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NEWS ARTICLES

SPIN Turf Machinery introduces the ZZ-Topper

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SPIN Turf Machinery introduces the ZZ-Topper: The Dutch company SPIN Turf Machinery launches the ZZ-Topper machine.

The ZZ-Topper uses a new concept of verticutting the turf surface, without leaving lines behind. Curved pins make a fast-oscillating movement, and smoothly clean the sward of excessive organic material, without damaging the grass blades.

SPIN Turf Machinery introduces the ZZ-Topper

SPIN Turf Machinery introduces the ZZ-Topper

Ideal to be applied on hybrid and stitched pitches, as the surface is uniformly scratched, without the fibers being damaged.

First introduced in Saudi Arabia in 2023, the ZZ-Topper is now available in 2 working widths: 1.5m and 2.2m. For more info: info@SPINturfmachinery.com

The ZZ-Topper will be exposed at the upcoming SALTEX exhibition.

Distributors are welcome to apply for all areas except Northern Ireland.

Contact: SPIN Turf Machinery  info@spinturfmachinery.com +31-610752307 www.spinturfmachinery.com 

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Toro U.K. Limited Hosts Exclusive Dealer Event

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Toro U.K. Limited Hosts Exclusive Dealer Event: Toro U.K. Limited proudly welcomed ten of its Pro Dealers to the Toro Headquarters in Minneapolis for an exclusive event aimed at strengthening partnerships and showcasing the company’s latest innovations.

During their visit, dealers explored Toro’s advanced test facilities, where they witnessed rigorous product testing and development. The group also toured the Toro factory in Windom, gaining firsthand insights into the manufacturing processes that ensure Toro products meet the highest standards of quality and performance.

Toro U.K. Limited Hosts Exclusive Dealer Event

Toro U.K. Limited Hosts Exclusive Dealer Event

“The opportunity to connect with our Pro Dealers and provide them with a behind-the-scenes look at our operations is invaluable,” said Craig Hoare, UK Sales & Marketing Manager at Toro U.K. Limited. “We are committed to our dealers’ success, and these interactions foster collaboration and innovation.”

In addition to the informative sessions, the dealers enjoyed an exciting outing to watch the Minnesota Twins take on the Milwaukee Brewers. Dealers witnessed Toro’s long-standing partnership with the Minnesota Twins seeing in action on the pitch a large range of Toro machinery. The visit culminated with a relaxing evening cruising on Lake Minnetonka, further enhancing relationships in a casual setting.

Toro U.K. Limited is dedicated to empowering its dealers with knowledge and resources to better serve their customers. This event not only reinforced existing partnerships but also showcased the commitment Toro has to its dealer network.

For more information about Toro U.K. Limited and its products, please visit www.toro.co.uk.

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The strongest Avant 800 series

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The strongest Avant 800 series: The new Avant 855i and Avant 845 models have entered production.

The biggest and strongest Avant loader series is now complete as two highly anticipated loader models have entered production. The Avant 855i is a single-speed version of the most powerful Avant model, the 860i. The new Avant 845 is a single-speed version of the Avant 850. Aimed at different markets, the Avant 855i complies with the world’s strictest emissions standards (Stage V and Tier 4) whereas the Avant 845 is directed to markets with Stage 3a emission standards.

The strongest Avant 800 series

The strongest Avant 800 series

Avant 855i: the power of the 800 series at a more affordable price

The new Avant 855i lifts significantly more than the next largest single-speed model, Avant 755. “The new 855i is Avant’s most powerful loader model. It is the perfect choice for Avant users who demand strong lifting capacity and lifting height but don’t want to pay extra for speed if they don’t need it”, says Tuomas Färlin, Commercial Product & Sales manager at Avant Tecno Oy.

The new Avant 855i has the same Kohler KDI engine, pump package, and electrical and mechanical components as the Avant 860i. But the Poclain MSE05 single-speed drive motors (625cc) are new. Thanks to the simpler drive motors, the price of the new Avant 855i is significantly lower compared to the two-speed Avant 860i.

Avant 855i has the same lift capacity and lift height as the strongest Avant model 860i. Also, the auxiliary hydraulics flow, the external dimensions of the loader and the options are the same as in the 860i.

The single-speed Avant 855i has a maximum drive speed of 15 km/h which is exactly right for short transitions, especially when moving with heavy loads. The pulling force of the machine on standard tires is 1570 kp.

Excellent loader

The Avant 855i is a much-needed loader model for many Avant users who do not need high driving speed for long transitions but require the lift capacity, lift height and strong pulling force of the Avant 800 series.

