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Yanmar and AriensCo join forces

Yanmar and AriensCo join forces

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Yanmar and AriensCo join forces

Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd. (“Yanmar”) and AriensCo announce a strategic partnership. The collaboration brings together two family-owned companies with traditions spanning generations to drive innovation in the industry and create new value for dealers and customers.

Yanmar and AriensCo join forces

Yanmar and AriensCo join forces

Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd. (“Yanmar”) and AriensCo today announced a strategic partnership that unites two multigenerational family-owned businesses to accelerate the development of next-generation technologies and deliver even greater value for dealers, customers and partners of both companies. Through the combination, Yanmar, a Japan-based manufacturer of engines, agricultural machinery and energy systems, becomes the majority partner in AriensCo, a family-owned manufacturer of outdoor power equipment. The Ariens family will retain a significant stake in the business and lead operations and strategy for the company from its existing headquarters in Brillion, Wisconsin.

Both companies will continue operating as usual under their respective brands, from their current headquarters, with the same teams, and with their manufacturing and distribution networks intact. Ariens®, Gravely®, AS-Motor® and all associated brands will uphold their commitments to dealers, customers, employees and communities.

“Strong relationships have always been at the core of AriensCo’s strategy, and we are confident this new partnership with Yanmar is the right next step to position our company as an R&D leader while maintaining the same commitments to quality and longevity that have always distinguished our brands,” said Dan Ariens, Chairman & CEO, AriensCo. “As a family business with a history spanning more than 100 years, Yanmar shares our belief that family ownership is a competitive advantage. This partnership provides continuity by keeping family ownership at the heart of AriensCo. It allows both companies to look beyond short-term business performance to deliver long-term value to our dealers, customers, partners and communities around the world. We are stronger together.”

The partnership positions Yanmar and AriensCo to lead the development of next-generation industrial power equipment as automation, artificial intelligence, electrification and complex global supply chains transform the industry. Yanmar’s world-class engineering, production and diagnostic capabilities, alongside AriensCo’s established North American and European manufacturing and distribution networks, enable the partners to compete at scale while staying grounded in the quality, longevity and trust that have defined both companies for decades.

The partnership is also expected to create new opportunities for AriensCo’s nationwide dealer network. Over time, dealers may benefit from broader product and technology capabilities, enhanced service and diagnostic resources, and access to Yanmar’s global business network. AriensCo will continue to emphasize the personal, relationship-based service that has long defined its relationships with dealers and customers.

“AriensCo has built trusted brands and strong customer and dealer relationships over generations,” said Takehito Yamaoka, President and Representative Director of Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd. “Together, we aim to create greater value for customers, dealers and the communities we serve. This partnership will also provide a strong foundation for the long-term growth of both companies. We look forward to building a lasting partnership founded on our shared values.”

AriensCo was advised in this transaction by Baird as financial advisor and Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. as legal counsel. Yanmar was advised in this transaction by JP Morgan as financial advisor and Arnold & Porter s.c. as legal counsel.

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Toro UK strengthening its professional focus in the UK & EMEA

Toro UK strengthening its professional focus in the UK & EMEA

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Toro UK strengthening its professional focus in the UK & EMEA

Toro UK are pleased to announce the appointment of Rob Read as their new Territory Manager for the South West of England and Wales.

Toro UK strengthening its professional focus in the UK & EMEA

Toro UK strengthening its professional focus in the UK & EMEA

Rob brings a wealth of industry experience, having started his career in the ground care industry at Devon Garden Machinery, where he experienced directly the needs of a professional dealership, in various roles, starting in the workshop and progressing into sales.

Rob has firsthand experience of Toro Equipment, having sold and demonstrated the full range of products in his role at DGM. Covering all aspects of sales, from domestic showroom customers, to golf courses, caravan sites as well as many other professional users.

With a strong background in grounds care machinery, technical support and sales, Toro says Rob will be working closely with their dealer network and customers across his territory, helping to drive growth and provide even greater support on the ground.

