Record turn-out predicted for 'bigger, better' Aquaculture UK
Registration opens as trade organisers prepare to host trade show in Glasgow for first time
Registration is now open for trade show Aquaculture UK, which is expected to attract record crowds from around the world to its new home in Glasgow.
The free-to-attend event, which takes place from June 16-17 at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC), has moved from its long-term base in Aviemore to Glasgow to accommodate growing demand for exhibition space and provide easy access for exhibitors and visitors.
The biennial show provides a platform for all the latest developments in the industry and brings together the aquaculture community for two days of business and networking opportunities.
Along with insights into AI-powered smart farms, alternative farming systems, advances in genetic selection, data capture, optimised feeding, and more, the exhibition offers a chance to engage with forward-thinking companies and scientific organisations transforming the way fish are farmed.
Among this year’s first-time exhibitors is Scotland-based Salar Pursuits, which has developed the Smoltscreen, a permeable lining for net pens that protects salmon against lice, jellyfish and algal blooms.
Other first-timers include OptoScale, which supplies real-time measurement of fish weight and condition with its bioscope technology; and Oceanbox, a multi-talented team delivering ocean intelligence to help reduce aquaculture’s environmental impact.
Also new this year are national delegations from Norway, exhibiting the seafood nation’s supply chain, and Ireland. They will join the Chile Pavilion, the Canada Pavilion, and the Danish Pavilion, returning again with a display of Denmark’s technical expertise.
Key suppliers to the Scottish sector will be in Glasgow to showcase the full spectrum of fish farming equipment and services, from pens and nets to boats and barges, from feed to pharmaceuticals, and from biomass cameras to automated processing systems.
Jamie Young, sales director at Inverness-based Gael Force Group, said: “Aquaculture UK 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 Glasgow this June.”
Alison Holden, logistics manager at Bonar Bridge-based road and sea fish carrier Migdale Transport, said Aquaculture UK “is a great platform for us to meet our customers and discuss future plans for the years ahead”, while Kate Archer at Aberdeen’s Underwater Contracting Ltd (UCL) said the company’s stand at the last Aquaculture UK event was “busy the whole time and had a great buzz about it”.
Tara McGregor-Woodhams, chief sales and marketing officer of Dundee aquaculture technology innovator Ace Aquatec, said the trade show is a great place to do business, make new connections with suppliers and vendors, and network with industry peers.
Innovation theatre
As well as the exhibition, Aquaculture UK will host the popular Innovation Theatre, a launch pad for fledgling scientific and technical concepts and sector start-ups. And in the Keynote Theatre, a full conference programme, to be announced soon, will explore the themes and challenges at the top of the aquaculture agenda.
The Aquaculture Awards, which celebrate the achievements of those working in the sector, will be presented at a dinner on Tuesday, June 16, at Glasgow’s Hilton Hotel. Nominations are now open and the deadline is March 9.
Cheri Arvonio, event director at show organiser Diversified Communications, said this year’s Aquaculture UK promised to be even bigger and better than previous editions.
“We will be in our new home in Glasgow but the old magic that makes this a not-to-be-missed event will still be there,” said Arvonio. “From the familiar faces who are the backbone of the sector to the next generation inventors, scientists, leaders and business brains, Aquaculture UK embraces the whole industry in all its ambition and vision.
“We are proud to present such a dynamic show and look forward to welcoming our aquaculture friends to Glasgow in June.”
Show opening times are 9.30am-5pm on June 16, and 9.30am-4pm on June 17.
