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Mitie and Kress Launch One of the UK's Largest Autonomous Mowing Deployments

Mitie and Kress Launch One of the UK’s Largest Autonomous Mowing Deployments

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Mitie and Kress Launch One of the UK’s Largest Autonomous Mowing Deployments

Mitie and Kress have announced a strategic partnership that will see 24 autonomous Kress Voyager ‘mowbots’ deployed across customer sites throughout the UK, representing one of the largest investments of its kind within the facilities management and landscaping sector.

Mitie and Kress Launch One of the UK's Largest Autonomous Mowing Deployments

Mitie and Kress Launch One of the UK’s Largest Autonomous Mowing Deployments

The rollout combines Mitie’s landscaping expertise with Kress’ advanced autonomous mowing technology, creating a new model for grounds maintenance that blends intelligent automation with skilled human oversight.

Mitie colleagues are developing new digital capabilities as ‘Robot Pilots’, programming and managing the Kress ‘mowbots’ using digital tools to map sites, monitor performance and optimise operations in real time. Working alongside landscaping teams, the autonomous Kress Voyager units safely navigate sites using advanced AI and positioning technology, undertaking routine grass cutting operations throughout the day.

As fully electric machines, the Kress Voyager fleet supports both Mitie’s and Kress’ shared sustainability ambitions by producing zero direct emissions during operation. Unlike conventional petrol-powered mowing equipment, the Kress ‘mowbots’ operate entirely on battery power, helping improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions across customer estates. Battery-powered operation also eliminates the risk of fuel and oil spills, supporting cleaner and safer site management.

The autonomous Kress Voyager units are significantly quieter than traditional petrol machinery, making them particularly well suited to sensitive environments such as schools, healthcare facilities, corporate campuses and public spaces where noise reduction is important.

Beyond operational benefits, the ‘mowbots’ contribute to healthier and more sustainable grounds management. Through a process known as ‘grass cycling’, the robots mow little and often, naturally returning fine grass clippings back into the soil. This improves soil health, reduces reliance on fertilisers and helps create stronger, more resilient lawns.

Mitie and Kress Launch One of the UK's Largest Autonomous Mowing Deployments

Mitie and Kress Launch One of the UK’s Largest Autonomous Mowing Deployments

The deployment of the Kress Voyager fleet is the latest innovation within Mitie’s growing robotics programme, joining its successful cleaning robot (‘cobot’) initiatives, including the deployment of 32 autonomous cleaning robots at Heathrow Airport. Together, these technologies are supporting frontline colleagues, enhancing service delivery and helping customers achieve their sustainability goals:

Tim Howell, Managing Director, Landscaping, Mitie, said:

“This rollout marks an important step forward in how we deliver grounds maintenance services. Through our partnership with Kress, we are bringing innovative autonomous technology into our landscaping operations while creating new opportunities for colleagues to develop valuable digital skills as Robot Pilots. The Kress Voyager platform supports our commitment to sustainability through quieter, zero-emission operation, while allowing our teams to focus on higher-value landscaping activities.”

Spencer Funnell, Managing Director,Kress, said:

“We are delighted to partner with Mitie on this landmark deployment of Kress Voyager autonomous mowing technology. This collaboration demonstrates how robotics and AI can work alongside skilled landscaping professionals to transform grounds maintenance. By combining Mitie’s operational expertise with Kress’ autonomous technology, we are delivering a safer, more sustainable and highly efficient solution that benefits customers, colleagues and the environment alike.”

About Kress Voyager

The Kress Voyager is a fully autonomous commercial mowing platform designed for large-scale grounds maintenance applications. Combining advanced AI navigation, electric power and autonomous operation, Voyager helps organisations reduce operating costs, lower emissions and improve productivity while maintaining exceptional turf quality.

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

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Makita's new battery charger offers plug-in productivity

Makita’s new battery charger offers plug-in productivity

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Makita’s new battery charger offers plug-in productivity

Makita has launched its latest compact battery charger, the DC18SJ, designed to give users greater flexibility and mobility when powering cordless tools. Compatible with Makita’s 14.4V and 18V LXT batteries, the DC18SJ utilises USB-C Power Deliver (USB-PD) technology, allowing charging to be performed from a wide range of suitable power sources.

