Marking its landmark 80th edition, this year’s theme - “Rooted in History. Driving Progress.” - celebrates SALTEX’s rich heritage whilst reinforcing its continued role at the forefront of the industry.
Originally founded in 1938 as the National Association of Groundsmen Annual Exhibition at the Hurlingham Club, SALTEX has grown alongside the sector it serves and remains a true reflection of its evolving needs today.
Organised by the Grounds Management Association (GMA), the exhibition brings together thousands of professionals and volunteers each year and is widely recognised as Europe’s premier exhibition for grounds management.
Visitors from across sport, education, local authorities, landscaping, estates management, contracting and the wider amenity sector attend SALTEX to discover the latest innovations, source practical solutions, and connect with peers from the industry.
The 80th edition will feature hundreds of leading brands at the NEC. Visitors can expect to see cutting-edge technology, exclusive product launches and practical insights from the renowned Learning LIVE programme - the largest free education offer in the sector. Delivered by industry experts, all sessions are CPD-accredited and designed to provide, clear, actionable guidance for day-to-day roles.
SALTEX 2026 will also deliver its most hands-on experience to date, with more machinery on display and an extended programme of live demonstrations, giving visitors greater opportunity to see equipment in action and make informed decisions.
Following its successful introduction in 2025, free parking will once again be available to all attendees. Delivered in partnership with the Football Foundation, this means we are able to provide more people with the opportunity to attend SALTEX.
Whether working in sport, education, public spaces or commercial environments, SALTEX equips attendees with ideas, inspiration, and practical solutions they can apply immediately. Attendance also supports the future of the industry, helping to fund the GMA’s on-going work in raising the standards and supporting the workforce.
Sarah Hunter, Head of Events at the Grounds Management Association, said: "SALTEX 2026 marks a major milestone as we celebrate our 80th exhibition, continuing to bring the industry together. This year’s show is about recognising that legacy, while firmly looking to the future.
"We’re focused on creating a more immersive, hands-on experience than ever before. Visitors will be able to get closer to machinery, see new products in action across the halls, and benefit from expanded live demonstrations to give people more opportunity to experience equipment in a real, practical way.
"Alongside this, Learning LIVE will continue to provide free, high-quality education, helping people build skills and take valuable insights they back into their roles."
Geoff Webb, CEO of the Grounds Management Association, added: "Reaching the 80th edition of SALTEX is a proud moment for the GMA and the wider grounds management industry. It underlines the importance of coming together to share knowledge, raise standards and drive progress.
"SALTEX has always evolved with the sector, and 2026 will be no exception - with an even stronger focus on practical learning and hands-on engagement. Importantly, SALTEX plays a key role in supporting the future of the industry through the work of the GMA."
Join thousands of grounds professionals and volunteers at SALTEX 2026. Registration is free and now open at www.saltex.org.uk.
