ways to increase throughput, enhance quality, and implement smart factory initiatives.
• R&D Professionals: Investigating cutting-edge technologies for future product development and process innovation.
• Quality Assurance & Control Professionals: Looking for automated inspection and testing solutions to ensure product reliability and compliance.
• Purchasing & Procurement Managers: Sourcing new automation components, equipment, and system integration services.
• IT/OT Integration Specialists: Bridging the gap between information technology and operational technology in smart factory environments.
• C-level Executives & Business Owners: Making strategic decisions about capital investments in automation and the future direction of their manufacturing operations.

Attendees hail from a broad spectrum of industries where automation and robotics are transforming production, with a particular strength in the Midwest’s key sectors:

• Medical Device Manufacturing (MD&M): A cornerstone industry in Minnesota’s “Medical Alley.”
• Automotive & Transportation: Including components for traditional and electric vehicles.
• Aerospace & Defense: High-precision manufacturing for critical applications.
• Industrial Equipment & Machinery: Robotics, specialized automation, and heavy equipment.
• Consumer Products & Electronics: Everyday goods and advanced electronic devices.
• Food & Beverage: Processing, packaging, and material handling automation.
• Agriculture: Technologies for agricultural machinery and food processing.

This highly concentrated and relevant audience creates unparalleled opportunities for targeted networking, knowledge exchange, and business development within the Midwest’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem.

Unleash Your Potential: Benefits and Perks of Attending

Attending ATX Minneapolis, as an integral part of the comprehensive MD&M Midwest event, offers an array of indispensable strategic benefits and invaluable perks for any professional eager to harness the power of automation and robotics:

• Holistic Automation Discovery: Explore the largest collection of automation and robotics technologies in the Midwest. The co-located structure allows you to seamlessly discover solutions from robot arms and vision systems to motion control, industrial IoT, and beyond – all under one roof.
• Live Technology in Action: Witness compelling, live demonstrations of cutting-edge industrial robots, collaborative robots (cobots), automated assembly lines, advanced sensors, and integrated smart factory solutions. See how these technologies perform in real-world scenarios and imagine their impact on your own operations.
• Expert-Led Education & Insights: Access a rich conference program and numerous free on-floor educational sessions at various theaters. Learn directly from industry leaders, experienced engineers, and automation specialists about critical topics such as AI and machine learning in manufacturing, predictive maintenance, human-robot collaboration strategies, lean automation, and practical implementation case studies.
• Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Connections: Meet face-to-face with hundreds of leading automation suppliers, system integrators, and technology providers. This direct interaction facilitates efficient sourcing, allows for in-depth discussions about custom solutions, and enables you to gather competitive quotes directly, streamlining your procurement process.
• Unparalleled Networking: Connect with thousands of highly qualified industry peers, potential collaborators, and decision-makers from across diverse manufacturing sectors in the Midwest. These interactions provide invaluable opportunities for peer-to-peer learning, sharing best practices, and forming partnerships that can drive innovation.
• Direct Problem-Solving: Bring your specific manufacturing challenges, automation bottlenecks, or efficiency goals directly to the experts on the show floor. Exhibitors are eager to provide tailored advice and demonstrate how their solutions can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your operational objectives.
• Stay Ahead of the Curve: Gain critical foresight into emerging trends, disruptive technologies, and evolving market demands in the automation and manufacturing space. This knowledge is vital for strategic planning and maintaining a competitive edge.
• Professional Inspiration: Immerse yourself in an environment buzzing with innovation and technological advancement. The exposure to new ideas, pioneering products, and expert insights can spark new thinking, foster creativity, and invigorate your professional journey.

Your Minneapolis Anchor: Nearby Hotels and Convenient Stay

Minneapolis offers a wide selection of hotels, particularly concentrated in the vibrant downtown area, which provides extreme convenience for attendees of the Minneapolis Convention Center. Many hotels are within comfortable walking distance or a very short ride via Minneapolis’s efficient public transit (MARTA) or ride-sharing services from the convention center. Booking your accommodations well in advance, especially during a major expo like ATX Minneapolis, is highly recommended to secure the best rates and ensure availability.

Some highly convenient and popular hotel options near the Minneapolis Convention Center include:

• Hilton Minneapolis: A premier choice, often featuring direct skyway connections to the Minneapolis Convention Center, offering unparalleled ease of access. It’s a large, full-service hotel with extensive amenities.
• Hyatt Regency Minneapolis: Another excellent option with a skyway connection, providing seamless access to the convention center and ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Millennium Minneapolis: A well-known hotel located very close to the convention center on Nicollet Mall, a popular pedestrian thoroughfare with dining and shopping options.
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Minneapolis-Dwtn (Conv Ctr): A reliable and convenient option that often includes complimentary breakfast, situated within very close proximity to the convention center.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown: An all-suite hotel that provides more space, typically includes complimentary breakfast and evening receptions, and is within a reasonable walk or short ride.
• Radisson RED Minneapolis Downtown: A contemporary and trendy hotel offering a unique stay experience and within comfortable walking distance.
• The Marquette Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton: A luxury option known for its elegant ambiance and excellent service, connected via the skyway system.

Many of these hotels are integrated into Minneapolis’s extensive skyway system, allowing attendees to walk comfortably indoors, regardless of weather conditions, directly to the convention center and many downtown attractions.

The Investment in Progress: Understanding the Cost to Attend

The pricing structure for ATX Minneapolis, as a core component of the broader MD&M Midwest event, is designed to offer flexible access while ensuring high value for attendees.

• Expo Pass: Significantly, access to the exhibition floor for ATX Minneapolis and all co-located shows is often FREE if you register online in advance. This is a substantial benefit, enabling you to explore hundreds of exhibitors, witness live demonstrations, and network without an upfront cost for basic entry. If you choose to register on-site without prior online registration, there might be a nominal fee (e.g., $50-$100 USD).
• Conference Pass: To access the more in-depth educational content, including keynote speeches, specialized conference sessions (often within the MD&M Conference tracks that cover automation), and expert-led workshops, there will be a fee.
  • A 2-Day Conference Pass typically grants access to all conference sessions, the expo floor, and potentially exclusive networking receptions. Prices can vary but generally range from $200 to $500 USD, depending on early bird registration discounts and whether you are a member of a supporting industry association.
  • Single-day conference passes may also be available for those with limited time or specific interests.

This tiered pricing structure makes ATX Minneapolis highly accessible. Free access to the expansive show floor allows for extensive sourcing and general networking, while a reasonable investment unlocks a wealth of specialized educational content and high-level engagement opportunities across five critical manufacturing sectors. This makes it an incredibly cost-effective way to gain comprehensive insights into the world of automation and robotics.

Automate Your Advantage: Don’t Miss ATX Minneapolis!

ATX Minneapolis is more than just an event; it’s the definitive annual meeting point for innovation, collaboration, and solution discovery in the world of industrial automation. It’s where the latest robotic breakthroughs are unveiled, where smart manufacturing strategies are shared, and where the crucial partnerships that drive industrial excellence are forged. If you’re a professional committed to harnessing the power of automation to revolutionize your production, enhance efficiency, ensure precision, and lead the charge in the era of intelligent manufacturing, then securing your place at ATX Minneapolis is not just an option—it’s an essential strategic move for your business and career. Don’t miss this unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and accelerate your business in the heart of the Midwest’s thriving industrial landscape!

To learn more and register for the upcoming ATX Minneapolis, visit: www.mdmmidwest.com