The ARB Show is returning to Westonbirt for the first time since 2019. Here’s a look at what to expect from arboriculture’s premier event.
AFTER several COVID-enforced cancellations and one joint venture with the APF Exhibition, the ARB Show is finally back in its own right – and promises to be bigger and better than ever before.
The National Arboretum will host arboriculture’s premier event between May 12 and 13, giving arborists and tree surgeons the chance to see the latest kit and equipment on offer from some of the sector’s biggest names.
With Timberwolf, GreenMech and Petzl among the exhibitors already signed up, it promises to be a fantastic few days, having last taken place at Westonbirt in 2019. Since then, the pandemic put paid to the show in 2020 (and later 2021), with it eventually running concurrently at the APF in Warwickshire last year.
READ MORE: APF 2022: Taking a closer look at the Arb Show as arb chiefs hail event
But for its 22nd edition, it is back to business as normal at the ARB Show.
John Parker, CEO of organiser the Arboricultural Association (AA), said: “We’re thrilled to be back at Westonbirt.
"The ARB Show is our biggest single opportunity to bring together our industry and the public who have such a keen interest in trees. These in-person gatherings are one of the keys to building a vibrant tree care community, with opportunities to share ideas and experiences.”
Not only will the show host its much-loved Arb Worker Zone, Arborists’ Workshop and UK Open Climbing Competition, but guests will be able to take part in knot tying and throwline contests.
A new demonstration arena from main sponsor Först will give arborists the chance to see a range of machines in action from some of the industry’s biggest brands. As well as machinery manufacturers, Buxtons, the Forestry Commission, and Sorbus International will be among the exhibitors.
Nicola Shepherd, UK marketing manager at Först, said: “The show is an important date in the arboriculture calendar and gives the industry the chance to come together and celebrate all things arb, as well as showcase new products and innovations and we’re extremely proud to be supporting that.”
Surrounded by one of the most important tree collections in the world, the ARB Show 2023 has a new focus on interactive attractions. The Arb Worker Zone – sponsored by
Honey Brothers – gives arborists the chance to get impartial advice about climbing kit and techniques or have a go with daily practical demonstrations. The Arborists’ Workshop returns with top industry experts sharing knowledge on a range of subjects.
Martin Lucas, GreenMech sales director, said “GreenMech is very pleased to have the ARB Show back in the calendar.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to meet a broad cross-section of people from the industry and provides a great platform for us to showcase our EVO range, and the developments we have made since we launched the EVO 165 at the last ARB Show in 2019.”
A spokesperson for Global Machinery Solutions said guests would have plenty to see on its stand.
They said: “The stand will feature the best-selling Bandit Industries SG-40 stump grinder, Norwood Sawmills LumberPro HD36v2, Frontier Sawmills OS27, the Pronar MR-15 6” towable chipper and a selection of Jo Beau products, including the latest offering, the radio remote B37-100 stump grinder, which will be making its UK show debut.”
READ MORE: ARB Show 2019 round-up
At a time with tree planting a focus for many beyond the sector but arboriculture still misunderstood (or, at worst, not known about at all), the Tree Care Forum will take place alongside the ARB Show, featuring talks and activities on the importance of the tree care community for the general public.
Speaking to essentialARB at the APF, John said of arb’s perception: “Arboriculture is in a good position, but it’s not as strong as it should be.
"Everyone is talking about trees and tree planting, and people understand trees are an important thing.
@forestryjournal "We need to think in tree time!" John Parker of the Arboriculture Association gives his take on the current state of the industry #tree #arb #forestry ♬ original sound - Forestry Journal
"But we are still trying to convince them that if they want them to do what they want, we need a strong, healthy arboriculture profession behind it.”
Since 2017, AA chiefs say the ARB Show has attracted an average of 7,000 visitors. Other features to look out for at the event include a ‘new and improved showground layout’.
Tickets for the ARB Show sponsored by Först are now available to book.
Visit: trees.org.uk/The-ARB-Show
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