After a hugely successful return to Westonbirt in 2023, it’s nearly time for the ARB Show 2024. Here’s a look at what to expect. 

WHEN it returned in its own right in 2023, the ARB Show was back with a bang. For 2024’s edition, organisers are out to ensure the UK’s largest arboriculture-focused event is bigger and better than ever before. 

Thousands of showgoers and many of the biggest names in the industry will head to the National Arboretum next month for a celebration of all things tree care. With several product launches already teased – including from clothing manufacturer Solidur and woodchipper bigwig Timberwolf – and a wide variety of kit on display, it’s a two-day festival no arborist should miss. 

With Först (the event’s main sponsor again), Petzl, and Oregon Tool among the brands already signed up, it promises to be a fantastic few days at Westonbirt. And not only is it the 23rd ARB Show, it will also mark the 60th anniversary of the Arboricultural Association, the brains behind it all. 

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John Parker, the Association’s chief executive, said: “The ARB Show is our biggest single opportunity to bring together our industry and the public who have such a keen interest in trees. 

Forestry Journal: John Parker said the event is an opportunity to bring the world of arb together John Parker said the event is an opportunity to bring the world of arb together (Image: eA/JH)

“We look forward to welcoming this arb community of passionate people, so keen to support each other as professionals, learn, share and develop knowledge.”

As always, the ARB Show will consist of a strong mix of big names alongside emerging brands, highlighting just how quickly the arboriculture industry is evolving. Standout exhibits will include Honey Brothers’ ARB Worker Zone, which will be the main hub for practising arb activities taking place at the show. This popular attraction with practical demonstrations gives arborists the chance to try climbing kit, explore the latest techniques and have a go. 

Elsewhere, the Arborists’ Workshop talks at the Great Oak Hall will once again feature a range of top industry experts sharing knowledge on a variety of subjects.

Forestry Journal: Main sponsor Forst will once again demonstrate its range of machinery during the show. Main sponsor Forst will once again demonstrate its range of machinery during the show. (Image: eA/JH)

New for 2024 and to mark the AA’s significant milestone will be an Arb Evolutions Exhibit, celebrating how arboriculture has transformed across the last six decades. While details remain tightly guarded on the exhibit, it is set to show off the kit of yesteryear, as well as images of arb from back in the day. 

Guests can also enjoy the ARB Show Open climbing competition and the ARB Show Activity Zone. 

Forestry Journal: Guests can test themselves in a wide variety of events during the ARB Show, including knot tying. Guests can test themselves in a wide variety of events during the ARB Show, including knot tying. (Image: eA/JH)

Timberwolf will use the show to launch its TW 280FTR Hybrid woodchipper, and the firm’s sales and marketing director, Guy Marshlain, said: “Timberwolf recognises that visitors to the ARB Show reflect our core users and stakeholders – it is a must-attend show in the exhibition calendar for the company.  

“Based on the success of last year’s show, the Timberwolf team are really looking forward to attending this year as we will be showcasing even more products than usual.”  

Forestry Journal: Last year’s show saw the launch of EDER’s Power Climber. Last year’s show saw the launch of EDER’s Power Climber. (Image: eA/JH)

There will be several additions to 2023’s lineup of exhibitors. This includes FSI Stump Cutters – which recently established its own UK wing – and woodchipper developer Ohashi, now sold in the UK by TH White Machinery Imports. 

Bill Johnston, director of TH White, said: “We are thrilled to announce our debut appearance at this year’s ARB Show! With the positive reception Ohashi has garnered to date and the excitement surrounding our presence, we’re eager to showcase our products to the UK’s tree surgeons, contractors and landscapers.”

Forestry Journal: Vermeer used the 2023 ARB Show to demonstrate its machinery offering, and 2024 should be no different. Vermeer used the 2023 ARB Show to demonstrate its machinery offering, and 2024 should be no different. (Image: eA/JH)

Lee Hatton, sales director for FSI Stump Cutters UK, added: “We’ll be showing a wide range of our equipment, from pedestrian stump grinders through to larger diesel machines, along with some of our hydraulic-powered portfolio.” 

Erin Leland, director of brand marketing for returning exhibitor Notch, said: “We are so excited to showcase all the new Notch products in the Honey Brothers stand at the ARB Show. This will be the first time many people will see our new Swinger, Magneato, and Modular Chainsaw Lanyard, but we’ll also be announcing more new products at the show.” 

Like previous years, essentialARB will be both exhibiting at the event and covering it across our channels.