It’s GreenMech for 5 Shires Tree Surgery

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It’s GreenMech for 5 Shires Tree Surgery: Much has changed since Wayne Pugsley of 5 Shires Tree Surgery ventured into offering arb, woodland and forestry services over 30 years ago, but the one constant has been his choice of woodchipper – and for that, it’s always been GreenMech!

More than three decades on, and now onto his seventh machine, the Droitwich-based arborist explains why reliability, familiarity and outstanding service has kept him loyal to the brand.

It’s GreenMech for 5 Shires Tree Surgery

It’s GreenMech for 5 Shires Tree Surgery

Wayne has been working in green services since the age of 19. Frustrated with handing over the arb enquiries received from his domestic customer base in and around the West Midlands, he undertook the relevant courses and qualifications, purchased his first GreenMech machine, and the rest was history! “I spent £800 and got a second-hand unit which truthfully did cause me a bit of grief, but didn’t distract from the fact I actually really liked the machine. I liked that it was manufactured local to me, I appreciated the build quality, user-friendly operation and I quite quickly built a good relationship with a number of people at the factory. And that remains true to this day. It’s refreshing to find a company who prioritise quality and hold true to family values, which transmits in how they cooperate with their customers.”

“My workload has always determined which model is right at the time of upgrade and, while I’m not GreenMech’s biggest customer, the service I receive time after time makes me feel like I am.” Wayne emphasises the point with an example of GreenMech’s willingness to find a solution to an ongoing storage issue. “I needed a folding chute to enable me to store the chipper in a container, but the standard folding chute was still too tall. I explained the issue and GreenMech engineered something to suit my requirements and, every time I change my machine, they fit the bespoke chute to my new model.”

The chute is now equipped on Wayne’s most recent purchase – a 40hp EVO 165P complete with new SMART FEED remote system – which was delivered by GreenMech’s Neal Hussey in March 2025. “The EVO is by some distance the best machine they’ve produced. The power, performance and value for money you get is outstanding.” He continues, “I work with a number of sub-contractors who enjoy using the EVO 165P. Meanwhile, I enjoy the peace of mind that the machine is bulletproof and isn’t going to let them down on a job!”

“I also have my chippers painted in an all-green livery which GreenMech sort for me without issue.” But, for Wayne, it doesn’t stop there… “I also have green on my trailer and a lot of my safety gear is green – I will never use another brand so why not go all in and have everything in keeping?!”

For more information on the new, higher horsepower petrol-powered EVO 165P, visit www.greenmech.co.uk

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STIHL’s first single-sided battery-powered hedge trimmers

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STIHL’s first single-sided battery-powered hedge trimmers: Single-sided hedge trimmers offer numerous benefits, including a longer and lighter cutting bar, as well as improved safety. Designed for professional landscapers, the HSA 150 R and HSA 150 T are the first single-sided hedge trimmers in the STIHL AP System, comparable in performance to the popular petrol HS 87.

Available in lengths of 75cm or 100cm, the HSA 150 comes equipped with a catcher plate as standard, increasing the speed at which the top of hedges can be cut.

STIHL's first single-sided battery-powered hedge trimmers

STIHL’s first single-sided battery-powered hedge trimmers

Alongside the impressive performance, the HSA 150 also offers high levels of operator comfort. The new hedge trimmer weighs just 4.3 – 4.7 kg (without battery) and is comfortable to hold thanks to the ergonomic handle grips. The wide grip stance, combined with the central centre of gravity, allows the HSA 150 to be pivoted with ease, resulting in minimal strain to the operators’ wrists or arms.

The HSA 150 is quiet in operation, and thanks to its highly effective anti-vibration system, is suitable for long periods of use too. When cutting hedges with a petrol machine, the fumes can often collect within the hedge, resulting in a poor working environment for the user. Battery-powered machines such as the HSA 150 can eliminate this problem entirely.

