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GMA Connect Expansion Delivers UK-Wide Success

GMA Connect Expansion Delivers UK-Wide Success

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GMA Connect Expansion Delivers UK-Wide Success

The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has celebrated a highly successful year for its GMA Connect series, following a major expansion in 2026.

GMA Connect Expansion Delivers UK-Wide Success

GMA Connect Expansion Delivers UK-Wide Success

After two successful pilot events in 2025, the GMA responded to growing demand by rolling out five regional events this year. The expanded programme visited Oxford, Cardiff, Leeds, Southampton and Ipswich.

Collectively, the events attracted more than 250 attendees, welcoming of grounds professionals and volunteers from across the country. Each event provided a valuable platform for learning and discussion, reinforcing GMA Connect’s position as a key touchpoint for its members and the wider sector.

The series featured a strong line-up of expert speakers including Mark Hunt (Pro Data Weather Systems), Richard Earl (TGMS) and Andy Welsby (GMA), who shared practical insight and guidance on some of the most pressing challenges facing grounds teams today.

Sessions covered a range of critical topics including irrigation and drainage in practice, improving surface performance through design, and managing turf in an increasingly unpredictable climate.

Attendees also benefited from live demonstrations delivered by leading industry brands, offering hands-on exposure to the latest equipment and innovations.

Feedback from across the series highlights the positive impact of the events.

Paul Benson of The Newt in Somerset said: “Myself and my colleague thoroughly enjoyed the day, and I will definitely encourage other members of my team to go along to future events.”

Pete Hussey of Wildwood Machinery added: “A great event, well organised, smooth in operation, hosted superbly by the GMA’s Ian Mather-Brewster. A real feel-good factor throughout the day.”

As a core member benefit, GMA Connect continues to strengthen the Association’s commitment to delivering accessible, high-quality learning. By hosting events in regional hubs, the GMA is ensuring practical knowledge and industry expertise reach the people who need it most.

Sarah Hunter, Head of Events at the GMA, said: “It’s been fantastic to see how well GMA Connect has been received this year. By taking the events into regional locations, we’ve been able to connect with more grounds staff and volunteers, and support them with practical, hands-on learning that makes a difference in their day-to-day roles. The positive feedback shows just how valuable these opportunities are for the industry.”

The success of the 2026 GMA Connect series has also been supported by a strong network of industry partners. GMA Platinum supporters Cramer, GKB Machines, Howardson Group, ICL, ISEKI UK & Ireland, Kubota, MJ Abbott, Premier Pitches and Origin Amenity Solutions, alongside event sponsors including Campey Turf Care Systems, Abundigro, Fleet Line Markers, MH Goals, RT Machinery, Trimax Mowing Systems, Jenkins Garden Machinery and Aquatrols Europe, all played a key role in delivering the series.

Following strong demand in 2026, the series will remain a key part of the GMA’s industry engagement.

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Cleanse your turf of weeds with Priest from OAS

Cleanse your turf of weeds with Priest from OAS

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Cleanse your turf of weeds with Priest from OAS

Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) are pleased to announce the launch of Priest – a new selective post-emergence hebicide developed specifically for managed amenity turf. Available now, and exclusively from OAS, Priest contains three proven active ingredients for rapid knockdown and deep systemic control of a wide range of broad-leaved weed species.

Cleanse your turf of weeds with Priest from OAS

Cleanse your turf of weeds with Priest from OAS

Delivering a reliable, professional solution for sports turf, amenity grassland and managed landscapes, Priest’s triple-action formulation combines highly effective active ingredients for fast visible results and long-lasting control of difficult and persistent weeds.

  • Florasulam – an ALS inhibitor providing systemic control of many common broad-leaved weeds
  • Fluroxypyr – synthetic auxin herbicide effective against woody and deep-rooted species
  • Clopyralid – systemic auxin herbicide particularly effective on thistles, docks and legumes

Together, these ingredients offer effective control of species including Daisy, Dandelion, White Clover, Ribwort Plantain, Common Mouse-ear, Selfheal, Sorrel and Slender Speedwell. In addition, moderate control is also achieved on Bird’s-foot Trefoil.

The versatility of Priest is matched with flexible application through either powered or knapsack sprayers, with just one application needed between March and October for optimal results. Priest is also safe to use on a wide range of turf grass including Annual Meadowgrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Chewings Fescue and Creeping Bentgrass though a test should always be carried out before full treatment, particularly on unknown turf cultivars.

