The organisers of the National Fruit Show, the Marden Fruit Show Society, held its AGM on Wednesday, 2nd April 2025, jointly with British Apples and Pears (BAPL), at the Mumford Building, NIAB, East Malling.

Speaking via video from New Zealand, President Catherine Paice extended a warm welcome to attendees at the AGM, highlighting the resilience and determination of the UK fruit growing industry that was showcased at last year’s successful National Fruit Show. 

Catherine shared insights from her recent agribusiness tour in Oceania, emphasising how collaboration and innovation helped growers there recover from severe cyclone damage, demonstrating some valuable lessons that UK growers can take for navigating industry challenges globally.

She reinforced the importance of continuous government engagement and effective lobbying, praising the role of BAPL (British Apples & Pears Limited) in this endeavour. 

As the National Fruit Show moves confidently through its ninth decade, Catherine expressed enthusiasm about the show reaching its centenary, supported by technological advancements and strong consumer goodwill.

Closing her address, Catherine strongly advocated ongoing support for the Society’s educational initiatives, emphasising the vital role these play in inspiring the industry’s next generation.

In his report, Chairman Nigel Bardsley reflected positively on the success of the first-ever one-day National Fruit Show format, which was implemented in 2024 following valuable feedback from exhibitors.

Nigel looked back on many key moments from the 2024 show, starting with the new President’s Breakfast, which was attended by distinguished guests and included the presentation of the Jonathan Jones Trophy to John Breach. 

The show was opened by NFU President Tom Bradshaw, whom Nigel praised for taking such a keen interest in the show alongside the key visitors Helen Whately MP, and Ali Capper from British Apples & Pears (BAPL). 

With a smaller fruit display at the 2024 show, Nigel encouraged growers to participate actively in the fruit competitions, emphasising that simplified judging criteria have now been introduced in an attempt to boost entries and showcase the industry’s exceptional produce. 

Reviewing other 2024 show highlights, Nigel also remarked on celebrations taking place at the show, such as major sponsor NP Seymour’s 50th anniversary and 40 years as a Fendt dealership, with Claire Seymour also commended for her leadership as Chair of Trustees for the Marden Fruit Show Society.

Following the prize-giving ceremony led by President Catherine Paice, Nigel praised the lively evening reception, stating that it was vital for industry networking and camaraderie and that it would be even bigger and better next year. 

Special highlights also included delivering winning fruits to Buckingham Palace, which were warmly received by His Majesty King Charles III, who reportedly took great interest in learning who the winning growers were, as well as requesting that his top chef prepare the Conference pears that evening.

Drawing to a close, Nigel shared the positive feedback received about the shift to a one-day show format, which provided greater footfall, a better atmosphere and improved staff efficiencies for exhibitors. With this, the next National Fruit Show has been confirmed again as a one-day event taking place on Wednesday 5 November 2025, in the Maidstone Exhibition Hall at the Kent Showground, Detling, Kent. 

As part of Nigel’s report, a fantastic update on the Society’s Education Programme was given by Mandy Hounsell via video. Mandy highlighted its remarkable growth, from engaging 500 children in its first year to an impressive 11,000 face-to-face engagements last year. She reported that feedback from schools remains exceptional, reflecting the programme’s success in inspiring young people about careers in fruit-growing and agriculture.

Looking ahead, Mandy emphasised plans to strengthen the programme’s online presence, creating resources to help teachers and students aged 11-16 connect classroom learning to practical careers within the fruit industry.

Mandy extended heartfelt thanks to sponsors and supporters, whose generous funding, time, and advice are essential in keeping the programme thriving. To further expand and sustain this valuable initiative, additional sponsorship is warmly welcomed.

Treasurer Chris Morris reported improved financial stability for the Society, thanks to effective cost management decisions, the new one-day format, and the continued support of sponsors and exhibitors.

Finally, Nigel extended sincere thanks to everyone who made the show possible, including major sponsors Hutchinsons, NP Seymour and One Pay, the other show and education programme sponsors, Claire Seymour the Chair of Trustees, Vice-Chair Annette Bardsley and Irainne the Competition Secretary, Eileen Haffenden the Show Manager, the entire Marden Fruit Show Society committee, and the all-important National Fruit Show trade exhibitors for their indispensable contributions to the show’s continued success.

Ending the AGM, Nigel warmly encouraged more people to consider supporting the show by becoming a member of the Marden Fruit Show Society, the not-for-profit organisation behind the National Fruit Show.