Golf Business News – GroundsFest 2024: 'More Exhibitors, More Visitors, More Fun'
The second edition of GroundsFest, held on 10 and 11 September at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire, has firmly established itself as the UK's largest land management and landscape event. After a strong debut in 2023, this year's show exceeded all expectations, marking an important milestone in its new history.
With 8,014 visitors over two days—4,738 on the first day and 3,276 on the second day—GroundsFest 2024 had an impressive increase in attendance, a remarkable feat for an event that started last year. The expansive event structure immediately immerses guests in the action, creating an engaging and dynamic atmosphere from the moment they arrive.
One of the highlights of this year's GroundsFest was the introduction of Machinery Nation LIVE, which took large crowds with exciting machinery. Visitors watched the top brands go head-to-head in a series of exciting and rigorous trials, comparing performance across categories such as fuel versus battery, acceleration, power, and more.
Machinery Nation LIVE also offered interactive machinery challenges where attendees could compete for prizes, adding excitement and engagement throughout the show.
Innovation took center stage at GroundsFest 2024 as more than 60 new products were introduced, providing visitors with first-hand experience of the latest in grounds management and landscaping technology. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces also achieved a perfect balance. Inside, a lively exhibition area offered a variety of exhibitors showcasing products and services, while educational theaters hosted a wealth of educational sessions, all free to attend.
The Landscape Zone, an entire hall dedicated to professionals in the design, planning, and construction of outdoor spaces in the field of landscaping proved popular, adding another dimension to the exhibition's offerings.
The Grounds training sessions were another highlight, attracting large crowds eager to learn from knowledgeable instructors about the use and maintenance of walk-behind mowers, mowers, hand-held machines, and sprayers.
Craftsmanship is one of the main strengths of GroundsFest, and attendees also enjoyed the opportunity to test equipment before making purchase decisions.
Beyond the business of grounds management and landscaping, the festival atmosphere of GroundsFest provided a fun way for exhibitors and visitors alike to relax. A popular happy hour, live bands, and free rides added to the entertainment, ensuring that GroundsFest was not only about work but also about building relationships and enjoying the camaraderie of the industry.
Event Director Christopher Bassett sums up the success of the event, saying: “It's amazing to see how much support GroundsFest has received from all corners of the industry. The growth since last year has been fantastic, and we are very grateful to all the exhibitors, visitors, and partners who made this year's show a success.
“As we look to the future, we want to continue to grow and develop the program—and the only way to do that is to listen to the industry. That's why we encourage everyone to take the time to fill out the surveys we've sent out. Your feedback is important.
“GroundsFest 2025 is already around the corner, it will be on the 9thth and 10th September at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. After this year's 'huge success' anticipation is building for what promises to be a bigger and better event next year.”
For more information, please visit www.groundsfest.com
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