When and where is the World Plumbing Conference 2026?

The conference is scheduled for 23–25 June 2026 at the NEC Birmingham.

What are the main themes of WPC26?

The conference will focus on Governance, Trust & Workforce Development; Technology & System Performance; and Inclusion & Access.

Who are some of the notable speakers at WPC26?

Speakers include Dr. Doulaye Kone, Daphne Doody-Green, Tom Heap, and Chris Hines MBE.

How can UK plumbing businesses benefit from attending WPC26?

Attendees can network with global leaders, explore new technologies, and gain insights into best practices.

What is the registration cost for WPC26?

Early bird registration is £350 + VAT; CIPHE members can register for £150 + VAT.

World Plumbing Conference 2026: A Must-Attend Event for UK Plumbing Businesses

The World Plumbing Conference 2026 (WPC26) is set to take place from 23–25 June 2026 at the NEC Birmingham, marking a significant event for the global plumbing community. Hosted alongside the InstallerSHOW 2026, this conference offers UK plumbing businesses an unparalleled opportunity to engage with industry leaders, explore innovative solutions, and address pressing challenges under the theme “Worldwide Problems – Global Solutions.” (wpc2026.com)

What Is the World Plumbing Conference 2026?

The World Plumbing Conference is a triennial event organized by the World Plumbing Council (WPC), aiming to advance plumbing standards and practices worldwide. The 2026 edition, co-hosted by the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE), will be the first held in England since 1990. This collaboration underscores the UK's commitment to addressing global plumbing challenges through innovation and collaboration. (ciphe.org.uk)

Key Themes and Agenda

WPC26 will focus on three pivotal themes over its three-day duration:

Day One: Governance, Trust & Workforce Development

- Discussions will center on leadership, regulation, and the development of a skilled workforce to ensure public trust in plumbing services.

Day Two: Technology & System Performance

- This day will highlight advancements in plumbing technologies, system design, and digital solutions aimed at enhancing performance and resilience.

Day Three: Inclusion & Access

- Focus will be on designing water and sanitation systems that are equitable and accessible, addressing global challenges related to safe water and sanitation.

These themes are designed to equip plumbing businesses with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the evolving industry landscape. (bathroom-association.org.uk)

Why UK Plumbing Businesses Should Attend

For UK plumbing businesses, especially those experiencing growth and managing multiple vans or staff, WPC26 offers several benefits:

Networking Opportunities

- Connect with over 500 international delegates, including industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators.

Access to Cutting-Edge Technologies

- Explore the latest plumbing technologies and solutions showcased at the InstallerSHOW, featuring over 850 exhibitors.

Professional Development

- Participate in workshops and panel discussions to enhance skills and knowledge, crucial for scaling operations and managing higher call volumes.

Insights into Global Best Practices

- Learn from global experts about best practices in sustainability, workforce development, and system performance.

Attending WPC26 can provide valuable insights and connections to help UK plumbing businesses thrive in a competitive market. (worldplumbing.org)

Notable Speakers and Sessions

The conference will feature a lineup of esteemed speakers, including:

Dr. Doulaye Kone

- Director of WASH Programs at the Gates Foundation, discussing global water and sanitation challenges.

Daphne Doody-Green

- Chief Executive of the Bathroom Association, focusing on industry standards and innovations.

Tom Heap

- Leading environmental journalist and broadcaster, moderating discussions on sustainability.

Chris Hines MBE

- Environmental campaigner and former CEO of Surfers Against Sewage, sharing insights on environmental responsibility in plumbing.

These sessions are tailored to provide actionable insights for businesses aiming to scale and adapt to industry changes. (wpc2026.com)

Registration Details

Early bird registration is available until 31 December 2025, with a full three-day delegate pass priced at £350 + VAT. CIPHE members can avail of a discounted rate of £150 + VAT. The pass includes access to all conference sessions, the gala dinner, lunches, and networking events. (ciphe.org.uk)

How PlumberCallGuard Aligns with WPC26 Themes

As UK plumbing businesses look to scale operations and manage higher call volumes, integrating efficient systems becomes crucial. PlumberCallGuard offers a smart missed call answering service tailored for plumbers, ensuring that no potential client is lost due to missed calls. This service aligns with the conference's focus on technology and system performance, providing a solution that enhances customer engagement and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

The World Plumbing Conference 2026 presents a unique opportunity for UK plumbing businesses to engage with global industry leaders, explore innovative solutions, and gain insights into best practices. By attending, businesses can position themselves at the forefront of industry advancements, ensuring sustainable growth and enhanced service delivery.

For more information and to register, visit the official WPC26 website. (wpc2026.com)