Makita's new battery charger offers plug-in productivity

Makita’s new battery charger offers plug-in productivity

The new battery charger provides a convenient solution for keeping batteries charged whilst on the move, in cars, vans, or on site and when using portable power banks. The charger is compatible with the full range of Makita 18V LXT batteries and uses a three-stage charging process when powered by either an AC or 12 volt DC in vehicle power supply. To operate, it requires a USB-PD cable source and power source capable of producing between 60W to 100W, which cannot be shared across other devices at the same time.

Thanks to the charger’s smart charging control, estimated charging time range from 27 minutes for the 1.5Ah batteries and up to 280 minutes for high capacity 12.0Ah batteries, depending on the available power. For example, when using a 12v DC socket in a van or car (ADP14 at PD 60W), the BL1860B 6Ah battery can be fully charged in 145 minutes.

Additionally, the charger has a status indicator, which displays three different colours dependant on the machine’s four conditions as follows: insufficient power (orange LED), standby with cooling (red LED), charging unavailable (red LED blinks) and charging (blue LED blinks before turning off when fully charged).

Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK said: “The new DC18SJ offers users a practical, versatile and efficient charging solution, making it a valuable addition to a professional toolkit. The charger is also available as part of the 1916H8-8 Power Source Kit LXT, which comes with the ADP14 Adapter with a PD Cable for added practicality.”

For more information, please visit: www.makitauk.com

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GKB strengthens Global Sales Team

GKB strengthens Global Sales Team

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GKB strengthens Global Sales Team

To cope with an exciting and rapid period of growth, GKB Machines are pleased to announce the expansion of their sales team both in the UK and at their headquarters in The Netherlands. A familiar face in the form of Dougie Archibald joins as the new UK & Ireland National Sales Manager, while Anne van Engelen takes on the position of Sales Director from GKB HQ in Barendrecht.

GKB strengthens Global Sales Team

GKB strengthens Global Sales Team

Working alongside UK Operations Manager Tom Shinkins, Dougie Archibald brings over 30 years of experience to the newly created sales role. Starting his career in a hands-on grounds position with the Scottish Rugby Union, Dougie then moved into machinery sales, working in both manufacturer and dealership environments. Over this time, he’s built up a thorough understanding of the needs of modern turf management which he looks forward to sharing with GKB customers old and new.

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining GKB Machines at a time when the product range and brand as a whole is going from strength to strength” he comments. “Having had the pleasure of distributing GKB equipment for the last seven years, I understand exactly what makes these machines so popular with the end users – namely their robust build quality and reliable in-field performance. Between Tom and I, we look forward to supporting our dealers and customers nationwide, providing more localised service and representing the brand at events around the country.”

Meanwhile, Anne’s passion for agricultural machinery started at an early age, growing up within his parents New Holland dealership. His upbringing, surrounded by tractors and other equipment, went on to shape not only his career but a heartfelt enthusiasm for the industry. Over the past eleven years, he’s gained extensive experience in the international sales and export of overseeders for fine turf and agriculture, alongside specialist mowing solutions for fruit growing and farming.

Commenting on his new position, Anne said, “I am truly excited to return to the fine turf industry; an environment where a shared passion for the perfect grass surface brings people together. Working closely with the GKB team, I look forward to combining my experience in sales and export, brand development and dealer management to further strengthen the brand around the world.” He adds, “Together, we will continue to grow, focussing on the right products and right support to deliver long-term success for both our partners and end users.”

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Wildwood Machinery an Official Machinery Partner of second county FA

Wildwood Machinery an Official Machinery Partner of second county FA

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Wildwood Machinery an Official Machinery Partner of second county FA

Wildwood Machinery has been appointed by the Berks & Bucks Football Association as an official groundcare machinery equipment supplier. The Winchester-based groundcare business, which already partners with Hampshire FA, will offer groundcare advice, favourable terms on equipment, and service support to all members of the association.

