Tag Archive for: 2023

#GroundsWeek 2023 kicks off

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#GroundsWeek 2023 kicks off: #GroundsWeek 2023 is officially underway, taking place from 20 to 26 March. The campaign, organised by the Grounds Management Association (GMA), recognises the work of turf care volunteers and professionals in the UK, as well as aiming to inspire more people to consider a career in the industry.

As part of #GroundsWeek, an event called Schools into Stadia will offer school children the chance to experience real life grounds management at a professional football club. Schools into Stadia will take place at Lincoln City’s LNER Stadium and include activities such as pitch line marking.

#GroundsWeek 2023 kicks off

#GroundsWeek 2023 kicks off

According to research carried out by the GMA, the industry is facing an impending employment crisis. Currently, 40% of the workforce is over 50 and, without an influx of new recruits, this could result in a significant employment gap within 5 years.

The GMA has also announced it will be launching the Grounds Management Framework (GMF) during #GroundsWeek, a new programme designed to support grounds managers to improve the quality of pitches and help make sport possible for more people.

It’s estimated that improving existing grass pitches would mean 1.4 million more children could play football and rugby each week and a further 489,859 children could play cricket each season.

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, says: “#GroundsWeek is all about shining a spotlight on the invaluable contribution of grounds people up and down the country. We also want to inspire the next generation to get involved, and showcase what an amazing industry this is to work in.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Lincoln City for hosting Schools into Stadia, which will give school students the chance to experience the buzz of turf care at the highest level. And the launch of the Grounds Management Framework will be a game-changer for grounds people current and future – as well as the people who take part in sports.”

The GMA is encouraging grounds staff and sports clubs to support #GoundsWeek on social media and has created a downloadable toolkit to help, including graphics and a guide, available on the GMA website.

Sean Clixby is an award-winning volunteer grounds person in Lincolnshire. He says: “I’m really grateful to the GMA for highlighting the work of grounds people. All our hard work is often done behind the scenes, so it’s fantastic to see our dedication being brought to the attention of a wider audience, both inside and outside the industry.

“I’ll be supporting #GroundsWeek on social media, as well as sharing the campaign content the GMA puts out. The GMA has created a really useful toolkit that makes posting as easy as possible, available to download on its website. I urge others in the industry to show their support too, to ensure the work of grounds people is celebrated as far and wide as possible.”

To download the #GroundsWeek tool kit, go to: thegma.org.uk/groundsweek

For more information about #GroundsWeek, keep up to date with all the latest content by following the GMA on social media:

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TradeHelp – supporting all trades in 2023

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TradeHelp – supporting all trades in 2023: TradeHelp announces plans to further grow its 15,000 strong network, having extended the free benefits to now support trades of all types.

Originally launched in 2014, TradeHelp has fast become the leading network for tradespeople, primarily supporting SMEs in the heating and plumbing industry with free software and special offers negotiated via a Buying Group.

TradeHelp - supporting all trades in 2023

TradeHelp – supporting all trades in 2023

Now, following a period of exciting progression, with developments to the leading mobile app and the addition of new industry partnerships, the door has been opened for even more trades to benefit from the TradeHelp network.

The free app, along with free desktop log-in, has an abundance of tools enabling trades to manage their businesses from the office, at home or on the road.  With personalised quote and invoice templates, customer and appointment management, electronic forms and works records – to name just a few of the benefits and features – companies can provide professional documents and save time at the touch of a button.  And more importantly, at no extra cost to them.

TradeHelp has also negotiated discounts and special offers with partners including Toolstation (5% off and quarterly prize draws), Trade Direct Insurance (up to 20% off), Trade Marketing (10% off), Enterprise Van Hire (10% off), Atoa Instant Bank Pay (0.5% fees and £40 cashback) plus many more. All ideal for smaller businesses.

Martin Jones, Managing Director of TradeHelp, explained: “We are delighted to be able to support even more tradespeople across the UK, with additions to the software and support from multi-trade merchants and business service partners. With the current economic climate and cost of living increases, there is no better time for businesses to make additional savings. This is where we can help.

“From electricians to builders and locksmiths, TradeHelp offers something for everyone, with no cost or commitment.  Our members simply take advantage of what works for their business. It’s been a great success within the heating and plumbing sector so far and we look forward to continuing this with other trades into the future.”

To join the free TradeHelp Network, visit tradehelp.co.uk or download the free app from the App Store or Google Play.

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Tickets on sale for Party for Perennial 2023

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Tickets on sale for Party for Perennial 2023: Join friends and colleagues from across the horticulture industry on Thursday 4th May at Core Bar in the heart of the City, for an evening of fun and fundraising for Perennial.

It’s the perfect way to make new contacts as well as catch up with established ones in a fun and informal atmosphere. The ticket price of £30 includes a glass of bubbles on arrival and some delicious nibbles, plus the chance to win some amazing prizes in the Party for Perennial raffle.

Tickets on sale for Party for Perennial 2023

Tickets on sale for Party for Perennial 2023

All proceeds from ticket sales and the raffle help Perennial support people in horticulture. The Charity’s primary purpose is to build better futures for all those working with plants, trees, flowers and grass. Providing free confidential support, advice and information through their dedicated team based around the country.

