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NEWS ARTICLES

Tom Curry’s New Game with STIGA

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Tom Curry’s New Game with STIGA: Tom Curry has been enjoying swapping the scrum for stripes as the new brand ambassador for STIGA, one of Europe’s leading garden machinery brands. The partnership has brought together one of rugby’s most respected and powerful players with a brand renowned for performance, reliability and innovation.

Known for his relentless work rate on the pitch, Tom is now applying that same precision and dedication to creating his own “pitch-perfect lawn” at home.

Tom Curry’s New Game with STIGA

Tom Curry’s New Game with STIGA

Through the collaboration, he has been exploring STIGA’s range of advanced battery-powered and robotic mowing solutions, combining smart technology with sustainability to deliver professional-level results in the garden.

The partnership also forms part of STIGA’s wider collaboration with England Rugby, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting the game at every level, from grassroots clubs to the international stage.

Supporting Local Rugby Clubs

Great games start with great grounds. Across the country, thousands of volunteers give their time week in, week out to maintain rugby clubs. STIGA and England Rugby are working together to support these vital community hubs with time-saving, cost-effective mowing solutions that help keep pitches in peak condition.

By reducing maintenance time and lowering running costs, clubs can focus their energy on developing players, growing participation and strengthening their local communities.

15% Off for Members + Cashback for Clubs

As part of the initiative, every RFU club has its own unique STIGA discount code*. When members use their club’s code online, they receive 15% off STIGA products, and their club earns cashback from every purchase.

Funds raised can be reinvested into facilities, whether that’s improved pitch lighting, upgraded clubhouses, kitchen refurbishments or essential structural improvements. It’s a simple way for members to invest in their own gardens while giving back to the club they love.

This partnership is rooted in performance, community and long-term impact, ensuring both home lawns and rugby grounds are always match-ready.

To read more about the partnership got to: STIGA & England Rugby

Shared Values, Shared Impact

At their core, rugby and STIGA are built on the same foundations. teamwork, reliability, performance, and community. It’s this shared spirit that helps both players and gardeners grow, thrive, and make a lasting impact.

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STIHL unveils limited centennial edition MS 500i

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STIHL unveils limited centennial edition MS 500i: To mark its 100th anniversary, STIHL has released a limited centennial edition of the MS 500i, its flagship high-performance petrol chainsaw designed for professional forestry applications.

First introduced in 2019, the MS 500i was the world’s first series-produced petrol chainsaw with electronically controlled fuel injection, setting a new benchmark for throttle response and power delivery in large-capacity saws.

STIHL unveils limited centennial edition MS 500i

STIHL unveils limited centennial edition MS 500i

The centennial edition retains the full specification of the standard model, combining fuel injection technology with an industry-leading power-to-weight ratio of 1.24 kg/kW, the best in its class. For forestry professionals harvesting large timber, this means rapid acceleration, high torque and reduced operator fatigue over extended cutting periods.

Finished in an exclusive black design with distinctive centenary detailing, the limited-edition model will be available in restricted numbers through selected specialist STIHL Approved Dealers.

Commenting on the release, Michael Traub, CEO of STIHL, said: “The centennial edition MS 500i exemplifies STIHL’s exceptional development expertise and is also a tribute to all the people who develop and build our products with passion and inventive spirit. The machine demonstrates the potential that modern combustion technology still has today – enormous power, high precision, and maximum safety.”

The centennial edition of the MS 500i forms part of STIHL’s 100th anniversary celebrations. Since 1926, STIHL has defined the global standard for battery and petrol-powered forestry, landscaping, and residential gardening equipment for professional and domestic users.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffGjvXCED80

For exclusive early access to the Centennial Edition MS 500i, register your interest, here: https://www.stihl.co.uk/en/100-years-ms500i

Find out more about STIHL’s historic milestone, here: https://100.stihl.com

For more information on STIHL products, visit www.stihl.co.uk or contact your nearest STIHL Approved Dealer.

