11 events that equipment rental companies should look out for in 2025

2025 is poised to be a key year for the construction and equipment rental industries, with an array of key events across the globe.

From the return of industry giants like Bauma and the ARA Show to the addition of shows like OnSite OnHire, there will be plenty of opportunities for networking, innovation, and knowledge sharing.

Below is a rundown of some of the most significant trade shows, summits, and awards to mark on your calendar.

The ARA Show 2021

ARA Show

When: Jan 30-Feb 1

Where: Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall and Diamond Lot, Las Vegas, US

Website: https://arashow.org/

Organised by the American Rental Association (ARA), the ARA Show returns to Las Vegas in 2025. The show brings together hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of visitors together under one roof over the course of three days. As well as the trade show, seminars and education sessions will be held in the days before.

Executive Hire Show

When: 12-13 February

Where: Coventry Building Society Arena, Coventry, UK

Website: https://www.executivehireshow.co.uk/

The now sold out trade-only event attracts visitors from across the UK, Ireland and Europe. While it has traditionally focused on equipment and technology for rental companies since the first event in 2007, the recent introduction of the Innovation Trail, spotlighting advancements in eco-friendly technologies, has proved a welcome addition.

IPAF Summit and International Awards for Powered Access

When: 12 - 13 March

Where: Dublin Royal Convention Centre, Dublin, Ireland

Website: https://iapa-summit.info/

Set to be held in Dublin, the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Summit, jointly organised by IPAF and Access International, offers educational and networking opportunities for the global access industry. As well as the Summit, the International Awards for Powered Access (IAPAs) will celebrate best practice and excellence across the industry. 

Bauma

Aerial view of Bauma 2022 (Image courtesy of Messe München)

When: 7 - 13 April

Where: Trade Fair Center Messe München, Munich, Germany

Website: https://bauma.de/en/

Making its much anticipated return, Bauma is often seen as the place to be for OEMs, rental companies and suppliers alike. Speaking to our sister publication Construction Briefing, event director Nicole Schmitt said the expectation is that following a pandemic impacted edition of 2022, many exhibitors will be returning this time round. 

OnSite OnHire

When: 7-9 May

Where: EXCEL, London, UK

Website: https://www.ukconstructionweek.com/

Launched in 2024, OnSite OnHire comprises of two annual shows in London and Birmingham that are co-located with the UK’s Construction Week exhibition. The show will feature targeted exhibitors that will showcase equipment in the solar, hybrid, battery technology, hydrogen and electric ranges respectively. 

ERA Convention and European Rental Awards

When: 4-5 June

Where: Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin Ireland

Website: https://erarental.org/event/era-convention-2025/

The event that brings together the European rental industry, the ERA Convention will see leaders in the sector discuss a range of topics, including the energy transition, sustainability, skills shortages, and more. Organisers the European Rental Association (ERA), alongside International Rental News (IRN), will also host the European Rental Awards on the evening of the 4th of June. Click here to enter the awards.

The winners of the 2024 European Rental Awards, with delegates from Zeppelin Rental, Blackwood Plant Hire and GAM

Vertikal Days

When: 10-11 September

Where: Newark Showground, Nottinghamshire, UK

Website: https://vertikaldays.net/

UK-based show that focuses on the lifting and work at height equipment sectors. Expect to see plenty of MEWPs, cranes and telehandlers at the show. 

Plantworx

When: 23-25 September

Where: Newark Showground, Nottinghamshire, UK

Website: https://plantworx.co.uk/

The biennial show, now in its sixth edition, saw over 10,000 visitors when it was last held in 2023. As well as offering the chance to visit more than 300 exhibitors, visitors will be able to experience several demonstrations.

Working at Height Summit & Awards

When: 15-16 October

Where: Music City Center, Nashville, US

Website: https://workingatheightevent.com/

Following the success of its debut in 2024, Working at Height Summit & Awards returns to Nashville to address technology and work processes that create safe and productive working environments in North Americas access industry.

TJ Lyons speaks at the Working at Height Conference on Nov. 20. (Photo: Eason Photography)

IRC China

When: 27 October

Where: Shanghai, China

Website: https://khl-irc.com/

Dedicated to the equipment rental industry in China and wider Asia, the International Rental Conference (IRC) covers a wide range of equipment rental sectors and topics including China’s rental market downturn, the shift toward external markets, and the need for adaptation.

APEX Asia

When: 28-31 October

Where: Shanghai, China

Website: https://apexasiashow.com/

Taking place the day after IRC China, APEX Asia will explore the latest technology, innovations, and solutions from global leaders shaping the future of access.