Discover Innovation Abroad

Join the 2026 SBCA European Industry Tour

By Abby Langenberg and Ali Saladin-Valerio 

In a fast-paced industry facing labor shortages and shifting customer expectations, there’s real value in stepping back to see how others are addressing the same challenges and discovering fresh perspectives along the way. Whether it’s a small process improvement or a full-scale rethinking of production, each stop on the tour offers a unique take on innovation, and a chance to gain inspiration and consider what kind of change might make sense for your own operation. That’s the spirit behind SBCA’s 2026 European Industry Tour, a carefully curated opportunity to explore cutting-edge facilities, meet international industry leaders, and see what’s possible when offsite construction and automation are fully integrated.

“Anyone who is interested in learning more or broadening their perspective on the components industry should definitely make the trip.” 
Justin Richardson - 2024 Offsite Europe Tour Attendee and President at Richco Structures

This upcoming 12-day tour, running April 12–24, 2026, is more than just a travel opportunity; it’s a hands-on learning experience and a chance to refresh your professional perspective. With stops across Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, and Ireland, you’ll gain valuable insights into how manufacturers across the ocean are are approaching efficiency, workforce challenges, and sustainable design, all while enjoying some of Europe’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations. Attending all tour locations is not required; participants are welcome to join for the whole trip or segments of it, whatever works best for their schedule and preferences, a true “choose your own adventure!”

April 12–24 | Finland • Sweden • Denmark • Germany • Ireland

Why It’s Worth the Trip

Component manufacturers in the U.S. are facing increasing pressure to streamline operations and adapt to evolving building practices, a changing labor market, and many other challenges. Touring forward-thinking production environments in Europe offers a window into what’s next and how international innovation can influence your operation at home.

Tour participants will get access to state-of-the-art equipment, highly automated plants, and diverse business models, all offering lessons that are relevant regardless of their company’s size or structure.

The degree of innovation varies from one plant to the next. Some focus on targeted upgrades that improve efficiency; others are embracing transformative, tech-driven workflows. Both ends of the spectrum offer valuable takeaways.

2026 Tour Itinerary Highlights

This tour is built in partnership with SBCA associate members and designed to give attendees high-level access to facilities and conversations that would otherwise be difficult to experience. This customized itinerary reflects the diversity in innovation; from operations that have made small, incremental improvements to more radical ones, such as integrating fully automated production lines. Each visit is designed to give you a different perspective on what’s possible. Here’s a look at what’s planned:

• Finland: Start the tour in a country known for clean design and efficient offsite construction methods.
• Sweden: Visit a Randek-customer facility and explore some of the country’s picturesque coastal towns.
• Denmark: See Trussmatic’s fully automated truss production system in action, then take in local landmarks.
• Germany: Tour industry giants like Hundegger and Weinmann, and experience the Mercedes-Benz Museum.
• Ireland: Wrap up the trip with modular construction leaders and some time to enjoy the Irish countryside.

Designed for Connection

One of the most rewarding aspects of the European Industry Tour isn’t just what you see, it’s whom you connect with and whom you meet. With a small-group format, the tour fosters authentic conversations and lasting relationships. It’s a chance to learn from peers, ask tough questions, and share ideas in a relaxed, collaborative setting.

“Going on this trip helped me get more involved and meet like-minded people within the industry and SBCA,” says Brent Wadas. “The trip was 100% worth the investment. There’s so much opportunity out there; the more we can talk and find efficiencies, the better.”

What You’ll Bring Home

The 2026 European Industry Tour combines education, connection, and culture in a single trip designed to challenge the way you think about your business. Whether that’s learning of a new process or piece of equipment, rethinking a process or considering a more radical shift to your business model, you’ll return with new ideas, a deeper understanding of the global component manufacturing and framing landscape, and relationships that will last long after the plane lands.

We hope you’ll join us for this unique opportunity to see innovation in action—and imagine what’s next for your own operation. 

Take the First Step

If international learning and global collaboration are on your radar, this trip belongs on your calendar. Registration is open starting September 1st, when you can sign up and put a deposit down for the trip. Spots fill up fast, so be sure to secure your place. Please visit sbcacomponents.com/events to register for the event. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or exploring this kind of professional development for the first time, we’d love to have you join us! 

For more information or questions, please contact Abby at alangenberg@sbcacomponents.com 224-236-3725