This new and exciting two-day event has been conceived to connect integrators with leading smart home brands. CI CONNECT is supported by exclusive media partner, Essential Install.
Monitor Audio Group will host CI CONNECT 2026 on 7-8 October 2026, a new two-day open event created exclusively for the custom installation and AV industry. Designed to encourage collaboration across the sector, CI CONNECT will bring together leading technology brands, CEDIA, the industry’s trade association, and charity partners for two valuable days of learning and networking.
Hosted at Monitor Audio Group’s headquarters in Rayleigh, Essex, CI CONNECT 2026 will showcase the latest innovations in residential technology. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience integrated smart home solutions, attend live product demonstrations, watch guest speaker seminars, take part in mini training sessions, speak directly with industry experts and network with some of the sector’s most respected brands, all within a relaxed, hands-on setting.
Confirmed participating brands include CEDIA, Chord Company, Cinema Luxe, Control4, Infinity Seating, Monitor Audio, OneAV, QMotion EMEA, Rako Lighting, Together for Cinema, Trinnov and WeQuote. The event is supported by leading trade publication, Essential Install.
“We are excited to launch this brand-new event,” comments Michael Johnson, Commercial Head, UK & Global Marketing Director. “This industry thrives on face-to-face interaction and CI CONNECT 2026 has been designed to bring the custom installation community together in a collaborative, hands-on environment. By gathering a number of leading brands under one roof, the event will give visitors the perfect opportunity to discover new technologies, strengthen industry relationships and maintain momentum heading into 2027.”
Attendance is free and visitor registration is now open via Eventbrite:
Day 1 (7 October):
Eventbrite registration – Day 1
Day 2 (8 October):
Eventbrite registration – Day 2
Venue information
Address
Monitor Audio Group
24 Brook Road, Rayleigh, Essex, SS6 7XJ
Driving
Monitor Audio Group is located on Brook Road
Industrial Estate, just off the A127 at the Rayleigh Weir
intersection. This is around 20 minutes from the M25
exit for Southend and Basildon (Junction 29).
Parking
Free parking will be available for all exhibitors and
attendees.
Public Transport
Rayleigh Station (Greater Anglia)
Rail services from London Liverpool Street & Stratford
Benfleet Station (c2c)
Rail services from London Fenchurch Street
Accessibility
Step-free access from car park to main exhibition
space including accessible toilets.
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi access is available
Closest Recommended Accommodation
Premier Inn Rayleigh Weir (9 min walk)
Holiday Inn Southend (15 min drive)
Further partner announcements will be made in the coming weeks, so stay tuned to Essential Install’s channels for more information.
