When and where is the World Plumbing Conference 2026?

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

What are the main themes of WPC26?

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

Who are some notable speakers at WPC26?

Speakers include Claire O’Neill CBE, Feargal Sharkey OBE, Chris Hines MBE, and Dr. Doulaye Koné.

How can I register for WPC26?

Registration is available on the official WPC26 website, with early bird pricing until 31 December 2025.

What benefits does attending WPC26 offer to UK plumbing businesses?

Attendees gain networking opportunities, access to InstallerSHOW, and professional development through workshops and sessions.

World Plumbing Conference 2026: A Comprehensive Guide 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 the first time this globally recognised event will be hosted in the UK. (wpc2026.com) Under the theme “Worldwide Problems – Global Solutions,” the conference aims to address critical challenges in the plumbing industry and explore innovative solutions.

What is the World Plumbing Conference 2026?

WPC26 is a premier international event that brings together industry leaders, policymakers, manufacturers, educators, and professionals from the plumbing and water sectors. The conference is jointly hosted by the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE) and the World Plumbing Council, in collaboration with InstallerSHOW. (ciphe.org.uk)

Key Themes and Schedule

The conference spans three days, each dedicated to a specific theme:

Day One – Governance, Trust & Workforce Development

- Focuses on leadership, regulation, and workforce development, emphasizing the importance of strong governance and public trust in the plumbing industry. (rsph.org.uk)

Day Two – Technology & System Performance

- Explores technologies, practices, and frameworks that underpin safe, efficient, and future-ready water and plumbing systems. (rsph.org.uk)

Day Three – Inclusion & Access

- Addresses equity, accessibility, and global challenges around safe water and sanitation, highlighting the social impact of plumbing. (rsph.org.uk)

Notable Speakers and Sessions

WPC26 boasts a lineup of esteemed speakers, including:

Claire O’Neill CBE

- Former UK Minister for Energy and Clean Growth, delivering a keynote on the Global Plumbing Commitment and the industry's role in protecting vital water resources. (worldplumbing.org)

Feargal Sharkey OBE

- Environmental campaigner and former CEO of UK Music, discussing water quality and long-term environmental responsibility. (worldplumbing.org)

Chris Hines MBE

- Co-founder of Surfers Against Sewage, sharing insights on sustainability and environmental stewardship. (worldplumbing.org)

Dr. Doulaye Koné

- Director of WASH Programs at the Gates Foundation, providing a global perspective on water, sanitation, and hygiene. (worldplumbing.org)

A major highlight is the World Plumbing Conference Skills Forum, delivered in partnership with WorldSkills and IWSH. This live training workshop showcases emerging plumbing talent from around the world, demonstrating advanced techniques in installation and system configuration. (worldplumbing.org)

Why Attend WPC26?

For growing UK plumbing businesses with multiple vans or staff, WPC26 offers numerous benefits:

Networking Opportunities

- Connect with over 500 international delegates, industry leaders, and decision-makers, fostering partnerships and collaborations. (worldplumbing.org)

Access to InstallerSHOW

- Gain entry to InstallerSHOW, the UK’s leading trade exhibition, featuring over 850 exhibitors showcasing the latest products and technologies. (worldplumbing.org)

Professional Development

- Participate in workshops and sessions designed to enhance skills, knowledge, and business strategies, aiding in scaling operations and managing higher call volumes.

Registration and Ticket Information

Early bird registration is available until 31 December 2025, with a full three-day delegate pass priced at £350+VAT. Concessions apply for CIPHE members, and discounted group bookings are available for international groups of 50 or more. (worldplumbing.org)

Your ticket includes:

Access to all conference sessions and workshops.
Entry to InstallerSHOW.
Gala Dinner and networking events.
Lunch on all three days.

How to Prepare for WPC26

To maximize the benefits of attending WPC26:

Plan Your Schedule

- Review the conference agenda and select sessions that align with your business goals and interests.

Engage with Speakers and Attendees

- Prepare questions and topics for discussion to make the most of networking opportunities.

Explore Exhibitor Booths

- Identify exhibitors relevant to your business and plan visits to their booths to learn about new products and services.

Utilize Conference Resources

- Take advantage of available materials, such as session recordings and presentation slides, for future reference.

Conclusion

The World Plumbing Conference 2026 presents a unique opportunity for UK plumbing businesses to gain insights into global industry trends, network with peers, and explore innovative solutions to common challenges. By participating in WPC26, businesses can position themselves at the forefront of the plumbing industry, ready to tackle worldwide problems with global solutions.

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