Now in its second year, the free to attend one-day Farm Expo, organised by the Kent County Agricultural Society, has already established itself as a key date in the agricultural calendar and is expecting to see an increase on last year’s footfall of over 2,500 visitors.
Taking place on Wednesday 4 March at the Kent Showground, Detling, Farm Expo welcomes visitors from across all sectors of farming, horticulture and viticulture, providing them with the chance to see the latest specialist machinery, efficient equipment and innovative technology.
“Far more than just a machinery show, Farm Expo provides an opportunity for farmers and growers to talk to a diverse range of experts in rural business. From professional service providers, such as Brachers, to marketing and brand development experts, like Oak Creative, the one-day show is a one-stop-shop for anyone looking to make the most from their agricultural enterprise,” said Meghan Rice-Wilson, trade and sponsorship coordinator for Farm Expo. “We’re expanding the show even further this year to make it an event for all aspects of farming and agribusiness.”
Held in March, at a time when most people are thinking about making changes, buying new machinery and getting everything ready for the season ahead, over 100 trade stands will be on-hand to discuss and advise on everything from seed and agronomy requirements, to financial and legal support, diversification projects, construction needs, land sales and acquisition and of course, tractors and in-field technology.
Alongside the array of exhibitors, Farm Expo will also play host to networking events and seminars, which have been designed to help farmers and growers take a proactive approach towards long-term, future opportunities within farming, diversification and rural enterprise.
“The Kent County Agricultural Society is committed to supporting the local farming community in every way possible,” said Lucy Hegarty, Kent County Agricultural Society manager. “As a charity, we have specific commitments to furthering education, research and development in agriculture, horticulture and, as the county sees more vineyards planted, viticulture too. While the annual Kent County Show we host enables us to reach out to the general public, we launched Farm Expo to help us to drill down and focus on what really matters most to our society members and those working day-to-day in farming and rural sectors.”
For the society’s chairman James Forknall, who also operates a well-respected agricultural contractor business, Farm Expo is the ideal place for farmers to keep one step ahead of the latest machinery and diversification trends.
“The show is a great place to network, particularly for those who may be considering making big changes in the year ahead,” said James. “Knowing what new technology and machinery is available is vital for any farmers looking to make operations as efficient and easy as possible. Diversification will also a play huge part of the 2020 show and for those looking to do something different with their land, Farm Expo is the prime opportunity to speak to land agents. Viticulture, for instance, is becoming an increasingly popular option for many, giving farmers the chance to lease or sell their land while preserving the make-up of the rural landscape, and there will be many exhibitors on hand to discuss this growing sector.”
As well as looking forward to catching up with fellow farmers, James is also hoping to see a more positive outlook on British agriculture at the upcoming event.
“By March we will have more of an idea of what will be happening with regards to Brexit and I am anticipating a brighter future ahead,” said James. “The first Farm Expo was very well received by all who attended and we’re expecting this year’s event to be even bigger and better. It has always been our aim to grow the offering to ensure that the show is the biggest event of its kind in the South East. Last year it attracted a huge number of people and I am hoping to see plenty of farmers return to the showground again.”
