Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

/in , , /by

Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

From apprenticeships to leadership development, GMA NextGen will be showcasing the exciting opportunities available to the next generation of grounds professionals at SALTEX 2026 through expert-led sessions and dedicated networking events.

Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

As the grounds management industry continues to invest in developing future talent, GMA NextGen will take centre stage across both days of SALTEX 2026, providing aspiring and early-career professionals with the knowledge, inspiration and connections needed to build successful careers in the sector.

The packed programme will highlight the importance of education, apprenticeships and continuing professional development (CPD), while offering attendees the chance to hear directly from young professionals who are already forging careers at some of the UK’s leading sports venues.

Flynn Good, GMA NextGen Committee member, said: “We’re thrilled to be returning to SALTEX and showcasing the opportunities available to the next generation of grounds professionals. SALTEX provides the perfect platform to bring people together, share experiences and build valuable connections across the industry.

“This year’s programme is focused on supporting career development at every stage. Through our Learning LIVE sessions, we’ll be exploring how education and CPD can help professionals progress their careers, while also highlighting the apprenticeship opportunities that are opening doors for new talent across the sector.

“We’re looking forward to meeting visitors, hearing their experiences and helping the next generation take the next step in their careers.”

Discover Apprenticeship Opportunities in Sport

On Wednesday 11 November 2026, GMA NextGen will host “Understanding Apprenticeship Opportunities for your Facility” on the Spotlight Stage.

An apprenticeship could be the first step into the world of professional sport. This session will explore how apprenticeships enable individuals to earn while they learn, gain valuable workplace experience, and develop the skills needed to build long-term careers in grounds management.

Visitors will hear how apprentices are thriving at football clubs, tennis venues, golf courses and other leading sports facilities, while learning more about the application process and what to expect from an apprenticeship programme.

Speakers:

  • Flynn Good, First Assistant Pitch Manager, Leicester City Football Club, GMA NextGen Member
  • Sonny Keywood, Sports Turf Technician, Brighton and Hove Albion FC, GMA NextGen Member
  • James Williamson, Development Partner, Cricket Wales, GMA NextGen Member
  • Bojan Jovanovic, Learning Programme Lead, Grounds Management Association
  • Paul McGrail, Executive Director / Assistant Principal – Apprenticeships, Skills & Employer Engagement, Mysercough College
  • Jonathan Knowles, Head of LCFC’s Sport Turf Academy, Leicester City Football Club

The session will provide practical guidance on how to apply for apprenticeships, what candidates can expect throughout their learning journey and the career opportunities available within the industry.

Supporting the Grounds Managers of Tomorrow

On Thursday 12 November 2026, attention will turn to professional development with “Future Managers: How to Progress Your Career Through Education and CPD” on the Main Stage.

This interactive session will provide practical advice on how grounds professionals can use the Grounds Management Framework alongside national and bespoke educational opportunities to achieve both pitch performance goals and personal career ambitions.

Attendees will gain valuable insights into developing themselves and their teams through structured learning, CPD and professional development opportunities.

Speakers:

  • Dan Prest, Head of Technical and Learning, Grounds Management Association
  • Jack Langley, Deputy Head Groundsperson, Bristol City FC, GMA NextGen Member
  • Ollie Mahon, GMA NextGen Member
  • Gary Barwell, Head Groundsman, Edgbaston

Meet the GMA NextGen Community

Alongside the stage programme, visitors are encouraged to attend the GMA NextGen Clubhouse Meet-Ups, offering an informal setting to connect with fellow young grounds professionals and members of the NextGen community.

Whether you’re just starting out in the industry, considering an apprenticeship, or looking to expand your professional network, the NextGen team will be on hand to share advice, answer questions and discuss ways to get involved.

Clubhouse Meet-Up Times:

  • Wednesday 11 November | 1:00pm – 4:00pm
  • Thursday 12 November | 3:00pm – 4:00pm

Whether attendees are considering an apprenticeship, seeking career development opportunities or simply looking to expand their professional network, the NextGen team will be on hand to offer advice, support and guidance.