Commenting on the newly launched product, Nick Martin, Commercial Director, said: “We are delighted to introduce Priest to the Origin Amenity Solutions product portfolio. Bringing high-performing, reliable solutions to the market is central to our commitment to customers, and Priest is another excellent example of that.”

“Priest is something we’ve been working on for a while and I’m delighted to have seen its efficacy first-hand” adds Mark De Ath, Origins PPP Team Lead. “It’s control of such a wide range of weed species will see Priest become a key tool in the armoury of all those looking after managed amenity turf and amenity grassland.”

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Wilcox Groundcare perfects bowling green preparations with Baroness

Wilcox Groundcare perfects bowling green preparations with Baroness

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Wilcox Groundcare perfects bowling green preparations with Baroness

When Harry Wilcox, founder of contractors Wilcox Groundcare, took on his first bowls contract in 2020, he knew having the right equipment would be critical. After evaluating the options, he found that nothing matched the cut quality of a Baroness LM66 hand mower. Six years on, and with two further bowls clubs on his books, the decision was made to invest in two more LM66’s – the trio now delivering precise, consistent and efficient mowing on all three sites.

Wilcox Groundcare perfects bowling green preparations with Baroness

Wilcox Groundcare perfects bowling green preparations with Baroness

With the assistance of a team of five, Harry looks after a vast and varied portfolio of amateur and professional sports clubs across north-west London, encompassing rugby and cricket alongside lawn bowls. To get the finesse demanded for a first-class bowling green, Harry consulted with Jon Ryan of dealers George Browns to explore the options. “It quite quickly became clear that the Baroness machine not only gave the best quality of cut and finish, but also the weight and width of the machine was ideal for cutting the green in less time than other hand mowers available” he says.

He specified the LM66 with an 11-blade cutting cylinder, additionally equipped with a front-mounted 94-blade groomer. “This combination is a gamechanger. In one pass I can groom and cut, all-but-eliminating the need to do additional verti-cutting.” Harry continues, “We’ve reduced the poa content on the green by grooming this out, and the amount of weed control we need to do has also reduced as nothing has an opportunity to grow and take hold.”

“We’ve taken this set-up that works so well and now have two further LM66’s, delivered in February 2026, all equipped with groomers at each of our bowling greens. This reduces the need to transport machines around, thereby lowering our chances of transferring weed seeds or diseases from green to green, as well as reducing our risk of knocking machines off cut or damaging them in transit. Each machine can then be fully configured to the needs of that specific site and green, maintaining that all-important consistency and quality with every cut.”

The LM66 from the Baroness pedestrian range is designed to provide the highest quality finish, with a solid build but a light footprint for its class. By utilising nickel-chrome-molybdenum alloy steel cutting cylinders and specially hardened, tipped bedknives, operators are ensured of samurai sword sharpness that keeps its cutting edge longer than any other mower in the market.

He adds, “In terms of maintenance, there isn’t much to say as I’ve not had a single breakdown in the six years I’ve had the mower! We just keep on top of the regular upkeep and in return, get a mower that performs perfectly every time.”

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Krinkels powers Westminster parks with Kress fleet

Krinkels powers Westminster parks with Kress fleet

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Krinkels powers Westminster parks with Kress fleet

Krinkels UK has reinforced its commitment to sustainable grounds maintenance with a major investment in a fleet of Kress commercial battery powered equipment, supporting the upkeep of parks, open spaces across Westminster.

Krinkels powers Westminster parks with Kress fleet

Krinkels powers Westminster parks with Kress fleet

The new fleet, including mowers, blowers and brushcutters, was delivered to the company’s base at Victoria Embankment Gardens. The setting provided a striking backdrop for a milestone moment, as operatives were introduced to the new equipment through live demonstrations and hands-on training sessions covering both the machinery and the Kress app system.

Krinkels UK holds a major contract with Westminster City Council, making performance, reliability and efficiency essential across all operations. For Assistant Operations Director Steve Morris, the investment reflects both day-to-day operational needs and a clear long-term plan.

“Wherever possible, our instinct is to move towards electric equipment,” he said. “That said, we have to be realistic about what we’re delivering on the ground. We need to know that any solution can meet our contractual commitments, whether that’s power, battery life, and the practicality of carrying enough batteries for a full day’s work, and ultimately whether it represents value for money for our customers.”