Anita Bates, Perennial’s Director of Marketing and Fundraising comments: “Our annual party has become a not-to-be-missed date in the diary. It’s a fun evening spent with friends and colleagues and a great way to help us support more people in horticulture. Over the last couple of years we’ve launched a range of new tools to help everyone at any stage of life, including a Health and Wellbeing app and a Financial Management Tool.  People can also access free physiotherapy, legal advice and support to find employment. It’s only through growing our partnerships with businesses and organisations across the industry that we can reach more people so everyone in the industry can benefit from our free, confidential support, advice and information. Tickets are on sale now so visit our website to book your place; put the date in your diary and join us!”

Party for Perennial 2023

Venue: Core, Aldermary House, 10-15 Queen Street Bank, EC4N 1TX

Date: Thursday 4th May2023

Time: 7pm – 11:30pm

Ticket price: £30 (including a glass of fizz on arrival and light bites)

For more information and to book tickets visit:

www.perennial.org.uk/party

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Envu embraces 2023

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Envu embraces 2023: Only a matter of months since Envu was created following the divestment of Bayer Environmental Sciences, the company is establishing a clear direction and growing from strength to strength.  The most recent appointments include Phil Logan, as National Account Manager UK & Ireland, and Paul Fisher promoted as Head of Sales UK & Ireland.

Commenting on the expanding team, Alan Morris, Managing Director (UK) & Head of North Europe at Envu explains that “people are everything to our business and everything to our customers.  We’ve been lucky to invest and bring in new people, so as Envu develops we bring in new ideas, and new thinking which benefits our customers”.

Envu embraces 2023

Envu embraces 2023

In addition to a progressive, innovative team, a key to Envu’s success in the amenity and turf sector is industry knowledge, with the ability to understand turf issues.  This is a key strength for newly appointed Phil Logan and after gaining a first-class honours degree in Turfgrass Science and Management from UCLAN, he has worked in greenkeeping at some iconic golf courses including The West Course, Wentworth and The Old Course, St Andrews,  as a Trials Manager and within various technical & sales roles.  Adding to the extensive industry experience and expertise, Phil is a fully qualified BASIS adviser which ensures excellent technical advice for Envu customers.

Complementing the team further, Paul Fisher’s promotion to Head of Sales UK and Ireland brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise from within the Environmental Science industry.  Paul has over 20 years of experience, both from the service provider and supply chain sectors giving a unique perspective.  Paul’s key emphasis is to help customers experience the level of support that is expected from a market leader such as Envu, as well as working to deliver solutions that help customers overcome their challenges.  Paul says, “I’m extremely excited about the opportunities within Envu, and being part of a market leading business with one of the strongest product portfolios.  And we have the freedom to bring more innovation to the market for the professional.”

Confirming this company position and the direction of Envu, Alan Morris, explains “Envu is looking for acquisition opportunities across all business units, and we have pending registrations with forthcoming product launches through our divested pipeline from Bayer.  It is an exciting time for Envu and as we grow, we remain committed to keeping our customers at the centre of everything we do”.

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Scots Turf Show Scotland’s inaugural event of 2023

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Scots Turf Show Scotland’s inaugural event of 2023: The 1st of March 2023 marks the inaugural year of a major new turf care event in Scotland, with The Scots Turf Show opening its doors at Hamilton Park Racecourse.

Devised by 17 of the industry’s most influential companies, The Scots Turf Show strives to give back to the Scottish turf community by providing a local event.

Scots Turf Show Scotland’s inaugural event of 2023

Scots Turf Show Scotland’s inaugural event of 2023

It is thought that almost 50% of the grounds industry in Scotland, be they groundsmen or greenkeepers working in football, rugby, golf or at schools or councils, have never attended an industry event.

A primary reason for this is the time and cost of travelling to existing exhibitions in England. This had to change for Alan Thompson of AllGrass Turf Care, who had the original idea behind reviving a Scottish Turf event.

“Back in 2019, I went to Richard Heywood at Campey Turf Care with an idea to create an event in Scotland that gave back to the Scottish market,” Alan explained.

“There used to be Scots Turf, and we’ve not had it for roughly 15 years, and as a result, almost half of the Scottish turf industry has missed out on educational opportunities and seeing machinery that could help them in their day-to-day work.

“Clubs can’t afford to let their staff go to current events, which means two days away from Scotland, financially they can’t do it, and there are various other reasons.

“We held a trial event in 2019 with seven companies at Falkirk Tryst Golf Club and had 118 people turn out. The clubhouse was probably only big enough for 50, so it was great to see that there was something there.

“After a delay due to Covid. We got back to the vision of how big we could make this. We had to bring it back to earth a little because we’d love to have 40 companies there and make it a big grand event, but we want to grow at a steady rate that works for the visitors and companies involved.

“So, this is another step. There’s a market, and there is a demand. This year we have a fantastic venue at Hamilton Park Racecourse. There’s plenty of parking, an onsite hotel, various marquees and live demonstrations outside.

“As well as the 17 companies, we’ll have seminars in one day consisting of twenty-minute sessions, so people stay engaged. We have devised everything to benefit those attending, and we’re looking forward to their support so we can continue to provide this for them.”

A significant difference between this event and others already on the industry calendar is it is purely financed by the companies, which in 2023 includes Campey Turf Care, AllGrass, Dennis, SIS Pitches, John Deere and more.

This allows for every discipline of turf care to be covered in a focused one-day event that engages visitors and makes it financially viable for whole teams to attend.

Please RSVP by 20th February to scotsturfshow@gmail.com to register your attendance.

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