STIGA Showcases Cutting-Edge Technology at Allianz Stadium

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STIGA Showcases Cutting-Edge Technology at Allianz Stadium: The STIGA team brought their full range of robotic and professional mowing solutions to the home of England Rugby this week, giving the grounds team at Allianz Stadium the opportunity to put the latest machines through their paces. 

As the newly appointed Official Groundskeeping Partner of the Rugby Football Union (RFU), STIGA was eager to give the Allianz grounds team hands-on experience with the brand’s innovative product range, including its latest autonomous robot mowers, award-winning APX PRO, battery-powered equipment and new electric tractors.

STIGA Showcases Cutting-Edge Technology at Allianz Stadium

STIGA Showcases Cutting-Edge Technology at Allianz Stadium

The STIGA team were amazed at how pristine the pitch looked, even though there had been a tough England v Argentina match the day before. It really highlighted just how tip-top and excellent the grounds staff are when it comes to maintaining their pitches and training grounds.

The roles of groundspeople within the RFU are far-reaching and span both professional and volunteer levels. These experts play a vital role across the RFU, from professional staff at Allianz Stadium, such as the Head Groundsman, to Regional Pitch Advisors who support clubs through the Pitch Advisory Service. At the community level, volunteers help to maintain pitches.

The multi-year partnership with the RFU reflects STIGA’s commitment to easing the load on volunteers and professional grounds teams in pitch maintenance, while ensuring world-class playing surfaces for players at every level. As part of the agreement, STIGA will support the maintenance of pitches and green spaces across the country, from elite England Rugby training facilities to grassroots clubs, by providing access to its cutting-edge autonomous mower technology and professional battery-powered tools.

Designed to deliver outstanding results with minimal effort, STIGA’s intelligent, wireless mowing systems help optimise turf care, reduce workload, and ensure consistently high-quality playing surfaces across the game.

James Gordon, Managing Director of STIGA UK, said:

“As Official Groundskeeping Partner of the RFU, it was very important for STIGA to bring our professional mowers and specialist rugby ground equipment to Allianz Stadium for the grounds team to try first-hand. 2026 will be a superb year for showcasing the quality and innovation of STIGA products, while also supporting clubs as we continue to help elevate standards across the sport.”

Jim Buttar, Head of Grounds and Technical Operations for the RFU, added:

“This has been a superb opportunity to see which STIGA lawn care products will be of greatest value, not only to us at Allianz Stadium but to grassroots clubs across the RFU. We are really looking forward to this partnership, which will allow clubs to excel both on the pitch and in the care of their grounds.”

STIGA will support both the England senior men’s and women’s teams, alongside grassroots rugby clubs across the country. With more than 90 years of garden care expertise, STIGA combines advanced technology with sustainable innovation to deliver professional-level performance on every surface.

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This year’s show? The best yet

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This year’s show? The best yet: The third edition of GroundsFest had a lot to live up to, given that the first two exhibitions had established it as one of the biggest and best shows of its type on the country.

Indeed, last year the organisers were awarded Best Trade Show in the prestigious EN Awards.

This year’s show? The best yet

This year’s show? The best yet

So the pressure was on for 2025. But do you know what? This year’s exhibition was the best yet. The opening day was truly outstanding. The sun shone and everywhere you looked there were visitors lining the aisles and chatting with exhibitors on their stands.

And, when you wanted a break from business there was always something to take your attention, whether that be lawnmower racing, machinery testing with “Machinery Live” or competitions of all descriptions.

The promotional video put out a few weeks later could not have showcased GroundsFest 25 any better. If you weren’t there, it would certainly persuade you to make the trip to Stoneleigh next year. Just don’t examine that video too closely as you’ll see yours truly reliving his youth in a dodgem!

The 2025 Exhibition was considerable bigger than its two predecessors, the flexible nature of the Stoneleigh site lending itself to expansion, while at the same time not losing the cohesive nature of the site. Given the success of the show building yet further on that, with more space and more exhibitors, is going to be a challenge but any potential exhibitor who visited just to test the water is very likely to be encouraged to book some space and join the party in 2026.

The GroundsFest Academy has quickly become one of the most exciting educational initiatives in the groundscare and landscaping industries – and it’s continuing to grow.

The Academy was created with a simple but powerful mission: to provide free, high-quality, practical training for professionals and volunteers across the industry. What makes it truly unique is that it’s entirely funded by profits from the annual GroundsFest event, ensuring that money goes back into supporting skills, knowledge, and career development for the people who make the industry thrive.

