Husqvarna partners with Relox Robotics to expand golf solutions

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Husqvarna partners with Relox Robotics to expand golf solutions: Husqvarna Group has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Relox Robotics to add an autonomous golf range ball picking solution to its portfolio across European markets.

The partnership marks a further step in Husqvarna’s commitment to advancing automation and efficiency within professional golf environments, as demand grows for smarter operational solutions.

Husqvarna partners with Relox Robotics to expand golf solutions

Husqvarna partners with Relox Robotics to expand golf solutions

Under the terms of the agreement, Husqvarna will become the sole distributor of Relox Robotics’ Range Picker™ across Europe. The autonomous solution is designed to operate fully unattended on golf driving ranges, supporting increased uptime, reduced manual handling and more efficient daily operations for range operators.

The Range Picker™ features autonomous navigation, self-charging, and automated ball dumping, enabling continuous ball collection without the need for manual intervention. Under the partnership, deployments are planned for Q1 2026, supporting early spring installations at selected driving ranges.

“Robotics is reshaping how golf facilities operate, from course maintenance to range management,” said Olle Markusson, Senior Director Robotics at Husqvarna Group. “By partnering with Relox Robotics, we are able to offer a proven autonomous ball picking solution that complements our market-leading robotic mowing platforms for golf courses and supports a more automated, efficient driving range environment.”

Automation is increasingly becoming a priority for driving range operators looking to improve productivity, reduce labour dependency, and enhance the customer experience. This partnership brings together Husqvarna’s long-standing expertise in robotic turf maintenance with Relox Robotics’ specialist knowledge in autonomous range operations, to deliver a comprehensive robotics ecosystem for driving ranges.

Husqvarna continues to expand its presence in professional golf across Europe and will provide robotic mowing solutions at the 2026 Husqvarna British Masters. This follows a successful deployment at last year’s AIG Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl, where Husqvarna’s autonomous mowers maintained all 18 fairways during the tournament, marking the first time robotic mowers have maintained fairways live on the world golf stage.

First deliveries under the Husqvarna–Relox partnership are scheduled for Q1 2026 through Husqvarna’s network of professional partners across Europe. The autonomous Range Picker™ will have a recommended retail price of €39,500 (excluding VAT), subject to final confirmation.

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STIGA Announces Its Entry Into The Professional Segment

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STIGA Announces Its Entry Into The Professional Segment: STIGA, Europe’s leading manufacturer of garden care machinery and equipment, announces its entry into the Professional segment with a complete ecosystem of products, batteries, AI-driven technologies and after-sales services.

With over 90 years of experience in designing gardening machinery and as a pioneer in the transition to electric, the company is taking a natural step in its evolution, putting its ability to innovate at the service of gardening professionals. In particular, it is the ePower Pro Battery – the heart of the entire range – alongside APX Pro and ePark Pro that form part of a new generation of resilient, high-performance battery solutions designed to elevate the standards of professional land care: a concrete answer to the constantly evolving needs of “prosumers” – operators and dealers who are increasingly oriented towards autonomous and intelligent solutions. STIGA Professional line-up will be available from early Spring 2026.

STIGA Announces Its Entry Into The Professional Segment

STIGA Announces Its Entry Into The Professional Segment

“Entering the Professional segment is a strategic step for STIGA, – says James Gordon, MD of STIGA UK, because it allows us to share our expertise in technology, electrification and sustainable design with industry professionals. This evolution is a natural extension of our identity: to continue innovating responsibly, offering solutions that improve performance and simplify the daily work of professionals, strengthening STIGA’s role as a key player for those working in garden care every day.”

Entering the Professional segment also represents a decisive leap forward in terms of environmental & social responsibility. The new battery-powered ecosystem eliminates the use of fuel, reduces emissions and noise, and guarantees high performance with low environmental impact, marking another milestone in the company’s commitment to electrification. By automating repetitive mowing, the new self-operated mowers reduce physical strain and fatigue while operators can focus on skilled tasks that require human expertise. As a pioneer in the industry, STIGA continues to lead the way by enabling users to shift to battery-powered and automated products – and the new electric ecosystem for professional use really makes a difference in this progress.

ePower Pro Battery – The technological core of the system

It all starts with the new ePower Pro Battery, the modular system developed in-house by STIGA and used across the entire Professional range, delivering high performance, unlimited capacity and maximum flexibility. Designed to withstand intensive, multi-site use, the battery is removable, portable and swappable between different machines, allowing for independent charging, diagnostics and maintenance. Thanks to its modular design, it offers the possibility of combining multiple batteries to extend autonomy, ensuring operational continuity even in the most demanding and lengthy work contexts, with fast recharging cycles and long life.