Featuring 38mm tooth spacing, the HSA 150 R is best suited to annual pruning or hedge reduction work. Its lower maximum RPM of 3,200 also allows thicker branch material to enter the cutters efficiently. Alternatively, the HSA 150 T has a higher maximum RPM and smaller 30mm tooth spacing, making it better suited to ornamental or fine leaf hedges such as taxus, buxus or privet, where a fine finish is required.

The HSA 150 benefits from a new gearbox design, consisting of a two-step planetary gear. This results in exceptionally high cutting performance and fast cold start up, as well as improved protection of the internal components thanks to the integrated slip clutch.

To help prevent the blades from jamming, the HSA 150 features an innovative anti-blocking system that reverses the motors rotational direction to unblock the blades, minimising product downtime and enhancing the efficiency of the tool.

The HSA 150 utilises the same friction optimised, double edged blades that feature on the HS 87 professional petrol models, resulting in long lasting sharpness, a consistently clean cut and ample durability for long cutting seasons.

When used with the recommended AP 200 S battery, the HSA 150 R has a maximum working time of 150 minutes, while the HSA 150 T’s maximum working time is up to 140 minutes.

To find out more about the STIHL HSA 150, visit www.stihl.co.uk.

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Origin Enterprises acquires Elixir Garden Supplies Ltd

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Origin Enterprises acquires Elixir Garden Supplies Ltd: Origin Enterprises plc (’Origin’ or ‘the Group’), the international group shaping the future of sustainable land use, today welcomes the acquisition of Elixir Garden Supplies Ltd (“Elixir”), a UK-based industry leader in online gardening supplies.

Established for over 35 years’, Elixir has extensive expertise in fertilisers, feeds and garden care, delivering the essentials customers need in a fast-growing market segment. Offering a focused product range, the company has built a reputation for quality, expert customer support and a highly responsive supply chain — dispatching up to 20,000 orders across the UK each week, 90% of which are own-brand sales.

Origin Enterprises acquires Elixir Garden Supplies Ltd

Origin Enterprises acquires Elixir Garden Supplies Ltd

Elixir’s successful direct-to-consumer model further strengthens Origin’s expanding portfolio within its Living Landscapes division representing further progress towards the Group’s target for this division to deliver 30% of Group operating profit by the end of FY26. The acquisition enhances Origin’s ability to serve both professional and home gardening customers through a fully integrated supply chain, from raw material through to end user — a competitive advantage that sets Origin apart in the market.

TJ Kelly, Divisional Managing Director of Living Landscapes, commented: “Elixir Garden Supplies is a strong addition to the Origin family, which both complements our existing portfolio of businesses and accelerates our ability to serve the fast-growing online garden care market. By combining Elixir’s direct-to-consumer platform with Origin’s manufacturing scale and supply chain strength, we are positioned to deliver superior product ranges, value and service to customers throughout the UK.”

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Visitor Registration for GroundsFest 2025 Now Open

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Visitor Registration for GroundsFest 2025 Now Open: Get ready—visitor registration for GroundsFest 2025 is officially open, and this year promises to be bigger, better, and bolder than ever before.

Returning to Stoneleigh Park from 9–10 September 2025, GroundsFest is more than just a trade show. It’s a high-energy, hands-on event where the latest kit, expert advice, and industry insight all come together.

Visitor Registration for GroundsFest 2025 Now Open

Visitor Registration for GroundsFest 2025 Now Open

Whether you work in landscaping, groundscare, local authority, turf management, estate maintenance, education, or sportsturf—GroundsFest is the one event you don’t want to miss.

Hundreds of brands. One event.

GroundsFest 2025 will bring together one of the most diverse ranges of exhibitors the industry has ever seen. From major machinery manufacturers and cutting-edge tech providers to landscaping tools, turf care solutions, commercial vehicles, and more—you’ll find hundreds of top brands all in one place.

Live, interactive demos

Try out the latest machinery and technology from top brands in real working conditions. You’ll also be able to experience Machinery Nation Live—a high-octane, entertainment-packed demo area brought to you by the team behind the hit YouTube channel Machinery Nation. Expect thrills, power, and plenty of noise as they put kit through its paces in their own unique style.

