Sarah Cunningham, the Grounds Management Association’s director – commercial and events, speaks to The Landscaper about the role of the event and the innovations visitors can expect this year.

“Saltex 2025 is shaping up to be our most dynamic and engaging show yet,” Sarah states. “Every year we evolve based on direct feedback from visitors and exhibitors. We listen carefully to what the industry wants and that shapes how we build the event.”
The industry itself is constantly moving forward, she continues, “and Saltex reflects that too. Visitors will notice a stronger sense of interaction and discovery.
We’ve worked with the Football Foundation to provide free parking, following feedback that costs were a barrier for some visitors, to make the show more accessible than ever before”.
New this year is The Workshop, a hands-on learning zone delivering practical demonstrations and interactive sessions led by industry specialists Tom Stidder and Tom Spencer. “It’s all about bringing theory to life,” Sarah says.
The Arcade is new too – “a fun, interactive space to make networking and learning more engaging with a relaxed, social atmosphere.”
Learning LIVE returns with a refreshed programme of expert-led sessions. “Celebrity guest James Haskell will deliver an inspiring talk and a live DJ set in The Clubhouse. Expanding the GMA NextGen programme gives early-career grounds professionals even more visibility and opportunities.
“While bringing more energy and even stronger visitor experience, Saltex stays true to its purpose as the show by the industry, for the industry,” Sarah notes.

New zones and focus areas
“We’re introducing several exciting developments this year,” she reveals.The Workshop is a key addition, offering practical, hands-on demonstrations where visitors can see techniques and turfcare solutions in action.
“Led by respected industry figures such as Tom Stidder, it’s a space for live learning that complements the educational sessions of Learning LIVE.”
The Arcade adds another layer of interactivity, Sarah points out, “making it easier for people to connect in a more informal and engaging way”.
Meanwhile, the Community Sports Zone continues to grow as a major destination for clubs and volunteers to meet leading suppliers and manufacturers including Campey Turf Care Systems, Dennis, Sisis, Iseki and GreenTek.
Positioned alongside the GMA Hub, the zone gives visitors direct access to national governing bodies such as the Football Foundation, ECB, RFU and RFL – “the chance for them to discuss specific support, training and development opportunities.
“We’re also introducing the Football Foundation Grant Funding Desk – a one-stop hub where clubs can gain advice on securing grants and funding for grassroots pitches and facilities. It’s a vital new resource for those looking to grow and maintain their sites, backed by expert guidance”.
This year, ‘play’ exhibitors showcase latest equipment for public playgrounds and community spaces, Sarah says, to give local authorities the chance to explore innovations across both sport and recreational facilities.
“The Clubhouse returns with more structure and energy, including sport-specific meet-ups and the NextGen takeover on both days. Happy Hour and a live DJ set from James Haskell on day one gives visitors a chance to chill.”

Learning and CPD opportunities
Education remains at the heart of the show. “One of the key reasons people return year after year,” Sarah states. “The Learning LIVE programme features a packed schedule of seminars and practical sessions, all led by respected experts and practitioners.”
Each session is designed to provide “real-world, actionable takeaways”, she continues. “Topics cover everything from turf management and environmental sustainability to leadership and innovation. Every Learning LIVE session is accredited for CPD points.
There’s more interactive and collaborative formats, “encouraging open dialogue and shared learning”. Combined with areas such as The Workshop, “visitors will have even more opportunities to see best practice in action and to take away insights they can immediately apply in their work”.

Building connections
Saltex has always been the meeting place for the entire grounds management community, Sarah points out, “from grassroots clubs and local authorities to professional stadiums and international venues. Every element of the show is designed to encourage connection”.
The GMA Hub gives visitors the chance to meet and talk directly with national governing bodies and associations, while The Clubhouse provides an informal social environment for genuine networking. “Opportunities to connect are everywhere,” Sarah says.
“We’re also seeing growing collaboration across different areas of the sector. Schools learning from stadium grounds teams, clubs working with councils and manufacturers sharing innovation with grassroots volunteers.”
After Hours returns this year, with speakers, exhibitors and visitors invited to join the GMA at The Atrium Pub (opposite Hall 6 in the NEC) straight from the show floor at 5pm on day one.

Cutting edge event
“Professionals and volunteers come to see the latest products and hear from the best in the business. With hundreds of industry-leading brands, expert-led education, hands-on demonstrations and a packed programme of networking events, Saltex remains Europe’s cutting-edge show for the sector,” says Sarah.
“But what really makes Saltex stand out is the community behind it,” she concludes. “The show is by the industry, for the industry, with every surplus from the event reinvested directly back into the sector through the work of the Grounds Management Association. That purpose gives the show a unique sense of authenticity and value.”