The scaffolding industry is set to receive its first dedicated global festival with the announcement of ScaffFest 2027, a landmark event combining Four world championships, a full trade exhibition, live demonstrations, entertainment and a celebration of scaffolding culture on an unprecedented scale.

Founded by Tony Nicolaisen and Alan Osborn (Dr Scaffold), ScaffFest is being positioned as the annual anchor event for the international scaffolding sectors.

The event will take place at NAEC Stoneleigh, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, with build-up and take-down included from 21 to 26 July 2027, and public days on Friday 23 Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 July.

Four World Championships

At the heart of ScaffFest will be Four world championships:

• System Scaffolding World Championship.
• Tube and Fitting World Championship.
• Under‑23 System Scaffolding World Championships.

For the first time in elite system scaffolding teams from across the globe will compete directly alongside the best tube-and-fitting crews from around the globe, in the same environment, in real time, in front of the same audience.

Eight international referees have already been confirmed to officiate at the championships, underlining the event’s global ambition and commitment to fair, consistent judging standards.

Early Commitments from Industry Leaders

Momentum is already building behind ScaffFest, with several key industry names confirmed:

• Scaffs UK has come forward as the confirmed sponsor of the Tube and Fitting Arena, securing naming rights and a central position within the competition zone.
• Alimak and Kewazo will be on site showcasing their hoists and vertical access solutions, demonstrating equipment in a live festival environment.
• AK Scaffolding have confirmed their attendance and will be entering competition teams, adding further strength to the international line-up.

These early commitments signal strong industry support for the concept and demonstrate confidence in ScaffFest’s potential to become a flagship event for the sector. More signing by the day.

More Than a Trade Show

ScaffFest is being designed as a true festival, not a conventional trade exhibition or just a competition.

Surrounding the competition arenas will be:

• A trade expo featuring manufacturers, suppliers and service providers.
• Live product and system demonstrations.
• A technology and innovation hub.
• A vehicle and plant display area.
• A wellbeing and mental health zone.
• A family zone with activities for children.
• A food court, licensed bar and VIP area.
• On-site camping for attendees.
• Live entertainment and a major party night on Saturday evening.
• An official attempt at a scaffolding-related world record.

The aim is to create an event that appeals both to industry professionals and to families, blending high-level competition with a festival atmosphere that celebrates the people and skills behind the trade.

Live Media, Podcasts and Social Coverage

ScaffFest will be supported by a significant media and content programme.

Over the two public days, the event will feature:

• Live streaming of all three world championships.
• On-site podcast recordings with scaffolders, company leaders, trainers and safety advocates.
• Live interviews with teams, sponsors, exhibitors and key industry figures.
• Short-form social content for TikTok, Instagram Reels, LinkedIn and other platforms.
• Recap videos and highlights published after the event.

Founders’ Vision

According to co-founders Tony Nicolaisen and Alan Osborn (Dr Scaffold), ScaffFest is intended to fill a gap in the market for a truly global, scaffolding-focused festival. Not run by a trade body or a single manufacturer open to everyone. A family friendly festival.

“ScaffFest is not just another trade show,” said Nicolaisen. “This is a celebration of everything our industry stands for skill, safety, innovation, teamwork and pride in the craft. We want scaffolders, companies and families to come together for a weekend that feels like a festival, with world-class competition at its core.”

Osborn added: “We’ve already seen strong interest from major players in the industry. With Scaffs UK sponsoring the Tube and Fitting Arena, Alimak showcasing their hoists, and AK Scaffolding competing, we know there’s real appetite for an event like this. Our goal is to make ScaffFest the must-attend event on the global scaffolding calendar.”

Exhibition and Participation Opportunities

ScaffFest will offer a range of commercial opportunities for manufacturers, suppliers and service providers, including:

• Exhibition stands in 5 m × 5 m and 10 m × 10 m formats.
• Award sponsorship packages.
• Demonstration zones and live product showcases.
• Integration with live streaming, podcasts and social media content.
• Opportunities to enter competition teams and engage directly with the global scaffolding community.

All prices are quoted in British pounds and are exclusive of VAT. Electrical power is available on request and quoted separately; exhibitors may also use silent generators if preferred.

Team Entries and Referees

Places for competition teams remain available in all four world championships:

• System Scaffolding World Championship.
• Tube and Fitting World Championship.
• Under‑23 System Scaffolding World Championships.

With eight international referees already confirmed, the organisers are keen to secure additional top-level teams from the UK, Europe and beyond.

Tickets and Camping

Visitor ticket options will include:

• Day tickets for Friday Saturday and Sunday.
• Full weekend tickets.
• Packages Available including on-site camping.
• VIP and corporate packages.
• Access to Saturday evening entertainment.

Camping on site is intended to create a social, international atmosphere throughout the weekend, allowing attendees to network and connect beyond the formal competition and exhibition hours.