In an age where efficiency, precision, and smart solutions are paramount, industrial automation and robotics are no longer luxuries but necessities. From streamlining production lines to enhancing safety and boosting output, automation technology is transforming industries across the globe. For manufacturers, engineers, and technology enthusiasts in the Southeastern United States, the Automation Technology Expo (ATX) South in Atlanta is the premier destination to witness these innovations firsthand and unlock the potential of intelligent manufacturing.

ATX South is not a standalone event; it’s a powerful and strategically co-located exhibition that forms a cornerstone of the larger Advanced Manufacturing Atlanta event. By co-locating with shows like Design & Manufacturing (D&M) South, SouthPack, Plastec South, and Medtech South, ATX South offers a comprehensive view of the entire product lifecycle. This creates an unparalleled environment where attendees can explore everything from initial design and materials to advanced manufacturing processes, robotics, packaging solutions, and specialized medical device production. It’s a critical gathering for anyone looking to embrace the future of factory automation, integrate smart technologies, and propel their operations into a more efficient and productive era.

The Innovation Engine of the South: The Venue and Its Time

ATX South consistently takes place in Atlanta, Georgia, a burgeoning hub for technology, logistics, and manufacturing in the Southeast. The event is held at the Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC), located at 285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, USA. The GWCC is a world-class convention facility renowned for its vast exhibition halls, modern amenities, and highly accessible downtown location. Its proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), one of the world’s busiest, and Atlanta’s robust public transportation system (MARTA) ensures convenient access for both regional and national attendees.

ATX South is an annual event, typically held in the late spring or early summer to align with industry advancements. For 2025, the entire Advanced Manufacturing Atlanta co-located event, including ATX South, is scheduled for June 10-12, 2025. The main expo floor hours usually run from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on the first two days and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on the final day. In addition to the exhibition, there are often educational conference sessions that begin earlier in the morning and offer deeper dives into specific technologies and industry trends. This well-structured, multi-day format allows attendees ample time to explore the show floor, participate in demonstrations, attend insightful sessions, and engage in valuable networking.

The Robotics Revolution: Product and Solution Categories

The exhibition floor at ATX South is a vibrant demonstration of the cutting-edge technologies and solutions driving the automation revolution across various industrial sectors. Attendees can expect to find a comprehensive array of products and services designed to enhance efficiency, precision, and intelligence in manufacturing and beyond:

• Industrial Robotics:
  • Collaborative Robots (Cobots): Robots designed to work safely alongside human operators, ideal for tasks like assembly, packaging, and material handling.
  • Articulated Robots: Multi-axis robots for complex tasks like welding, painting, and pick-and-place.
  • SCARA Robots: High-speed, high-precision robots for assembly and small part handling.
  • AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) & AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots): Intelligent vehicles for automated material transport within factories and warehouses.
• Motion Control & Drives:
  • Servo Motors & Drives: High-precision motors and control systems for accurate motion.
  • Stepper Motors: For precise positioning and speed control.
  • Linear Motion Systems: Linear actuators, guides, and stages for precise linear movement.
  • Motor Controllers & Inverters: Devices for controlling the speed and direction of motors.
• Sensors & Vision Systems:
  • Industrial Sensors: Proximity, photoelectric, ultrasonic, and other sensors for detection, measurement, and inspection.
  • Machine Vision Systems: Cameras, lighting, and software for automated inspection, quality control, and guidance of robots.
  • Lidar & Radar: For navigation, mapping, and obstacle detection in autonomous systems.
• Control Systems & Software:
  • PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers): Industrial computers for automating processes.
  • HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces): Touchscreens and displays for operator interaction with machinery.
  • Industrial PCs: Rugged computers for control and data acquisition in harsh environments.
  • SCADA Systems: Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition software for monitoring and controlling industrial processes.
  • Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES): Software for managing and monitoring work in progress on the factory floor.
  • IoT & IIoT Platforms: Solutions for connecting industrial equipment, collecting data, and enabling remote monitoring and predictive maintenance.
• Assembly Automation:
  • Automated Assembly Machines: Custom-built systems for precise and high-speed assembly tasks.
  • Automated Fastening Systems: Robotic screwdrivers, nutrunners, and riveting machines.
• Testing & Inspection:
  • Automated test equipment (ATE), in-line inspection systems, and quality control solutions integrated into production lines.
• Safety Systems:
  • Safety sensors, light curtains, interlocks, and safety PLCs for ensuring operator safety around automated machinery.
• Additive Manufacturing for Automation:
  • 3D printing solutions for creating custom tooling, jigs, fixtures, and prototype parts for automation systems.
• Integration Services & Consulting:
  • Companies specializing in designing, integrating, and deploying custom automation solutions.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML):
  • Applications of AI/ML for predictive maintenance, process optimization, quality control, and advanced robotics.

This extensive range ensures that attendees can find integrated solutions and discover new partners across the entire spectrum of industrial automation.

The Architects of Efficiency: Visitor Count and Demographics

ATX South, as a integral part of the larger Advanced Manufacturing Atlanta event, draws a substantial and highly qualified audience from across the manufacturing and technology sectors. While specific attendance figures for ATX South alone are often integrated into the overall event numbers, the combined Advanced Manufacturing Atlanta shows typically attract thousands of attendees and hundreds of exhibitors. Past editions have seen the combined event draw over 4,000-5,000 visitors and feature more than 400-500 exhibiting companies. This signifies a significant gathering of industry professionals from various backgrounds.

