I’ve attended FEIMEC without a game plan before, and I walked out wondering what I’d actually gained. Sure, there were cool machines and shiny demos, but I didn’t meet the right people or get the insights I came for.

That’s when I realized a trade show visit isn’t a field trip, it’s a business decision.

Over the years, I’ve covered FEIMEC for industrial blogs and partnered with companies preparing for their visits. These steps are based on those real experiences, not just general advice.

This article gives you a clear plan to organize your visit, use your time wisely, and walk away with real business value. It’s short, practical, and built to match the way businesspeople actually operate.

So let’s start!

1. Register and Book Your Tickets Early

This step might seem obvious, but it’s the one that sets the tone for everything else. Registration for FEIMEC 2026 is free, but that doesn’t mean you should leave it to the last minute. Getting ahead now gives you peace of mind and makes planning everything else much easier.

Know When Registration Opens

FEIMEC typically opens pre-registration several months in advance. For 2026, keep an eye on their official website, as the online form will go live soon. Registering early not only saves you from long lines, but it also secures your badge and keeps you in the loop on any last-minute updates or logistics changes.

Who Can Attend

FEIMEC is a trade-only show, and that means only industry professionals are allowed inside. You must be 16 or older and part of a relevant sector. If you’re attending on behalf of a company, have your business card and ID ready when you arrive. You can print your badge at home or use a self-service kiosk at the venue entrance.

2. Sort Out Your Accommodation

Choosing where to stay isn’t just about comfort, it affects how much energy you’ll have each day and whether you arrive at the venue calm or already frustrated. The right hotel can also provide a convenient base for post-event work or evening meetings.

São Paulo Expo is located near Jabaquara and Água Funda. Good nearby neighborhoods for business travelers include Vila Mariana, Paraíso, Moema, and the Congonhas Airport area. These places are well-connected and business-friendly. You’ll also find a range of restaurants and services in these districts, which is a bonus.

Hotel Recommendations:

Here are a few hotels that are solid options:

• Wyndham São Paulo Ibirapuera – A popular choice with business travelers.
• Transamerica Executive Congonhas – Close to the airport, efficient for short stays.
• Mercure São Paulo Moema – Reliable business amenities, walkable dining options nearby.

FEIMEC usually partners with a travel agency to offer discounts on hotels and shuttle services. For the 2024 edition, Feiras & Congressos handled this. Booking through them could give you access to free transfers between the venue and hotel. Plus, the convenience of having logistics taken care of can be a real stress-saver.

3. Define Your Goals for the Visit

Walking into FEIMEC without a goal is like trying to grocery shop when you’re starving. You’ll get distracted, buy the wrong things, and leave feeling like you missed something important. Trust me, I’ve made that mistake more than once.

What Do You Want Out of This Trip?

• Are you scouting for new machinery or suppliers?
• Do you want to learn about automation or Industry 4.0?
• Are you looking for new clients or partnerships?
• Maybe you’re there to benchmark your competitors or explore new markets?

Understand the Event’s Scope

FEIMEC covers a huge range of sectors: metalworking, automation, energy, packaging, logistics, and more. In past years, 50% of attendees came from the metalworking and metallurgical space, but the event also draws professionals from automotive, electronics, food processing, and pharma.

Create a Hit List

Go through the exhibitor list once it’s released. Identify 5–10 companies you absolutely want to meet. Note their booth numbers and have some background on what you want to discuss with them. Setting those intentions helps you make smarter decisions during the event.

4. Plan Your Time Inside the Venue

FEIMEC is massive. Without a schedule, you’ll end up doing laps and missing what really matters. I’ve been there, trust me, it’s exhausting. But with a little prep, you can use your time far more effectively.

The show takes place at São Paulo Expo, one of the largest convention centers in Latin America. It runs from May 5–9, 2026, typically opening at 10am on weekdays and 9am on Saturday. The earlier you arrive, the more relaxed your start.

