After the resounding success of the inaugural GroundsFest, the organising team is gearing up to make next year’s event even more spectacular. Scheduled to take place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on September 10 and 11, GroundsFest 2024 promises to be an experience like no other.
Building on the feedback received from the first edition, the organising team is working behind the scenes to implement improvements that will elevate the event to new heights. One of the significant changes is the introduction of a more free-flowing layout, enhancing the overall event experience. The addition of a new entrance is set to reduce the walk to the event, ensuring attendees can immerse themselves in the festivities more quickly.
The camping zone is set to see new facilities and the festival area is also in for a makeover, with plans underway to introduce brand new attractions. This strategic move aims to keep the excitement levels high and provide both exhibitors and visitors with novel and engaging experiences. The goal is clear: GroundsFest 2024 will not just meet expectations but exceed them.
The success of GroundsFest 2023 speaks volumes about the event’s unique approach. With over a 90% rebooking rate from exhibitors, it is evident that the industry has embraced the innovative event concept with open arms. According to the post-show exhibitor survey, a staggering 93% of exhibitors generated new sales leads, showcasing the event’s tangible impact on business growth.
Robbie Hayter from Net World Sports commended GroundsFest, stating, “GroundsFest is doing things differently for the industry, and I think it is refreshing. A lot of the visitors are really excited to see the outdoor demos and the festival is a great idea because you loosen up a little bit and there are more conversations and networking opportunities.”
Megan Oliver from the Howardson Group echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the appeal of seeing products on the grass. “People are loving GroundsFest and the footfall has been really good. We’ve seen people from all over the country and we’ve taken a lot of enquiries. It’s got a nice festival feel and it makes it an enjoyable place to be.”
GroundsFest visitors were equally upbeat. Christopher Mortimer from Mortimer Contracts Limited said. “It was a fantastic show – the best in years. I bought new kit and saw lots to benefit my company for the future. I also made some great contacts and I’m already looking forward to next year.”
Finn Greer from Trackstars attributed GroundsFest’s success to the diversity of the event. “I think GroundsFest, being indoors and outdoors, and having such a wide variety of demos are the reasons why it has drawn such a large number of people.”
“The buzz is all about GroundsFest now,” shared Tom Duchesne from Top Garden Services, emphasising the event’s growing reputation and influence.
Marketing Director Chris Bennett highlighted the importance of industry feedback in shaping the evolution of GroundsFest. “The only way to evolve GroundsFest is by listening to the industry. This commitment to responsiveness and adaptability ensures that each edition of GroundsFest is a reflection of the evolving needs and desires of the landscaping and grounds management community.”
As anticipation builds for GroundsFest 2024, the industry can expect an event that not only celebrates the latest innovations but also sets new standards for collaboration, networking, and business growth.
GroundsFest 2024 is poised to be an unmissable highlight on the calendar for all sectors of the grounds management industry.
