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IWF 2026 Launches Guided Innovation Tours for Smart Manufacturing and Closet Production

This year's show introduces a new guided education experience designed to help attendees navigate the latest innovations in woodworking, automation, materials, and manufacturing technology.

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New expert-led show floor tours at IWF 2026 will connect attendees with the latest smart factory technology, automation systems, materials, and closet manufacturing solutions shaping the future of woodworking and panel processing.

Debuting at the 2026 show are the new Wood Industry Innovation Tours — curated, expert-led show floor experiences that connect attendees directly with exhibitors showcasing advanced manufacturing systems, smart factory technologies, workflow solutions, and emerging production trends.

The new program will feature two specialized tours:

  • Industry 5.0 and the Smart Factory, presented by Lignum Consulting, Inc.
  • IWF Power Walk: The Closets Edition, presented by The Closet Training Institute

Designed to deliver practical, real-world insights, the tours will guide attendees through a curated route across the show floor, highlighting exhibitors demonstrating breakthrough machinery, automation systems, advanced materials, and process-driven manufacturing solutions.

Tour guides will provide live commentary and technical insight throughout each session, helping participants better understand how the featured technologies can improve productivity, streamline operations, reduce costs, and support long-term competitiveness.

The program is intended for manufacturers, fabricators, shop owners, and industry professionals seeking focused education and hands-on exposure to the technologies reshaping the woodworking and panel processing industries.

The Industry 5.0 and the Smart Factory tour will be offered multiple times during the event:

  • Tuesday, Aug. 25: 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Aug. 26: 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Thursday, Aug. 27: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Attendance for the tours will be limited, with advance registration encouraged.

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