APX Pro – AI-powered robotics for professional use

The flagship of the new offering is APX Pro, the first autonomous robot for large areas designed specifically for professional use. Ideal for the maintenance of public parks, sports fields and large green spaces, the machine integrates a full system of sensors to ensure the safest and most efficient work possible. AGS, GPS-RTK, LIDAR and gyroscope technologies provide precision and accuracy in robot positioning and navigation. Then, it integrates STIGA Vista Technology, an AI-driven on-board camera, and an ultrasonic sensor to detect and avoid anything, fixed or moving obstacles, on the lawn. The robot handles obstacles, slopes, grass density and complex zones with precision, operating safely even in spaces frequented by people or animals. APX Pro is equipped with the Combi ePro 110 Q Plus cutting deck, 110 cm wide, engineered to deliver top-tier performance on complex terrains. Designed for multi-site work, the robot is easily transportable and fully manageable via the STIGA.GO App and Stiga Web Pro App, which enable activity planning and predictive maintenance. With a single charge (6 ePower Pro batteries), APX Pro can cover up to 27,000 m², ensuring a uniform, safe and highly productive cut.

ePark Pro – The electric evolution of the iconic Park Pro

A symbol of reliability and performance in the world of front mowing, the iconic STIGA Park Pro – beloved by professionals and green space operators – has been completely revamped to usher in a new era: introducing ePark Pro, its electric evolution. Completely re-engineered, the new model retains the essence that made the Park Pro famous: extraordinary manoeuvrability, cutting precision and versatility of use in all seasons. Designed for maintaining large residential and urban areas, ePark Pro delivers the same performance as a combustion engine tractor, but with zero emissions and significantly reduced noise levels. The modular ePower Pro battery enables up to 6 hours of uninterrupted work and covers up to 27,000 m² in mulching mode. Its advanced ergonomics, professional interface and easy maintenance make it the perfect solution for everyday use. Just like the other products in the range, the ePark Pro can be managed via the STIGA.GO App, for full control of the mowing session from the convenience of the mobile device.

STIGA Web Pro App

In addition, STIGA introduces the new Web Pro App, a browser-based platform accessible via desktop, tablet, and smartphone. Designed for professionals who manage multiple STIGA products or use their equipment across different locations, it helps streamline operations and boost productivity. The platform allows users to oversee all products simultaneously from a single interface, providing clear status overviews, predictive alerts, self-service guidance, and rapid diagnostics to minimise downtime and maximise operational efficiency.

With this announcement, STIGA inaugurates a new phase, positioning itself as a key player in the electric transition of the garden care industry, now extending into the professional segment. The company has already defined a development roadmap that includes the launch of additional dedicated products and accessories, as well as the expansion of its specialised dealer network. This includes technical training, after-sales support, spare parts availability and digital tools for machine and customer management.

Learn more about the STIGA PRO range at www.stiga.com/uk/eparkpro-battery-front-mower

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Netherlands’ First Recycled Synthetic Turf Pitch Installed

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Netherlands’ First Recycled Synthetic Turf Pitch Installed: A landmark synthetic turf project in The Netherlands has equipped amateur football club FC Weesp with a high-quality playing surface manufactured from post-consumer recycling.

The pilot project was commissioned by municipality Gemeente Amsterdam with the backing of the EU, with the aim of creating a professional-standard durable football pitch, while also contributing towards the EU sustainable development goal of achieving 50% recyclability of plastic waste by 2030. After a competitive tender process, Edel Grass BV was appointed as the primary contractor and Van de Wetering Projects as the installer.

Netherlands’ First Recycled Synthetic Turf Pitch Installed

Netherlands’ First Recycled Synthetic Turf Pitch Installed

Using cork granulate performance infill, recycled sand stabilising infill, and recycled components from old pitches in the turf yarns, backing coating, and shockpads; the field is the first of its kind installed in The Netherlands, representing a major milestone in circularity.

Data from independent life-cycle assessments shows that the system achieves a 43.4% reduction in carbon emissions per metre squared compared to a traditional 3G pitch.

Crucially, the pitch satisfies all KNVB performance standards for key factors such as ball roll, shock absorption, and durability, giving assurances for player safety and pitch quality. As a result, the pitch at Sportpark Papelaan is now eligible for competitive play in the 5e Klasse D, where FC Weesp’s first team currently plies its trade, as well as for local community use and training across the club’s 91 teams spanning a variety of age groups and abilities.

Stefan Diderich, Director General/CEO of EMEA Synthetic Turf Council (ESTC), said: “A synthetic turf pitch is the ideal solution for a club of FC Weesp’s size, offering a durable, high-quality playing surface that can meet KNVB standards without the maintenance costs associated with a natural grass pitch, demonstrating that sustainability, affordability, and performance can all work in tandem.

“This proof-of-concept project is just one of many ways that football clubs and local authorities can offer a high-quality playing surface that can sustain long-term intensive usage, while also working towards a more circular economy.”

Find out more at www.estc.info

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It’s all about timing for tining

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It’s all about timing for tining: While waiting for the perfect conditions to do the first aeration of the season, Reesink Turfcare is reminding customers that genuine Toro parts cannot be beaten for this essential turf maintenance practice. Now, with little difference in the cost of genuine Toro parts over inferior alternatives, customers can expect all the benefits of superior parts, within budget.

