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Fit and forget with DuraPost® VISTA composite panels

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Fit and forget with DuraPost® VISTA composite panels: Birkdale, the UK’s leading supplier of fencing and gate accessories, is launching a new composite fence panel range: DuraPost® VISTA. Designed to provide both beauty and durability at an affordable price, the panels can be used for boundary fencing or to create sleek garden features.

DuraPost® VISTA panels have an attractive timber-look design. Incredibly easy to install, they are lightweight and feature a tongue in groove design, that makes the process simple and hassle-free to undertake on site. The panels also integrate seamlessly with the DuraPost® galvanised steel fence post system and post infills to ensure installers can turn to Birkdale for a complete fencing solution.

Fit and forget with DuraPost® VISTA composite panels

Fit and forget with DuraPost® VISTA composite panels

Once in-situ, the weather resistant panels will perform for the long-term. Made from a recyclable and sustainable wood-plastic composite (WPC), the panels have minimal environmental impact. They are also UV stabilised and will not rot, warp or splinter, retaining their integrity for each season, without the need for any annual treatment to protect and preserve their finish. As such, they are backed by a 15-year guarantee.

Finally, the panels are available in three different colourways – exclusive to this particular DuraPost® range – Oyster, Teak and Graphite, which ensures there is a solution to complement any existing architectural features.

John Abernethie, CEO at Birkdale, commented: “We are delighted to be expanding our DuraPost® composite panel range even further. The aim is to provide homeowners, installers and commercial contractors alike with a cost-effective fencing option that they can trust will perform for the long-term.”

For more information about Birkdale’s DuraPost® VISTA composite panels, visit: https://www.birkdalesales.com/

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Bernhard and Company’s new senior management hires

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Bernhard and Company’s new senior management hires: Bernhard and Company has made two new senior hires with the appointment of Lee Wade as new Chief Operating Officer and Vitor Gomes as the company’s new Production Manager.

As new COO, Lee Wade will oversee Bernhard and Company’s operational functions, including manufacturing, engineering, HR, and customer care. With more than 20 years of operational experience, Wade is a versatile senior leader with a strong track record in managing multi-skilled teams and implementing lean manufacturing practices.

Bernhard and Company's new senior management hires

Bernhard and Company’s new senior management hires

Wade commented: “This is a truly exciting opportunity to be working with a brand that has achieved such global success and is so synonymous with its industry. A key part of my role will be to help guide the senior team as we look to capitalise on what has been a hugely successful year for the company and help shape what the future looks like at Bernhard.”

Vitor Gomes is joining Bernhard’s senior management team as Production Manager. Gomes brings with him a wealth of manufacturing experience, particularly in resource allocation, production scheduling, and workflow management.

Gomes added: “I’m delighted to join Bernhard and Company. I can’t wait to really dive into the intricacies of the production cycle for our various machines and products, finding new ways to add efficiencies and enhance what is already a fantastic team and operation.”

Steven Nixon, Managing Director for Bernhard and Company, said: “It’s great to have both Lee and Vitor on-board. This is an important moment for Bernhard and Company, as we look to continue pushing forward after another successful year. Introducing such significant and relevant experience will help us to further build our momentum as we look to take our business to the next level around the globe.”

The two new additions to the Bernhard leadership team will be based at the company’s production facility in Haverhill, United Kingdom.

For more information on Bernhard and Company, head online to: https://bernhard.co.uk/

You can also find Bernhard and Company on Twitter at @BernhardCompany, on Instagram at @bernhardcompany, and on Facebook and LinkedIn by searching Bernhard Company.

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Ag Biologicals and Organic Growth

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Ag Biologicals and Organic Growth: The agricultural landscape is profoundly transforming as the global drive toward sustainability accelerates. The sector’s projected growth to a staggering $1.2 trillion by 2034 signals immense economic potential and underscores a significant shift toward environmentally responsible farming practices.

With the agricultural biologicals market forecasted to surge from $16.7 billion in 2024 to $31.8 billion by 2029 (Markets and Markets, 2024), alongside significant expansions in agrochemicals and organic food markets, we are on the brink of a revolution in how food is grown, protected, and consumed.

Ag Biologicals and Organic Growth

Ag Biologicals and Organic Growth

Unprecedented Growth in Agricultural Biologicals

The global agricultural biological market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5%, reaching $31.8 billion by 2029. Agricultural biologicals—including biopesticides, biofertilisers, and biostimulants—are essential to sustainable farming practices. These products enhance crop protection, improve nutrient efficiency, and restore soil health while avoiding the environmental damage associated with synthetic chemicals.

Several key factors are driving this shift:

  • Consumer Demand for Organic Produce: Globally, consumers increasingly seek natural, chemical-free products, pushing farmers to adopt biological alternatives.
  • Stricter Regulations: Governments in Europe, North America, and other regions are implementing stricter controls on chemical inputs, speeding up the transition to biologicals.
  • Environmental Awareness: The adverse effects of chemical-intensive farming on ecosystems are becoming more apparent. Biologicals offer a sustainable solution with minimal environmental harm.

