GroundsFest and GroundsFest Academy to Exhibit at BTME

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GroundsFest and GroundsFest Academy to Exhibit at BTME: GroundsFest and the GroundsFest Academy will be exhibiting at BTME 2026 for the very first time, marking an important milestone for the fast-growing event and its year-round education programme.

Visitors can find the GroundsFest team on stand 233, where they will be showcasing what makes GroundsFest a must-attend date in the industry calendar, as well as raising awareness of the GroundsFest Academy and its commitment to education and skills development.

GroundsFest and GroundsFest Academy to Exhibit at BTME

GroundsFest and GroundsFest Academy to Exhibit at BTME

The appearance at BTME follows an announcement earlier this year confirming a new collaboration between The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), organisers of BTME, and GroundsFest. The partnership is designed to strengthen both events while bringing together professionals from across the grounds care, landscaping and golf sectors. As part of this growing relationship, BIGGA exhibited at GroundsFest for the first time in September, making GroundsFest’s debut at BTME a natural next step.

BTME provides an ideal platform to introduce GroundsFest to an even wider greenkeeping audience. Taking place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire on 16 and 17 September, GroundsFest has quickly established itself as a unique industry event, welcoming grounds staff, greenkeepers, landscapers, designers and architects, gardeners, local authorities, estate managers and contractors.

What sets GroundsFest apart is its distinctive format. The event combines indoor business and education opportunities with large-scale outdoor demonstrations, giving visitors the chance to see equipment, technology and techniques in action. After an action-packed day, attendees can unwind and continue networking at the show’s much-loved live music festival – a relaxed, informal environment that brings the industry together in a different way.

For many BTME visitors, the show will also be an opportunity to discover more about the GroundsFest Academy and what it offers. Created as a pathway for GroundsFest to give back to the industry, the Academy exists to invest in education and support the sector all year round. Its focus is on accessible, high-quality training that helps people learn, grow and stay inspired, whatever stage they are at in their career.

The GroundsFest Academy provides a platform for professionals, volunteers, students and newcomers to gain real-world knowledge and develop practical skills. A key aim is to raise awareness of career opportunities, attract new talent into the sector, and support the ongoing development of those already working within it.

The Academy delivers two distinct types of events. Inspire Events explore the key topics shaping the industry, while Focus Events take a deeper dive into market-specific challenges and opportunities. All sessions are CPD accredited and cover a wide range of relevant subjects, ensuring genuine value for attendees.

Exhibiting at BTME 2026 gives GroundsFest and the GroundsFest Academy the chance to connect directly with greenkeepers, encourage them to put GroundsFest 2026 in their diaries, and highlight the Academy as a hub where skills are shared, ideas are explored, and the future of the industry is strengthened through continued learning and collaboration.

For more information about the GroundsFest Academy, visit www.groundsfestacademy.com

For more information about GroundsFest, visit www.groundsfest.com

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

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High speed, high productivity with GKB DTA models

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High speed, high productivity with GKB DTA models: If you’re looking for greater productivity in golf course aeration, then a stop by the GKB Machines stand at BTME 2026 is a must with the launch of the new Deep Tine Aerator High Speed (DTA HS) range. Available in three working widths, the DTA HS combines GKB’s precision engineering with significantly enhanced speed of operation helping greens teams to achieve optimal soil decompaction while reducing disruption time.  

Designed for superior output without compromising aeration depth or quality, the DTA HS models allow greenkeepers to cover more ground in less time – an ideal solution for today’s increasingly time-sensitive maintenance schedules. With 1.2m, 1.6m and 1.8m working widths available, whether you’re tackling compaction on tight tees and greens or larger, undulating fairways, there’s a DTA HS model to meet your needs.

High speed, high productivity with GKB DTA models

High speed, high productivity with GKB DTA models

Productivity is also assured with the Sandspreader range, which will also be on show at Harrogate Convention Centre in January. Positioned at the entrance to the show, the SP100 mounted model will set the tone for precision turfcare – compact, reliable and engineered for accurate sand distribution, the Sandspreader is the perfect partner to the new DTA HS for those upcoming spring renovations.