“Our goal has always been to make education accessible, engaging, and relevant,” said Bradley Tennant, Director of Education for the GroundsFest Academy.

“We’re not trying to replicate what’s already out there – we’re reimagining how learning can be delivered. Every session is practical, hands-on, and shaped by real-world challenges. The enthusiasm from delegates and partners so far shows that people are hungry for this kind of training.”

From grounds managers and contractors to sports turf specialists, students, volunteers, and landscaping enthusiasts, the Academy offers something for everyone. Each event is CPD-accredited and designed to deliver immediate, real-world value – whether that’s through hands-on workshops, expert-led seminars, or interactive demonstrations.

Sessions so far have covered a wide range of topics, from irrigation maintenance and robotics to seed science.

The approach is simple: bring together leading manufacturers, educators, and practitioners to share knowledge in an open, collaborative format – free of charge.

Irrigation Maintenance introduced participants to the latest irrigation advancements, complete with handson demos and there was also the hugely popular KAR UK Sprinkler Service Challenge – a timed, practical test that had delegates racing to assemble a sprinkler head.

Robotics and Sustainable Technology saw the Academy team up with Husqvarna, Lantra, and Origin Amenity Solutions to showcase how automation and battery power are shaping the future of grounds management. Delegates explored robotic mowers, automated line-marking systems, and green technologies in a realistic outdoor setting.

Seed Science, in partnership with DLF UK, took delegates deep into the world of grass and seed technology. From seed identification and germination tests to sowing techniques and aftercare, attendees walked away with practical insights they could apply immediately in their own environments.

The Academy’s collaborative approach has been met with enthusiasm from both partners and participants.

“It’s great to show what we do, but even better to contribute to education and understanding in the industry,” said Matt Gresty, MM and Designer Sales & Brand Manager at DLF UK.

“From wildflower seeds to sports turf, we want to help people improve their work through better knowledge.” Adam Little, Key Account Manager for Husqvarna UK, agreed: “There was an abundance of questions from the delegates – which shows how good the event was and how engaged the group was.

Demonstrating the machines on a green space gives people a feel for how they’d actually use them.”

Delegates have been equally positive. David Newell, Deputy Head Groundsman at Reading FC, praised the Academy’s unique format:

“You never know that to expect from a new event, but it’s been really educational. It’s different to anything you get anywhere else.”

That educational focus was echoed by Mike Green, a groundsman at Winterborne Cricket Club:

“It’s really good to come here and keep your CPD going. These events are so important for bringing new talent into our industry – showing the younger generation what technology is out there. Events like this are great to showcase what we do in our industry. It’s really important to stay up to date with emerging technology to help us with climate change and sustainability.”

The Academy has already partnered with Origin Amenity, KAR UK, DLF, Lantra, and Husqvarna UK, with many more collaborations planned.

It has also teamed up with BIGGA to develop joint educational initiatives aimed at strengthening professional standards and supporting the next generation of industry talent.

“We’re seeing incredible engagement – from apprentices just starting out to seasoned professionals wanting to refresh their skills,” added Bradley Tennant.

“Education shouldn’t be static. We’re keeping things fresh, relevant, and inspiring. The GroundsFest Academy is here to grow with the industry.”

As it continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the GroundsFest Academy isn’t just teaching skills – it’s helping to build a stronger, more connected, and better-equipped industry for the future.

The day I sampled a commitment to quality forged in STIHL

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The day I sampled a commitment to quality forged in STIHL: It’s 22 May and Scott MacCallum has left me a voice mail asking me to give him a ring… I’m out at the RSPB reserve in Loch Leven, just having had a lovely bowl of soup and I head out to phone Scott with a curious mind.

He asks me if I would attend a press day at STIHL and without a pause, I jump at the chance. He then goes on to tell me it’s in Germany and my excitement grows. I only hesitate to tell him my passport expired a few months ago… but hey, a mere detail!

The day I sampled a commitment to quality forged in STIHL

The day I sampled a commitment to quality forged in STIHL

The event is in September, so I have plenty of time to plan.

A new passport and four failed photographs attempts later, I’m off to STIHL!

Arriving at the hotel in Waiblingen, heralds the start of a great adventure as STIHL have even provided chocolates in the shape of chainsaws, dressed in a smart orange ribbon. I demolish the chocolates as the first task on my to-do list.

At the amazing STIHL brand museum, we are introduced to products, personalities and the incredible world of timber sport.

