Britain’s forestry and arboriculture industries will gather at the Ragley Estate in Warwickshire next month for the 50th anniversary of the APF event.
The APF 2026 showcase puts machinery, technology and contracting skills at the centre of its three-day trade exhibition. Running from 24-26 September, it is expected to attract about 23,000 visitors and 320 exhibitors.
Organisers say around 95% of visitors will be trade professionals, underlining its importance as a marketplace for forestry, woodland management, arboriculture, fencing and grounds maintenance businesses.
More than £80m of machinery is expected to be represented, with of working equipment forming a major part of the event. Exhibitors range from machinery manufacturers and dealers to forestry organisations, equipment suppliers and professional services.
Working demonstrations
Live demonstrations will give contractors and woodland owners an opportunity to compare equipment under working conditions. The programme also includes competitions designed to showcase practical skills across the industry.
The UK Forwarder Driving Championships return, with competitors tackling a series of tasks using a John Deere 1110G forwarder. Drivers will have 20 minutes to complete the course and be judged on their performance. Other events include the Husqvarna World 25m Pole Climbing Championships, European Chainsaw Carving Championships and UK Open Fencing Championship. The Fencing Village will showcase materials and techniques through practical workshops.
For arborists, the Arb Worker Zone will cover climbing techniques, machinery, maintenance and business issues. Walk-in presentations will address subjects including plant health, biosecurity and becoming an approved contractor.
A separate Forest Worker Zone is aimed at contractors, tree surgeons and others working directly in woodland. Topics will include chainsaw maintenance, finance, training, health and safety and physical welfare. Traditional woodland crafts will also feature, alongside the return of axe throwing after a 22-year absence – promising to be a big draw for competitors and visitors alike.
APF 2026 is open from 9am-6pm on Thursday and Friday and 9am-5pm on Saturday. Advance one-day tickets cost £25, with children under 16 admitted free. Parking and show programmes are also free.
For full details, visit www.apfexhibition.co.uk