Free education

Grow your knowledge with completely free training sessions and seminars. Led by industry experts, these sessions cover the challenges and innovations shaping the future of outdoor spaces, turf, and groundscare.

Live music festival

Once the demos and seminars wrap up, the GroundsFest festival begins. Live music, street food, bumper cars and great company—because the best conversations often happen away from the stand.

A place for everyone

From seasoned professionals to students just starting out, GroundsFest is a welcoming, inclusive event designed to inspire. Whether you’re looking for your next purchase, your next hire, or just a great day out with the team—this is your event.

It’s completely free to attend

Registration is quick, easy, and completely free. You’ll get full access to the demos, education sessions, live music, and more.

Whether you came last year and loved it, or this will be your first visit—GroundsFest 2025 is the event to mark on your calendar.

Free parking

GroundsFest 2024 offers free on-site parking for everyone. There is also a dedicated camping area, which should be pre-booked in advance. More information on staying in the camping area is available on the GroundsFest website.

Register for free on the GroundsFest website.

Please visit www.groundsfest.com

You can also follow GroundsFest on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @GroundsFest for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

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Reesink Turfcare strengthens dealer support

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Reesink Turfcare strengthens dealer support: Reesink Turfcare is pleased to announce the appointment of two new Dealer Development and Key Account Managers, strengthening its support to dealer partners and improving key customer relationships across the UK.

Robert Hogarth steps into the role for the North – covering territory from Cheshire and Lincolnshire up to Northumberland, across into Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man – and replacing Mike Turnbull, who now leads the Reesink Scotland branch.

Reesink Turfcare strengthens dealer support

Reesink Turfcare strengthens dealer support

Darren Anderson will take responsibility for the South of England, Wales, the Isle of Wight, Jersey and Guernsey.

Jon Cole, Divisional Business Manager for Reesink Turfcare, comments: “Our dealer partners are essential to Reesink, and we want them to feel integral to our shared success and to know how much we value their contribution. The added support from these new roles will help us achieve this and further demonstrate our commitment to helping our dealers grow their businesses.”

By dividing Mike Turnbull’s former role into North and South, Reesink aims not only to reinforce the company’s dealer-focused strategy but also to offer an additional layer of support and attention to customers within dealer territories.

With the country now split into two regions, Robert and Darren will each be responsible for managing the dealer network within their designated areas and unlocking new local opportunities.

Their goals include creating strategic call plans for key accounts, supporting dealers in sales and aftersales activities and maintaining high standards of customer service for the Toro and Reesink brands.

With over 40 years of experience in the golf sector, Robert Hogarth brings a wealth of industry knowledge to his new role covering the North territory. His background spans greenkeeping and course management through to sales leadership for turfcare companies such as Hydroturf International and Fairways GM – giving him a well-rounded perspective on both the operational and commercial sides of the business.

Speaking on his new position, he says: “I’m excited to be taking on this role and working closely with our dealer partners in the North. This is a fantastic opportunity to build strong relationships and deliver value to both the dealers and our key account customers.”

Equally thrilled to take the lead for Reesink’s South territory is Darren Anderson MG, who brings 33  years experience in the golf sector gained through course and club management roles at Abergele Golf Club, Bromborough Golf Club and The North Wales Golf Club. Darren joins Reesink as a double national award winning course/club manager, also gaining Master Greenkeeper status in 2007.

He adds: “It’s a real privilege to join Reesink in a role so focused on partnership and performance. I’m looking forward to supporting our dealers and ensuring they have everything they need to succeed with our products and services.”

Both new appointments report directly to Jon Cole and are part of a wider strategy to drive growth and help Reesink provide world-class support through its dealer network.

Robert and Darren are only a phone call away: you can contact Robert at 07780392199 and Darren at 07780392180. To find your nearest Toro dealer or Reesink branch, visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

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