GroundsFest Wins Prestigious Industry Impact Award

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GroundsFest Wins Prestigious Industry Impact Award: GroundsFest has been recognised for its exceptional contribution to the groundscare and landscaping industry, having won the Industry Impact Award at the EN Indy Awards.

The Industry Impact Award celebrates an exhibition or trade show that has demonstrably changed, influenced, or significantly contributed to the growth and advancement of the industry it serves – and in just three years, GroundsFest has done exactly that.

GroundsFest Wins Prestigious Industry Impact Award

GroundsFest Wins Prestigious Industry Impact Award

Since its launch, GroundsFest has grown into the UK’s largest industry event, uniting professionals and volunteers from every corner of the groundscare and landscaping sectors. From live machinery demonstrations and hands-on experiences to its unique combination of business, education, and entertainment, the event has created something truly special for the industry.

The judges praised GroundsFest for its genuine connection to its audience and the positive change it continues to deliver. Feedback included:

“The event really has its ‘roots’ in its target audience and is making a significant impact on the industry.”

“Support for their audience extends beyond the focus of business needs. The GroundsFest Academy is a great initiative, which shows a forward-thinking strategy of impacting the next generation.”

“This event clearly demonstrates support for its community. Measurable impact delivered and fantastic feedback received.”

Judges were particularly impressed by the fact that profits from the show are reinvested back into the industry.

That commitment is brought to life through the GroundsFest Academy, an educational initiative designed to give back to the industry by providing free training and development opportunities for professionals and volunteers alike. The Academy offers hands-on workshops, expert-led seminars, and interactive demonstrations.

“It’s great to see we’re making a difference,” said Christopher Bassett, Event Director of GroundsFest. “When we launched the show, we wanted to create something that genuinely supported the industry – not just for today, but for the future. GroundsFest, and the Academy, are about helping to put the industry on the map, providing opportunities for learning, and inspiring the next generation of professionals to come through.”

This latest recognition cements GroundsFest’s reputation as an event that not only celebrates the industry but actively helps it grow. With a firm focus on community, education, and long-term progress, GroundsFest continues to make a lasting impact.

For more information, please visit www.groundsfestacademy.com

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

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Redexim’s double victory at GroundsFest Innovation Awards

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Redexim’s double victory at GroundsFest Innovation Awards: Redexim is celebrating a double success after being named winners in two categories at the first ever GroundsFest and HortWeek Innovation Awards, held at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire on 9–10 September.

The new awards programme celebrates excellence and innovation across landscaping, amenity management, turf care and related industries. With more than 100 entries received, competition was fierce, and winners were chosen by an expert judging panel led by HortWeek technical editor Sally Drury, alongside Howard Drury, Marcus Forster and Martin Towsey.

Redexim's double victory at GroundsFest Innovation Awards

Redexim’s double victory at GroundsFest Innovation Awards

Redexim scooped two accolades in the Turf Maintenance Equipment category:

New Product – The Redexim Scarivator

Stood the Test of Time – The Redexim Verti-Drain

The Scarivator – Innovation for Hybrid Surfaces

The Scarivator has been developed to meet the growing demand for hybrid field renovation. Featuring adjustable tines for precise depth control, it ensures minimal damage to synthetic fibres while delivering effective soil loosening. Its horizontal beams with angled spring tines reduce the risk of fibre wrapping around a rotor and provide exceptional performance when breaking up compacted soil on hybrid, synthetic, and natural surfaces.

The Scarivator is also ideal for creating the perfect seedbed for new rootzone application and works seamlessly alongside Redexim’s Turf-Stripper during the renovation process.

The Verti-Drain – A Proven Classic

Winning in the Stood the Test of Time category, the world-renowned Verti-Drain has become an essential tool for turf professionals across the globe. Known for its deep tine aeration technology, Verti-Drain machines penetrate the soil with a unique lifting action, breaking up compaction and creating vital space in the soil profile for air, water, and roots.

Available in a wide range of models and working widths, the Verti-Drain offers a solution for every aeration challenge – from heavily compacted sports pitches to delicate turf in confined areas. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its reliability, performance, and ongoing contribution to healthier, more resilient turf.

