A Big Day Out for Britain’s Hardworking Pros
The Royal Bath & West Show isn’t just another country fair. It’s a proper gathering of minds, machines, and muck boots. For those of us who work with our hands and keep the wheels of rural industry turning, it’s a must-see event. This year was no exception.
Multimax Direct made the trip to Shepton Mallet to check out the action, chat with customers, and see what’s buzzing in the world of farming, plant hire, and vehicle repair. What did we find? Plenty. From powerhouse product launches to field-smart feedback, here are the big highlights.
Farm Machinery in the Spotlight
This year’s machinery showcase didn’t disappoint. Fleming Agri drew a crowd with their latest mowers, toppers, and slurry tankers – all robust, field-ready gear built for serious agricultural work. Duijndam Machines presented an impressive range of used agricultural and horticultural equipment, focusing on sustainable solutions for modern farms.
Interactive displays gave visitors a chance to get hands-on with kit, ask the right questions, and see how the machinery would hold up under real-world conditions. From tractors to toppers, it was a working farm’s playground.
And let’s not forget the Vintage Tractor Exhibits. Over 200 classic machines were on show, giving us all a reminder of just how far technology has come – and how much engineering grit has always powered British agriculture.
Workshop Tools & Demonstrations
Farrier competitions drew a big crowd this year, with sparks flying and hammers ringing out during live horseshoeing demos. It was a solid reminder of the importance of quality hand tools and centuries-old craftsmanship.
Butchery demonstrations also had their moment. The emphasis? Precision, clean cuts, and the kind of workshop tools that make a real difference. Attendees got an up-close look at the techniques and kit that go into top-quality meat preparation.
Craftsmanship workshops rounded out the scene, giving everyone a chance to try their hand with tools used in rural crafts. From chisels to clamps, it was a hands-on education in what it takes to do a job well.
What We Heard from the Field
There was a noticeable shift back to practicality. Farmers and ag contractors were clear: they want tools that last, perform under pressure, and don’t cost a fortune to replace. Our Rustung Socket Sets and Impact Wrenches got a lot of love – especially from mechanics who want reliable gear that doesn’t flinch when it’s go time.
One stand-out moment? A dairy farmer from Wiltshire told us how he’d dropped a Rustung 1/2″ Drive Ratchet into a slurry channel by mistake. Dug it out, hosed it down, and it still worked a treat. That’s the kind of field-tested durability we like to hear about.
Consumables That Keep Workshops Moving
Plant hire operators and garage techs were flocking to stalls with serious consumables. Oils, greases, cleaning sprays, hand wipes – nothing fancy, just the essentials that keep a workshop ticking over. Our own Sealey Brake Cleaner and Heavy-Duty Degreaser got name-checked by more than a few visitors.
We also noticed a rising demand for compact storage solutions. When every square foot of workshop space matters, stackable tool trays and wall-mounted organisers are becoming the unsung heroes of the trade.
Weather-Proof Workwear: Still a Winner
British weather doesn’t pull punches, and this year’s gear stands made that clear. Waterproofs, thermal gloves, and insulated boots were front and centre. The Rustung Work Gloves we stock at Multimax got a surprising number of compliments. Built for grip in freezing muck and resistant to tears, they’ve quietly become a favourite in sheds and yards across the country.
Smarter Visitor Experience
One new addition we noticed: the Royal Bath & West App. With features like interactive maps and personalised itineraries, it helped visitors find machinery exhibits and schedule demos more easily – especially helpful in a showground the size of a small village.
Family Trail Activities also brought in a younger crowd, with educational stops on farming machinery that got kids excited about tractors and tools. A win for the future of farming.
What to Keep in Mind for Your Operation
- Durability is king: Tools and supplies need to survive drops, spills, and everyday abuse.
- Essentials win: Don’t underestimate the power of consumables that keep everything running smoothly.
- Smart storage saves time: More workshops are thinking vertically and modularly.
- Comfort counts: The right gloves or boots can make a long shift far more bearable.
- Heritage meets innovation: From vintage tractors to smart apps, it’s clear the best setups mix old wisdom with new tech.
Want a Closer Look?
If you missed us at the Royal Bath & West Show or didn’t get a chance to ask about that socket set, you can still find all our top-rated tools and supplies online. From Rustung kits that handle serious torque to workshop essentials that cut through grease and grime, Multimax Direct is your go-to.
Take a look around multimaxdirect.com – because just like the best tools, good value is meant to last.