The 2026 edition of SteelFab, scheduled from 12–15 January 2026 at the Expo Centre Sharjah, will bring together global technology leaders, regional manufacturers, and decision-makers driving the next phase of industrial growth in the Gulf. At this edition, Fagor Automation will showcase its advanced CNC and automation innovations through its Middle East representative, Poppys Automation, and will engage closely with manufacturers at Hall 1 | Stand 2005, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the region’s transition toward precision-driven, digitally enabled manufacturing.
As the Middle East accelerates its journey toward becoming a global manufacturing and industrial hub, the role of advanced control systems, digital CNC platforms, and reliable automation technologies has never been more critical. For Fagor Automation, this transformation represents both an opportunity and a long-term commitment, one rooted in engineering depth, system reliability, and close regional partnerships. Ahead of SteelFab ME 2026, Machine Maker spoke exclusively with Rakesh C Patel, CEO & Managing Director – Fagor Automation & Controls India & Middle East.
“The Middle East manufacturing ecosystem is evolving rapidly, from conventional machining to precision-driven, digitally enabled production environments,” says Rakesh. “This shift demands advanced CNC systems, robust feedback solutions, and open control architectures that can support flexibility, scalability, and long-term serviceability.”
Fagor Automation’s portfolio spans CNC systems for milling, turning, and grinding, as well as special-purpose machines, servo drives, motors, linear and rotary encoders, DRO systems, and automation solutions. Designed with an open, modular philosophy, Fagor’s controls enable machine builders and manufacturers to integrate intelligence into the heart of their machining operations, ensuring accuracy, repeatability, and process confidence across demanding applications.
Recognising the importance of local presence in a fast-growing region, Rakesh Patel, along with Jithin Ravindran, Sales Head, actively engages with customers and partners across the Middle East. “Being close to the market allows us to understand application realities, customer expectations, and service needs far better,” Patel explains. “This is where strong regional partnerships become essential.”
Fagor Automation’s collaboration with Poppys Automation is an important part of this strategy. As Fagor’s Middle East representative, Poppys Automation provides on-the-ground application support, integration expertise, and responsive service, ensuring customers not only adopt advanced control systems but also extract maximum value from them. “Our partnership with Poppys Automation strengthens our ability to support machine builders and manufacturers with faster response times, deeper application support, and long-term reliability,” Rakesh Patel notes.
At SteelFab ME, Fagor Automation’s presence through Poppys Automation reflects a broader intent: to support the Middle East’s manufacturing ambitions with proven control technology, digital readiness, and collaborative engagement. As regional manufacturers invest in precision, automation, and smart factory initiatives, Fagor Automation is positioning itself as a trusted technology partner, enabling them to build machines—and businesses—that are ready for global competition.