Stable and sturdy, the Avant 855i is the perfect choice for sites where heavy loads are moved and transitions from one place to another are not long. With the affordable purchase price of the single-speed Avant 855i, you can invest more in attachments and accessories that increase work efficiency.

Avant 845: single-speed version of Avant 850

The new Avant 845 is a single-speed version of the Avant 850 model. Like Avant 850, the Avant 845 loader has the same robust Kubota V2403 engine. With this simple single-speed version and its new 625cc Poclain drive motors, you get the strong pulling force and high lifting capacity of the 800 series at a much lower cost. With a maximum drive speed of 12 km/h, the 845 is an ideal workhorse especially for farms and construction sites where heavy loads are handled but the driving distances are short. The electrical and mechanical components are identical with the Avant 850 model, as well as the dimensions and options.

Technical specifications

MODEL AVANT 845 AVANT 855i
Length 3395 mm 3395 mm
Width 1490 mm 1490 mm
Height 2200 mm 2200 mm
Weight 2500 kg 2500 kg
Standard wheels 380/55-17” TR 380/55-17” TR
Transmission, drive Hydrostatic, Avant Optidrive® Hydrostatic, Avant Optidrive®
Pulling force max. 1340 kp 1565 kp
Drive speed max. 12 km/h 15 km/h
Auxiliary hydraulics
oil flow/pressure		 80 l/min 225 bar 80 l/min 225 bar
Turning radius inside/outside 1370 / 2990 mm 1370 / 2990 mm
Lifting height to pivot point 3500 mm 3500 mm
Max. tipping load 1900 kg 1900 kg
Max. breakout force / 50 cm 2200 kg 2200 kg
Engine make and type
(emissions standards)

 

 Kubota V2403 (Stage 3a)

 

 Kohler KDI-TCR 1903E5 (Stage V)

or
Kohler KDI 1903TCR (Tier 4 / Stage 3b)
Engine output (ECE R120) 36 kW (49 hp) 42 kW (56 hp)
Torque, max. 156 Nm @ 1600 rpm 225 Nm @ 1500 rpm
Fuel Diesel Diesel

For more information, please visit www.avant.co.uk

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Polaris unveils new Sportsman XP 1000

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Polaris unveils new Sportsman XP 1000: Adding to its legacy of value and quality to customers, Polaris Off Road today unveiled further updates to its 2025 lineup, featuring new upgrades that are now available as standard on RANGER and Sportsman models, as well as a new, special-edition colour option available on the top-of-the-range Sportsman ATV.

POLARIS SPORTSMAN

In addition to the recently-announced Sportsman 570 lineup for 2025, Polaris now unveils the 2025 refresh for its top-spec sport ATV – the Sportsman XP 1000 S – which now includes the introduction of Turf Mode on tractor-homologated models for easier manoeuvrability, as well as performance improvements to the rear sway bar and drag links to increase durability.

Polaris unveils new Sportsman XP 1000

Polaris unveils new Sportsman XP 1000

Polaris introduces the all-new Sportsman XP 1000 S LE model in a striking new Lava Orange Metallic colour, featuring advanced Walker Evans Racing Shocks so riders can stay out longer with less fatigue and turf mode (tractor & L7e homologations) for easier manoeuvrability.

The Sportsman XP 1000 S takes off-road capability to new heights with the industry’s only 144cm wide stance that delivers superior stability, as well as exceptional torque thanks to its powerful 952cc ProStar engine, ensuring a confident ride even in the most challenging conditions. Key features include high-clearance dual A-arm suspension with 29cm front and 35.5cm rear travel, 27″ Duro Powergrip II tyres for optimal traction, and a high-strength frame engineered for maximum durability. All XP 1000 S models feature electric power steering (EPS) for less rider fatigue, on-demand all-wheel drive (AWD) for extra traction when it is needed most, as well as an engine braking system (EBS) and active descent control (ADC) for a more confident ride. Riders can also choose between three ride modes – performance (PERF), standard (STND), and work (WORK) – offering customisable throttle response. Performance mode offers a more aggressive feel, accelerating harder with less throttle movement, whilst work mode provides a smoother throttle response than standard mode.