On the topic of renovations, the GKB technical team will be on hand across the duration of the show to discuss the full fine turf maintenance portfolio – whether it’s aeration, topdressing, scarification or seeding on the cards. For the latter, the GKB Combiseeder utilises the tried and trusted combination of two spiked rollers and two brushes to accurately deliver seed into the surface and optimise conditions for germination. Suitable for seeding and routine overseeding work, the Combiseeder is available in four working widths to suit greenkeepers, sports turf managers and contractors alike.

All of this and more can be found on stand 644 when BTME returns on 20th to 22nd January 2026.

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DLF to deliver hands on educational experience at BTME

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DLF to deliver hands on educational experience at BTME: DLF Seeds are set to inspire and educate visitors at BTME 2026 with the launch of the brand new interactive ‘DLF Seed Lab’. Building on the success of previous years, the Seed Lab has been designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice – offering greenkeepers, grounds staff and turf professionals the opportunity to deepen their understanding and get hands-on with different turf grass species.

Complementing DLF’s Seed Identification Course at the Continue to Learn education programme, visitors to stand 124 will be able to see examples of managed turf and plants from key turf grass species. Seed samples and identification displays will also highlight the distinguishing characteristics of all major turf types, while live demonstrations will showcase the principles of seed quality and purity.

DLF to deliver hands on educational experience at BTME

DLF to deliver hands on educational experience at BTME

Together with expanding knowledge, a stop by the DLF Stand will also form part of the BASIS trail, enabling visitors to build points as part of their BTME visit.

In addition, the technical team will be discussing the latest developments in the DLF Disease Watch programme – steering cultivar and breeding programmes to develop more effective and sustainable seed solutions to tackle disease patterns across Europe head-on. One of many notable successes from this programme has been the development of DLF 4Turf tetraploid ryegrass, with improved drought and disease resistance combined with improved colour and fast establishment making them an ideal choice for turf managers looking to improve surface quality and reduce input costs.

Visitors are invited to find out more about 4Turf and all the latest updates across DLF’s market-leading Johnsons Sports Seed, Masterline and MM seed ranges together with the extensive native and high-impact wildflower collections when BTME returns to Harrogate Convention Centre on 20th to 22nd January 2026. Whether your aim to is improve your seed ID skills, explore new mixtures or be the first to learn about the latest advances in seed technology, stand 124 is one not to miss!

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BAGMA focus on ‘stronger partnerships for stronger businesses’

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BAGMA focus on ‘stronger partnerships for stronger businesses’: The British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA) are returning to BTME in 2026, setting the tone for a year of growth, strength and increased value for its membership.

Re-engaging with the dealer community and Industry Partners on stand 642, this year’s presence underscores BAGMA’s renewed commitment to partnerships – including the introduction of new Service Providers Brown & Brown and VIN Chip.

BAGMA focus on ‘stronger partnerships for stronger businesses’

BAGMA focus on ‘stronger partnerships for stronger businesses’

After the challenges of 2025 posed by the climate, geopolitical uncertainty and wavering economy, BAGMA’s focus has been on expanding and developing the support available to members during these difficult times. Going into 2026, BAGMA are pleased to have strengthened their line-up of approved partners to more than 15 – all offering exclusive support, discounts and services to BAGMA members.

The newest names on the growing list are Brown & Brown – specialists in providing benefits programmes and insurances which prioritise employee health, wellbeing and overall workplace satisfaction. BAGMA are also pleased to have partnered with VIN Chip Asset Security, offering sophisticated theft deterrent and forensic asset identification services in an attempt to tackle the ever-increasing issue of equipment theft.

Besides outlining member benefits and the comprehensive range of industry training courses available, visitors to the stand can also find out the details for the BAGMA Connect meeting programme for 2026.

Designed to enhance collaboration, promote best practice and drive business development, BAGMA will be delivering three Connect events throughout the year hosted by TORO UK Limited on 25th March, KUHN Farm Machinery on 2nd July and Kverneland Group (UK) Ltd on 21st October 2026. Open to members and non-members, Connect meetings serve as critical touchpoints to network and convene with industry experts and peers with the aim of exchanging ideas and building stronger businesses and relationships.

More details on BAGMA events and the full range of member benefits are available on the BAGMA website, www.bagma.com

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GMA Industry Awards Shortlist Announced

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GMA Industry Awards Shortlist Announced: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is pleased to reveal the shortlist for the 2026 GMA Industry Awards, taking place at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium on 12 March 2026.

