Accu, the Huddersfield-based precision engineering supplier, is to headline a major combat robotics tournament at Smart Manufacturing Week this June.

The event, titled FightFest, will see high-intensity, one-on-one robotic battles take place at Birmingham’s NEC. The tournament is designed to showcase advanced manufacturing and engineering innovation to an estimated 150,000 visitors, with a particular focus on engaging younger audiences in STEM subjects.

The competition will be held in a purpose-built, bulletproof arena featuring an eight-camera production setup and professional commentary. The participating robots have been designed and constructed by engineers formerly associated with the BBC’s Robot Wars.

Alastair Morris, Managing Director at Accu, said: “We’re thrilled to be presenting FightFest at Smart Manufacturing Week. Our collaboration adds real value to the event, bringing precision engineering to life and demonstrating real skill and innovation in a fun and interactive way. This is easily the most dramatic thing ever at an engineering trade show.”

Accu has supported the growth of FightFest since 2022, helping the tournament transition from regional heats to a major digital broadcast property. In 2024, the event hosted 39 "featherweight" robots at the Magna Science Adventure Centre in South Yorkshire, attracting more than 2,000 spectators.

Ed Hodges, Director of FightFest, added: “We’re changing the game in a way that just happens to be ridiculously cool. The robotic tournament in collaboration with Accu will provide an exciting platform for engineers, innovators and manufacturers to demonstrate creativity and technical expertise.”

Participating brands will have the opportunity to sponsor individual robots, selecting weapon types and participating in live pit-lane interviews. Organisers expect the tournament to reach a global digital audience of more than 750,000 people.

Henry Anson, Director at Nineteen Group, organisers of Smart Manufacturing Week, said: “FightFest is a great addition, aligning perfectly with our goals of bringing manufacturing technologies to life for our audience. This will be the most ambitious exhibition event ever!”