Regional Drivers of Growth

The Asia-Pacific region is set to be a significant growth engine for agricultural biologicals. Countries like India and China, with vast agricultural sectors and growing populations, are increasingly focusing on sustainable farming practices. Thanks to its stringent regulatory environment, Europe continues to play a leading role, mainly through the EU’s Farm to Fork strategy, which aims for a 50% reduction in pesticide use by 2030.

The U.S. market is expanding rapidly in North America due to increased investment in biological research and innovation. Latin America, especially Brazil, is emerging as a critical player in biologicals, driven by its leadership in organic farming and alternatives to agrochemicals.

Agrochemicals: A Market in Transition

Despite the rise of biologicals, the agrochemicals market is expected to grow from $365.6 billion in 2024 to $491.69 billion by 2032 (Market Research Future, 2024). However, the narrative surrounding agrochemicals is shifting. Farmers are increasingly adopting integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that combine biologicals with synthetic chemicals, balancing yield targets with environmental sustainability.

Agrochemicals will still play a role in global food production, but their use will increasingly be complemented by biological solutions to reduce environmental impact. This hybrid approach is critical in regions where fully transitioning to biological methods is not feasible due to scale, cost, or other constraints.

Organic Food: A Powerhouse Market

The global organic food market is forecasted to rise from $228.35 billion in 2024 to $658.38 billion by 2034 (Precedence Research, 2024). This reflects a significant shift in consumer preferences toward healthier, environmentally friendly food choices.

Organic farming emphasises sustainability, biodiversity, and soil health, making agricultural biologicals a natural fit for this market. Biopesticides, biofertilisers, and biostimulants are at the core of organic farming systems, replacing chemical inputs with natural solutions aligned with organic certification principles. Countries like Germany, the U.S., and France lead this trend, with robust organic farming sectors and consumers willing to pay premiums for organic products.

Regulatory Frameworks Shaping the Market

The regulatory landscape is pivotal to the growth of agricultural biologicals. In the European Union, the regulatory framework has become increasingly favourable for biologicals, particularly with the implementation of the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork strategy, which promote sustainable food systems and aim to reduce pesticide use significantly. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also streamlined the biopesticide registration process, encouraging faster adoption.

In Brazil, one of the world’s largest agricultural markets, regulatory reforms have accelerated the approval of biological products. The country’s leadership in organic farming and favourable policy environment make it a key player in driving biological adoption in Latin America. Similarly, India has introduced initiatives through the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and its Farm Science Centres (KVKs) network to promote biological products.

However, challenges remain, particularly in harmonising regulations across regions. Global regulatory collaboration is necessary to establish consistent standards, reduce registration bottlenecks, and foster innovation.

Key Trends Driving Growth

  1. Innovations in Microbial Technology: Microbial research advances enable the development of highly effective biological products that target specific pests, improve nutrient uptake, and enhance plant resilience. Innovations in formulation technologies, such as encapsulation and controlled-release systems, are improving the stability and efficacy of biologicals, making them more viable for large-scale farming.
  2. Consumer Awareness and Organic Certification: As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their food choices, demand for organic and sustainably produced food is rising. This shift drives the need for biological inputs that meet organic certification standards, further boosting the adoption of biological solutions.
  3. Climate-Smart Agriculture: Agriculture significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Agricultural biologicals, particularly soil microbes, play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by enhancing carbon sequestration, improving soil health, and reducing the carbon footprint of farming practices.

Challenges to Overcome

Despite rapid growth, the agricultural biologicals market faces several challenges:

  • Regulatory Hurdles: Fragmented regulatory environments across regions slow the approval process for new biological products. Harmonising regulations will be vital in accelerating innovation and adoption.
  • Farmer Education and Confidence: Many farmers remain sceptical of biological products due to a lack of knowledge or previous experiences with ineffective or ingenuine products. Education and field demonstrations are essential for building farmer confidence and ensuring widespread adoption.
  • Supply Chain and Scalability: The infrastructure needed to produce, store, and distribute biological products at scale is still developing. Investments in supply chain logistics, cold storage, and distribution networks will be critical to meeting future demand.

Conclusion: The Future of Sustainable Agriculture

The $1.2 trillion surge in the agricultural biologicals, agrochemicals, and organic food markets reflects more than just economic growth—it signals a global commitment to transforming agriculture into a sustainable, eco-friendly industry. As the world grapples with climate change, food security, and environmental degradation, the rise of agricultural biologicals offers a pathway to a healthier and more sustainable future.

Innovations in microbial technology, growing consumer demand for organic products, and favourable regulatory frameworks are positioning agricultural biologicals as a cornerstone of global food production. By investing in these sustainable solutions today, we are laying the foundation for a future where agriculture feeds the world and preserves the planet for generations to come.

Agriculture is no longer just about yields; it’s about balancing productivity with responsibility. As the agricultural biological sector evolves, it is poised to create a future where farming is both economically viable and ecologically sound.

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Engagement in GMA’s training and qualification increases

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Engagement in GMA’s training and qualification increases: The Grounds Management Association (GMA), the UK’s leading organisation for the grounds management industry, has seen a 43% rise in uptake of its training compared to this time last year.

This follows a challenging season for many sports. Over the past 12 months, the GMA saw enquiries related to flooding surge, coinciding with increased rainfall that was up 147% on the long-term average in some parts of the country.

In the North East of England, football clubs needing support because of water-logged pitches were up 244%. And 80% of rugby union clubs have had drainage issues this year compared to 50% last year.

Jason Booth, chief operating officer of the GMA, says: “We know last year was a tough season for many. More extreme weather means the challenges in our industry are getting greater. It’s time to focus on knowledge and skills to get ahead of the game so it’s essential clubs invest in their pitches and grounds teams.

“The GMA’s unique suite of training and qualifications are designed to help groundspeople advance their knowledge and skills – including courses specifically geared towards the new challenges faced in winter sports, like football, rugby league and rugby union.

“Our training is designed with the help of industry experts and supported by national governing bodies, including The FA, ECB, RFL and Sport England. We’re also the only industry association to be accredited by the Department of Education’s matrix Standard.

“As well as in person training, there are also plenty of online courses, perfect for busy professionals and volunteers who want to enhance their turf maintenance knowledge from anywhere.

“Grow your knowledge today, head over to our website and check out the training and qualifications we’ve got available.”

Discover the wide range of easy-to-access, high-quality training courses on the GMA website: https://thegma.org.uk/learning/training

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Somerset and Dorset greenkeepers earn student awards victories

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Somerset and Dorset greenkeepers earn student awards victories: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), Reesink UK and Toro have revealed the winners of the prestigious Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year awards at a spectacular event at Oulton Hall in West Yorkshire.

Two student greenkeepers who had travelled the furthest proved victorious, with Jack Vowell of Farrington Park in Somerset and Daniel Parker of Knighton Heath in Dorset claiming the top prizes.

Somerset and Dorset greenkeepers earn student awards victories

Somerset and Dorset greenkeepers earn student awards victories

Following regional judging earlier in the year, 10 finalists were selected to contest the prestigious awards at Oulton Hall, where there was further examination of their abilities with a series of tests that gave them the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and passion for the greenkeeping industry.

The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award was presented to Jack Vowell, Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Farrington Park, by Jon Cole, Divisional Business Manager at Reesink Turfcare and main award judge. Jack is a former recruitment consultant who switched to greenkeeping five years ago and is a student at Bridgwater and Taunton College.

Jack said: “It was such a strong field that when the runner-up’s name was read out I thought, ‘I’ve got no chance, he’s fantastic compared to me’ and so I was in complete shock when my name was announced as the winner. I just couldn’t believe it was me! ”

Jon Cole added: “The five main finalists were very impressive and they have done themselves and their clubs proud. They show that the industry is in extremely safe hands going forward. It was a closely run competition and everyone acquitted themselves well. Jack, however, showed a balance of professionalism and technical knowledge, which he knew how to deliver.”

Runner-up in the main category was Jack Wellings, Senior Greenkeeper at the JCB Golf and Country Club and a student at Myerscough College.

The Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award was presented to Daniel Parker, Apprentice Greenkeeper at Knighton Heath, by David Timms, National Accounts Manager for Reesink Turfcare and young award judge. Daniel is a student at Sparsholt College.

Daniel said: “So many emotions were going around my head, I couldn’t believe it, but it’s brilliant. I phoned my dad as soon as I found out and he was with some family at home and they were all celebrating with me. I then spoke to my course manager and he and the rest of the team were completely thrilled. This award is as much for them as it is for me because we’re all part of a team.”

David Timms added: “The young finalists shone on the course walk, demonstrating a fantastic level of knowledge with enthusiasm and confidence. All the awards judges felt proud, pleased and privileged to be able to see the calibre of the next generation of greenkeeping in front of us. Daniel is destined for a long career in the industry and is a worthy winner of the Young award.”

Runner-up in the young category was Alex Fox, Apprentice Greenkeeper at Woodhall Spa and a matchday groundsperson at Lincoln City FC and Wembley Stadium. Alex is a student at Bishop Burton College.

Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO, said: “Congratulations to Jack Vowell and Daniel Parker, two very worthy winners, and huge thanks to our friends at Reesink Turfcare and Toro for another truly inspirational Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year finals here at Oulton Hall. It’s been a fantastic event with 10 wonderful finalists all trying their best. BIGGA exists to try and improve the world for greenkeepers and looking at what we’ve had in front of us today and over the last few months through the process, I think greenkeeping has a bright future ahead.”

The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards will return in 2025. More information including how to nominate a student greenkeeper and the extraordinary prizes on offer is available on the BIGGA website and the Reesink Turfcare website Students Awards | Reesink Turfcare.

You can also watch the moment the winners were revealed and view exclusive interviews with Jack Vowell and Daniel Parker on the BIGGA website.

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