• Use the event app for floor maps and session reminders.
• Group your booth visits by location to avoid backtracking.
• Arrive early to avoid lines and start your day with a clear head.

Key Areas to Watch:

• Industry 4.0 Pavilion – Great for automation and smart factory demos.
• Intralogistics Arena – Focuses on warehouse and logistics tech.
• Parque de Ideias – Talks and panel discussions.
• Startup Zone – New players and innovative solutions.

Plan time for walking the floor, attending talks, and squeezing in meetings. Don’t forget breaks. There are lounges and cafes around the venue where you can rest or check emails. Scheduling a quick recap session each day can also help you track what you’ve seen and what’s still pending.

5. Prepare for Networking and Meetings

This is one of the biggest reasons to attend in person. The show floor is buzzing with decision-makers, and real deals happen here. You never know who you’ll bump into, and that’s half the opportunity.

Use the Official App

The FEIMEC app (or its platform Indústria Xperience) usually lets you:

• View the full list of attendees and exhibitors
• Send meeting requests
• Save your agenda and booth visits
• Stay updated with real-time alerts

Reach Out Before the Event

Don’t wait until you’re on-site. If there are people or companies you want to meet, message them ahead of time. Many exhibitors appreciate it when visitors come with a specific purpose. It makes your meetings more efficient too.

Have Your Materials Ready

• Business cards (lots of them)
• A short elevator pitch about your company
• A digital portfolio or company brochure on your phone or tablet
• A printed one-sheet can be handy if requested

Take Notes Immediately

After each meaningful conversation, jot down a note, who they were, what you discussed, and next steps. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re doing follow-ups. It’s easy to forget names after your third day on the floor.

6. Dress and Pack Smart

You don’t need a three-piece suit, but you also shouldn’t show up in sneakers and a hoodie. There’s a middle ground that works well. Think professional but practical.

Business casual is your best bet. For men, think slacks and a button-down shirt; for women, a blouse with dress pants or a smart dress. Closed-toe shoes are a must if you’re walking near machines. Also, venues can be chilly even in warmer weather, so bring a light jacket or blazer.

What to Pack Each Day:

• Portable phone charger
• Charging cables
• Notebook or tablet
• Business cards
• Reusable water bottle
• Light jacket (venues are often chilly)
• Snacks (just in case lunch lines are long)

7. Explore the City After the Event

After the expo floor closes, São Paulo still has plenty to offer. A bit of food, culture, and fresh air can balance out the intensity of the show. If you can stay an extra day, even better, it’s a great way to recharge before heading back to work.

Where to Eat

• Fogo de Chão or Vento Haragano – Brazilian steakhouses worth the experience. The endless cuts of meat and energetic atmosphere make it a memorable group dinner.
• Liberdade – Great Japanese food in a culturally rich district. It’s also a fun area to walk around and browse small shops and street vendors.
• D.O.M. or Figueira Rubaiyat – Upscale dining for client dinners. Both offer impressive menus and ambiance if you’re looking to treat a key partner or close a deal.
• Vila Madalena – More relaxed, trendy bars and casual spots. It’s a popular area for craft beer, live music, and catching a breath after a long day.

Places to Explore

• Ibirapuera Park – A peaceful green space with museums and paths. You’ll see locals jogging, practicing yoga, or just enjoying a sunny afternoon.
• Avenida Paulista – Perfect for walking, especially on Sundays. It turns into a pedestrian zone with performers, food stalls, and plenty of people-watching.
• Mercado Municipal – Try the mortadella sandwich and local fruits. The building itself is beautiful, and the bustling vibe gives a real taste of the city.
• Pinacoteca or MASP – Great for art and architecture lovers. Both are well-curated and provide a quiet break from the busy trade show environment.

Conclusion

FEIMEC 2026 isn’t just a trip, it’s a chance to level up. You’ve got the 7-step blueprint. Now it’s time to put it in motion.

We talked about registration, travel, goals, networking, and even what to wear. No more second-guessing.

I learned the hard way. You don’t have to.

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Contact us today and explore your options before the expo.