Speaking after receiving the awards, Paul Langford, Director of Commercial Operations at Redexim UK, said:

“To be a double award winner of the first ever GroundsFest Innovation Awards is amazing. What makes it even more special is that the judging panel is made up of highly respected industry professionals – our peers – who understand the challenges we face and the work that goes into developing solutions. To have both a new innovation like the Scarivator and a proven icon like the Verti-Drain recognised side by side really highlights the breadth of Redexim’s commitment to turf care. It’s fantastic recognition for the whole team.”

Redexim’s double success at the GroundsFest Innovation Awards underlines the company’s reputation as a leader in turf maintenance technology – combining fresh innovation with proven, long-lasting solutions that continue to shape the industry.

For more information, visit https://www.redexim.com/uk/

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Winners announced for the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year

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Winners announced for the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), Reesink Turfcare and Toro have revealed the winners of the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards 2025 at a spectacular event at Rudding Park in North Yorkshire.

Two talented greenkeepers were rewarded at the 36th Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards, cementing their place among an illustrious list of past winners.

Winners announced for the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year

Winners announced for the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year

Bradley Taylor, student at Myerscough College, and Matthew Strutt Donnelly, who attends Berkshire College of Agriculture, emerged victorious after impressing judges across a series of assessments designed to test their knowledge, skill and passion for greenkeeping.

Bradley, first assistant at Beau Desert Golf Club, in Staffordshire, was awarded the main Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year prize, while Matthew, an apprentice at Stoneham Golf Club, in Hampshire, secured the Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year award.

Following regional judging earlier in the year, eight finalists were selected to compete in the finals at Rudding Park, near Harrogate.

Over two days, they undertook a range of practical and theoretical tests, from seed and grass identification to presentations and interviews, giving them a platform to showcase their expertise and enthusiasm for the industry.

Jamie Beattie, assistant greenkeeper at Royal Liverpool, was the runner-up for the main award, with fellow Myerscough College student and Parkstone apprentice Oli Badger claiming that spot in the Young category.

The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards will return in 2026.

More information, including how to nominate a student greenkeeper and the prizes on offer, is available on the BIGGA and Reesink Turfcare websites.

You can see a list of the previous Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award winners here.

Quotes

Bradley Taylor, Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2025

“I was straight on the phone to my girlfriend. I shed a little tear when I spoke to her; it was just a moment of realisation setting in. I’d been carrying that trophy around, it’s so heavy, and I was still all tensed up. Speaking to her was like, ‘I’ve done this now, the hard work has paid off’. I was also lucky to have a few people I know up here to share it with too.”

Matthew Strutt Donnelly, Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2025

“The first time I went to BTME, I went to the Young Greenkeepers’ Conference and there was a segment about Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year with previous winners talking about it. I remember thinking, ‘I could do something like that, I want to put myself forward’. So I did, and here we are.”

Jon Cole, Divisional Business Manager at Reesink Turfcare and main award judge

“This year’s finalists all brought something different to the competition, making being a judge a tough job. The range of perspectives, qualities and strengths on display were of a very high standard. Bradley though had the edge. He demonstrated a wealth of talent, delivered a fantastic presentation, and showed us an in-depth knowledge of the field in his interview. It was interesting and gratifying to see how dedicated he is and his passion for the industry. Well done, Bradley!”

David Timms, National Accounts Manager for Reesink Turfcare and Young award judge

“Matthew is a deserving winner. He shone on the course walk, with his personal project and in the exam and grass identification, but what gave him the edge was his confidence. He’s hungry for it and that made all the judges really excited for his future and what he might achieve. He’s a fantastic ambassador for young greenkeepers and his club, and we’re excited to watch him progress in the industry.”

Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO

“Congratulations to Bradley Taylor and Matthew Strutt Donnelly, two very worthy winners among an exceptionally strong list of finalists. The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards have again proven to be an inspirational occasion, and I would like to thank our friends at Reesink Turfcare and Toro for a memorable event. Seeing the calibre of the finalists fills me with optimism for the future of our industry.”

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STIGA Wins Innovation Award at GroundsFest 2025

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STIGA Wins Innovation Award at GroundsFest 2025: The STIGA team is proud to announce that their Large Format Robot has been awarded the Innovation Award for Best Grass Cutting Equipment at GroundsFest 2025.

