It's the final countdown to MachineBuilding.Live, with just two days to go until the show opens its doors at the NAEC Stoneleigh Park on Wednesday 15 October. There's so much to see, so many industry leaders to discuss your projects with, and so many workshops to attend, that it's an event you won't want to miss.

In light of the recent news about the planned acquisition of ABB's robotics unit by SoftBank, Samantha Mou, a Senior Analyst for industrial robotics at market intelligence firm Interact Analysis notes that the other 'Big 4' robotics vendors may now accelerate their activities in the AI robotics space.

As pressure mounts to decarbonise the industrial supply chain, the factory floor has prime potential to cut the carbon footprint. The key is to understand how this can be achieved, says Francois Disch, Digital Transformation Consulting Leader, Schneider Electric.

ENGIE, a multinational energy and utility company headquartered in France, has awarded ABB a contract to modernise the automation systems at its 900 MW Maxima gas-fired power station in the Netherlands. The project will help future-proof the plant and support long-term decarbonisation efforts. ENGIE selected ABB for its strong local presence, migration strategy, and operational flexibility.

The British Compressed Society (BCAS) has developed the UK's first, independent performance verification programme for 50 Hz rotary compressors in the European market.

In adhesive bonding for medical device manufacture, process validation is a fundamental risk mitigation strategy. Medical device adhesives expert Intertronics has released a new white paper to demonstrate the need for robust bonding process validation in medical devices. Process Validation in Medical Device Bonding: Controlling Variables will help medical device manufacturers minimise or eliminate process variables, ensure ISO/FDA compliance, and improve reliability.

ABB has signed an agreement to divest its Robotics division to SoftBank Group for an enterprise value of $5.375 billion, and so will not pursue its earlier intention to spin-off the business as a separately listed company. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and further customary closing conditions and is expected to close in mid-to-late 2026.

Composite panel manufacturer Gilcrest has transitioned to Chemique's Solfre polyurethane adhesive, resulting in a more efficient production process and reduced operational costs.

element14 Community has launched its annual Halloween design competition, inviting engineers, makers, and electronics enthusiasts to develop innovative Halloween-themed projects.

Renishaw recently sponsored the EMO MX Value Award 2025, one of the most prestigious recognitions for manufacturing excellence in Europe. The award ceremony took place on 24 September at EMO Hannover, the world's leading trade fair for production technology.