Join Us at SALTEX 2026

From aspiring apprentices to future industry leaders, GMA NextGen’s programme at SALTEX 2026 demonstrates the wide range of opportunities available within grounds management. Through expert-led discussions, real-world career stories and networking opportunities, visitors will gain the knowledge and connections needed to take the next step in their professional journey.

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

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

STIHL to debut ALLPRO battery system and new chainsaw designs at 2026 APF

STIHL to debut ALLPRO battery system and new chainsaw designs at 2026 APF

/in , , /by

STIHL to debut ALLPRO battery system and new chainsaw designs at 2026 APF

STIHL is set to mark its 100th anniversary at the 2026 APF Exhibition with the public debut of its new ALLPRO battery system, showcases of its latest professional chainsaws, and exclusive previews of upcoming products.

STIHL to debut ALLPRO battery system and new chainsaw designs at 2026 APF

STIHL to debut ALLPRO battery system and new chainsaw designs at 2026 APF

The show, which takes place at the Ragley Estate in Warwickshire between 24th – 26th September 2026, is the UK’s largest trade exhibition dedicated to forestry, woodland, and arboriculture.

STIHL ALLPRO Battery System at APF Exhibition

Central to STIHL’s presence at the APF Exhibition will be the launch of its new ALLPRO battery system, engineered to provide increased power output, longer running times, and significantly longer service life, while maintaining the robust durability expected from STIHL products.

The system also introduces ultra-fast charging capabilities. When paired with the new AL 1802 MO charger, batteries can be charged to 80 per cent capacity in just nine minutes, helping to minimise downtime and maximise productivity on-site.

Alongside the new charger, visitors will also be able to see the PS 2000 Portable Power Supply, providing professional users with a complete battery ecosystem designed to keep forestry teams working for longer.

New STIHL chainsaw designs at APF Exhibition 

STIHL will also be showcasing a wide range of new tools at the APF Exhibition, including the petrol-operated MS 300 C-M, the best power-to-weight ratio of a 50 cm³ class chainsaw, engineered to reduce operator fatigue during felling, processing, and delimbing tasks.

In addition, visitors to the stand will be able to view the new MSA 260 C-O. Powered by the new ALLPRO battery system, the chainsaw combines high cutting performance with reduced operator fatigue during thinning and maintenance tasks.

STIHL 2027 chainsaw exclusive at APF Exhibition 

Visitors to the STIHL stand will get the chance to take a first look at its lineup of 2027 battery-powered chainsaw launches. Alongside these future innovations, STIHL will showcase a portfolio of historic chainsaws celebrating its 100-year heritage, as well as its Hexa saw chain cutting system.

STIHL at 100 

STIHL’s appearance at the APF exhibition takes place as the brand celebrates its 100th anniversary. Since 1926, STIHL has defined the global standard for battery and petrol-powered forestry, landscaping, and residential gardening equipment for professional and domestic users.

Find STIHL at APF Exhibition 

The STIHL team will be at Stands 140 – 180 & 610 – 650 throughout the duration of the event for product demonstrations, advice, and guidance on all STIHL machines.

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

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

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

EGO brings professional battery-powered tools to FutureScape

EGO brings professional battery-powered tools to FutureScape

/in , , /by

EGO brings professional battery-powered tools to FutureScape

Battery-powered outdoor power equipment specialist, EGO, is set to make its FutureScape debut this October, demonstrating the innovations shaping the future of landscaping and grounds care.

EGO brings professional battery-powered tools to FutureScape

EGO brings professional battery-powered tools to FutureScape

Ideal for contractors and businesses considering the move away from petrol to battery, EGO will showcase the breadth of its 56V battery platform, in which professional-grade equipment, interchangeable batteries, portable charging solutions, and connected fleet management work together to support operators working across a variety of job sites.

Leading the exhibit is EGO’s first PRO X zero-turn ride-on mower, the new ZTX4800E. Its onboard DC-DC charging capabilities and mounting fixtures allow operators to transport other EGO tools and charge batteries on the go, helping to reduce downtime. Visitors can experience the mower’s capabilities first-hand by taking it for a test drive in the outdoor demonstration area.