Designed for managing very large areas with efficiency and precision, the Large Format Robot combines advanced robotics with sustainable technology. Equipped with a full suite of object detection and proximity sensors, an integrated camera, and unlimited operational capacity, the robot sets a new standard for professional turf management.

STIGA Wins Innovation Award at GroundsFest 2025

STIGA Wins Innovation Award at GroundsFest 2025

Commenting on the award, Amanda Kincaid, UK Marketing Manager for STIGA, said:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have received the Innovation Award for Best Grass Cutting Equipment at GroundsFest. Gardening is evolving rapidly—it’s no longer just about tools, but about creating smart, sustainable solutions that adapt to every need. At GroundsFest 2025, we showcased our vision for the future with groundbreaking robotics, forward-thinking innovation, and exciting new products.”

She added: “Stepping into the professional segment is a natural progression for us—a clear expression of both our ambition and our commitment to shaping the outdoor spaces of tomorrow.”

This milestone marks STIGA’s official entry into the professional market, building on the brand’s 90+ years of expertise and leadership in the transition to electric solutions for gardening. At GroundsFest, visitors experienced live demonstrations of STIGA’s professional innovations, including the award-winning Large Format Robot, the all-electric STIGA ePark Pro front mower, and the new ePowerBattery Pro.

Looking ahead, STIGA reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainable gardening through robotics and battery technology. Visitors were also given a preview of next-generation solutions currently in development, including new autonomous and battery-powered mowers powered by the ePowerPro system, set to launch in 2026.

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Bionema Receives the King’s Award

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Bionema Receives the King’s Award: Bionema Group Ltd., a pioneering UK biocontrol technology company, has been awarded the King’s Award for Enterprise – Innovation 2024, recognising its world-leading innovations in sustainable crop protection and soil regeneration.

The prestigious award was formally presented by Mrs. Louise Fleet CStJ, JP, His Majesty The King’s Lord-Lieutenant for West Glamorgan, acting as the personal representative of His Majesty King Charles III, during a grand ceremony held on 15 May 2025 at The Guildhall, Swansea.

Bionema Receives the King’s Aaward

Bionema Receives the King’s Aaward

“This once-in-a-lifetime honour highlights the global impact of Bionema’s nature-based innovations,” said Dr. Minshad Ansari, Founder and CEO of Bionema. “We are proud to lead a movement away from harmful chemicals and toward a more regenerative, sustainable future in farming.

Why Bionema Was Selected

  • Innovative Technology: Patented NemaTrident®, a tri-component nematode-based bioinsecticide system with a biocompatible wetting agent—acquired by Syngenta in 2021.
  • Environmental Impact: Zero residue, safe for non-target species, and free from pesticide resistance, supporting biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.
  • Commercial Growth: 1,882% export growth, 105% increase in total sales, and 62% of turnover driven by innovation.
  • Customer Success Model: Integrated technical training and support to ensure optimal field performance.
  • ESG Leadership: Proven alignment with sustainability goals and environmental stewardship.

Royal Recognition at Windsor Castle

In July 2024, Dr. Ansari was invited to Windsor Castle, where he met His Majesty The King and shared insights into Bionema’s microbial innovations. This rare honour underscored the national significance of Bionema’s leadership in advancing nature-based crop protection.

Award Celebration – The Guildhall, Swansea | 15 May 2025

The formal award ceremony gathered over 70 distinguished guests, including:

Mrs. Louise Fleet CStJ, JP – HM Lord-Lieutenant of West Glamorgan.

Mrs. Diana Stroia, High Sheriff of West Glamorgan, and Mr. Dave Matthews.

Cllr. Paxton Hood-Williams, Lord Mayor of Swansea, and Lady Mayoress Patricia Hood-Williams.

Cllr. Wayne Carpenter, Mayor of Neath Port Talbot, and Mayoress Carol Carpenter.

Prof. David Smith, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University.

Representatives from Swansea University, Innovate UK, UK Agri-Tech Centres, and regional leaders in science, government, and business

Keynote speakers:

Prof. Dylan Jones-Evans OBE, Chairman of Bionema

Dr. Minshad Ansari, Founder and CEO

Stephen Ford, Chief Technology Officer

“This is a proud day for UK science and sustainability,” added Stephen Ford, Bionema’s CTO.

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