What's Happening?
The Arboricultural Association (AA) has announced the cancellation of the ARB Show for 2026. This decision comes as the association plans to undertake a significant overhaul of its CRM and CMS systems, which will require substantial staff resources. The ARB Show,
traditionally held every May at Westonbirt, is a key event in the tree-care calendar. However, feedback from exhibitors and attendees has prompted the AA to consider changes to the event's scheduling and format. The association aims to explore a biennial schedule and improve the geographical spread of events. The cancellation is intended to allow the AA to focus on its Systems Project, which is expected to enhance user experience significantly.
Why It's Important?
The cancellation of the ARB Show 2026 is significant as it reflects the Arboricultural Association's strategic shift towards modernizing its operations and improving member engagement. By prioritizing the Systems Project, the AA aims to deliver a better user experience, which could enhance its service delivery and member satisfaction. This move may also set a precedent for other organizations in the industry to reassess the purpose and frequency of trade shows in the digital age. The decision could impact exhibitors and attendees who rely on the ARB Show for networking and showcasing innovations, potentially prompting them to seek alternative platforms.
What's Next?
The Arboricultural Association plans to use the time freed up by the cancellation to support a broader range of external and regional events, particularly those focused on contracting. The association also intends to develop more training courses, which could benefit its members by providing additional learning opportunities. As the AA shapes the future of the ARB Show, it will seek input from its members, ensuring that their views are considered in the planning process. The successful implementation of the Systems Project will be crucial in determining the association's ability to deliver on these plans.
