The South West Growers Show (SWGS) returns on Wednesday, 7th October 2026, marking a historic milestone as it celebrates 50 years of serving the regional and national horticulture community. Established in 1974 and holding its first commercial exhibition in Exeter in 1976, SWGS has grown into the premier trade gathering for commercial plant growers, trade buyers, local authority green space managers, and landscape architects across the United Kingdom. Hosted at The Matford Centre in Exeter, this landmark edition brings together over a hundred specialist suppliers and thousands of industry professionals under one roof.
Managed by Kernock Park Plants Ltd on behalf of South West Growers Show Ltd, the exhibition maintains its dedicated focus on supporting regional production while showcasing global horticultural advancements. The 2026 show offers a comprehensive look at the future of commercial cultivation, sustainable land management, and nursery retail strategies.
Exhibitor Showcases and Product Launches
At the heart of the South West Growers Show is an extensive trade floor showcasing new plant varieties, advanced machinery, and sustainable growing technology. Attendees can evaluate live plant material, compare growing media options, and explore automated irrigation systems alongside eco-friendly packaging alternatives.
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Plant Introductions: Nursery exhibitors from across the UK will unveil new nursery stock, seasonal bedding plants, perennial lines, and hardy nursery stock tailored for commercial retail.
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Specialist Equipment and Supplies: Discover the latest developments in polytunnels, environmental control systems, potting machinery, biological control products, and growing media formulations.
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Retail and Landscaping Services: Explore point-of-sale solutions, labeling systems, retail display fixtures, and landscaping materials designed to boost garden center margins and installation efficiency.
Networking and Industry Insights
Beyond product displays, the event provides an unmissable face-to-face networking hub for professionals across the supply chain. Nursery owners can negotiate directly with wholesale suppliers, garden center managers can curate their upcoming stock collections, and landscape designers can secure reliable sourcing pathways for high-volume contract projects.
The 50th-anniversary gathering highlights the resilient evolution of UK horticulture. Discussions throughout the day will address key industry challenges, such as peat-free growing transitions, labor automation, climate resilience, and pest management regulations. Visitors will gain actionable practical knowledge to optimize crop production and business performance in an evolving market landscape.
Convenient Venue Facilities and Access
Situated at The Matford Centre in Marsh Barton, Exeter, the show provides exceptional accessibility for visitors traveling from across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, and further afield. The venue features extensive free parking, indoor exhibition halls, on-site catering options, and seamless access from major transport arteries including the M5 motorway and Exeter St Davids railway station. Admission is completely free for registered trade visitors, making it a cost-effective professional development opportunity for commercial operators.
Whether you are looking to discover new plant collections, upgrade operational machinery, or strengthen your industry contacts, the 2026 South West Growers Show delivers an essential, single-day trade experience in the heart of Exeter.
Key Event Highlights
50th Anniversary Golden Jubilee Celebration,
Latest Commercial Plant Introductions,
Specialist Horticultural Equipment Showcase,
Direct Supplier and Retailer Networking,
Free Professional Visitor Entry
Venue & Location Info
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