In an era of video calls and LinkedIn posts, it is tempting to think digital reach is everything. But horticulture is a tactile, relationship-driven industry, and the traditional buyers’ event format of Four Oaks continues to prove that nothing beats being together in person.
As the horticulture industry looks ahead to the 2026 season, results from the latest Four Oaks Trade Show exhibitor research confirm its status as an essential fixture on the calendar. Some 80% of exhibitors reported high satisfaction levels, while 70% have already rebooked their stands. Momentum is building towards 2–3 September at Four Oaks Nurseries, Cheshire.
Legacy, community and evolution
The show’s distinctive atmosphere is rooted in its location at Four Oaks Nurseries, where trained nursery staff and local helpers work alongside long-standing partners. This blend of professional delivery and community spirit resulted in a 100% staff satisfaction rating at the 2025 show.
As organisers develop the event for 2026, they remain clear that they will not rest on their laurels, with a continued focus on protecting what makes Four Oaks a “special place” in the industry’s history.
Plans include enhanced facilities, such as a new catering offering foods from around the world, improved toilet provision and better footfall flow. The programme will also feature technical seminars and expert panels on topics such as peat-free growing, automation and new technology delivered by HortWeek the show's official media partner.
Driving real business results
Four Oaks continues to deliver where it matters most: commercial outcomes. The 2025 survey shows exhibitors’ primary objectives were largely met.
- Meeting customers: More than 83% achieved their objective of meeting existing customers and strengthening relationships.
- Lead generation: Over 93% attended to find new contacts, and 80% successfully generated leads at the event.
- Quality counts: Some 70% rated lead quality as good to excellent, underlining the show’s ability to attract a highly relevant, trade-focused audience of decision-makers.
Exhibiting at Four Oaks acts as a high-performing sales channel, offering strong productivity at a competitive cost compared with other events and marketing activities. Over two days, it is difficult to match the opportunity to reach customers, suppliers, partners, press and potential employees in one place. The show’s international profile also ensures strong visibility among overseas suppliers, alongside visitors from across the UK.
Visitors value the show as highly as exhibitors. Some 85% of attendees ‘definitely’ or ‘probably’ plan to return in 2026, while 95% would recommend the show to colleagues and peers, describing it as “a must” for the horticulture industry and the “best UK show for networking”. Four Oaks “remains a primary destination for meeting face to face with suppliers in a central UK location”.
Secure your space now
With 80% of exhibitors already confirmed or definitely returning for 2026, prime stand locations are filling fast. Whether your aim is to launch new products or strengthen brand profile among influential buyers, Four Oaks offers a direct route to the heart of the UK horticultural market in a cost-effective format.
Do not miss the industry’s favourite trade show.
Book your stand for Four Oaks 2026 and join the 93% of exhibitors who left with high-quality leads.