The press gathered today will get to experience several product demonstrations throughout the programme of events.

My particular interest is with the new battery mowers from series 7 and the new FSA70 R battery brush cutter, making lawn trimming easy. Well, I say to myself, I’ll be the judge of that!

We are offered the chance to don the PPE and get cutting and so off I go!

The battery mowers offer low-noise and emission-free power for noisesensitive areas. As a former gardener within a hospital setting, these lownoise options would have been perfect.

The mowers from the 7-series have a power of up to 2.9 kW. They are also equipped with an 8-litre grass catcher box, minimising the need of the operator to stop and empty the catcher as frequently as other mower options demand. On the heavy, wet grass that they are being demonstrated on to today, the RMA 750 and RMA 756 make easy work of the task.

The new backpack BRA 500 and BRA 600, also offer a noise reduction system and a blowing force of up to 32 or 35 newtons, constantly available for the entire battery operating time.

Disruptive frequencies and noise peaks are specifically eliminated, and these powerful battery blowers can tackle heavy, autumn leaves effortlessly.

The BRA 280 B has a blowing force of up to 26 Newtons and a maximum speed of 86 m/s. it is light weight and compact and reduces the strain on the operator. It also has a quick adjustment design of the blowing tube length to allow for varying requirements. Ideal for green cuttings, wet leaves and dirt.

The other item of interest to me is the STIHL FSA70 R battery brushcutter. As someone of a grand height of 5 foot 2 (and a half) inches tall, I am eager to see if this product works well with a smaller operator.

I put on the PPE and harness etc and clip on the strimmer. I’m merrily trimming the lawn for a while when I’m stopped and told it’s time to move on to the next demonstration. I can honestly say, that using that piece of kit was the most enjoyable trimming experience I have had and that it was indeed genuinely ergonomically superior to any other option I have tried.

Don’t get me started on the rapidquick system that allows mowing heads to be replace easily at the touch of a button…I’d be here all day singing its praise. The advanced EasySpool winding mechanism is simply a gamechanger and this piece of equipment is now firmly on my Christmas present wish list.

It is now time for us to head inside the factory where we are told no photographs are allowed. I suddenly feel as giddy as Charlie did when he won the Golden ticket and was about to meet Mr Wonka inside the chocolate factory. Indeed, with the brand’s trademark orange, I wonder for a moment if we will encounter Oompa Loompas…?!?

We head in and there are only professional, highly skilled and passionate employees.

In the “drum testing” room, batteries are placed in a cement mixing drum and left to withstand what damage they can…. We are given a battery to inspect that has endured such an experience. With only a few scuffmarks on its exterior, the batter has survived with operational abilities intact.

The day I sampled a commitment to quality forged in STIHL

The day I sampled a commitment to quality forged in STIHL

This level of testing to ensure the consumer and prosumer, have only the very best quality of product, is awe-inspiring and the commitment to the buyer is in a class of its own. Batteries with long life and durability are certainly on show today.

One of my favourite parts of the STIHL factory must be the sound room. My imagination is running away with me as we enter the sound room, and I am anticipating Gene Wilder stepping out and singing “Pure Imagination”. They really shouldn’t have given me those chocolates; I think the sugar has gone to my head!

Anyway, in this room the decibels of each machine are measured, and tests are carried out to make noise reduction possible.

Other products that cannot be left without commenting on is the vast range of chainsaws and I was given the opportunity to use a chainsaw for the very first time during the workshop outside. The power is impressive and so is the effort gone in by STIHL to ensure safety is paramount.

A few weeks ago, I had a conversation with a couple of groundsmen, and one asked the other why is a STIHL saw called a STIHL saw, the answer was simply “because the best made saws are arguably made by STIHL”. It is engrained on our mind that STIHL make saws and with the emergency services opting for STHIL over other manufactures, that is truly a testimonial. The STIHL MSA 300 Rescue and STIHL TSA 300 Rescue are ideal for fire brigade and disaster relief teams and are available on the market now.

When I left Wonka-world, sorry I mean STIHL world and got back to the UK, I made a trip to an event called “Farming of yesteryear”. Among all the tractors, old ambulances and antique fire engines, was an old STIHL chainsaw… this is truly a brand that has withstood the test of time and has a well-deserved place in the hearts of those who are dependent on its power and performance to get the job done well and safely.

STIHL understand the people they create their products for, and every effort goes in from start to finish, to ensuring that the quality of manufacturing is unsurpassable.