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ICL Appoints Kevin Glazier as Area Sales Manager South

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ICL Appoints Kevin Glazier as Area Sales Manager South: ICL Turf & Landscape UK & Ireland has announced the appointment of Kevin Glazier as Technical Area Sales Manager for the South.

Kevin brings more than 20 years’ experience in golf course management, with a strong background in agronomy, team leadership and course development.

ICL Appoints Kevin Glazier as Area Sales Manager South

ICL Appoints Kevin Glazier as Area Sales Manager South

Kevin joins ICL from Pine Ridge Golf Club, where he served as Course Manager, leading an eight-strong team and overseeing all aspects of course maintenance and development.

Prior to this, he held the position of Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Royal Mid Surrey Golf Club and began his career at Sherfield Oaks Golf Club. Across these roles, he has been responsible for course presentation, irrigation management, project delivery and staff development, including involvement in significant course improvement works.

Commenting on his appointment, Kevin said:

“Having worked in golf course management for many years, I understand the practical and technical challenges turf professionals face. ICL’s reputation for product performance and technical support made this an opportunity I was keen to pursue. I’m looking forward to supporting customers across the South.”

Andrew Pledger, Sales & Business Development Manager – UK South, welcomed Kevin to the team.

“We are very pleased to welcome Kevin to ICL. His experience managing established golf courses and leading teams gives him a strong understanding of our customers’ day-to-day priorities. He will be a valuable addition to the UK South team and will further strengthen the support we provide across the region.”

Kevin will work closely with distributors and turf managers throughout the South, providing technical guidance and support across ICL’s turf and landscape portfolio.

Please contact ICL on 01473 237100 or visit www.icl-growingsolutions.com

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How EFI and ETC engines are redefining performance

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How EFI and ETC engines are redefining performance: Across agriculture, forestry and landscaping, equipment performance depends upon an optimal power-to-weight ratio and portability. In addition, high performance in different terrain, easy maintenance and sustainability are crucial factors for all equipment in these industries.

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) engines are two distinct technologies that help to deliver these equipment requirements. The EFI engine features a computer-controlled system that delivers fuel into engines rather than a traditional carburettor. The ETC engine uses electronic signals to control the engine’s throttle.

How EFI and ETC engines are redefining performance

How EFI and ETC engines are redefining performance

Engines that feature EFI and ETC technology at the same time, offer an attractive alternative solution thanks to their smart and efficient capabilities that also maintain high performance power.

EFI and ETC – unmatched power to weight ratio 

Landscaping and garden machinery often need to be both lightweight and transportable, especially when navigating uneven terrains in parks and forests. EFI and ETC can be deployed independently or together and deliver more effective power-to-weight ratios.

The Jo Beau® GORILLA™ M600 woodchipper is a perfect example of this, using Briggs & Stratton’s Vanguard® 29.9 kW (40 HP) BIG BLOCK™ V-Twin EFI/ETC engine that deploys both technologies, to process branches up to 18 cm in diameter whilst being small enough to fit through a doorway. The petrol engine ensures that the chipper remains steady and efficient even when processing large irregular branches.

This combination of size and reliability makes this sort of equipment invaluable to workers operating in tight areas, without sacrificing performance.

EFI/ETC reduces the total cost of ownership

Both EFI and ETC technology contribute to increased uptime and reduced total cost of ownership of equipment. This is due to the ability of real-time fuel control provided by EFI technology, which is optimised based on load and conditions. This ensures that fuel isn’t wasted during partial-loading operations, which can be a common theme in the gardening industry.

Stale fuel in seasonal equipment like leaf blowers and woodchippers is also not an issue with EFI due to its tolerance for it. This means it faces fewer problems after being stored for long periods over winter months, whilst ETC helps reduce mechanical wear and reduces long-term maintenance needs.

High performance in every environment 

Outdoor equipment faces some of the most extreme conditions including heat, cold, elevation and humidity. Engines equipped with EFI and ETC technology are designed specifically to operate in conditions like these. EFI provides smooth starting while ETC helps engines adjust to changes in terrain to improve control.

