The countdown is on to the largest Aquaculture UK ever
The UK’s leading aquaculture show is gearing up for a bigger than ever exhibition, which is expected to attract record crowds from around the world.
Aquaculture UK, to be held from 14-15 May in Aviemore, Scotland, has expanded to accommodate overwhelming demand for exhibition space at what has become the highlight in the aquaculture sector’s calendar.
The biennial show provides a platform for all the latest developments in the industry over the past two years and brings together the entire aquaculture community for two days of business and networking in the Scottish Highlands.
Along with advances in farm infrastructure, predator netting, feeding systems, and humane harvesting, Aquaculture UK visitors will be able to see first-hand the most up-to-date technology that is transforming the way fish are farmed.
The exhibition offers a chance to engage with forward-thinking companies and scientific organisations exploring new frontiers – in artificial intelligence, genetic selection, data capture, and more – to deliver ever more sophisticated solutions to the challenges of farming.
Among this year’s first-time exhibitors are marine engineering innovators AAE Technologies; ocean robotics experts RAD Propulsion; the recently integrated Agri-Tech Centres; and the University of Cambridge.
Also new this year are several national and regional delegations, including the Chile Aqua & Food Tech Cluster, the Canada Pavilion, and Killybegs Marine Cluster, while the Danish Pavilion returns with an exciting display of technical expertise.
The big-name suppliers that are the backbone of the sector will be out in force again, covering the spectrum of the supply chain, from feed to pharmaceuticals, and from biomass cameras to boats and barges.
Jamie Young, Sales Director at Gael Force Group, said: “We have always found Aquaculture UK to be a very sociable trade show. The whole occasion manages to strike a balance between relaxed atmosphere and an environment where attendees can get a better idea of the quality of our products. We can’t wait to welcome visitors and continue to build stronger relationships in Aviemore this May.”
Meanwhile, Kilburnie based W&J Knox, building on 246 years of design, supply, and servicing of nets and Lift-Up systems, has further enhanced its diverse range of ideas and products, working with main supplier Garware Technical Fibres and the technical teams at Selstad in Norway.
“Knox has recruited a strong team of engineers with a range of disciplines with the capability of making the life of our customers much easier,” said Managing Director Finlay Oman. “Diversity and high capacity have always been key to our success, with the company continuously evolving.
“Please drop by our stand and ask for more information – about anti-fouling coatable HDPE netting, a refined net interface system, Lift-Up, and recycling routes for netting materials.”
For the first time, Aquaculture UK will host an “innovation theatre”, designed to showcase the fast-changing technology driving the sector.
In a tent just outside the main exhibition hall, the theatre will feature 30-minute presentations, which are open to anyone with an innovative idea or invention to promote.
Companies lined up so far include RS Aqua; the University of Stirling; Global Underwater Hub; Vonin; Benchmark; Umitron; UKRI – Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council; Seneye; and Moredun Scientific.
There will also be breakfast briefings across the two days, from 8.30-9.30am, and a full conference programme, to be announced soon.
Cheri Arvonio, Event Director at show organiser Diversified Communications, said Aquaculture UK offered unrivalled access to the people and products shaping the future of aquaculture.
“We have increased the size of the show this year, with 30 additional exhibitors, to reflect the growth of the sector as new technology and services enter the space.
“As the countdown to May begins, excitement is building already for what promises to be a truly bumper show.
“We can’t wait to open the doors to Aquaculture UK 2024 and welcome the aquaculture community to our biggest exhibition yet.”
Aquaculture UK, which is free to attend, will be held at the Macdonald Resort in Aviemore, Scotland, from May 14-15, 2024. Show opening times are: Tuesday, May 14, 9.30am-6pm (including social event); Wednesday, May 15, 9.30am – 4pm. To find out more about Aquaculture UK visit www.aquacultureuk.com.