The Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) is giving FutureScape visitors the opportunity to put their paving skills to the test. 

In the show’s new outdoor area, the APL’s regional manager for the north, Simon Abbott, will be hosting the Precision Paving Challenge across the two days. Competitors have 50 minutes to prepare and screed the laying course, lay, align and sand block paving within the challenge frame. 

The APL’s chair David Strows is also hosting a recurring hands-on practical demonstration on BS 7533:102. Discover why paving practice has changed, understand the move from sharp sand to 2-6mm grit and see the correct 4:1 mortar mix prepared and used. From slurry primer and bedding through to laying the finished slab, Strows will tackle common mistakes, challenge the myths and explain the thinking behind the Standard, as well as give visitors the chance to have a go themselves. 

Alongside challenges and demonstrations, the APL will be holding its AGM at the venue on 13 October before announcing the shortlist for its 2027 awards in the Outdoor Living & Nurture Theatre at 12pm.  

In its fifteenth year, FutureScape will be taking place at a new venue, Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, on 13-14 October 2026. Register for your free ticket now.