AFI Member Samson Fencing Wins NSA Scotsheep 2026 Fencing Competition
The Association of Fencing Industries (AFI) is delighted to congratulate AFI member Samson Fencing on securing first place at the NSA Scotsheep 2026 Fencing Competition, held on 10 June at Wedderlie Farm, Berwickshire.
The competition once again showcased the very highest standards of skill, craftsmanship and professionalism within the fencing industry, with teams of two competing against the clock to construct stock fencing to exacting specifications.
In a strong field of competitors, Samson Fencing delivered an outstanding performance to take the top spot, with GT Contracting and Drummond Fencing also demonstrating exceptional workmanship to secure second and third place respectively.
The event marked another successful year for the competition, which continues to grow in both scale and reputation. Competitors were challenged on speed, accuracy and quality, highlighting the expertise and dedication that exists throughout the sector.
This year’s competition also saw the introduction of the Tornado Pro-Strain® metal fencing system, being used in a fencing competition for the first time. Feedback from both competitors and judges was overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the system’s efficiency and suitability for modern fencing applications.
Supporting Skills Across the Industry
Competitions such as NSA Scotsheep play an important role in promoting best practice, encouraging professional development and celebrating the skills that underpin the fencing industry.
AFI is particularly proud to see one of its members recognised for excellence on such a respected industry platform, demonstrating the high standards of workmanship and professionalism that AFI members bring to projects across the UK.
Congratulations once again to Samson Fencing on a well-deserved victory, and to all competitors who contributed to another successful event.
Call for Entries – UK Fencing Awards 2026
With the 31st July entry deadline fast approaching, now is the time to put your projects, people and achievements forward for the 2026 UK Fencing Awards.
Every year, the awards celebrate the outstanding work taking place across the fencing industry, recognising excellence in craftsmanship, innovation, professionalism and service. From major infrastructure projects and security installations to domestic fencing, apprentices and suppliers, the awards showcase the very best our sector has to offer.
This year, the awards will be presented at Old Trafford on 12th November, with Sir Geoff Hurst confirmed as guest speaker, making it an event not to be missed.
Have you entered yet?
Whether you’ve delivered an exceptional project, developed a talented apprentice, worked with an outstanding supplier, or know someone whose contribution deserves recognition through the Women in Fencing or Lifetime Achievement categories, now is the time to act.
Award Categories
- Agricultural & Equine
- Domestic
- Gates & Barriers
- Industrial
- Sports & Education
- Security
- Temporary Fencing & Hoarding
- Highways & Railways
- Supplier of the Year
- Project of the Year
- Apprentice of the Year
- Women in Fencing
We are also continuing to accept nominations for the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Submit Lifetime Achievement nominations: info@theafi.co.uk
Don’t leave it too late
Every year we hear from companies who meant to enter but simply ran out of time. Don’t let that be you. Entries are open to all!
An entry takes far less time than you think, and being shortlisted — or even taking home a trophy — can provide valuable recognition for your business, your team and your customers.
Entries close at midnight on 31st July.
You’ve done the hard work….. Now make sure it gets the recognition it deserves!
CLC Raises Concerns Over Planned Steel Tariffs and Quotas
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has issued an update on its ongoing work with Government regarding the planned introduction of new steel tariffs and quotas, which are due to come into effect on 1 July 2026.
The CLC has highlighted growing concerns from across the construction sector that the proposed measures could have significant consequences for project costs, programme delivery and material availability. Evidence gathered by the CLC suggests that structural steel prices have already risen sharply, with some live projects reporting cost increases of between 14% and 18%.
The industry has also raised concerns about potential supply shortages, particularly for steel products and section sizes that are not manufactured in sufficient quantities within the UK. The CLC warns that the combination of reduced tariff-free import quotas and higher tariffs could create further market uncertainty and extend procurement lead times.
Alongside cost and supply challenges, concerns have been expressed about the potential impact on housing delivery, infrastructure projects and the wider fabricated steel sector, with the CLC continuing to work closely with Government departments to identify practical solutions and transitional arrangements.
The AFI will continue to monitor developments and keep members informed as further announcements are made.
Read the full CLC statement for more information.
FenceX 2027 Stand Bookings Open as Industry Demand Builds
The Association of Fencing Industries (AFI) is pleased to announce that stand bookings for FenceX 2027 are now open, with strong interest already being shown from businesses across the fencing and perimeter security sector.