“I am really pleased to have Rob join the team. We had several highly qualified applicants for the role, so it was a very competitive field. But its Rob’s drive and enthusiasm, combined with his commercial experience which clinched it.” said Craig Hoare, Sales & Marketing Manager – Toro U.K. Limited. “I look forward to Rob utilising his sales and demo experience, to support our network of dealers.”

Rob started with Toro UK on 1st September and will be responsible for both the Hayter and Toro brands across the South West of England and Wales, covering both the residential and landscape contractor portfolios.

“I am really excited to be taking on this new challenge” said Rob. “I look forward to meeting with some old and some new faces across the territory, where I feel I can add real value to the Toro UK dealers.”

This appointment follows from Jack Roberts joining to cover the North of England and Scotland, enabling Toro to continue its focus and investment in Professional contractor equipment.

As part of these personnel changes, Toro UK are pleased to share that Matt Coleman has joined Toro’s EMEA Equipment Business Sales team as Area Sales Manager, Grounds and Landscape Contractor Equipment, reporting to Teo Denchev.

Since joining Toro UK in 2020, Matt has played an important role in developing and growing Toro’s Landscape Contractor and Siteworks business. His experience, customer focus and strong understanding of the professional landscape and grounds care markets have made him a trusted partner to customers and colleagues alike.

Matt’s move to the EMEA team reflects Toro’s continued commitment to investing in the professional grounds care segment and strengthening the support we provide across the region. As we continue to build on our positions of strength in this market, his knowledge and expertise will help us accelerate growth, support our distributor network and deliver greater value to customers.

In his new role, Matt will work closely with our distributors and internal teams to advance our strategy for professional grounds care and landscape contractor equipment across EMEA which includes the UK market.

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Industry leaders and innovators headline SALTEX 2026

Industry leaders and innovators headline SALTEX 2026

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Industry leaders and innovators headline SALTEX 2026

SALTEX has unveiled an exceptional line-up of headline speakers for its prestigious Learning LIVE education programme, including experts from UEFA, STRI, Agrii (Envirofield), SAPCA, LaboSport and the Football Foundation.

Industry leaders and innovators headline SALTEX 2026

Industry leaders and innovators headline SALTEX 2026

Bringing together experts from across sport, science and industry, the programme will provide visitors with direct access to the latest thinking, research and real-world experiences shaping the future of grounds management.

Taking place across the Main Stage, Spotlight Stage and Community Sport Stage, Learning LIVE 2026 will bring together some of the most influential voices in sports turf management, environmental sustainability, water stewardship, scientific research, and grassroots sport. Through diverse expert-led sessions, visitors will gain practical insights, cutting-edge knowledge and lessons learned from professionals operating at the highest level of the industry.

Opening the programme is Lee Guerriero of UEFA, who will take to the Main Stage to deliver a highly anticipated session, ‘Review of UEFA Club Season 2025/2026 and a Preview of EURO 2028 Pitch Programmes’. Offering a unique perspective from one of world football’s governing bodies, Guerriero will reflect on the latest UEFA club competitions while looking ahead to the planning, preparation and expectations surrounding UEFA EURO 2028.

Hot off the back of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Greg Whately, Principal Consultant at STRI, will discuss the delivery of exceptional playing surfaces for major international tournaments. Greg will share valuable insights into the planning, preparation and performance standards required to support football’s biggest events, offering practical lessons for turf professionals operating at every level of the game.

Technology and innovation will be firmly in the spotlight during a session from Dr Ruth Mann of Agrii (Envirofield), who will explore ‘The Role of Technology in Turfcare Management’. Her presentation will examine how emerging technologies are transforming decision-making, improving efficiencies, and helping turf professionals deliver high-performing, sustainable surfaces.

