Horticulture section ditched for this year's Royal Welsh show in cost-cutting move
Royal Welsh Show organisers have shelved the loss-making horticulture section at this year’s event to cut costs, but there are plans for a big relaunch in 2024.
The section has been losing around £40,000 each year and the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society, faced with extreme financial challenges following the pandemic, rising costs and inflation, has had to cut costs.
Last year, the society experienced a significant operating loss, forecast to become a major budget deficit without spending cuts.
Richard Price, honorary show director, said: “Whilst we fully recognise this will be disappointing news for many visitors, competitors and volunteers, the year’s break will be an opportunity to develop the horticulture section ahead of a big re-launch in 2024.
“Having, in effect, a fallow year will give us more time to review how best we promote horticulture at the show going forward.”
Aled Rhys Jones, society chief executive, added: “This is an exciting opportunity to look at new ways to grow the section, working with other organisations, businesses and stakeholders to expand to areas such as wine-making, sensory gardens and junior competitions.
“There is also an opportunity to support the Welsh Government’s ambition to grow more of the fruit and vegetables we eat here in Wales, alongside targets to grow the commercial sector for ornamental horticulture.”
Visitors will still be able to enjoy the many horticulture and gardening themed trade stands at the show and the honey section will be relocated to the South Glamorgan Exhibition Hall for 2023.
In addition, there will be a brand-new Welsh Food Village located at Entrance B, which will feature the very best of Welsh food and drink, along with a live music stage and seating to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
For more information visit rwas.wales/whats-on/royal-welsh-show-2023/