Each year, the awards shine a spotlight on the individuals, teams and organisations who are raising standards across the industry. And this year, there’s an exciting new addition: the GMA Conference, taking place earlier in the day and setting the stage for an evening of celebration.

GMA Industry Awards Shortlist Announced

GMA Industry Awards Shortlist Announced

From grassroots volunteers to elite-level grounds teams, this year’s shortlist highlights the depth of talent and expertise that continues to elevate the grounds management industry across the UK and beyond.

The finalists were selected following a thorough judging process, undertaken by a panel of sector experts who reviewed entries across sixteen categories.

Jason Booth, GMA Chief Operating Officer said: “It has been inspiring to once again see the dedication shown by so many teams and individuals submitting entries for the GMA Industry Awards.

“This year we received a record number of submissions, and the calibre of work on display has been outstanding. It’s been particularly encouraging to welcome fresh faces into the mix. I would also like to thank our independent judging panel for their expertise and considered evaluation of each submission.”

The 2026 Industry Awards Shortlist:

Young Grounds Person of the Year (Sponsored by Origin Amenity Solutions)

  • Adam Hooper – Tottenham Hotspur F.C
  • Daniel Birrell – National Cricket Centre Jersey
  • Flynn Good – Leicester City F.C
  • Ged Newman – Manchester City F.C

Newcomer of the Year (Sponsored by ICL)

  • Jack Churchman – Cutcrew Ltd
  • George Legg – Stanley Park Sports Ground
  • Samuel Knowles – Nottingham Forest F.C

Volunteer Groundsperson/Team of the Year

  • Trubshaw Cross
  • Eddie Mills – Northfield Town F.C
  • Tom Banks – Kirkoswald F.C
  • Craig Dinsdale – Settle United AFC

Community Groundsperson/Team of the Year (Sponsored by the National Governing Bodies of Sport)

  • Yeovil Recreation Centre
  • AELTC Wimbledon Qualifying & Community Sports Centre
  • Stanley Park Sports Ground
  • Stoneham Lane Football Complex

Bowls & Croquet Groundsperson/Team of the Year

  • Dean Gibbons – Wantage Bowling Club
  • Port Sunlight Village Trust

Best Managed Artificial Surface of the Year

  • Stanley Park Sports Ground
  • Stoneham Lane Football Complex
  • University of Warwick

Environmental and Sustainability Impact Award

  • Liverpool F.C
  • University of Warwick

Professional Horse Racing Grounds Team of the Year

  • Newbury Racecourse
  • Warwick Racecourse

Professional Tennis Courts Grounds Team of the Year

  • Edgbaston Priory Club
  • Lexus Nottingham Tennis Centre
  • The Queens Club
  • The All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club

Professional Cricket Grounds Team of the Year

  • Marylebone Cricket Club
  • Warwickshire County Cricket Club

Professional Rugby Union Grounds Team of the Year (Sponsored by MJ Abbott / Premier Pitches)

  • Bristol Bears
  • Northampton Saints
  • Twickenham Stoop
  • Twickenham Stadium

Professional Rugby League Grounds Team of the Year (Sponsored by Agronomic Services Ltd)

  • Wigan Warriors
  • Castleford Tigers
  • Leeds Rhinos

Professional Football Grounds Team of the Year (Sponsored by Reesink UK)

  • Lincoln City F.C
  • Tranmere Rovers F.C
  • Stockport County F.C
  • MK Dons F.C

Professional Football Grounds Team (Elite) of the Year (Sponsored by SGL)

  • Liverpool F.C
  • Leicester City F.C
  • London Stadium
  • Manchester City F.C

University/College Grounds Team of the Year

  • University of Warwick
  • University of Nottingham
  • University of Leeds

Independent School Grounds Team of the Year (Sponsored by ISEKI UK & Ireland)

  • Culford School
  • Eton College
  • Whitgift School

Join us at the GMA Conference 2026
Designed for grounds professionals, the GMA Conference offers curated opportunities for advanced learning and development. Shape your own agenda and explore solutions to workplace-specific challenges, empowering you to make a tangible impact.

It provides a focused environment to tackle complex industry issues while earning recognised CPD points.

Registration of interest is now open for those who want to secure early access. To learn more about the GMA Conference & Industry Awards or to register your interest for the conference, visit gmaindustryawards.uk/conference.

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Ben Muschamp at bmushcamp@thegma.org.uk.

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