APF Exhibition 2026: Professional Development and Industry Insight for Our Arboriculture Team

Posted on: October 7th 2026    •    Posted in: Arboriculture

Our arboriculture team recently travelled to Warwickshire to attend the APF Exhibition, one of the UK’s leading events for the arboriculture, forestry and woodland industries. The APF originated in 1976 from the Association of Professional Foresters but today is more widely know as the Arb Show.

For professional arborists, keeping up to date with developments across the industry is an important part of maintaining high standards of safety, technical skill and workmanship. The APF Exhibition provides an opportunity to step away from day-to-day work and see the latest machinery, climbing equipment, tools and innovations first-hand.

With manufacturers, suppliers and industry professionals all brought together in one location, APF offers a valuable insight into where the arboriculture industry is heading.

Live demonstrations provide the chance to see new equipment in operation, while discussions with manufacturers and specialists allow our team to ask technical questions and understand how different products could be applied in their everyday work.

Meeting suppliers face-to-face is also an important part of building and maintaining strong industry relationships. It allows our team to compare equipment, discuss new developments and make informed decisions about the tools and machinery we use.

Continuing professional development (CPD) is an important part of working within a skilled arboriculture team. The industry is continually evolving, with changes in equipment, technology, safety practices and working techniques.

Attending events such as APF gives our arborists the opportunity to broaden their knowledge, share experiences with other professionals and bring new ideas back to the business. Ultimately, this helps us continue to provide a professional, safe and technically skilled service to our customers across Suffolk and the surrounding area.

And, of course, there was also the opportunity to look at some new kit for the team!

The visit also had a competitive element, with Rob, James and Ben taking part in the Husqvarna World 25m Pole Climbing Championships.

Pole climbing competitions test an arborist’s speed, technique, control and climbing ability, putting many of the skills used within professional tree surgery to the test in a competitive environment.

A particular congratulations goes to Rob, who achieved an impressive second place in the 25m pole climbing category.

For the team, APF was a valuable few days of learning, networking and seeing the latest developments within the arboriculture industry. They returned to Suffolk with new knowledge, new ideas and plenty to discuss — as well as a few ideas for the next piece of kit to add to the workshop.