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Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme

November 24, 2025/in News, Press Release/by Admin

Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme: Bionema Group has announced major progress in its Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme, following early breakthroughs that point to a new generation of biological fertilisers capable of supporting multiple plant functions from a single integrated microbial system. Today, most biological fertilisers are typically based on single strains with narrow, single-benefit […]

New Era For GMA Leadership

November 21, 2025/in Industry News, News, Press Release/by Admin

New Era For GMA Leadership: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Martyn Ward as Chair of the Board of Directors, and Neil Stubley as Vice Chair, ushering in a new era of leadership for the Association. The GMA also extends its sincere thanks and best wishes to outgoing Chair […]

Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme

November 24, 2025/in News, Press Release/by Admin

New Era For GMA Leadership

November 21, 2025/in Industry News, News, Press Release/by Admin

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Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme

November 24, 2025/in News, Press Release/by Admin

Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme: Bionema Group has announced major progress in its Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme, following early breakthroughs that point to a new generation of biological fertilisers capable of supporting multiple plant functions from a single integrated microbial system.

Today, most biological fertilisers are typically based on single strains with narrow, single-benefit claims such as nitrogen fixation or stress support. BiofilmTech® is being developed to move beyond this approach. Bionema’s early work indicates that its multi-microbe platform — combining several beneficial organisms — could offer broader, more reliable benefits for growers. Although specific mechanisms remain confidential pending patent filings, early results suggest stronger nutrient availability, improved crop resilience, and consistent root activity across different soils and climates.

Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme

A key area of interest is BiofilmTech®’s potential to support crops even under cooler conditions, where many commercial biologicals struggle to perform. This capability, together with the multi-benefit profile under development, positions BiofilmTech® as a promising next-generation alternative to conventional fertiliser programmes.

The timing is significant. With tighter fertiliser regulation, rising production costs, and increasing pressure to reduce emissions, global demand for more dependable biological nutrient solutions continues to grow. Agricultural companies are actively seeking technologies that can deliver broader functionality and more consistent field performance, without relying solely on single-mechanism microbial products.

Dr Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder of Bionema Group, said:
“BiofilmTech® is being designed to do far more than today’s single-strain products. Our early findings suggest a new type of biological fertiliser that supports plant health in several ways at once. We believe this could open a meaningful new opportunity for the industry, and we welcome early discussions with global partners as we move into the next stage of development.”

Supported by an Innovate UK grant, Bionema is now advancing BiofilmTech® toward more extensive field testing, scalable formulation pathways, and preparation for commercial evaluation. The company is opening strategic conversations with international fertiliser and crop-input companies interested in co-development, licensing, and regional deployment opportunities ahead of anticipated market readiness in the coming years.

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New Era For GMA Leadership

November 21, 2025/in Industry News, News, Press Release/by Admin

New Era For GMA Leadership: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Martyn Ward as Chair of the Board of Directors, and Neil Stubley as Vice Chair, ushering in a new era of leadership for the Association.

The GMA also extends its sincere thanks and best wishes to outgoing Chair David Carpenter, whose strategic guidance has been instrumental in shaping the Association’s direction over the last two decades.

New Era For GMA Leadership

Martyn Ward, Partner at Ward and Hagon Management Consulting LLP, brings over 40 years of experience in sales, marketing and executive leadership. His career includes senior roles at Foster’s Brewing Group/Courage, Alliance UniChem/Boots, and SSL International, where he served as Regional Managing Director. A strategic and collaborative leader, he offers deep expertise in business development and stakeholder engagement, making him a valuable asset to the GMA Board.

Joining him as the newly appointed Vice Chair is Neil Stubley, Head of Grounds and Horticulture at The All-England Lawn Tennis Club – a well-respected figure in the industry. His practical experience within grounds management makes him a strong complement to Martyn’s strategic vision. His appointment as Vice Chair reflects his longstanding commitment to the grounds management profession and the GMA’s mission.

Neil Stubley commented: “I’m proud to take on the role of Vice Chair and support Martyn and the Board in continuing the GMA’s vital work. Together, we’ll focus on strengthening the industry, supporting our members, and ensuring the value of grounds management is recognised across all sectors.”

As the GMA bids farewell to David Carpenter, the Board expresses its appreciation for his years of service. David has spent the last seven years as Board Chair, and prior to that supported the GMA as an independent Board member. David’s leadership has helped foster a strong, inclusive community and laid the groundwork for future growth and innovation.

Martyn Ward added: “I’m honoured to take on the role of Chair at such a pivotal time for the GMA. I look forward to working with Neil, the Board, and our members to build on the strong foundation laid by David and drive continued progress across the sector.”

Geoff Webb, CEO said: “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to David Carpenter for his invaluable contributions over the past seven years as Chair. Throughout times of challenge, David’s quiet yet confident leadership has been a steadying force and should not be underestimated.

“We’ve also seen the GMA grow steadily, thanks to the support of dedicated individuals like Geoff Burges and James Wright, who now conclude their time on the Board. Their efforts have helped position us strongly for the future.

“Looking ahead, I’m confident that Martyn Ward and Neil Stubley will be a dynamic pairing, well-placed to build on the solid foundations laid so far and to support the executive team as we move forward.”

The GMA remains committed to supporting its members and promoting excellence in grounds management. With this new leadership team, the Association is poised for continued innovation and impact.

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Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme

New Era For GMA Leadership

Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme

New Era For GMA Leadership

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

Bionema advances Innovate UK–funded BiofilmTech® programme

New Era For GMA Leadership

New Era For GMA Leadership: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Martyn Ward as Chair of the Board of Directors, and Neil Stubley as Vice Chair, ushering in a new era of leadership for the Association.

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