2025 Sportsman XP 1000 lineup

2025 Sportsman XP 1000 – Blue Slate Metallic Smoke (L7e)

2025 Sportsman XP 1000 Touring – Onyx Black (L7e)

2025 Sportsman XP 1000 S – Steely Blue (MD / T3a / T3b / L7e)

NEW 2025 Sportsman XP 1000 S LE – Lava Orange Metallic (MD / T3a / T3b / L7e)

2025 Scrambler XP 1000 lineup

2025 Scrambler XP 1000 – Storm Gray (L7e)

2025 Scrambler XP 1000 S – Lifted Lime Pearl (T3a / T3b / L7e)

POLARIS RANGER

The performance-meets-value mid-size Polaris Ranger 570 has been providing unstoppable utility performance for more than a decade, thanks to its reliable and powerful Prostar 570cc DOHC engine, and unmatched versatility with a 227kg rear bed capacity, 560kg towing capacity, on-demand all-wheel drive and Turf mode to master any job – big or small. With its compact size at just 142cm wide, tight turning radius for agile navigation, and over 25cm of ground clearance, the Ranger 570 can go anywhere.

For 2025, all RANGER 570 models now feature the integration of Electric Power Steering (EPS) as standard, including the base model. These enhancements continue Polaris’s commitment to delivering unmatched versatility and performance for unbeatable value.

2025 RANGER Mid-Size lineup

2025 RANGER SP 570 EPS – Sage Green (MD / T1a / T1b)

2025 RANGER SP 570 EPS Nordic Pro Edition – Black Pearl (T1a / T1b)

*For availability and pricing in your market, please speak to your regional Media Contact or contact the Polaris EMEA Press Office at press@polaris-orv.media

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SALTEX announces retirement of Derek Walder

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SALTEX announces retirement of Derek Walder: SALTEX, the UK’s premier event for the grounds management professionals and volunteers, announces the retirement of ‘Mr SALTEX’, Derek Walder – its long-standing Operations Manager.

He will step down following SALTEX 2024 on the 30th and 31st of October at the NEC Birmingham, marking his 42nd and final exhibition.

SALTEX announces retirement of Derek Walder

SALTEX announces retirement of Derek Walder

Derek’s career spans more than six decades, beginning in the early 1960s in horticulture as a gardener on a private estate in Sussex. His love for working on lawns then led him to become Assistant Head Greenkeeper at a golf course in Hertfordshire. In 1970, he became the Grounds Manager at a major sports field complex in Southwest London, famously used as the training ground for Wimbledon FC during the “Crazy Gang” era.

His involvement with the Grounds Management Association (GMA) dates back to 1969 when he joined the then-National Association of Groundsmen. His first engagement with SALTEX came as a volunteer when the show was held at Motspur Park, Southwest London. After eight years of volunteering, Derek took on the role of Operations Manager when the exhibition moved to Windsor Racecourse in 1979. Over the decades, he has watched SALTEX evolve first-hand, overseeing its tenancies at Windsor, Peterborough, and the NEC, Birmingham.

During his time with the GMA, Derek has held positions of General Secretary and Chairman and his dedication to the industry has been widely recognised, earning him a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in 1988 for services to groundsmanship. In 2014, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the GMA Industry Awards and, in the same year, he was awarded up the ‘Unsung Hero’ award by the Association of Event Organisers. Derek was subsequently inducted into the GMA Hall of Fame in 2021 as an acknowledgement of an illustrious career in the industry spanning more than half a century.

Speaking on his upcoming retirement, Derek said: “Looking back at SALTEX, I never imagined that on a cold autumn day in 1979, when we arrived at Windsor Racecourse for the ‘Windsor Exhibition’, I’d still be involved 42 years later. Over those years, we have seen so many changes in the industry of which the exhibition has adapted to, and for 56 of those years I was in the profession so I could appreciate what needed from a visitor perspective. Even now, I still get the same buzz when the doors open as I did in 1979.”

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, said: “Derek’s dedication to SALTEX and the grounds management industry has been remarkable. His expertise and leadership have played a vital role in shaping the exhibition into the premier platform it is today. His legacy extends far beyond the various roles he has held within the GMA – he is embedded in the culture of grounds management, having served most notably with the ‘Crazy Gang’. Over the years, what has stood out to me is Derek’s passion for SALTEX, which he has developed as a personal commitment. His work has provided the GMA with a strong foundation for the future. What many people may not know is the incredible amount of voluntary work Derek has done for both the association and SALTEX, of which we are grateful for and wish him all the best in his retirement.”

SALTEX 2024 will be an opportunity for the industry to celebrate Derek’s contributions and to honour his dedication not only to the exhibition but to the industry as a whole. Register for your free ticket now: https://www.saltex.org.uk/.

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