MD&M West 2026 Showcases Innovations in Medical Device Manufacturing

The MD&M West 2026 event took place from February 3-5, 2026, in Anaheim, California, attracting over 1,700 exhibitors and more than 13,000 attendees. This annual conference serves as a significant platform for showcasing advancements in medical device manufacturing. Conversations with industry leaders revealed key trends and innovations shaping the sector.

Among the notable highlights, BioInteractions showcased its Assist product, a specialized coating for medical devices. During the event, Commercial Director Arjun Luthra emphasized the importance of their portfolio in enhancing device performance and patient safety.

The role of 3D printing in manufacturing was further explored by representatives from Mantle. Ryan de Leuze and Mike Skaja discussed how their technology is contributing to the development of next-generation medical devices, enabling faster production times and customization.

In a significant debut, HiArc launched its first commercial product at the show. Vice President of Engineering and Innovation Tim Patno expressed excitement over the product’s potential impact on the market, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s growth.

The evolution of branding in the industry was another focal point, with LaserLinc‘s CEO and Co-Founder Jeff Kohler discussing a recent brand refresh. Kohler highlighted how the rebranding aligns with the company’s commitment to innovation and customer engagement.

Trelleborg also presented its Integrated Solutions Program, focusing on emerging trends in MedTech manufacturing. Business Unit President for Medical Device Solutions Americas Kevin Ehlert detailed the opening of a new facility in Costa Rica, aimed at enhancing the company’s operational capabilities.

Innovations in autoinjectors were highlighted by MGS, whose representatives Bob Bordignon and Martin Høier Thomsen introduced the A.i.r. platform, designed to reimagine traditional autoinjector designs for improved usability.

Other key developments included Junkosha, which expanded its PTFE liner portfolio, as discussed by Product Specialist Yohei Washiyama. The enhancements aim to support various applications in the medical field.

The event also featured Guill Tool, which launched its new Unicam Extrusion Crosshead. Jacob Marcure provided insights into the innovative features of this technology, which promises to optimize manufacturing processes.

In discussions about materials science, Covestro representatives including Emily Shaffer and Nicolas Nordmann highlighted “The Material Effect.” They illustrated the intersection of materials science with application development, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices.

The use of precious metals in medical devices was addressed by Tanaka‘s Head Manager of R&D, Kunihiro Shima. He discussed how these materials enhance device functionality and longevity.

Emerging technologies in MedTech were explored by Ensera‘s Senior Director of Electronic and Software Engineering, Michael Halleck. His insights focused on the responsible adoption of new technologies to address current healthcare challenges.

Finally, Plastic Ingenuity introduced its PuraForm portfolio, which emphasizes sustainability in healthcare packaging. Technical Sales Engineer Sarah Webber described how these materials contribute to environmental goals while maintaining quality.

The MD&M West 2026 event proved to be a vital gathering for industry professionals, fostering discussions on innovation, sustainability, and the future of medical device manufacturing. As the sector continues to evolve, the insights gained from this event will likely play a crucial role in shaping its trajectory.