Wildwood Machinery an Official Machinery Partner of second county FA

Wildwood Machinery an Official Machinery Partner of second county FA

Wildwood Machinery managing director James Bastian says: “We’ve enjoyed a very successful partnership with Hampshire FA, and so we’re delighted to be working with another community football association.”

“Access to state-of-the-art groundcare equipment and reliable service are so valuable to grassroots and league football clubs. This partnership is another key part of our objective of helping raise the quality of playing surfaces and facilities across the South of England,” says James Bastian.

As part of the agreement Wildwood Machinery offers a reduced hourly labour rate for groundcare machinery servicing and maintenance, and discounted prices on groundcare equipment purchases.

Liz Verrall, CEO at Berks & Bucks FA, said: “The Berks & Bucks FA are delighted to welcome onboard Wildwood Machinery as an Official Machinery Partner. Wildwood Machinery will provide our clubs with high-quality equipment, education and feedback to improve their grass pitches. Giving our clubs the opportunity to learn more about the upkeep and maintenance of their pitches is something we are proud to provide. This partnership is another which reflects the commitment we have in continuously improving our facilities across the region, and we are looking forward to working closely with Wildwood Machinery to make that happen.”

James Bastian, adds: “We’ll also be helping community clubs in Berkshire and Buckinghamshire unlock vital funding for groundcare equipment by supporting them with applications to the Football Foundation,”

“With our background in golf club ownership in the South of England, and our current customer base that includes both elite and community sports clubs, we can bring the latest groundcare equipment, technology and knowledge to the local sporting community.”

Wildwood Machinery partners with the leading brands in groundcare – including Iseki, Wessex, Stogger Turfcare, GKB, DW Tomlin, DeWalt, ECHO Robotics, INFINICUT, Raymo and Rovimo – and offers high-level mobile and workshop servicing support from its base at East Horton Golf Club in Eastleigh, Hampshire.

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BIGGA announces launch of new podcast shining a light on greenkeeping

BIGGA announces launch of new podcast shining a light on greenkeeping

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BIGGA announces launch of new podcast shining a light on greenkeeping

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) have announced the launch of a new podcast taking listeners behind the scenes of greenkeeping and golf course management.

BIGGA announces launch of new podcast shining a light on greenkeeping

BIGGA announces launch of new podcast shining a light on greenkeeping

Produced in partnership with golf-specialist creative agency 18Players, The BIGGA Podcast will share insight and inspiration from the people shaping the future of the profession, from apprentices to course managers, industry leaders and innovators. The podcast series will guide conversations exploring the people, decisions and ideas that make great golf courses possible.

With impeccable timing the opening episode features Sean McLean, Course Manager at Royal Birkdale Golf Club, as the venue prepares to host The Open Championship this week. His appearance provides a timely introduction to the series and places the knowledge, skill and dedication of greenkeepers at the heart of one of the biggest events in golf.

Each episode will cover subjects including career development, leadership, agronomy, technology, sustainability, wellbeing and the changing demands of golf course maintenance. Future guests will be drawn from across BIGGA’s UK and international membership, as well as the wider golf and turf industries.

The podcast is intended for greenkeepers at every stage of their careers, alongside club leaders, industry professionals and golfers who want a deeper understanding of how courses are prepared, maintained and continually improved.

BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said: “Greenkeepers are highly skilled professionals whose expertise is fundamental to every round of golf, but much of their work takes place away from public view.

“The BIGGA Podcast will shine a light on our members and the wider profession, giving people a platform to share their knowledge, experiences and achievements. From apprentices beginning their careers to course managers preparing venues for the game’s biggest championships, greenkeeping is full of remarkable people and stories.”

“I’m certain that all golfers and turf professionals will find the podcasts valuable and informative.”

The BIGGA Podcast will be hosted by two of 18Players’ most respected golf writers; Steve Carroll and Russ Greaves.

You can listen to the first episode of The BIGGA Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

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