Taking place on Thursday 23 September 2027 at NAEC Stoneleigh, Hall 1, FenceX will once again bring together manufacturers, suppliers, contractors and industry professionals for what is set to be the UK’s premier fencing and perimeter security exhibition.
Following the record-breaking success of FenceX 2025, which welcomed more exhibitors than ever before and hundreds of visitors, preparations are already underway to deliver an even bigger and more engaging event in 2027.
To support businesses looking to secure their place early, AFI has introduced an Early Bird Booking Scheme, allowing exhibitors to reserve their indoor stand with just a 10% deposit.
The scheme has been designed to make exhibiting more accessible while enabling companies to secure their preferred stand location well in advance of the event.
Pete Clark, CEO of the AFI, said:
“FenceX has become a key event for the fencing industry, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, contractors and decision-makers from across the sector. The success of the 2025 event demonstrated the value that FenceX delivers, and we’re delighted to see such positive interest already for 2027. The 10% deposit option gives businesses the opportunity to secure their place early and be part of what promises to be another outstanding exhibition.”
FenceX continues to provide a unique platform for companies to showcase products and services, launch new innovations, strengthen customer relationships and connect with a highly targeted audience of industry professionals.
With demand expected to increase over the coming months, exhibitors are encouraged to reserve their space early to secure the widest choice of stand locations.
For further information about exhibiting at FenceX 2027, or to take advantage of the Early Bird Booking Scheme for indoor stands, please contact the team at fencex@theafi.co.uk.
FenceX 2027 – Bringing Fencing Together.
Mental Health Joint Code of Practice
The CLC has published a new Mental Health Joint Code of Practice to support businesses in construction to create healthier working environments that prevent or reduce mental health risks. With the focus on how work is designed, planned, resourced and managed, the Code is structured around five workplace factors that impact mental health:
- Working patterns – Long working hours, poorly planned shift patterns, excessive long‐distance travel and time working away from home
- Operational demands – Pressures caused by unachievable deadlines, poor planning and poor communication
- People and environment – Limited praise or support from leadership, bullying and harassment, and poor welfare facilities
- Financial issues – Late payment, job insecurity and low financial literacy
- Barriers to support – Low mental health literacy, low help‐seeking and mental health stigma
The Code sets out actions that clients and contractors throughout the supply chain can take to address each of these workplace factors. It provides a practical framework to either eliminate the risk entirely or reduce the harm it may cause, with case studies showing how organisations have successfully implemented various measures, including Build UK’s flexible working toolkit. Members across the supply chain are encouraged to implement the Code and use the self‐assessment questions to monitor progress and support continuous improvement.
Alongside the Code, the BSI has recently published BS 30480: Suicide and the Workplace, which provides guidance for companies on supporting employees when prevention efforts reach their limit and intervention is needed. It covers identifying and managing suicide risk in the workplace, strengthening workplace policies and culture around suicide awareness, appropriate training for staff, and supporting individuals in distress.
AFI members have FREE access to support and advice through Perennial
Tickets on sale for the AFI & AFA Autumn Best Practice Day
Bookings are now open for the AFI & AFA Autumn Best Practice Day, taking place on Thursday 15th October 2026 at Northumberland College – Kirkley Hall Campus, Newcastle upon Tyne.
The Best Practice Days have become one of the fencing industry’s most valuable hands-on learning events, bringing together contractors, suppliers and industry professionals for a practical day focused on improving skills, sharing knowledge and showcasing best practice techniques.
Running from 9am to 3pm, the event will feature a packed programme of demonstrations, workshops and technical guidance designed specifically for those working in agricultural fencing. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn directly from experienced fencing professionals, see different installation techniques in action and discuss the latest developments within the sector.
The day will include:
- Strained wire fencing demonstrations
- Practical guidance on strainers, strutting and wire work
- Service location and safety demonstrations
- Expert-led sessions and technical advice
- Industry exhibitors and suppliers
- Networking opportunities with fellow fencing contractors and professionals
Thanks to the continued support of industry partners and sponsors, tickets are available for just £15, which includes a hot breakfast roll on arrival, tea and coffee, and lunch.
Whether you’re looking to refine your skills, see new products and techniques first-hand, or simply spend a day learning alongside others in the industry, the AFI & AFA Best Practice Day offers excellent value and practical knowledge that can be taken straight back to site.
Event Details
Thursday 15th October 2026
Northumberland College – Kirkley Hall Campus, Kirkley, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE20 0AQ
9am – 3pm
Tickets: £15 (includes catering)
Places are expected to fill quickly, so early booking is recommended.