UK fruit event Fruit Focus is marking its 40th anniversary this year not just by looking back, but by moving forward with a major relocation and a new vision for the future. Ticket registration is now open as the event moves to a new home - Bradbourne House in Kent.
The move is more than just a change of scenery for the organizers, it represents a comprehensive renewal of the event's mission. From its roots as a technical gathering four decades ago, Fruit Focus 2026, which takes place on July 8, has been reimagined with a completely refreshed format that reflects the rapid technological and environmental shifts within the modern industry.
"Forty years is a landmark achievement, and it reflects the resilience and constant evolution of the UK fruit sector," says Mario Caccamo, Niab CEO.
"While we celebrate four decades of history, our focus remains firmly on the next forty years. Niab is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with Fruit Focus at the new Bradbourne House site, where we will showcase the world-class research and precision technology that will define the future of sustainable food production."
© Fruit Focus
The move to Bradbourne House increases the footprint of the event, adding three seminar stages and a broader range of exhibitors. More than 1,500 visitors and 150 exhibitors are expected to join the event in 2026.
Bradbourne House is a historic site and a valued part of the East Malling Trust Estate. In 2026, The East Malling Trust will continue its implementation of their Science & Impact Strategy 2025-2030. Within this framework, the East Malling Trust aims to aid in a thriving and resilient UK horticulture sector by investing in the East Malling campus, developing a strong collaborative environment and assisting in the promotion of research and innovation in UK horticulture.
© Fruit Focus
This year's Fruit Focus event has a renewed focus on technical content, ensuring growers and processors from across the UK have access to the most relevant agronomic advice, business information, and scientific breakthroughs. 2026 will be defined by key industry partnerships and a significantly bolstered educational programme. In addition to the Fruit Forum, the event will introduce new dedicated stages covering agronomy, the expanding needs of the viticulture sector and post-harvest: picking, packing & packaging.
Visitors can also expect a renewed version of the content previously presented on Niab's specialist research tours. Instead of Niab facility tours, Niab researchers will present their latest R&D in morning and afternoon technical sessions and in special talks on their stand. These talks will offer first-hand looks at precision management, sustainable pest control, and the latest in farming technology and systems.
© Fruit Focus
New host, Karyn Hood CEO of the East Malling Trust adds: "We want to ensure growers can continue to learn about the work we are doing to support the industry. As the fruit sector remains at the cutting edge of food production, Fruit Focus 2026 hosted at Bradbourne House stands as the essential meeting point for those looking to invest in the next 40 years of British growing."
The 40th-anniversary Fruit Focus event promises an engaging mix of innovation, learning, and celebration for the fruit industry. Attendees will experience live demonstrations showcasing autonomous equipment and robotics designed to address labour shortages, offering a hands-on look at the technology shaping the sector's future. A series of technical sessions across multiple stages will explore the latest fruit research, giving participants the chance to hear directly from leading experts and researchers. Special anniversary celebrations have been introduced, creating opportunities for industry colleagues to connect and mark four decades of growth and collaboration within the fruit community. In addition, the event continues to support professional development, with attendees able to earn BASIS and NRoSO points through participation and dedicated Knowledge Trails.
For more information:
Fruit Focus
Tel: +44 (0) 1158714888
fruitfocusevent.co.uk/