Research-led learning will form another key strand of the programme. On the Spotlight Stage, Dr Christian Spring of STRI will headline the European Turfgrass Society Takeover with a session entitled ‘Putting Science and Research at the Heart of Turfgrass Management’. Visitors will gain valuable insight into how evidence-based approaches and scientific innovation are helping shape the future of turfgrass management across Europe.

With water management continuing to dominate industry agendas, Tony Hanson will present ‘From Problem to Resource: Unlocking Alternative Water for Turf Irrigation’ on the Main Stage. His session will explore innovative and sustainable approaches to water sourcing, offering practical solutions for organisations facing increasing pressure on traditional water supplies.

Also on the Spotlight Stage, Dr Kathryn Severn join the SAPCA Takeover session, ‘The Latest Trends in Player-Surface Interactive Research’. Her presentation will examine the latest findings surrounding the relationship between athletes and playing surfaces, providing valuable insight for professionals seeking to balance performance, safety, and sustainability.

GMA Grounds Manager of the Year 2026, Karl McDermott, will lead two Learning LIVE sessions, drawing on his experience at some of the UK’s most prestigious sporting venues. In the session, How Strong Team Culture Ensures Success at the AELTC, Lord’s Cricket Ground, the University of Leeds and Leicester City Football Club, Karl will explore how effective leadership, collaboration and a positive workplace culture underpin consistently high standards across a diverse range of world-class facilities.

The Community Sport Stage will feature expert guidance aimed at helping grassroots sports clubs’ access vital funding and resources. On 12 November, Ruby Armitage, PitchPower Project Officer at the Football Foundation, will present ‘How to Obtain a Machinery Grant’. Drawing on her experience supporting clubs and facilities across the grassroots game, Ruby will provide practical advice on securing funding for essential equipment and improving the long-term sustainability of playing surfaces.

Geoff Webb, CEO of the Grounds Management Association, said: “Learning LIVE has become one of the defining attractions of SALTEX, bringing together world-class expertise and practical knowledge that visitors can take back to their organisations. This year’s speaker line-up reflects many of the key issues shaping the future of grounds management, from major tournament preparation and climate resilience to scientific research, technological innovation, and grassroots facility development. We are delighted to welcome such an outstanding group of speakers to SALTEX 2026.”

As the industry’s leading platform for professional development, networking, and innovation, Learning LIVE continues to provide SALTEX visitors with unparalleled access to the people and organisations driving progress across the grounds management sector.

SALTEX 2026 takes place on 11 and 12 November at the NEC Birmingham, with all Learning LIVE sessions included free as part of visitor registration.

For more information and to register for free, visit www.saltex.org.uk

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BAGMA hails success of first Health & Safety Working Group

BAGMA hails success of first Health & Safety Working Group

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BAGMA hails success of first Health & Safety Working Group

The first meeting of a brand-new industry Health & Safety Working Group has been hailed a major success by hosts, The British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA). The initiative, borne from two of BAGMA’s dealer members, is designed to create a space where Health & Safety professionals can share experiences, discuss common issues and, most importantly, come together to find practical solutions that bring benefit to the agricultural and groundcare sectors.

BAGMA hails success of first Health & Safety Working Group

BAGMA hails success of first Health & Safety Working Group

Individuals representing some of the industry’s leading brands including John Deere, Kubota, Case and more recently came together at BAGMA HQ in Peterborough with one shared vision – to find ways to make the industry safer. While it’s clear there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution, the day demonstrated the importance of sharing experiences and the value to be gained from cross-sector discussion.

Besides a number of the country’s leading dealerships, BAGMA were also pleased to welcome a number of industry experts to the event, including the DVSA’s Andrew Donald and Paul Marsh from BAGMA Service Provider SafetyAide.

“The first BAGMA Health & Safety Working Group meeting was both insightful and encouraging” commented attendee Jo Robinson, Group Health and Safety Manager at Farol Ltd. “While we may represent different businesses, brands and specialisms, we all have the same objective: making sure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day. Openly sharing experiences, challenges and ideas in this way is exactly how we continue to improve health and safety standards and drive our industry forward.”

