As the pressure on UK road transport operators continue to intensify, one event has firmly established itself as the place to see what’s new, ask direct questions and compare solutions side by side: Road Transport Expo (RTX) returns to NAEC Stoneleigh from 30 June to 2 July 2026, marking its fifth consecutive year and promising its most ambitious outing to date.
Since its launch in 2022, RTX has grown rapidly from a new entrant on the exhibition scene into a fixture of the commercial vehicle calendar. Its rise reflects a clear demand from operators for an event that focuses on real-world operation – a place where fleets can see vehicles, equipment and systems working as they would on the road.
The brand has also expanded adding RTX Scotland, which debuted in November 2025 and RTX Northern Ireland – which took place just a few weeks ago at the Eikon Centre, Lisburn. And further expansion is planned in 2027 with the addition of RTX Ireland, taking the place of RTX Northern Ireland on an alternate year rota basis.
Attendance at Stoneleigh has increased year on year, with more than 14,000 visitors attending last year’s three‑day show. Organisers expect 2026 to surpass that figure as fleet operators, workshop managers and logistics professionals look for practical guidance during a period of continued change.
RTX show director Vic Bunby believes this year’s event could not come at a better time for the industry: “Fleet operators are under pressure from every direction, whether that’s increased costs, compliance or technology change,” he says.
“RTX brings the industry together in one place, giving operators hands‑on access to solutions, straight answers from suppliers and the confidence to invest in what they know will work on the road.”
A venue designed for trucks
RTX has made a successful home at NAEC Stoneleigh. The venue’s combination of expansive outdoor space and flexible indoor halls makes it particularly well suited to the commercial vehicle industry.
Visitors can move seamlessly between compact urban delivery vehicles, long‑haul tractor units, trailers and infrastructure solutions. Charging and fuelling equipment, workshop layouts and safety systems can be viewed in situ, helping operators understand how new technology might fit into their own depots.
Stoneleigh’s central location, strong road connections and free parking make it a practical destination for fleets travelling from across the UK, whether attending for a morning visit or spending a full day at the show.
A comprehensive exhibitor line-up
More than 350 exhibitors are expected at RTX 2026, representing every major corner of the road transport supply chain.
Truck, trailer and tanker OEMs, body-builders, component manufacturers, technology specialists, fuel providers, infrastructure suppliers, trade associations and aftermarket service partners will all be present.
For many operators, RTX acts as a valuable comparison exercise. It offers the chance to benchmark suppliers, explore alternative approaches and spot developments that may have gone unnoticed in day‑to‑day operations
Seeing technology in action
One of RTX’s defining features is its emphasis on live demonstrations and hands‑on experiences. In 2026, visitors can again expect ride‑and‑drive sessions, product demonstrations and detailed technology walk‑arounds.
Whether it’s the latest electric trucks, advanced safety systems or diagnostic and monitoring tools, these demonstrations give operators a clearer understanding of how new technology performs outside of brochures. For many attendees, this practical insight proves invaluable when considering future investment.
Insight that reflects reality
Alongside the exhibition, RTX will host a full programme of seminars, interviews and panel discussions. Topics will focus on the issues dominating fleet agendas, including decarbonisation strategies, compliance updates, maintenance best practice, operational efficiency and skills shortages.
Crucially, these sessions are designed around practical learning. Industry experts and operators will share experience from the frontline, offering candid discussion about what is achievable now, where challenges remain and how fleets are adapting in practice.
RTX head of content Hayley Tayler says: “Operators want honesty and relevance. They want to hear what’s working in real fleets and what still needs solving. That’s the kind of conversation the RTX conference programme is designed to support.”
More than just an exhibition
RTX has also earned a reputation as a productive and welcoming networking environment. The relaxed layout and outdoor setting encourage conversation, while the scale of the event ensures that key decision‑makers are present.
For suppliers, it provides an effective platform to meet customers face‑to‑face and demonstrate products in a realistic context. For operators, it offers a rare opportunity to step away from day‑to‑day pressures and engage directly with peers, manufacturers and service providers.
Looking ahead
As RTX reaches its fifth year, it does so at a time when the road transport industry is balancing continuity with transformation. Diesel fleets will remain central to operations for the foreseeable future, while alternative fuels, electrification and digital systems continue to gain traction.
RTX 2026 aims to reflect that reality, bringing established solutions and emerging technology together in one place and allowing operators to make informed choices based on what they see and hear.
Box: Join RTX this summer!
Registration for RTX 2026 is free for all industry professionals. Operators are encouraged to secure their place early at what promises to be one of the most important transport events of the year. Register now at: roadtransportexpo.co.uk
