Farm Expo, the South East’s leading agricultural and machinery show, held on 1st March 2023 was a resounding success, with a record number of attendees participating in the event. Coordinated by charity organisers, the Kent County Agricultural Society, the annual expo showcased the latest in agricultural products, technologies, and services, providing a platform for farmers and industry professionals to exchange thoughts and ideas.
100 exhibitors took part in this year’s Farm Expo, from large machinery dealerships to equipment and tool providers, livestock services, seed and fertilisers, land management, law firms and many more. With over 2000 visitors through the gates, exhibitor stands were buzzing with attendees, eager to hear about the latest industry developments.
Trade stand awards, kindly sponsored by media partner, South East Farmer Magazine, were presented to the most highly commended exhibitors across three categories. Tuckwells won the award for ‘Best trade stand for machinery’, NFU for ‘Best trade stand for services’, with the award for ‘Best trade stand for agricultural products’ going to Kiwikit- Roxan.
Julian Barnes, Chairman of the Kent County Agricultural Society, said: “it’s wonderful to see such support for this event. The feedback received from both visitors and exhibitors has been overwhelmingly positive, and it is clear to see there is still an appetite for these in-person events”.
This year’s seminars entitled ‘The Future of Farming’, concentrated on a number of interesting subjects, including vertical farming, sustainability, future of labour supply, succession and direct drilling. Hugo Dwerryhouse, Roel Janssen, Collin Hall, Sarah Mannooch and Nigel Jones, all took part in the seminars designed to engage delegates in conversations surrounding key topics, facilitate peer networking and renew a sense of motivation.
“We are thrilled with the turnout this year” says Nikki Dorkings, General Manager of Kent County Agricultural Society. “The high level of engagement from both exhibitors and visitors made for a great event. It was fantastic to see so many people who are invested in improving farming, agriculture, and food production, come together to learn from each other, make connections and discover all the latest advancements in farming practices and equipment”.
Farm Expo, which is free to attend, is set to return to the Kent Showground in 2024 on 6th March for its fifth year. To find out more about this event, or how to get involved, visit www.kcas.org.uk/farm-expo/