The organisers of Lamma are reported a record-breaking crowd for the 2025 edition, which took place on the 15th and 16th of January.
Despite the challenges agriculture is facing, more than 40,000 people attended the event; the highest attendance in the show’s 40+ year history.
NFU president Tom Bradshaw gave an opening address on the first day, kickstarting the Stop the Family Farm Tax campaign.
“If farming sneezes, the whole industry will catch a cold. Farming is a critical part of the rural economy, and we have to educate the Government about this. They have underestimated the role that a thriving food and farming industry can have on our economy.”
Addressing exhibitors at the show, he said, “Farming needs you and you need farming, and we need your voice to be heard in this campaign.”
NFU Cymru President Aled Jones joined Bradshaw on stage adding, “In this industry, we as individuals will never stand alone. This industry is like a delicate flower, and we can’t afford for that to be trampled on by those who do not appreciate its beauty.”
Victoria Atkins, Shadow Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, was also present and sat with a focus group of farmers to hear their concerns over future policy decisions.
“Part of my job is drawing a line under what has happened last year,” she explained to the group. “It’s now time for us to start with a clean sheet and work out what we need to do better and what we did well. The people I should be listening to are you, rather than officials in government departments who are not living this life day in and day out.”
A positive show
There was a positive atmosphere to the event as well, with exhibitors able to speak with existing and potential customers across both days.
Merlo UK marketing manager Helen Selkin said, “Lamma is the place to be seen in the industry, and the show has been very busy and productive for us. With our machines and experts here, it gives us the opportunity to really showcase our products and why they fit the needs of UK agriculture so brilliantly.
“The atmosphere has been so positive with a strong community spirit coming through.”
Returning to the event for the first time since 2020, Kuhn Farm Machinery also reported a strong turnout. Managing director Siân Pritchard explained: “After attending in 2024 we realised that we were missing out, and we have had a great, great show this year.
“It’s given us the opportunity to see a lot of customers, field inquiries and meet up with our dealers. LAMMA is a nice shop window for our big product range which allowed us to show visitors the technology we have that can help them on farm.”
Sarah Whittaker-Smith, portfolio director, confirmed that the show was a hit for visitors and exhibitors alike: “Lamma 2025 has been one for the books, bringing a positive atmosphere and a renewed sense of optimism to the farming community after a particularly challenging year for the industry.
“With record-breaking visitor numbers and sold-out stand space, we are looking to expand into a new hall of the NEC in 2026 and the incredible turnout highlights the resilience and determination of the sector. It’s a true testament to the importance of coming together, sharing knowledge and celebrating the innovation that drives our industry forward.”
Lamma 2026 will take place on the 14th and 15th of January, co-located with CropTec for the first time.