EFI and ETC reduce environmental impact  

Lower emissions are a growing requirement in many industries, especially for those working outdoors with nature. Engines equipped with EFI and ETC technology offer cleaner combustion, which in turn reduces harmful emissions without the need for diesel treatments.

EFI engines meet stringent environmental regulations by precisely controlling fuel delivery, leading to a more efficient combustion and reduced emissions, thereby helping manufacturers and operators to stay compliant with professional performance. This is vital when working in forests and parks, providing cleaner and more efficient solutions.

As mentioned before, the Vanguard BIG BLOCK engine powers the Jo Beau GORILLA M600, deploying electronic fuel injection technology that utilises the Engine Control Module (ECM) to tune every single operating point unique to the engine. It takes in all signals from the engine sensors to make cycle-by-cycle decisions on how much fuel and spark to provide and when. This means improved starting at all temperatures, smooth performance at all elevations, quick load acceptance and reduced fuel consumption, which makes the Vanguard BIG BLOCK the perfect fit for this powerful but compact application.

EFI can integrate  

EFI engines have been designed to integrate both physically and digitally. With CAN-bus capabilities, they seamlessly communicate with the rest of the machine’s systems. This means the operator can see real-time diagnostics and troubleshoot remotely.

Making the smart choice  

The forestry and gardening sector is a turbulent one, due to increasing regulations and demands from the industry. By switching to petrol engines equipped with EFI and ETC, operators can meet these demands, allowing for an increased power-to-weight ratio, reducing the environmental impact, and increasing performance in multiple environments. This is all while integrating easily with equipment and reducing the TCO.

Machines equipped with engines that feature both, EFI and ETC technology are providing not just an alternative solution but a powerful solution.

For more information on Vanguard, visit https://www.vanguardpower.com/emea/en_gb/home.html

And for more information on Jo Beau, visit https://www.jobeau.eu/en/

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Bernhard Academy’s Spring online management programme

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Bernhard Academy’s Spring online management programme: Bernhard Academy has announced the launch of its Spring 2026 online leadership and management programme, giving industry professionals around the world the opportunity to develop essential skills from anywhere.

Following the strong success of its education seminars and packed trade show sessions earlier this year at BTME and the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show, the Academy’s latest programme continues its commitment to delivering accessible, high-impact learning to the sector.

Bernhard Academy's Spring online management programme

Bernhard Academy’s Spring online management programme

The Spring 2026 series features two development pathways – Aspiring Manager and Confident Manager – while also offering the flexibility to attend individual courses or mix and match topics to suit personal development goals.

The Aspiring Manager pathway is designed for future leaders preparing to take the next step in their careers, focusing on self-awareness, communication, stakeholder understanding and personal leadership development.

The Confident Manager pathway supports those stepping into or operating within supervisory roles, covering key areas such as budgeting, risk assessment, project management, handling difficult conversations, managing stress and delivering impactful presentations.

Courses begin on 9 March 2026, with sessions running through to 18 May 2026, all delivered online and accessible globally.

Sami Strutt, Education Director at Bernhard Academy, said: “The response to our education sessions at this year’s trade shows demonstrated just how strong the appetite is for high-quality, accessible learning across our industry.

“Our Spring 2026 online programme has been designed to give professionals, wherever they are in the world, the confidence and practical skills to progress in their careers. Whether they’re aspiring to step into management or looking to strengthen their impact as established leaders” she added.

In addition, the Bernhard Academy has confirmed dates for its specialist Technical and Equipment Management training:

  • 9 April 2026: Cutting Unit Set Up and Sharpening Techniques @ Loch Lomond Golf Club
  • 13-15 April 2026: Fundamentals of Turf Care Mechanics – Level 1 @ Moortown Golf Club

With demand expected to remain high following recent industry engagement, early booking is encouraged. For more information or to register, visit: https://bernhardacademy.co.uk/

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