New Rapid Hybrid Turf Solutions from SIS Pitches

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New Rapid Hybrid Turf Solutions from SIS Pitches: With fixture schedules intensifying and sporting venues hosting more events than ever, SIS Pitches has launched two new hybrid pitch systems designed to help grounds teams and stadium operators tackle mid‑season deterioration and tight installation windows without compromising performance.

SIS Pitches’ GAMEREADY Hybrid range offers two new hybrid grass pitch solutions, both of which significantly reduce the typical lead time associated with new pitch installations. Thanks to the new range, grounds teams benefit from a solution that is faster and more cost-effective to install than traditional hybrid carpet systems, requiring less forward planning.

New Rapid Hybrid Turf Solutions from SIS Pitches

New Rapid Hybrid Turf Solutions from SIS Pitches

The first of the two innovative systems is GAMEREADY Pre-stitched turf, a premium-grade sports turf, which is grown and stitched at an off-site turf farm before being harvested and installed within just two days as a reinforced, high-quality match-ready hybrid playing surface.

Ideal for grounds teams and stadium operators faced with a struggling pitch mid-season or a short installation window due to a busy events calendar, the turf is grown either by SIS Pitches or one of its trusted turf farm providers before being stitched at a 45mm depth using the state-of-the-art machinery from SISGrass. In as little as eight weeks post-stitching, the turf is harvested with the hybrid fibres in place, before being transported to the stadium. The pre-stitched hybrid turf is then installed by specialist teams within a two-day window, providing immediate game-ready reinforcement.

In independent testing by the University of Tennessee, GAMEREADY Hybrid was found to provide the most natural feel as well as greater consistency, safety, stability and traction than both conventional hybrids and natural grass playing surfaces. These benefits were successfully demonstrated at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in the USA, highlighting the system’s proven performance at elite standard.

The pre-stitched surface assures stadium operators of reduced upfront investment by eliminating the need to commit to a conventional hybrid carpet around a year in advance. SIS Pitches’ pioneering system allows turf from any farm to be selected and stitched a minimum of eight weeks before being harvested.

The second GAMEREADY Hybrid system is SIS Pitches’ Rapid-stitch Turf, which sees premium natural turf installed and stitched simultaneously. The result gives grounds staff the opportunity to plan for an installation window of as little as three days – a timeframe never previously thought possible for a machine-stitched hybrid surface.

GAMEREADY Hybrid Rapid-stitch Turf redefines expectations for time-pressed grounds teams and stadium operators, enabling ultra-fast, high-quality stitched hybrid pitch installations during the tightest windows. Offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional hybrid carpets, it combines rapid installation with deeper hybrid stitching—at least 85mm—for a more durable, maintenance-friendly playing surface with an extended lifespan.

Crucially, the Rapid-stitch system allows grounds staff to source turf from their preferred farm at short notice while still benefiting from gold-standard stitched hybrid reinforcement. This approach eliminates the high costs, limited availability, and long preparation times typically associated with traditional hybrid carpets kept in reserve.

Each Rapid-stitch Turf pitch is installed using the manufacturer’s next-generation SISGrass Hybrid machines, which feature the world’s fastest hybrid stitching technology. Their unmatched speed reduces full-pitch installation times by up to 78%, while a design that’s up to 70% lighter than competing models minimises turf stress and surface compaction. With fully customisable stitching depths ranging from 45mm to 180mm, these machines were instrumental in developing the GAMEREADY Hybrid range.

The stronger reinforcement created between the fibre and the rootzone extends the lifespan of the Rapid-stitch Turf to a minimum of two years – a standout advantage for clubs struggling throughout winter. Like the Pre-stitched equivalent, GAMEREADY Hybrid Rapid-stitch Turf has also been tested by the University of Tennessee and proven to provide a faster, more responsive and more stable surface than traditional hybrid carpets.

SIS Pitches’ Rapid-stitch Turf set a new record in elite stadium turf delivery at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, where a ready-to-play Rapid-stitch surface was successfully installed at the Miami Dolphins’ Hard Rock Stadium in just 56 hours.

Ivo Lamot, CEO at SIS Pitches said: “The launch of our GAMEREADY Hybrid rapid turf solutions marks the start of another exciting chapter for grounds teams and stadium operators worldwide, by setting the bar even higher for what can be achieved with hybrid pitch installations. Our Pre-stitched and Rapid-stitch hybrid pitch systems are a direct response to the increasingly tight turnaround windows stadium operators are faced with when accommodating busy fixture schedules and demanding events calendars.

“The launch of our next-generation hybrid stitching machines in 2025 paved the way for us to completely revolutionise how new hybrid surfaces are supplied and installed, and we’re proud to be able to make such a significant breakthrough in capability while simultaneously enhancing performance. We’re hugely committed to powering more play and this new range will enable grounds staff and operators at some of the most iconic, multi-use stadiums in the world to achieve just that.”

For more information on SIS Pitches’ GAMEREADY Hybrid range, visit www.sispitches.com/surface/rapid-hybrid-turf

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Redexim and Russells Groundcare Strengthen Partnership

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Redexim and Russells Groundcare Strengthen Partnership: Redexim and Russells Groundcare have announced a significant expansion of their long-standing partnership, with Russells now taking on responsibility for Yorkshire and Lincolnshire in addition to their existing Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire territory.

This development represents a natural evolution of a relationship built on trust, shared standards, and strong aftersales support.

Redexim and Russells Groundcare Strengthen Partnership

Redexim and Russells Groundcare Strengthen Partnership

For Redexim, the decision to widen Russells’ area was an easy one. Andy O’Neil, Regional Manager at Redexim, has known the Russells team for years and worked opposite them before working alongside them.

“I used to work for a company that competed with Russells daily for six years, so I know them very, very well,” Andy explains. “In the four years since they’ve become a Redexim partner, we’ve never had any issues. They’re professional and they’re well known and well thought of by their customers. There was nobody else we wanted to go to for covering the area.”

For Russells Groundcare, the expansion presents a major opportunity to strengthen their offering to professional turf customers across the region. Sales Manager Mark Willerton says the chance to take on a larger territory aligned perfectly with their own ambitions.

“The opportunity came to expand our area – having the franchise for Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire already, this opportunity arose and we grabbed it with both hands,” Mark says. “Redexim is a long-established brand. The Verti-Drain is so well known. Everyone refers to whatever aerator they have as a Verti-Drain. It’s the original and the best in the market.

Taking on the wider Redexim range gives us some unique products we’ve not had before, and it’s an exciting opportunity.”

Among those new additions to the Russells portfolio, Mark expects two stand-out lines to immediately resonate with their customer base.

“One product we’ve never had before is the Overseeder, which – especially with these dry summers – is becoming a much more popular machine. The Verti-Drain and the Redexim Overseeder excite us the most. They’re really going to boost things for us.”

Both companies agree that the extended partnership isn’t just about product reach – it’s about strengthening support for end users. Redexim has highlighted improved customer service as a key benefit of Russells’ expanded remit, something Mark is proud to echo.

“We really pride ourselves on our aftersales service,” he explains. “You sell the first machine, but you earn the chance to sell the second one based on your aftersales support. That’s something we’re absolutely focused on.”

The close working relationship between the two teams will only deepen as Russells move into their new territory. “We’re looking forward to getting out there with Andy and the Redexim team and doing some demonstrations,” says Mark.

With shared values, complementary strengths, and a unified commitment to exceptional customer care, the expansion signals a powerful next chapter in the Redexim–Russells partnership – one built firmly on collaboration.

For more information, visit https://www.redexim.com/uk/

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Bernhard become signatories of The R&A Women in Golf Charter

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Bernhard become signatories of The R&A Women in Golf Charter: Bernhard and Company and the Bernhard Academy have become signatories of The R&A’s Women in Golf Charter, underlining their commitment to supporting greater diversity and creating more opportunities for women within the golf and turf management industries.

The Women in Golf Charter, launched by The R&A, encourages organisations across the sport to take positive action to increase the number of women and girls playing golf and working within the industry.

Bernhard become signatories of The R&A Women in Golf Charter

Bernhard become signatories of The R&A Women in Golf Charter

The move is particularly significant within the turf maintenance profession, which has historically been a male-dominated sector. By signing the Charter, Bernhard and Company and the Bernhard Academy are sending a clear signal of their commitment to encouraging greater female participation and progression within the profession.

As part of their pledge, the organisations will advocate for the Charter across the professional turf industry globally, including promoting women in the profession through all available channels, while supporting initiatives designed to encourage more women and girls to consider careers in golf course and equipment management.

Their commitments include promoting the profile of female turf professionals, supporting the recruitment and development of women within the business, providing education and training opportunities through the Bernhard Academy, and helping golf facilities around the world create more welcoming and inclusive environments. Additional initiatives include providing opportunities to attend key industry events and exhibitions to build professional networks and advocating for greater opportunities for women in governance at all levels of golf.

Steven Nixon, Managing Director of Bernhard and Company, said: “Turf management has traditionally been a male-dominated profession, but that is changing and it’s important that our industry continues to evolve. By becoming signatories of The R&A’s Women in Golf Charter, we want to demonstrate our commitment to supporting greater diversity and encouraging more women to see turf management as an exciting and rewarding career. Through the Bernhard Academy and our global network, we are proud to support initiatives that help open the doors for the next generation of professionals.”

Jackie Davidson, Director – Golf Education, The R&A, added: “We are delighted to welcome Bernhard and Company and the Bernhard Academy as signatories of the Women in Golf Charter. Their commitment to encouraging more women to pursue careers within turf management and supporting professional development across the sector is an important step in helping the golf industry become more inclusive and representative.”

Through their pledge, Bernhard and Company and the Bernhard Academy will also continue supporting initiatives that strengthen professional networks, raise awareness of turf management careers among women and girls, and encourage greater female representation across the sport.

To find out more about Bernhard and Company, visit: www.bernhard.co.uk

To learn more about the Bernhard Academy and its educational offering, visit: www.bernhardacademy.co.uk

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ICL and Syngenta Extend Partnership

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ICL and Syngenta Extend Partnership: ICL and Syngenta have renewed their strategic partnership supporting turf professionals in the UK and Ireland and other European turf markets, extending a long-standing collaboration focused on research, product innovation and practical support for the industry.

The renewed agreement covers turf and landscape markets including the UK, Ireland, Italy, Germany, Austria and Spain. The agreement brings together Syngenta’s research pipeline with ICL’s established technical and distribution networks across these markets, supported by local expertise in each country.

ICL and Syngenta Extend Partnership

ICL and Syngenta Extend Partnership

The partnership builds on the complementary strengths of both organisations, with a shared focus on turf science, integrated turf management and practical innovation. It reflects a continued commitment to collaboration, clarity and aligned solutions that support the evolving needs of turf professionals across the UK and Ireland.

“We’re looking forward to building on the success of this partnership as we prepare to introduce a new generation of Syngenta products in 2026 and beyond,” said Mehdi Ibenbrahim, Syngenta Professional Solutions Commercial Head for Europe. “These launches will bring fresh solutions to turf professionals across Europe, with a strong focus on performance, sustainability and science-led innovation.”

The collaboration has consistently supported the industry through initiatives such as the Turf Rewards programme and Turf Science Live, an event series that brings practical research, product insight and technical knowledge directly to turf professionals.

Stephen Squires, VP, ICL Regional Business Lead, Turf & Ornamental, said:

“Our partnership with Syngenta has long supported turf managers in the UK and Ireland by combining strong research with practical technical support. Renewing this agreement allows us to continue bringing new innovations to the market while supporting customers with the local expertise and advice they rely on.”

Looking ahead, the agreement will support the introduction of new Syngenta products in 2026 and beyond. These innovations will focus on advancing turf health, improving resource efficiency and helping turf managers address emerging agronomic challenges across a wide range of conditions. Continued investment in research, technical training and industry support will remain central to the partnership.

Please contact ICL on 01473 237100 or visit www.icl-growingsolutions.com

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FSI B31-980 REMOTE proves the perfect fit for NOMA

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FSI B31-980 REMOTE proves the perfect fit for NOMA: When working in domestic gardens and areas with restricted access you quickly learn that, when it comes to equipment, size matters! For Liam Simpson, Director of NOMA, finding the right stump grinder wasn’t about getting the biggest machine – it was about getting the right one, and the FSI B31-980 REMOTE has proven to be a match for every challenge.

Having founded NOMA Property Services several years ago, Liam built the business from property maintenance into waste removal before expanding into tree work five years ago. Predominately tackling stump clearance in city locations, access is key and, at just 74cm wide, the FSI B31 all-but-eliminates the challenges. “It’s narrow enough to pass through alleyways, garden gates and tight spots – we’ve even, on the odd occasion, tracked the FSI B31 through a customer’s lounge” he explains.

FSI B31-980 REMOTE proves the perfect fit for NOMA

FSI B31-980 REMOTE proves the perfect fit for NOMA

Remote Control, Real Difference

The transportation of the FSI B31 is made even more convenient with the machines full-remote operation which Liam describes as a ‘gamechanger’. “Firstly, this means that the unit only requires one person to move and operate. Secondly, compared to our previous pedestrian machine that required constant manual positioning, the FSI B31 reduces vibration and allows us to stand safely away from the work area, improving comfort and productivity over long working days.”

“Tasks that previously took us four to six hours can now be completed in under an hour” he adds. “We’ve eliminated 17 small stumps in a morning with this machine and, on one occasion, 10 stumps in one session while seated comfortably at a safe distance.”

Increased Safety, Reduced Maintenance

Safety is not only enhanced for the operator with the FSI B31, Liam notes the machine’s rubber guards which effectively contain debris – a priority when working in close proximity to homes, fences and domestic clients. “We of course still use the safety barriers, but the rubber guards on the FSI do such a fantastic job. We see significantly less in the way of stones and debris ejecting unpredictably.”

“We also like the fact the B31 is hydraulically-driven as opposed to belt-driven which reduces maintenance demands. Even though we’ve put the machine through its paces, touch wood, we’ve had no downtime which is critical for keeping our calendar on track” Liam says.

After nearly a year of ownership, the verdict for Liam is clear. “This stump grinder has transformed how we work in domestic settings. The combination of its compact design, remote-control operation and high productivity gives us the very best of all worlds.”

You can learn more about NOMA on Instagram via @noma.ltd and find more information on the FSI Stump Cutter range by visiting fsi-stumpcutters.co.uk

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