GVA become the preachers of benefits of Aspen Fuel

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GVA become the preachers of benefits of Aspen Fuel: ‘Your environment, our responsibility’ is not just the strapline of contractors GVA – it’s very much a motto the company embody everyday in their operations with National Highways, utility providers, countryside managers and other leading land agencies throughout the UK.

Longstanding users of Aspen 2 and Aspen 4 across their machinery fleet, their confidence in the environmental and operator benefits of alkylate fuel has moved from being simply their fuel of choice to a core element of their brand new GVA Training school.

GVA become the preachers of benefits of Aspen Fuel

GVA become the preachers of benefits of Aspen Fuel

Already familiar with the firm from over 20 years’ experience in the arboricultural industry, Andrew Fletcher joined GVA in September 2024 to become their new Corporate Training Instructor and Coordinator. He came with a clear vision – to build a training centre that reflects best practice across the industry and just a few short months later, and with LANTRA qualifications to teach across 10 specialist disciplines under his belt, that vision became a reality in the form of GVA Training.

“It’s been incredibly exciting – to develop this new project within such an established and well-respected business” Andrew explains. “Because of GVA’s growth, we see a steady stream of new recruits so it made complete sense to develop a training model to run alongside our operations which supports our clients and demonstrates our commitment to continual professional development and high safety standards.”

Courses are open to anyone, and include a dedicated segment on fuelling – focussed on the science, environmental and operator health benefits and practical advantages of Aspen Fuel over regular petrol. “We see it in our day-to-day business – the reduction in smoke/haze, the lack of strong odour, the benefits it brings to engine life and equipment performance. It’s now about informing the next generation, many of whom have heard about Aspen but some who only experience it hands-on for the first time when they come and learn with us. They notice the difference straight away” he adds.

“During the morning maintenance session, trainees get the chance to inspect machines from GVA’s own fleet which is where they can clearly see Aspen’s cleaner burn and reduced carbon deposits. Come the afternoon, its outdoor training using both battery tools and conventional equipment fuelled exclusively with Aspen.” This combination of theory and practice, Andrew says, helps to overcome any perceived barriers some of the attendees sometimes have. “Cost always comes up, but when you factor in that Aspen is pre-mixed with 2-stroke oil, the reduction in machinery maintenance, downtime, not to mention the health benefits, it pays for itself. We’re fully converted which makes it easy to present with confidence.”

With support from their local Aspen distributor Stuart Taylors International, GVA Training has welcomed over 100 students since the scheme launched in April 2025 and with demand steadily increasing, they expect numbers to grow rapidly over the coming year. “We use Aspen because it works. Now it’s brilliant that we can teach so many others why!”

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Toys bring festive cheer to communities

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Toys bring festive cheer to communities: Generous JCB employees have delivered another record year for the company’s annual Christmas Toy Appeal – donating an amazing 1,787 gifts.

Donations poured into 15 different collection points across the company’s UK plants when the appeal was launched in November, beating last year’s total of 1,700 presents.  Now the bulk of the gifts have been handed over to Stoke-on-Trent charity the Hubb Foundation for distribution to families in the greatest need.

Toys bring festive cheer to communities

Toys bring festive cheer to communities

Hubb Foundation Operations Manager Tom Beecham said: “JCB’s Christmas Toy Appeal means so much to us as a charity and it means so much to the children and families we work with in Stoke-on-Trent. Christmas is a challenging time of year, so to bring some happiness and positivity to children at this time of year is wonderful. We can’t thank JCB and all the employees enough for their ongoing generosity.”

The first batch of gifts was delivered to thrilled pupils at the New Ford Academy in Smallthorne, Stoke-on-Trent by JCB-sponsored athlete and Olympic silver medallist Adam Burgess and JCB apprentices Kitty Hulme, Lewis Durham, and Lucy Pepper.

Deputy Head Tracy Moller said: “It was wonderful to see the excitement on the children’s faces as the gifts were distributed. We would like to thank all the fabulous employees at JCB for their generous donations.”

Since the appeal’s launch in 2022, employees have donated almost 6,000 gifts for distribution to children and young people. In Wrexham, gifts donated by JCB Transmissions’ employees are being given to the Salvation Army for local distribution. A number of gifts were also donated to Cheadle Primary School for distribution to families.

Helping to co-ordinate this year’s appeal were  JCB apprentices: Kitty Hulme, 20, of Newcastle under-Lyme, Lewis Durham, 20, of Derby, Lucy Pepper, 23, of Stoke-on-Trent, and Will Jenkins, 20, of Stone.

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