With just a week to go before the start of SALTEX 2024, the premier event for grounds management professionals and volunteers, the organisers have unveiled more details of what delegates can expect to find at the show.
The Industry’s Largest Free Learning Event
One of the central features of SALTEX 2024, which his being held at the NEC in Birmingham from October 30-31, is the Learning LIVE programme, the largest free educational event for the grounds management industry. With over 50 speakers, including industry experts, technical specialists and thought leaders, visitors will gain access to in-depth knowledge and real-world solutions.
The sessions span across three stages: the Main Stage, hosted by Football Focus broadcaster Mark Clemmit, and a familiar voice on BBC Radio 5 Live. The Spotlight Stage and the Community Sports Stage each offer a unique focus to cater to various sectors of the industry.
Key sessions include ‘UEFA Pitch Quality support programs: A data driven approach’ on the main stage with Lee Guerriero, UEFA Stadium Operations and Pitch Expert, ‘Enhancing turfgrass defences’ with John Dempsey PhD BSc (Hons) on the Spotlight Stage and ‘Drainage – get it right first time’ with Richard Earl, Managing Director – TGMS, on the Community Sport Stage.
It’s also a golden opportunity to earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points accredited by BASIS and BIGGA, keeping professionals up to date with their qualifications while expanding their industry knowledge.
Networking and Collaboration In The Clubhouse
For 2024, SALTEX has reimagined the Clubhouse, creating a more inviting and collaborative environment designed to advance industry connections and idea-sharing. The new-look Clubhouse features a revamped bar area and a welcoming feel. It’s the perfect place to unwind and connect with fellow groundspeople.
The Clubhouse will also feature scheduled meetups for groups including County FAs, GMA NextGen, Soil Science Clinic and much more, making it easier for groups to come together and discuss key industry topics.
Bigger and Better Community Sports Zone
Building on the success of its 2023 debut, the Community Sports Zone is expanding to offer even more for grassroots clubs and community sports facilities. This year, the zone has more space, more machinery and a dedicated Learning LIVE stage to deliver targeted sessions aimed at community sports clubs and volunteers such as ‘What’s Available In Multi-sport Facility Funding?’ and ‘Quality Surfaces On A Shoestring Budget’.
In addition to the educational offerings, the expanded machinery displays will feature leading manufacturers such as ISEKI, Dennis and SISIS, Campey Turf Care Systems and Trimax Mowing Systems – showcasing equipment tailored for the specific needs of community and grassroots sports clubs.
Exclusive new product launches
Visitors will be among the first to see over 30 exclusive product launches from top-tier manufacturers. These launches will highlight the most advanced equipment and services in the grounds management sector, providing visitors with cutting-edge tools to improve their operations.
Kingdom Technologies will launch their new commercial robotic lawn mower on stand H050, designed to provide a highly efficient solution for large-scale, commercial mowing.
Major Equipment Ltd, a leading innovator in professional tractor-powered groundcare mowers, are getting set to launch their upgraded TDR Rotary Mower. You can find this exclusive launch on stand J112.
Stand G075 will host Kersten’s brand-new Zasso ZAP Weeder, the world’s first battery-powered electric walk-in device.
KAR UK are excited to unveil the Hunter Industries’ innovative Wireless Valve Link on stand E053. This cutting-edge system is set to revolutionise irrigation control, offering unmatched flexibility and efficiency for landscapes of all sizes.
Turf Technology Breakthroughs
Visitors will be introduced to the latest and most innovative turf technologies that are set to revolutionise the industry. The cutting-edge solutions offer new ways to improve grounds management that are more efficient, sustainable and cost-effective.
From automated mowers to advanced irrigation systems and intelligent turf monitoring tools, these breakthroughs are designed to help groundspeople take turf care to the next level. Visitors can expect to see innovative products from leading brands and suppliers that can improve the way grounds are managed, maintained and developed.
SALTEX gives visitors the opportunity to engage directly with the innovators behind these products and see how these technologies could be implemented in their own work.
Meet The Future of Grounds Management
The GMA’s NextGen group will once again play a prominent role at SALTEX 2024, offering a fresh perspective on the future of the industry. NextGen, sponsored by Reesink Turfcare, is a dynamic group of young professionals dedicated to showcasing the exciting career opportunities within the grounds management sector. Visitors can meet NextGen members at the GMA Hub (stand C190) across both days of the show. They’ll be available to offer practical advice to those just starting their careers or looking to advance within the industry.
NextGen members, including Meg Lay, Groundsperson at Lord’s Cricket Ground, and Jack Langley, Deputy Head Groundsperson at Ashton Gate Stadium, will also take part in a Learning LIVE session discussing how to attract young talent into the industry. The session will highlight the diverse opportunities available in grounds management and offer practical tips on recruiting and retaining the next generation of talent.
Racing Simulator Experience and the all-new Demo Zone
For visitors looking for a bit of fun amidst the business of grounds management, SALTEX has an exhilarating new attraction – a racing simulator experience at the Reesink and TORO stand (K072). Take on friends and colleagues in a high-octane head-to-head race, guided by expert driving tips from professional coaches. Compete for the top spot on the leaderboard and see if you’ve got what it takes to leave everyone in the dust. The simulator offers a thrilling break from the show floor and adds an exciting, competitive edge.
In the all-new Demo Zone, visitors can take part in Kress’ ‘Blower Game’ (Stand DZ4) for a chance to win nearly £3,000 worth of Kress products! The contestant with the fastest time on the leaderboard by 4:00 pm on Thursday, 31st October, will claim the grand prize when the show wraps up. Also in the Demo Zone, you’ll find live demonstrations from STIHL (Stand DZ1), Cramer (DZ2), and the West Midlands Lawn Mower Racing Association (DZ3).
To register to attend, visit www.saltex.org.uk.