There, visitors can also see the performance of EGO’s new ARC Lithium MAXTM battery, designed to reduce interruptions on job sites through faster charging, fewer battery changes and improved performance. Helping grounds care teams spend more time getting the job done, the tabless-cell battery will charge from empty to 100% full in only 20 minutes when paired with the PGXTM Power Bank.

David Mortimer, Sales Director UK & Ireland for EGO, said: “Battery power has come a long way, even in the last five years, when it comes to effectively meeting the needs of heavy commercial users. We’re really looking forward to joining FutureScape for the first time this year and showcasing how the switch to EGO tools can benefit professional audiences through the environmental and commercial outcomes that can be achieved as a result.

“With over 100 products in our portfolio, including our dedicated PRO X Series for commercial users, FutureScape provides the perfect platform for professionals looking to move away from petrol to see how EGO can help them make that transition across their business seamlessly.”

Visitors to the EGO stand will also have the chance to enter a competition to win an LMX5300SP PRO X Self-propelled lawn mower.

EGO will be at FutureScape, 13–14 October, on Stand OD30. To learn more, visit: https://egopowerplus.co.uk/

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

Agrigem to Highlight Turf Health Solutions at GroundsFest

Agrigem to Highlight Turf Health Solutions at GroundsFest

/in , , /by

Agrigem to Highlight Turf Health Solutions at GroundsFest

Agrigem, a leading supplier of professional turf care, landscaping, and amenity products, has announced its presence at GroundsFest this year. Visitors to the event are invited to visit Agrigem at Stand 37 to speak directly with the company’s team of qualified agronomists and technical specialists.

Agrigem to Highlight Turf Health Solutions at GroundsFest

Agrigem to Highlight Turf Health Solutions at GroundsFest

In an industry where high-performing turf management demands precise, tailored solutions, Agrigem’s key differentiator is its deep technical expertise. The company provides direct access to qualified agronomists who can offer bespoke, science-backed advice to help achieve exceptional turf health year-round.

Whether you manage elite pitches, grassroots facilities, municipal parks, school grounds, paddock land, or commercial estates, Agrigem’s expert agronomists deliver practical, tailored advice that produces real, lasting performance on the ground.

Visitors to Stand 37 will have the opportunity to:

• Consult with Qualified Agronomists: Discuss specific turf care challenges, soil health requirements, weed/disease management, and seasonal treatment plans with certified technical experts.

• Explore Professional-Grade Products: Learn about Agrigem’s comprehensive range of professional fertilisers, herbicides, fungicides, seed blends, and soil conditioners designed for sports pitches, golf courses, and amenity turf.

• Get Tailored Advice: Receive expert guidance on product selection, application rates, and best practices to optimise turf performance and return on investment.

“At Agrigem, our core mission goes beyond simply supplying products. We focus on delivering expert advice and technical support that genuinely helps our customers solve complex turf issues,” said Ollie Wright, Technical Manager at Agrigem. “GroundsFest is a fantastic platform for us to connect face-to-face with groundskeepers and industry professionals. We encourage anyone looking to elevate their turf health or overcome specific management challenges to drop by Stand 37 for a chat with our agronomists.”

Agrigem will also be taking part in the BASIS Knowledge Trail at GroundsFest – allowing visitors to collect BASIS CPD points while gaining valuable insights and knowledge from exhibitors.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

Keeping Warwick Racecourse race-ready with Mansfield Sand

Keeping Warwick Racecourse race-ready with Mansfield Sand

/in , /by

Keeping Warwick Racecourse race-ready with Mansfield Sand

For Guy Woodward, Head Groundsman at Warwick Racecourse, maintaining a safe and consistent racing surface is a year-round challenge. From heavy winter rainfall to prolonged dry spells, the demands placed on a jumps track require products that can be relied upon in all conditions.