The attendee profile at ATX South is highly specialized and includes key decision-makers and technical experts from a wide array of roles and industries:

• Automation Engineers & Integrators: Seeking new robotic solutions, control systems, and automation software.
• Manufacturing Engineers & Production Managers: Looking to optimize production lines, increase throughput, and reduce operational costs through automation.
• Robotics Specialists: Focused on the latest advancements in robotic arms, vision-guided robots, and collaborative robots.
• Controls Engineers: Involved in designing and implementing PLC and HMI systems for industrial automation.
• Process Improvement & Lean Manufacturing Specialists: Seeking automation to eliminate waste and enhance efficiency.
• Plant Managers & Operations Leaders: Responsible for overall factory performance and strategic adoption of new technologies.
• Design Engineers: Interested in how automation impacts product design for manufacturability.
• IT & OT (Operational Technology) Professionals: Bridging the gap between information technology and operational control systems.
• Quality Assurance Managers: Implementing automated inspection and testing solutions.
• Purchasing & Procurement Managers: Sourcing automation equipment, components, and integration services.
• R&D Professionals: Exploring future trends in AI, machine learning, and advanced robotics.
• Executives & Business Owners: Seeking strategic insights into industry trends and new business opportunities in automation.

This concentrated audience ensures a highly productive environment for networking, problem-solving, and direct business development.

Automating Your Success: Benefits and Perks of Attending

Attending ATX South (and its co-located expos) offers numerous strategic advantages for professionals looking to leverage automation and propel their operations forward:

• See Live Demos, Get Hands-On: Witness real-time demonstrations of cutting-edge robots, automated assembly lines, and control systems. This interactive experience allows you to truly understand how these technologies work and how they can be applied to your specific challenges.
• Comprehensive Automation Solutions: Explore the widest range of automation technologies under one roof, from industrial robots and collaborative robots to motion control, sensors, machine vision, and AI-powered solutions.
• Direct Access to Industry Leaders: Meet face-to-face with hundreds of the top manufacturers, suppliers, and integrators in the automation and robotics space. Engage in direct conversations, get your questions answered, and find the perfect partners for your projects.
• Unparalleled Networking: Connect with a vast network of peers, thought leaders, and potential collaborators from various industries. Share insights, discuss challenges, and build valuable relationships.
• Actionable Educational Content: Benefit from an extensive conference program and free on-floor educational sessions. Learn about the latest trends, best practices, implementation strategies, and success stories in factory automation, AI, and smart manufacturing.
• Problem-Solving & Custom Solutions: Bring your specific manufacturing automation challenges to the experts on the show floor. Discover tailored solutions and learn from others who have successfully implemented automation.
• Stay Ahead of Industry Trends: Get a direct pulse on emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and advanced robotics that are shaping the future of manufacturing.
• Efficient Sourcing: Consolidate your research and sourcing efforts into a single, highly efficient event. Compare multiple vendors and solutions side-by-side, saving significant time and travel costs.
• Inspiring Future Factories: Be inspired by the sheer ingenuity and transformative power of automation, seeing how it’s revolutionizing production across diverse industries.

Your Atlanta Automation Base: Nearby Hotels and Convenient Stay

Atlanta’s downtown area, where the Georgia World Congress Center is located, offers an abundance of hotel options to suit every preference and budget. Many are within comfortable walking distance or easily accessible via Atlanta’s efficient MARTA public transportation system.

Some popular and convenient hotel options near the Georgia World Congress Center include:

• Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center: Directly connected to the GWCC via a skywalk, offering the utmost convenience.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park: A short walk from the GWCC and Centennial Olympic Park, featuring spacious suites and complimentary breakfast.
• Hyatt Regency Atlanta: An iconic downtown hotel, a short MARTA ride or moderate walk from the GWCC.
• Hilton Atlanta: Another large, well-known downtown hotel with good access to the GWCC via MARTA.
• Atlanta Marriott Marquis: Famous for its impressive atrium, it’s a major convention hotel with convenient MARTA access to the GWCC.
• Reverb by Hard Rock Downtown Atlanta: A newer, vibrant, music-themed hotel located very close to the GWCC and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
• Signia by Hilton Atlanta Georgia World Congress Center: A brand-new, upscale hotel directly on the GWCC campus, offering premium convenience.

Given Atlanta’s popularity as a convention city, especially during large co-located events like Advanced Manufacturing Atlanta, it is highly recommended to book your hotel accommodations well in advance to ensure availability and secure the best rates. Utilizing MARTA for transportation within downtown can also save time and money.

Accelerate Your Business with ATX South!

ATX South in Atlanta is the indispensable annual event for anyone looking to harness the power of automation and robotics for their business. It’s where cutting-edge technologies are unveiled, critical industry insights are shared, and the powerful collaborations that drive manufacturing excellence are forged. Don’t miss this unparalleled opportunity to deepen your expertise, discover the latest solutions, and ensure your operations remain at the forefront of the rapidly evolving world of intelligent automation.

To learn more and secure your attendance at the next ATX South, visit: www.imengineeringwest.com/en/shows/atx-south.html