Organisers of SALTEX 2016, which is being held on 2 and 3 November at the NEC, Birmingham, have revealed that the show is expanding to accommodate an increasing number of exhibitors.
The extra floor space marks a show growth of 1,120sq/m as exhibitors continue to sign up for the event. In fact, 81% of allocated space at SALTEX 2016, which includes the extra floor space, has already been accounted for.
The extra space will not only allow for more exhibitors to showcase an even wider range of products and services, but also provides an extra seminar theatre to accommodate an enhanced free-to-attend LEARNING LIVE programme plus Young Groundsmen’s Conference sessions, sponsored by Rigby Taylor and Top Green, which will now be held on the show floor.
Last year’s conference, organised and hosted by the Institute of Groundsmanship’s (IOG) Young Board of Directors, which saw many of the industry’s leading experts taking part, was held in a separate room just outside of the exhibition halls. However, post-show feedback revealed that visitors would prefer this to be integrated into the show area. Organisers have listened and acted upon this feedback by enabling its new location.
Students and aspiring groundsmen interested in a career in turf management will be able to network with leading companies, view the latest technology and learn more about pathways into the industry by attending informative Young Groundsmen’s Conference sessions – within one easy-to-access location.
The relocation of this conference is just one of a number of revisions which are being implemented by the IOG to ensure that the show maintains a fresh feel. Last year’s education programme, LEARNING LIVE, saw 1,655 minutes of free seminars, and post-show visitor feedback revealed it to be extremely popular. This year, show organisers are planning an even more exiting programme with a greater depth of content and quality.
Commenting on the updated programme, IOG CEO Geoff Webb said: “Last year’s LEARNING LIVE programme was hailed as a great success – we had a huge range of subjects and there was something for everyone. Preparation for the 2016 LEARNING LIVE programme is already well underway and will address the issues that surround our industry.
For example we will be looking at the EU Debate – whether we are out or in, the 2016 European Championships in France and the Olympics in Brazil.
“We have now commissioned a fourth lecture theatre to expand the number of presentations across the two days. Pencilled in already are expert speakers from the UK and abroad. The Young IOG are also joining the LEARNING LIVE programme with some dedicated sessions in purpose-built seminar rooms with better sound systems and screens – a direct improvement from 2015 – based on speaker and visitor feedback.
“All in all we are looking at a growing event which we look forward to welcoming you to in November.”
Since SALTEX was first held in 1938, the event has brought the industry together to network, learn and view the latest innovations. While remaining true to these core principles of SALTEX’s heritage, it is apparent that the show is moving with the times and now reflects a unique and modern 21st century trade show.
Last year’s audited visitor figures confirmed 8,714 visitors spanning 45 different nations and the exhibition’s role as the industry’s principal showcase was evident. SALTEX 2016’s improved show features and unrivalled industry support are set to work together to create the freshest and most exciting turf management event to date when the doors open later this year.
