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Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

August 20, 2026/in Events, News, Press Release/by Admin

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. As the grounds management industry continues to invest in developing future talent, GMA NextGen will […]

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

August 20, 2026/in Machinery, News, Press Release/by Admin

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. The show, which takes place at the Ragley Estate in Warwickshire between […]

Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

August 20, 2026/in Events, News, Press Release/by Admin

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

August 20, 2026/in Machinery, News, Press Release/by Admin

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Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

August 20, 2026/in Events, News, Press Release/by Admin

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

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

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

August 20, 2026/in Machinery, News, Press Release/by Admin

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

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

Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

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

Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

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

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

Future Grounds Managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026

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

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