SALTEX is set to strengthen its acclaimed Learning LIVE programme for 2026 with the introduction of a series of specialist industry takeovers on the Spotlight Stage, giving visitors access to even more targeted education and expert insight from leading organisations across the grounds management, amenity, sports turf and landscaping sectors.
The new takeover sessions will shine a spotlight on some of the industry's most significant and rapidly evolving topics, including synthetic turf management, weed, pest and disease management, and landscaping best practice.
Designed to deliver practical advice, thought leadership and the latest industry research, the sessions will see leading organisations curate dedicated programmes tailored to the challenges and opportunities facing professionals across the sector.
Among the organisations already confirmed is the Sports and Play Construction Association (SAPCA), which will host two specialist sessions exploring end-of-life synthetic pitch recycling and the latest trends in player-surface interaction research.
The Amenity Forum will also take over the Spotlight Stage, leading discussions on safeguarding the future of amenity protection and developing strategic approaches to integrated pest, weed and disease management.
The Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) will share expert guidance on business protection through professionalism and explore the importance of standards with a session titled Raising Standards - Why BS 7533-102 Matters.
Further takeover sessions and industry partners will be announced in the coming months creating a diverse and comprehensive programme that reflects the latest priorities, challenges and innovations across the sector.
Ian Graham, Chair of the Amenity Forum, said: "Events such as SALTEX provide a valuable opportunity to bring together practitioners, policymakers, suppliers and industry leaders to share knowledge, discuss emerging challenges and explore practical solutions.
"The Amenity Forum is pleased to be partnering with SALTEX to facilitate discussions on safeguarding the future of amenity protection and the development of strategic approaches to integrated pest, weed and disease management. These are issues that affect organisations across the sector and it is important that we continue to promote collaboration, best practice and informed decision-making.
"Visitors attending the sessions can expect thought-provoking discussion, practical insights and an opportunity to hear a range of perspectives on the future direction of amenity management."
Richard Shaw, CEO of SAPCA, said: "SALTEX provides an important platform for bringing the industry together to share knowledge, tackle emerging challenges and drive continuous improvement. This year SAPCA are delighted to be taking over the Spotlight Stage to deliver sessions that address two significant areas for our sector: the latest research into player-surface interaction and the responsible management of end-of-life synthetic turf through SAPCA's Recycling Protocol.
"By sharing practical insight and the latest thinking, we hope delegates leave with valuable knowledge they can apply within their own organisations while continuing to raise standards across the industry."
Learning LIVE remains the largest free-to-attend educational programme of its kind within the sector and continues to be one of the key reasons visitors attend SALTEX each year.
Bringing together industry experts, practitioners and innovators, the programme offers unparalleled access to professional development opportunities and the latest thinking, all under one roof.
As industry challenges evolve and best practice continues to advance, SALTEX is enhancing Learning LIVE to provide visitors with more focused, specialist content delivered by the organisations at the forefront of their respective fields.
Register for free and be in with a chance of winning a Cramer bundle worth over £4,500: saltex.org.uk.
