The FD Show makes its mark: nearly 5,000 finance leaders attend the first-ever edition 

The launch of the highly anticipated FD Show co-located with Accountex London, welcomed 4,940 finance leaders and a total of 17,200 attendees across both shows. 

Something felt different at Excel London on 13–14 May 2026. Alongside the buzz of Accountex London, a brand-new show had launched, and the finance profession had shown up in force to welcome it. 

The inaugural FD Show, dedicated to Finance Directors, CFOs and accountants in industry, welcomed nearly 5,000 finance leaders across two days. Together with Accountex London, the two co-located events drew a record-breaking 17,200 attendees, the biggest in Accountex history. 

Portfolio Director Caroline Hobden said: “The FD Show completely exceeded our expectations. Finance directors have always come to Accountex, but they told us they wanted their own space, speakers, and suppliers. We listened, we built it, and the response has been incredible.  

“We’re incredibly grateful to our visitors, speakers, and exhibitors for making this inaugural event such a success. 2027 is already looking phenomenal, and we’re going to make it even bigger and better.” Commented Simon Watkins, Commercial Manager.  

‘The FD Show is a full finance innovation hub’ 

 

More than 40 enterprise solution providers exhibited across the two days, including Yooz, Charted, ADP, Fieldguide, Fathom, CIMA, Vision 33, Ergos, RSULT and Metro Bank. 

Attendees had the chance to compare relevant suppliers, explore new solutions under one roof, and get their questions answered. 

Silvana Nouwn, Senior Account Executive, SAP commented: “The FD Show has been great. There are so many different people, organisations and vendors here. If you’re a finance professional, it’s a one stop shop!” 

‘It’s incredible to hear directly from the people shaping the future of finance’ 

The CPD-accredited seminar programme ran across two theatres, with a dedicated Case Study Stage giving finance leaders an honest look at how other organisations are tackling big challenges -from AI implementation and ERP transformation to cost pressure and the expanding strategic remit of the finance function.  

“The FD show is an essential addition to Accountex because it really brings people together. Think about it as your annual compliance training and set this time aside to listen to the speakers, network and get current, it’s absolutely essential.” Said speaker Ash Noah, Managing Director – AICPA & CIMA. 

‘The must attend event for finance professionals’ 

Attendees were able to enjoy countless networking opportunities and explore the many features on both the FD Show and Accountex floor, including free coffees from Sage. 

The GenAI Bar with GenFinance.AI was one of the standout features on the floor, offering practical and tailored AI advice to visitors whether they were just getting started or already well into their AI journey.  

The Solo Traveller Lounge was busy with people who arrived alone and left with a new community, while the Wellness Retreat offered massages, mindfulness and mental health sessions for those who needed a moment to breathe.  

The Sustainability Zone, tucked under the canopy of a tree, gave attendees a quieter space to explore sustainability topics and connect with like-minded peers. 

And on the afternoon of day one, free networking drinks gave everyone the chance to refuel and connect. 

Not everything on the floor was about business. Between sessions, attendees were treated to a drone-controlled blimp drifting overhead, larger-than-life Transformers, a DJ keeping the energy up and a triceratops roaming the exhibition floor. 

Get your fix of the FD Show at Accountex Summit Manchester 2026  

After the success of the FD Show at Excel, for the first time, the FD Show is heading up north to take place alongside Accountex Summit Manchester this autumn. On 15 September 2026 at Manchester Central, the two shows will include 120+ fintech suppliers and a free CPD accredited seminar programme, as well as a post-show networking party. 

You can find out more and register your interest here: www.accountexmanchester.com

Mark your calendar for the FD Show 2027 and Accountex London  

The second edition of the FD Show and the sixteenth edition of Accountex London are taking place at Excel London on 12-13 May 2027. To find out more information about the event and to join the mailing list, please visit: www.fdshow.co.uk/ 

The post The FD Show makes its mark: nearly 5,000 finance leaders attend the first-ever edition  appeared first on Accounting Insight News.