APEX and IRE 2026
APEX and IRE 2026: Access Equipment Looks to Energy, Rental and New Markets
APEX 2026 and IRE 2026 in Maastricht highlighted several key trends shaping the access equipment sector, including energy solutions, rental market developments, international competition and new applications for working at height.
Key highlights:
- Energy solutions are becoming increasingly important as rental companies look for autonomy, continuity and flexibility on job sites
- Diesel, electric, hybrid and future hydrogen solutions are all part of the evolving energy landscape
- The rental market is becoming increasingly polarised, with large European groups consolidating while smaller companies focus on specialised services and applications
- Application expertise and specialised equipment are becoming important differentiators for rental companies
- Strong participation from manufacturers and distributors from China and Turkey highlights increasing competitive pressure on the European market
- European manufacturers are facing additional challenges linked to geopolitical developments, tariff uncertainty and export planning
- Italian companies are calling for greater clarity and support regarding international trade and exports
- APEX also highlighted growing demand for new applications at working heights, including Low Level Access
- Safety, ergonomics and reducing the improper use of ladders are driving the development of compact and specialised access solutions
- The event attracted around 3,000 participants, according to the article, broadly in line with the previous edition
Source: Apex e IRE 2026, il lavoro in quota guarda a energia, noleggio e nuovi mercati - Sollevare