Keeping Warwick Racecourse race-ready with Mansfield Sand

Keeping Warwick Racecourse race-ready with Mansfield Sand

That is why Mansfield Sand products have become an integral part of Warwick Racecourse’s maintenance programme. Having used the company’s materials throughout much of his career, Guy trusts Mansfield Sand’s rootzone and fibre-reinforced products to help deliver the performance, drainage and recovery needed to keep the track in prime condition.

Guy’s career in turf management spans almost three decades. After starting in racing at Sandown in 1997 as Assistant Groundsman, he progressed to Head Groundsman roles at Nottingham, Great Yarmouth and Newcastle before arriving at Warwick.

“It’s the weather that’s the biggest challenge,” he explained. “We’re either pumping water off or pumping water on to get a consistent racing surface. All the way through the winter we were battling huge amounts of rain, and then the taps turned off in March and we started watering.”

To help manage these changing conditions, Guy relies on Mansfield Sand’s 70/30 Sand Soil Rootzone during the winter months, and the company’s 60/40 Sand Compost Rootzone throughout the spring and summer.

The 70/30 Rootzone Mix combines 70% premium silica sand with 30% screened topsoil to create a stable, free-draining growing medium, while the 60/40 Sand Compost Rootzone blends premium quality Mansil 40 silica sand with PAS 100 certified green compost, providing enhanced moisture retention and nutrient availability during the growing season.

“We use the 70/30 and the 60/40 after every race meeting,” said Guy. “Our season starts in September, and we’ve just finished our last meeting. They’re used for repairs after every race day, and on heavy ground we can use up to 50 tonnes.”

The different characteristics of the two rootzones allow Guy and his team to adapt to changing seasonal conditions.

“The 70/30 Sand Soil is what I use in the winter because it doesn’t hold moisture,” he explained. “When the ground freezes, one of the problems you can have is repairs freezing into lumps, which can stop racing. The 70/30 Sand Soil is free draining, so it gives us better recovery and a better chance of racing in cold conditions.

“When I switch to the 60/40 Sand Compost, it holds moisture, which is exactly what you want in warmer temperatures. It helps retain moisture for seed germination and recovery, so it all helps the track recover faster.”

Alongside the rootzone products, Guy has also been a long-term user of Mansfield Sand’s fibre-reinforced materials.

“I’ve used the Fibresand and 70/30 Fibre Rootzone Landscape for many years, going back to my time at Nottingham and Newcastle,” he said. “We use the Fibresand on footpaths and canter-downs, and in extreme conditions we’ll repair problem areas with the 70/30 Fibre Rootzone Landscape to make sure we can continue to race.

When asked why he continues to choose Mansfield Sand products, Guy’s answer is simple.

“It’s the quality and consistency, It’s always spot on. I’ve used products from all over the country and Mansfield has always been superior. There just isn’t anything that can compare.

“With some products I have used in the past, you’d find stones, bits of debris, lumps of clay or weed seeds. Suddenly your track starts looking like a meadow. You don’t get any of that with Mansfield products. They’re weed-free and you know exactly what you’re getting every time.”

The dependable quality also helps improve efficiency for Guy’s team.

“It definitely makes the lads’ lives easier,” he said. “Instead of having to sort through product or remove stones and debris, they can just get on with the job.”

Equally important is the confidence that materials will arrive when required, particularly during a busy racing season when repairs need to be completed quickly.

“You can rely on it,” said Guy. “Whenever you need a delivery, it turns up. There’s never any doubt that you’re going to get what you need, when you need it.”

After many years of using Mansfield Sand products across several racecourses, Guy has no hesitation in recommending them to others.

Reflecting on the relationship, he added: “Mansfield Sand has been there as long as I’ve been doing the job and it’s always been a very, very good product. If I’ve got any questions to ask, my rep Louise Barrington-Earp is always there. She’s brilliant.”

For Warwick Racecourse, where track quality and safety are paramount, the combination of product performance, consistency and dependable service continues to make Mansfield Sand an essential part of maintaining racing standards throughout the year.

For more information, visit www.mansfield-sand.co.uk, follow them on X at @MansfieldSand, or connect on Facebook and Instagram at Mansfield Sand Sport Surfaces.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters