STRI Group Appoints Ian Lacy as Senior Consultant

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STRI Group Appoints Ian Lacy as Senior Consultant: STRI Group has strengthened its consultancy capability with the appointment of Ian Lacy as Senior Consultant, bringing more than 40 years of international experience in the design, construction, management and optimisation of sports surfaces.

Ian joins STRI with an extensive track record advising elite sports organisations, governing bodies and facilities worldwide, including FIFA, the FA, RFU, ECB and LTA. His expertise spans natural and synthetic surfaces, feasibility studies, pitch audits, sustainability strategies and the implementation of performance quality standards across a diverse range of sporting environments.

STRI Group Appoints Ian Lacy as Senior Consultant

STRI Group Appoints Ian Lacy as Senior Consultant

Throughout his career, Ian has delivered hands-on grounds management and consultancy services across Europe, North America, Africa and Asia, working with professional clubs, national associations and major sports venues to enhance playing surface performance and long-term facility resilience.

Richard Stuttard, Group Director commented, “Ian’s depth of technical knowledge and global experience within the sports turf industry will further enhance STRI’s consultancy offering. His appointment reinforces our commitment to delivering world-leading expertise to clients across football, rugby, tennis, golf and other elite sports environments.”

Ian Lacy added, “STRI Group is recognised globally for its leadership in sports surface consultancy and research. I’m excited to be working with the team to support clients with innovative, evidence-based solutions that drive performance, sustainability and long-term surface quality.”

The addition of Ian Lacy to the team highlights a continued ambition for growth as the Group continues to redefine standards for sustainable sports surface design and management.

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TGA Demonstration Day 2026 – Tickets Now on Sale

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TGA Demonstration Day 2026 – Tickets Now on Sale: The Turfgrass Growers Association (TGA) is pleased to confirm that tickets are now on sale for the 2026 TGA Demonstration Day, taking place on Thursday 2 July 2026, hosted by Grasslands Turf in Kent.

Tickets can be purchased HERE.

TGA Demonstration Day 2026 – Tickets Now on Sale

TGA Demonstration Day 2026 – Tickets Now on Sale

The Demonstration Day is the Association’s flagship technical field event, bringing together professional turfgrass growers, suppliers and industry specialists from across the UK for a full day of live demonstrations, knowledge exchange and networking.

Exhibitor, demonstration and sponsorship opportunities are now available, providing companies with a valuable opportunity to engage directly with TGA grower members and showcase products, services and innovations in a practical field environment.

The TGA is delighted to confirm the following exhibitors to date:

• Campey Turfcare
• Trimax
• Brocks Wheel & Tyre
• Industrial Pallet & Transport Services Ltd
• Rovadi Turf Equipment

Further exhibitor confirmations are imminent, and interest remains strong.

The Association is also pleased to confirm Agrigem Ltd as the official Show Programme Sponsor for the 2026 Demonstration Day.

The event will feature:

• Live machinery and equipment demonstrations
• On-field trials and technical showcases
• Trade stands from leading industry suppliers
• Networking opportunities with growers, agronomists and manufacturers

Discussion aligned with TGA production standards and sustainability priorities

The Demonstration Day forms a key part of the TGA’s ongoing commitment to supporting professional turf production, promoting best practice and strengthening collaboration across the supply chain.

Tickets, exhibitor bookings and sponsorship enquiries can be made via the TGA office or the Association’s website.

For exhibitor and sponsorship bookings, or for further information, visit www.turfgrass.co.uk or contact the TGA office.

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Baroness UK strengthens Welsh coverage

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Baroness UK strengthens Welsh coverage: Baroness UK are pleased to be adding further strength to their nationwide dealer network with the appointment of Jenkins Garden Machinery. From their depot in Llanelli, the family-run firm will be responsible for the sales, service and support of the full Baroness professional range to customers in the Swansea (SA) postcode.

Founded in 2010, Jenkins Garden Machinery offer a comprehensive range of ride-on and hand-held equipment for both the professional and domestic market – delivering quality machinery solutions backed up with superior customer service. Baroness becomes the latest in a growing list of leading brands within their expanding commercial portfolio, bringing the full range of pedestrian and ride-on mowers and maintenance implements to golf courses and sports venues from Port Talbot and Llandovery in the east, to Pembroke and Aberystwyth on the west coast.

Baroness UK strengthens Welsh coverage

Baroness UK strengthens Welsh coverage

On the news Emyr Jenkins, Managing Director of Jenkins Garden Machinery, said, “Our strategy over the last few years has been to grow our commercial offering. As we have moved more and more into this area of the market, we have actively been seeking out a quality franchise to allow us to service the requirements of the golf market in South and West Wales. We have been in talks with Baroness for a while and following our visit to their facility in Basingstoke we were convinced that this was the right move for us.”