“It’s important to us that we deliver a high-quality service, but also that we do so in the most environmentally responsible way possible.”

Krinkels powers Westminster parks with Kress fleet

Krinkels powers Westminster parks with Kress fleet

“This is a significant initial investment, but when viewed over the long term, it makes sense. It’s not just a financial investment, we’re investing in the future of the environment, and in the wellbeing of the public and our teams.”

“Westminster is a particularly important step,” added Steve. “Operating in the heart of London brings additional responsibilities, and there is a clear ambition to move towards fully electric operations as part of wider air quality improvements. This sits alongside broader goals around greening, biodiversity net gain, and the development of connected green corridors in response to the climate emergency.”

Built for professional use, the Kress commercial range delivers the power required for demanding urban environments, alongside long run times and fast charging that help keep downtime to a minimum. The consistent performance across the range ensures teams can work efficiently throughout the day, while low noise levels and reduced vibration improve operator comfort. In addition, the Kress app system provides valuable insight into battery performance and equipment usage, helping teams plan more effectively and get the most from their fleet.

Ian Harwood, Sales Director at Groundserv, the supplying dealer, has seen growing demand for high-performance battery solutions.

Krinkels powers Westminster parks with Kress fleet

Krinkels powers Westminster parks with Kress fleet

 

“We carry out demonstrations for a wide range of customers and people often say they’ve trialled other battery powered brands that haven’t quite ticked every box,” he said. “With Kress, it’s the combination of battery charging times, reduced downtime and the power of the machines that really stands out.”

For Kress UK, seeing its equipment in action across one of the capital’s most iconic landscapes is a proud moment.

“It’s amazing, a real privilege,” said Vince Jenkins, National Account Manager at Kress UK. “We’ve worked with Krinkels for around two years, supporting that transition from petrol to battery. Westminster is a prestigious and beautiful location, so to see the Kress fleet in operation here for the 2026 season is fantastic. It’s been a pleasure working together.”

As Krinkels continues the transition, Westminster marks an important milestone in the shift towards cleaner, quieter and more efficient grounds maintenance in the heart of the capital.

For more information, please visit https://www.kress.com/en-gb/

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GGM Group Celebrates Successful Customer Innovation Events

GGM Group Celebrates Successful Customer Innovation Events

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GGM Group Celebrates Successful Customer Innovation Events

Industry-leading manufacturers, customers and trade media come together to explore innovation, collaboration and to celebrate a landmark partnership milestone of 50 years in partnership with Kubota.

GGM Group Celebrates Successful Customer Innovation Events

GGM Group Celebrates Successful Customer Innovation Events

GGM Group is celebrating two highly successful Customer Innovation Events held recently at its Knottingley Service Centre and Leigh Sports Village, bringing together customers, leading industry manufacturers, and members of the trade press for two days of innovation, networking and equipment demonstrations.

The events provided customers with a unique opportunity to engage directly with some of the industry’s most respected manufacturers, gaining first-hand insight into the latest developments in grounds maintenance, turf care and associated technologies. Attendees were able to explore new equipment, discuss emerging industry trends and discover practical solutions to industry challenges, designed to enhance operational efficiency and performance.

The strong attendance from customers across the arboriculture, sports turf, local authority, contractor and amenity sectors highlighted the growing demand for innovation and collaboration within the industry. Representatives from the trade press were also in attendance, helping to share insights and developments from the events with the wider grounds care community.

Chris Gibson, GGM Managing Director, said:

“We are delighted with the success of both Customer Innovation Events. Bringing together our customers, manufacturer partners and industry media created an excellent platform for sharing knowledge, demonstrating new technologies and discussing the future of our industry.

The positive feedback we received from attendees reinforces the importance of these events in helping customers make informed decisions and stay ahead of industry developments.

The events also provided a fitting opportunity to celebrate our remarkable 50-year partnership with Kubota, a milestone that reflects the strength of our relationship, shared values and commitment to delivering exceptional products, service and support to customers across the industry.”

The events also reinforced GGM Group’s commitment to supporting customers through innovation, expertise and strong manufacturer partnerships, ensuring access to the latest equipment and solutions available in the market.

GGM Group would like to thank all customers and members of the press who attended and contributed to the success of both events. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to our manufacturer partners for their continued support and active participation, which played a key role in delivering engaging demonstrations, valuable industry insights and an exceptional experience for all attendees.

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