Judging when to aerate for the first time in the year is a delicate process – go too soon and the grass struggles to recover says Michael Hampton, Supply Chain Manager at Reesink Turfcare.

It's all about timing for tining

It’s all about timing for tining

“Spring aeration focuses on limiting thatch and maintaining turf health. For that, you need to wait for the grass to wake up and start growing in,” he says. “It won’t be the same for everyone, where you are in the country will play a part and each year can be different, but you’re looking for the growth potential to be at 50 percent.”

Just as hitting the sweet spot when it comes to timing, the tines chosen for the job are equally as important for successful aeration. Turfcare professionals should be looking for quality, longevity and durability from their tines – and all of these characteristics are covered by choosing genuine parts.

With the cost of buying genuine little different to alternatives now, it’s wise to consider what else buying genuine brings. And the reason why buying genuine makes the most economic sense can be related to the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), confirms Michael.

“Most customers will focus on the purchase price but equally as important is value with features that enhance performance, productivity and reliability,” he says.

TCO provides a data driven perspective for determining the total economic value of an investment, in this case parts. It considers the purchase price against the servicing costs, workshop time, downtime risk, and the operational value of time saved. For many customers, total cost of ownership can look very different once these things are accounted for.

The finishing argument in the case of buying genuine for most will be the unarguable quality they produce when it comes to the holes they make. Matching tines to the exact engineering specifications of the aerator delivers the cleanest, crispest, most precise holes needing less recovery time, bringing better absorption and a superior playability.

Customers can purchase genuine Toro Parts through their local dealer or service centre, where they will get the best product and best value.

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Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards

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Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has revealed the winners of the BIGGA Awards 2026, recognising outstanding achievement, innovation and commitment across the greenkeeping profession.

Harrogate’s Royal Hall hosted the BIGGA Celebration sponsored by Bernhard Academy on the opening night of the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME), with Sky Sports presenter Sarah Stirk announcing the winners.

Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards

Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards

The prize for Championship Greenkeeping Performance of the Year with Bernhard & Company was awarded to Burnham & Berrow, while the Greenkeeping Project of the Year award with Price Turfcare went to Royal Aberdeen on a memorable evening celebrating excellence across the profession.

Burnham & Berrow’s award recognised the team’s exceptional response to an unprecedented challenge ahead of Final Open Qualifying. With just eight weeks to act, the team delivered innovative solutions after deliberate chemical vandalism damaged multiple greens.

Working closely with The R&A agronomy team and industry partners, a tightly managed recovery programme culminated in full turf replacement, with independent testing confirming championship standards were achieved in time for the event.

“What a job the team did – not only my team, but the whole club,” said retired Course Manager Richard Whyman. “Twenty of the 27 greens were damaged and it was hard to see the grass dying in front of you.

“With it being my last tournament, it was difficult for me, but I pulled myself together and The R&A were incredibly supportive.”

Royal Aberdeen was recognised for a long-term project to safeguard the future of the historic Balgownie Links. Ongoing coastal erosion prompted a complex reconstruction programme, including new greens, tees and protective infrastructure.

Delivered largely in-house by a small team, the project demanded meticulous planning and adaptability amid challenging weather and tidal pressures, with judges praising the balance between preserving heritage and delivering practical, forward-thinking solutions.

“We know erosion is a big issue – not just for us, but right down the UK coastline – so we’re trying to implement measures to slow that erosion, with contingency plans in place,” said Course Manager Richard Johnstone.

“As for my team, they’re the real heroes in this – I just lead them. They’ve taken on a huge challenge, and I’m very grateful to the club for supporting us.”

The evening also saw BIGGA present its Outstanding Contribution award with Kress to John Millen in recognition of a career that has left a lasting impact on the association and the wider greenkeeping profession.

A highly respected figure within the industry, Millen has devoted decades to supporting education, professional development and the advancement of greenkeeping standards, earning widespread admiration from colleagues across the UK and beyond.

“I really can’t believe this,” said the 85-year-old, who is still working in education but has swapped playing golf for croquet. “Only a week ago I didn’t even know whether I’d be coming tonight – I’ve been here virtually every year. I just want to say thank you to everybody.

“Through greenkeeping, through our associations and through the game itself, for me it’s always been about people who are passionate about golf courses and about working for one another.”

The event also celebrated the incredible finale of an inspiring personal challenge, as Jack Percival bounded onto stage after completing his epic 300-mile run from Epsom. The senior greenkeeper at Royal Automobile Club undertook the run to raise awareness around mental health and funds for Percy’s Homeless Hub and the Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund.

The BIGGA Awards were established to recognise the exceptionally high standards, professionalism and dedication demonstrated by greenkeepers throughout the year. From major championship preparation to ambitious renovation projects and contributions that strengthen the profession, the awards highlight the vital role greenkeepers play in the success and sustainability of the game.

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