Tickets are available for the British Ornamentals Association (BOA) Technical Conference, taking place on Thursday 4 February 2027 at the NFU Conference Centre, Stoneleigh.

The annual event brings together ornamental growers, suppliers and industry specialists for a day of technical presentations, industry updates and networking.

With growers facing continued pressure on labour, production costs and changing growing practices, the conference will provide an opportunity to hear about developments across the sector, share experiences and explore practical approaches to common challenges.

The programme is being developed around three main themes: labour and automation, commercial and industry developments, and growing media. Planned topics include the role of mechanisation in nursery production, growing media quality standards, fertiliser use and plant trials. Speakers and further programme details will be announced as arrangements are finalised.

Alongside the presentations, delegates will have opportunities to meet exhibitors, catch up with colleagues and make new contacts from across ornamental horticulture.

Pre-Conference Awards Dinner and nominations

The Pre-Conference Awards Dinner will take place on Wednesday 3 February at Woodland Grange, offering an informal evening of networking and an opportunity to recognise contributions to the industry through the BOA awards.

The BOA is inviting award nominations and encourages colleagues from across the sector to put forward individuals whose work and contribution deserve recognition. Details and the nomination form are available here: https://form.jotform.com/252093736556363.

Sponsorship and exhibition opportunities

Businesses supplying the ornamental sector are also invited to support the event through a range of sponsorship packages, including opportunities to exhibit and meet growers directly.

Confirmed supporters include Beekenkamp Plants BV and Bulrush Horticulture Limited as conference sponsors, Proptek as programme sponsor, ACT Publishing as delegate bag provider, and HortWeek as sponsor of the 2027 Chair’s Choice Award.

Further opportunities remain available, including lunch sponsorship, dinner and drinks sponsorship, and conference sponsorship with exhibition space.

For details of the available packages, visit https://canva.link/3s3hof2vzl6hap5.

Tickets

Discounted tickets are available for BOA members and for professionals aged 35 and under, making the event accessible to the next generation of horticultural leaders. Advance booking is strongly recommended to take advantage of the Early Bird rate.