FRUIT FOCUS, the leading technical event for the fruit industry, is returning to NIAB’s East Malling Research, in Kent on July 17 next year, one week earlier than in previous years.

“The new date falls before the start of the school holidays and parliamentary recess," explained event director Jon Day. "Not only does this make it easier for visitors and exhibitors to attend, it also means we’re more able to secure the attendance of key politicians and industry legislators,”

With the event regularly attracting over 1200 growers and industry professionals, 46 of last years 115 exhibitors have already rebooked for 2019, including AHDB, Bayer, Berry Gardens, Haygrove, James Hutton, MorePeople, and Yara.

Berry Gardens communications manager Janine Hatfield said: “Fruit Focus is an important date in the Berry Gardens calendar, it’s the ideal time, midway through the British season, to catch up with customers, our growers and friends across the industry.”

Also returning to NIAB EMR on the same date is VinestoWines. Set within Fruit Focus, the viticulture-focused event brings together all those involved in the growing, production and distribution of UK wine. Mr Day added: “Fruit Focus is a unique opportunity for the UK fruit and viticulture industries to review the latest technological and scientific advances, and network with fellow professionals."