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Kennametal's Next Level Shop Experience at IMTS 2026

Kennametal Inc. is on the cusp of redefining the experience at the IMTS 2026 trade show, scheduled to take place from September 14 to 19, in Chicago. At the heart of its presentation will be the immersive 'Next Level Shop,' a cutting-edge space designed to encapsulate the essence of modern manufacturing. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to engage directly with live machining demonstrations, meet industry experts, and witness the assembly of a customized motorcycle, all in one venue.

The Next Level Shop aims to deliver an electrifying atmosphere, replicating the vibrancy of contemporary machining workshops. This initiative builds upon the success of Kennametal’s previous display, Metal Mania, and promises to foster a collaborative spirit among tool manufacturers, software developers, and machinery makers. The goal is to address real-world production challenges and to showcase integrated solutions that enhance productivity across the board.

Dave Bersaglini, Kennametal's Vice President and Metal Cutting Division President, remarked, "Every aspect of our presentation this year at IMTS has been meticulously crafted to respond to our customers' needs. Our clients are not merely seeking quality tools; they desire holistic solutions that enable them to work smarter and tackle complex challenges. The Next Level Shop compiles these technologies and partnerships into a singular, dynamic environment."

A standout feature of the Next Level Shop will be the live customization of an Indian Sport Chief motorcycle. The iconic motorsport figure Carey Hart, serving as WIDIA's brand ambassador, will collaborate with Satya Kraus, CEO and creative engineer at KRAUS MOTO. Throughout the week, they will be machining custom motorcycle parts using a 5-axis CNC machine, employing Kennametal and WIDIA tools. Once completed, this uniquely crafted motorcycle will serve as the centerpiece of an exclusive giveaway, allowing a lucky IMTS visitor to drive home this one-of-a-kind creation.

Beyond motorcycle assembly, attendees can look forward to continuous live machining demonstrations, featuring insights from Kennametal experts, customers, and industry partners. These presentations will highlight innovative solutions aimed at boosting productivity, performance, and precision across various sectors.

Kennametal will also unveil its latest advancements in tooling for milling, drilling, turning, and Swiss machining. The event will showcase the company's extensive capabilities in additive manufacturing, as well as large-scale machined components, while providing a glimpse into an expanding digital manufacturing ecosystem. This includes the integration of CAD/CAM data and partnerships that streamline programming and enhance machining performance.

Collaborating with EWI Worldwide, the Next Level Shop is designed to reflect the interactive spirit of Metal Mania, incorporating new partnerships, demonstrations, and hands-on workshops throughout the event. Don Kuhn, Account Manager at EWI Worldwide, noted, "Kennametal challenged us to create an environment that felt more like a forward-thinking manufacturing workshop rather than a traditional trade show booth. Every detail of the Next Level Shop has been developed to inspire exploration, foster dialogue, and show how innovation comes to life when technology, craftsmanship, and collaboration converge."

Visitors to the Next Level Shop will have the chance to:

• - Experience live machining demonstrations throughout the event.
• - Meet Carey Hart, Satya Kraus, Taylor Schultz, and Kennametal’s machining experts.
• - Discover Kennametal's and WIDIA's latest innovations in tooling.
• - Try digital manufacturing technologies and software integrations.
• - Network with professionals from aerospace, defense, medical, transportation, energy production, Swiss machining, and more.
• - Participate in the giveaway for the customized Indian Sport Chief motorcycle.

The Next Level Shop will be located at Booth #431800 in the West Building, Level 3, during IMTS 2026. For the full schedule of live machining demonstrations, partner presentations, and booth activities, visit kennametal.com/imts2026.

About Kennametal

With over 85 years of experience in industrial technology leadership, Kennametal Inc. empowers clients with enhanced productivity through material science, tooling, and wear-resistant solutions. Trusted by customers across aerospace, defense, civil engineering, energy, general engineering, and transportation, Kennametal plays an integral role in helping manufacturers achieve precise and efficient production. Every day, approximately 8,100 employees support customers in nearly 100 countries, driving competitiveness. In 2025, Kennametal achieved a revenue of $2 billion. For more information, visit kennametal.com. Follow on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.