West Midlands Celebrates as Birmingham Secures International Ceramics Congress 2028

The West Midlands has added another milestone to its growing reputation as a global hub for business events. In an exciting win for the region, Birmingham and The Eastside Rooms will host the prestigious 12th International Ceramics Congress in July 2028. This landmark event will bring together over 600 top ceramic scientists, researchers, and manufacturers from across the globe, with an expected economic impact exceeding £1 million for the local economy.

Set to take place at The Eastside Rooms, our very own cutting-edge conference venue in the heart of the Knowledge Quarter, this biennial event is no ordinary conference. The International Ceramics Congress has previously graced cities like Dresden, Montreal, and Foz do Iguaçu, and is next scheduled for Sapporo, Japan, in 2026. For the West Midlands and The Eastside Rooms, hosting this renowned gathering marks a significant achievement in the worldwide ceramics calendar.

Delegates will have the chance to dive deep into cutting-edge developments in ceramics and glass materials, exploring everything from bioceramics to optical and magnetic ceramics. With its robust academic community and a thriving industrial landscape, Birmingham is poised to shine on the global stage.

Securing this major event was no small feat. The Birmingham and West Midlands Convention Bureau, part of the West Midlands Growth Company, played a pivotal role, working closely with Professor Jon Binner, a leading expert in ceramic science from the University of Birmingham. Together with the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), they crafted a compelling bid that showcased the region’s expertise, infrastructure, and collaborative spirit.

“This win is a testament to the power of partnerships,” said Steve Knight, Senior Business Tourism Manager at the West Midlands Growth Company. “It reflects the unique collaboration between our Convention Bureau, academic leaders like Professor Binner, and venues like The Eastside Rooms. We’re thrilled to welcome the ceramics community to our young, friendly, and accessible destination.”

For Professor Jon Binner, who spearheaded the bid, hosting the International Ceramics Congress is more than an honour—it’s a reflection of decades of dedication to ceramic science. “This is a tremendous opportunity to bring the world’s top minds in ceramics to the West Midlands,” he shared. “It also aligns perfectly with the £18.27M Strength in Places funding for the Midlands Industrial Ceramics Group, which will have concluded just before the Congress. Delegates will be able to explore the exciting outcomes of this innovative research.”

The event’s economic and intellectual contributions promise to ripple far beyond its four-day duration. Dr. Emma Claxton, Chair of the IOM3 Ceramics Leadership Team, noted the transformative potential of such gatherings. “Ceramics are vital to our transition to a low-carbon, resource-efficient society. This Congress offers a chance to drive progress and strengthen professional skills for a dynamic future in ceramics.”

The Eastside Rooms, with its state-of-the-art facilities and the largest pillar-free ballroom in Birmingham, will provide the perfect backdrop for global collaboration. Its close ties to leading universities and its central location in the Knowledge Quarter ensure a seamless experience for delegates.

“We’re thrilled to host this landmark event,” said Leanne Bladen, Director of Sales & Marketing here at The Eastside Rooms. “Our venue is designed for innovation and connection, making it an ideal choice for such a high-calibre international conference.”

From its vibrant Knowledge Quarter to its world-class transport links, Birmingham is proving itself as a prime destination for major international events. Hosting the International Ceramics Congress reinforces its growing status as a centre for academic, cultural, and industrial excellence.

Stay tuned for updates as we prepare to welcome the ceramics world to Birmingham in 2028.