February 1, 2024 - Turf Matters

Game-changer from Foley: It isn’t often that a completely new product is introduced into the market which will be a complete game-changer, but that is exactly what has happened at the 2024 BTME exhibition in Harrogate.

The Foley 642 Quick Spin Reel Grinder brings a whole new meaning to quick spin. It is designed to accommodate the widest of mower cylinders and is a simple roll-on roll-off solution to grinding, with the machine sitting at floor level. The wheel in and wheel out action removes all need for heavy lifting facilities, revolutionising the way the groundsman and greenkeepers view touch-up spin grinding. Foley Company’s Professional Grinders already offer the best spin and relief methods for sharpening blades and the new Foley 642 Quick Spin grinder will be complimentary to these methods. It offers a fast, easy operated option for providing a quick touch-up spin, between the regular relief grinding schedules. It is also the perfect solution to sharpening the extra wide, heavy mowers used on sports fields/pitches, which are often cumbersome to load into the standard grinder.

Game-changer from Foley

Last week Paul Rauker, CEO and President of Foley Company had made the trip to Harrogate to support Foley Company the launch of the world’s first ever professional floor level roll-on, roll-off grinder. ‘This is truly a remarkable occasion’ said Paul. ‘The 642 Quick Spin Reel Grinder is the first of its kind and I’m delighted to be here to acknowledge the significance of our latest development. It is a machine that will appeal to all grounds professionals who are looking to improve the performance and efficiency of their grinding programmes. As the leading manufacturer of Grinding equipment Foley Company is onceagain leading the way in grinding technology. We have developed and patented simple to use controls to save time without compromising on performance.

The patented clamping system effortlessly secures any cutting unit in all configurations and the roller clamp is adjustable for any variety of rollers and groomers. This machine really will change the way we look at grinding in the future!’

The Foley 642 Quick-Spin features simple to use controls, counter balanced spin drive, patented front and rear clamping system for pedestrian mowers and power rear positioning levers for cylinders. It is spin only, with adjustable traverse speed and adjustable spin speed. It will accept up to 42” reel width and operates on 240v/15a power.

Foley Company are looking to supply production models will be available later this year.

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Complete Weed Control bolsters sales function: Complete Weed Control, the longest established amenity weed control company in the UK and Ireland, has announced significant additions to its sales team with the appointment of Mark Pyrah as sales director and Simon Pannell as group sales director.

Mark Pyrah brings a wealth of experience to the role having held a leadership position at ICL, as well as overseeing the team at Amega Sciences. His extensive career within the sector spans nearly four decades, contributing to his deep understanding of the intricacies of the industry.

Complete Weed Control bolsters sales function

Regarding his move to Complete Weed Control, Mark expressed enthusiasm for the well-respected business, citing a positive and productive working relationship with the company’s leadership. He emphasised the robust service offering, consistency across the network and the commitment to delivering high standards as key factors that attracted him to the organisation.

Mark’s new role within Complete Weed Control will focus on cultivating customer relationships, attracting new contracts and negotiating deals with suppliers. He plans to spend time with individual regional managers to understand their challenges, aiming to facilitate joined-up solutions across the organisation. Mark also looks forward to meeting customers and aiding expansion into new markets.

Highlighting challenges facing the sector, Mark pointed to increasing regulations over spraying activity and sees an opportunity for Complete Weed Control to champion advancements, such as the use of WEEDit technology, to promote best practice.

Joining the team alongside Mark Pyrah, Simon Pannell assumes the role of group sales director, bringing a wealth of experience dating back to 1998. Simon’s proven track record includes significant growth achieved in various roles with Litterboss, CC Cousins, MITIE Landscapes, Integritas Landscapes, John O’Conner GM and at Countrywide GM, where he served as national accounts sales director.

Simon expressed his passion for building relationships and underscored the importance of understanding customer challenges. His goal is to target new business opportunities across the UK, catering to the diverse needs of customers.

The appointments of Mark Pyrah and Simon Pannell signal a strategic move by Complete Weed Control to further solidify its position as the leading player in the amenity weed control industry.

Ian Graham, managing director of Complete Weed Control shared his enthusiasm regarding the dual appointments, stating: “We are confident that the addition of Mark and Simon to our team will greatly enhance our growth trajectory. Their combined experience and deep understanding of the industry will undoubtedly contribute to our continued success.”

He added: “Our nationwide presence aligns seamlessly with the requirements of businesses operating across multiple locations, and this new director-level appointment underscores our commitment to prioritising and fostering relationships with such entities.”