GroundsFest: Check out the UK's largest industry event

As GroundsFest 2025 approaches, we spoke to Marketing Director Chris Bennett about what they have planned. Find out what visitors can expect from the show in this Q&A…

What have you learnt from the previous shows and what changes have been made for 2025?

One of the biggest things we’ve learnt is the importance of listening – to both our exhibitors and our visitors. GroundsFest is now in its third year, and we’ve taken everything on board, from logistics and layout to marketing and the on-the-day experience. Every change we make is focused on improving the event for everyone involved.

For 2025, we’ve made a number of refinements. These include clearer signage and improvements to the show’s layout and flow, making it easier for visitors to navigate and engage with exhibitors. We’ve also introduced new features to keep the experience fresh and exciting – because we believe a great event should evolve every year.

Why is GroundsFest different compared to other turfcare shows?

GroundsFest is truly unique. It’s the only show of its kind that combines indoor exhibition halls with expansive outdoor areas, where visitors can see machinery in action and get hands-on experience with the equipment. This practical element helps professionals make more informed purchasing decisions based on their own specific needs.

This year also sees the return of Machinery Nation Live – a one-of-a-kind feature where leading brands go head-to-head in live machinery face-offs. It’s insightful, entertaining, and genuinely different from anything else on the show circuit.

But what really sets us apart is the atmosphere. GroundsFest has a strong community feel – there’s serious business and learning during the day, and then in the evening, everyone comes together at the live music festival to unwind and network in a more relaxed setting. And this year, we’ve added something totally unexpected – lawn mower racing! Where else can you see that?

Why should people come to the show?

Where do we begin? Free education, live machinery demonstrations, lawn mower racing, a buzzing live music festival – GroundsFest isn’t just a trade show, it’s a full-on experience. It’s where the industry comes together to do business, learn something new, and have a great time while doing it.

Have you made any changes to the festival side of the show?

The festival vibe returns in full force – and this year, we’re excited to welcome Definitely Mightbe, the world’s best Oasis tribute band. It feels especially fitting with the real Oasis reunion! We’ll also have a fantastic range of food and drink vendors, and the ever-popular free bumper cars are back. It’s a celebration – and everyone’s invited.

Are you still aiming to give back to the industry? With the recent partnership announcement with BIGGA, is that a step in the right direction?

Absolutely – giving back has always been a core part of our vision. Profits from the show are reinvested into industry-focused initiatives like the GroundsFest Academy, which delivers free education and training. This year, we’ve partnered with some amazing organisations to put on events that really deliver value.

Our new partnership with BIGGA is another exciting step forward. Together, we’re exploring even more educational opportunities that will benefit professionals across the turfcare, landscaping, and golf sectors. It’s all about building something that supports the industry long term.

When thinking about the future of GroundsFest, what are the aims?

We’re incredibly proud of how far GroundsFest has come in just three years – but we’re not stopping there. The goal is to continue listening, learning, and evolving, year after year. We want GroundsFest to remain an event the industry looks forward to – one that it can truly call its own.

At the same time, we’ll keep looking at new ways to give back – whether that’s through training, partnerships, or fresh initiatives that support everyone working in turf, grounds, landscaping, and beyond.

In terms of exhibitors, have you seen an increase?

Yes, we’ve been over the moon to see an increase in exhibitors. Many have been with us since day one, and more and more brands have come on board each year. The footprint has grown by approximately 20% since last year, and we’ve had to take new areas at the venue to accommodate the demand for space. It’s all very positive.