Scaffmag has been given exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Layher UK’s headquarters in Letchworth to see the company’s ScaffEx25 exhibition stand pre-erected ahead of the September showcase.
Managing Director Sean Pike personally walked Scaffmag through the build, which he described as “one of the biggest and most ambitious structures Layher UK has ever brought to a UK trade show.”
The stand which will occupy a prime position at Manchester Central has already been fully constructed at Layher’s HQ to test buildability, refine the design, and prove it can be assembled within the tight build window at this year’s ScaffEx event.
But what was on show in Letchworth was only the beginning. Scaffmag was treated to the stripped-back version of the structures, with graphics, branding, lighting, and finishing touches still to come. However, even in this unfinished state, the sheer scale of the build was striking, highlighting the size and ambition of the stand Layher will present at the event.
“It fills our showroom, and even spills outside,” Pike explained. “We needed to know we could deliver it within the timeframe, but it also gave us the chance to refine details and add features that will make a real impact.”
Innovation on display
The stand will showcase Layher’s latest products and systems, including:
- Layher’s new advanced Flex Beam launching system & O-profile Flex Beam
- The new Allround AGS System
- Twix Beam® & aluminium HD beams
- Protect panel solutions & access gates
- Layher new SIM2Field App
- The Keder XL Roof system & rolling structure
- The Allround FW System – a modular beam and lightweight version of the company’s Allround Bridge System
- As well as the company’s hallmark event-structure capability, including a two-tiered hospitality area and several new event components.
- New & existing solutions parts table display
- Long-time existing solution – Layher’s public Access & Site Stairs
Visitors will be able to walk the full structure, climb to elevated viewing platforms, and see live product demonstrations of the Flex beam launch system, Sim2Field & Allround AGS System led by the Layher UK team/demonstrators.
Pike confirmed that Layher’s stand will also feature interactive elements, including competitions, floor graphics, and a hospitality area designed to encourage customer engagement.
“Bigger, better, and braver”
As principal sponsor of ScaffEx25, Layher has doubled down on its investment in the show after its successful presence at the inaugural event in 2024.
Pike admitted last year was “a success, but also a learning curve for everyone” but said 2025 would mark a significant step up:
“This year will be bigger, better, and braver. We’ve taken everything we learned from the first ScaffEx in Belfast and gone further. There are flattering imitations of our product(s) — so we wanted to stand out and show exactly why clients strategically partner with us.”
Industry challenges
In a wide-ranging conversation, Pike also reflected on the challenges facing scaffolding suppliers and contractors; namely the skills shortage and need to attract younger workers.
He acknowledged that “there is now genuine choice in the market,” making customer service, support and innovation more important than ever.
“We have to concern ourselves with what we do best. And that is to keep innovating, supporting our customers properly and showing why strategic partnership is key”
Looking ahead to Manchester
With more than 2,200 visitors already registered and over 900 tickets sold for the Scaffolding Excellence Awards, the September event is set to be the largest gathering of its kind in the UK, if not the world, for the scaffolding and access industry.
For Layher, the stand is more than just an exhibition build; it is a statement of intent.
“We want visitors to make their own decision,” Pike said. “Visit Stand E10, come and see our innovations, talk to our team, and experience for yourself what sets Layher service apart.”
