According to the Grounds Management Association GMA who organise the event, exhibitors were able to make connections that could deliver substantial partnerships and collaborations across borders. With over 7,300 visitors, the show reaffirmed its position as the must-attend exhibition for the entire grounds management industry.
Revenue generated from SALTEX is reinvested directly into grounds management , helping to fuel growth and advance industry standards. As a not-for-profit organisation, the GMA subsidises memberships and training, while also offering vital resources like independent advice and information.
Its annual event at the NEC Birmingham showcases latest innovations in grounds management technology with 30+ new product launches in 2024.
Attendees included senior decision-makers from top flight Premiership football clubs like Liverpool , Chelsea and Manchester City , as well as representatives from Wembley, Wimbledon, Twickenham (Allianz Arena) and the 2025 Open Championship venue Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland.
The presence of over 130 educational institutions (including universities, colleges and independent schools) and almost 100 local authorities further emphasised SALTEX’s importance as a key networking platform for the grounds management sector.
It saw a rise in younger visitors, with over 20% under the age of 30. The increase shows the strong appeal to the next generation in grounds management.
Beyond training and membership, SALTEX revenue funds several impactful GMA programmes. The annual Industry Awards celebrate excellence in grounds care, bringing recognition to professionals and volunteers across the sector. The annual #GroundsWeek campaign, reaching over 18 million online in 2024, promotes the contributions of grounds staff and encourages new talent to join the field.
Geoff Webb, CEO at the Grounds Management Association, said: “The success of SALTEX 2024 reaffirms its role as an essential meeting ground for the global grounds management community. This year, SALTEX continued to attract a broad audience from across the globe, which shows the international relevance of the exhibition as the industry’s hub for knowledge sharing and innovation. It was also clear to see the significant investment from exhibitors in their stands and setups, with a large number of exhibitors choosing SALTEX as the destination to launch their brand-new products. “
Looking ahead, SALTEX will return to its traditional November slot next year, taking place on 12-13 November 2025. The event will also relocate to Halls 17, 18 and 19 at the NEC, introducing a refreshed layout designed to enhance the experience for both visitors and exhibitors.