He adds, “Their attitude to aftersales and quality mirrors our own business giving us confidence that this will be a solid partnership for the future.”

Echoing the positive sentiments, Baroness Area Sales Manager Paul Watson said, “We are delighted to welcome Jenkins Garden Machinery to the Baroness dealer network. From the first meeting they impressed us all with their professional attitude and enthusiasm to provide the right solution for their customers. With the expert support of Emyr and the team, we are excited to bring our product to an area where Baroness haven’t had specific coverage for some time.”

For more information on Jenkins Garden Machinery or to get in contact, visit www.jenkinsgm.co.uk 

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Eight Industry Leaders Join GMA As Platinum Supporters

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Eight Industry Leaders Join GMA As Platinum Supporters: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is proud to welcome eight industry‑leading organisations as Platinum Supporters: Cramer, GKB, ISEKI, MJ Abbott, Premier Pitches, Howardson Group, Kubota and ICL.

These highly respected brands represent leaders in grounds care, turf management, engineering and sustainable innovation. Their partnership shows a joint effort to invest in the future of the grounds management industry. They support the thousands of professionals and volunteers who take care of the UK’s sports surfaces and green spaces.

Eight Industry Leaders Join GMA As Platinum Supporters

Eight Industry Leaders Join GMA As Platinum Supporters

A powerful collective of industry experts:

Together, the eight Platinum Supporters contribute a broad range of expertise:

  • Cramer – Innovators in advanced battery-powered equipment for sustainable grounds care.
  • GKB – Providers of high‑quality grounds care products and nationwide technical support.
  • ISEKI – Specialists in high-performance turf maintenance machinery used across the UK, and proud Platinum Sponsor of the 2026 GMA Industry awards and Conference
  • MJ Abbott – Experts in sports turf construction, irrigation, drainage, and engineering.
  • Premier Pitches – One of Europe’s leading specialists in the Installation and Renovation of all types of reinforced sports pitches.
  • Howardson Group – Manufacturers of the renowned Dennis and SISIS turf maintenance brands.
  • Kubota – Global leaders in machinery solutions for grounds, landscaping, and land management.
  • ICL – A global leader in turf nutrition, grass seed and plant protection, who are proud sponsors of the GMA’s 35 under 35 programme.

Their involvement strengthens the GMA’s expanding network of supporters who are committed to promoting standards across the UK.

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Cramer, GKB, ISEKI, MJ Abbott, Premier Pitches, Howardson Group, Kubota and ICL as our newest Platinum Supporters,” said Ben Muschamp, Head of Commercial at the GMA. “Each organisation brings significant value to our community. Their investment helps us continue supporting the professionals and volunteers who care for the nation’s sports surfaces and green spaces. We’re excited about what we can achieve together.”

As Platinum Supporters, the organisations will be instrumental in powering the GMA’s most important work – driving stronger membership support, elevating professional standards, amplifying sector advocacy and advancing vital research. Their involvement will also strengthen SALTEX, Europe’s premier stage for innovation and excellence in sports turf, amenities and landscaping.

As the highest tier within the GMA’s supporter framework – alongside the Bronze, Silver and Gold levels – the Platinum Supporter programme is designed for organisations seeking to make the greatest sector impact. It enables deeper partnership working and a more active voice in shaping the content and initiatives delivered across the year.

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BASIS Appoints Interim Chief Operating Officer

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BASIS Appoints Interim Chief Operating Officer: BASIS Registration has appointed Mark Spurdens as Interim Chief Operating Officer.

Mark brings extensive experience across the Agri-Food sector and professional development, including senior leadership roles within fresh produce and technical operations. He also supports Professional development through pro bono work  in education and as a member of the Institute of Food Science and Technology Scientific Committee.

BASIS Appoints Interim Chief Operating Officer

BASIS Appoints Interim Chief Operating Officer

In his interim role, Mark will lead operations while BASIS moves forward with the recruitment of a new permanent Chief Executive. following the resignation of Corrina Urquhart

William Burgess, Chairman, said: “Mark brings valuable operational experience and sector knowledge. His appointment ensures continuity while we proceed with the recruitment of a permanent Chief Executive.”

Mark said he is pleased to be supporting BASIS during this period and looks forward to working with the team and stakeholders as the organisation continues to deliver for members.

The recruitment process for a permanent Chief Executive will continue in due course.

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