Fruit Focus marks 40th anniversary with bold vision and new venue

Ticket registrations are now open as the event moves to a prestigious new home – Bradbourne House in Kent. 

The organisers explained that the move signifies more than just a change of scenery; 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 8th July, has been reimagined with a completely refreshed format that reflects the rapid technological and environmental shifts within the modern industry. 

Mario Caccamo, Niab’s CEO, said: “Forty years is a landmark achievement, and it reflects the resilience and constant evolution of the UK fruit sector. 

“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.” 

What’s on 

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.   

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, the organisers confirmed. 

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, its 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. 

New host, Karyn Hood, CEO of the East Malling Trust, added: “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.” 

Anniversary celebrations 

Highlights of the 40th-anniversary event include: 

• Live demonstrations: Real-world displays of autonomous equipment and robotics designed to solve labour shortages 

• Technical sessions: A series of new sessions and stages exploring the latest fruit research and hearing from leading experts and researchers 

• Anniversary celebrations: New events within the event to celebrate four decades of the fruit community and bring colleagues from across the industry together

• CPD opportunities: Attendees can once again collect BASIS and NRoSO points through attendance and dedicated Knowledge Trails. 

For more information, to register for tickets, or to book an exhibition stand, visit Fruit Focus webiste.

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