Christia Killen, Health and Safety Manager at Lister Wilder, added “What I found most valuable about the first meeting was realising that we’re all dealing with many of the same challenges. Sharing practical solutions and learning from each other means we can all make progress much faster than trying to solve everything independently.”

On the event, BAGMA General Manager Nick Darking said, “We are well aware that people’s eyes tend to glaze over when you mention Health & Safety, but the startling statistics around injuries and deaths in the outdoor power sector prove that it’s a topic that needs to be tackled head on. This inaugural meeting was incredibly well received by all that attended and it signals an important step towards working collaboratively to improve the safety of those working across the industry.”

The next meeting of the BAGMA Health & Safety Working Group will take place virtually on Tuesday 15th December 2026. BAGMA Members who are interested in attending should contact BAGMA via email at info@bagma.com or by calling 01295 713344

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EGO introduces its first commercial zero-turn mower

EGO introduces its first commercial zero-turn mower

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EGO introduces its first commercial zero-turn mower

A new benchmark for battery-powered commercial grounds care has been set, as EGO unveils its first PRO X zero-turn ride-on mower for 2027.

EGO introduces its first commercial zero-turn mower

EGO introduces its first commercial zero-turn mower

Delivering exceptional professional cutting performance and increased productivity for the entire working day, EGO’s powerful ZTX4800E PRO X zero-turn ride-on mower is transforming how commercial landscaping businesses operate.

Combining commercial-grade durability with the latest IoT-enabled intelligent fleet connectivity, the lap-bar-steered mower is built to help landscaping and maintenance businesses unlock efficiency, streamline workflows and reduce operating emissions.

Available as a kit, the ZTX4800E is powered by up to four of EGO’s 40Ah high-capacity batteries, delivering exceptional power and runtime to tackle demanding commercial applications with confidence. Built for durability, it features a rugged 3.8mm fabricated cutting deck, three high-performance blade motors and an impressive blade speed of 19,000 feet per minute for heavy-duty strength and cutting performance.

Going a step further in maximising fleet efficiency, the mower also functions as a mobile power hub. Equipped with an onboard DC-DC charging port, it enables users to recharge one hand-held battery from EGO’s industry-leading 56V platform while on the move. This gives users the ability to top up handheld tools with power directly in the field, reducing downtime and eliminating the need to interrupt work due to depleted batteries. Mounting fixtures are also available to help users transport handheld equipment around the job site.

Integrated 4G connectivity enables the mower to provide updates on both the mower and the tools it is transporting, giving fleet managers greater visibility of their inventory to help maximise uptime. Meanwhile, an intuitive IP66-rated colour touch screen offers intelligent operation, with onboard diagnostics and modular servicing information increasing machine uptime. The addition of gyroscopic slope detection also helps operators to work safely on uneven terrain.

The mower is compatible with the EGO Fleet app, allowing fleet managers and operators to monitor equipment performance, usage and maintenance needs across their connected fleet from a single platform at any time.

Joerg Bauerle, Product Manager EMEA for EGO, said: “Our first PRO X ride-on mower represents a major step forward for professional grounds care. We’ve designed it to do far more than simply cut grass; rather, it’s a connected productivity platform that helps commercial users work smarter, maximise uptime and manage their operations more efficiently.

“The Mothership concept takes that a step further by integrating battery management and fleet connectivity into a single machine. By supporting the full EGO platform and reducing unnecessary downtime, professional users are given greater flexibility and fleet managers have full visibility of their fleet.”

The ZTX4800E PRO X zero-turn ride-on mower is available from 2027 and is backed by EGO’s three-year professional tool warranty.

To find out how the ZTX4800E could transform your business’ operations, book a free demo at: https://egopowerplus.co.uk/ranges/professional-x-range/book-demo

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