Tag Archive for: And

Growth In GMA’s Training And Turf Care Advisory Services

/in , /by

Growth In GMA’s Training And Turf Care Advisory Services: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has expanded its Technical and Learning department with two strategic appointments, boosting the support and expertise available to the sector through high-quality training and consultancy.

Bojan Jovanovic has been appointed as Learning Programme Lead, and Fiona Lyttle takes on the role of Turf Care Advisory Support Lead. Together, they bring extensive experience that will enhance the GMA’s educational and advisory services for both professionals and volunteers.

Growth In GMA’s Training And Turf Care Advisory Services

Growth In GMA’s Training And Turf Care Advisory Services

Bojan has worked closely with the GMA for over five years as an online tutor, supporting learners undertaking GMA qualifications. He brings a unique blend of educational and practical turf care expertise, having spent more than a decade teaching land-based qualifications at Further Education institutions. Earlier in his career, Bojan specialised in construction and maintenance of elite sports surfaces, contributing to high-profile projects across tennis, croquet, elite football and the London 2012 Olympic equestrian facilities.

Fiona brings a deep understanding of the sports turf industry, particularly in learning and development. Well known for her work with the Greenkeepers Training Committee (GTC), which works closely with the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) on education and training, she offers valuable educational insight and industry knowledge. Her appointment will support the continued growth and delivery of the GMA’s Turf Care Advisory (TCA) services.

The appointments mark a significant step in the GMA’s ongoing mission to provide high-quality training and consultancy, supporting the development of skills and standards across the entire industry.

Dan Prest, GMA Technical and Learning Manager, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Bojan and Fiona to the team. They both bring incredible industry knowledge and fresh perspectives that will help us grow our education and consultancy offer. Bojan’s background in both turf management and further education is a perfect fit for our evolving learning programmes. Fiona’s insight into training and development, along with her knowledge of the industry, will be so important in strengthening our Turf Care Advisory support. This is a real boost for the industry as a whole.”

Bojan Jovanovic, GMA Learning Programme Lead, said: “Having worked with the GMA for several years as a part-time tutor to many learners, I’m excited to step into this new role and help shape the learning journey for professionals and volunteers. Education is a vital part of raising standards in the sector, and I’m passionate about helping people succeed both on the ground and in the classroom.”

Fiona Lyttle, GMA Turf Care Advisory Support Lead, said: “I’m thrilled to join the GMA at a time when support and guidance are more important than ever. I’m looking forward to working on and developing the consultancy provision offered by the association and supporting those working across the breadth of the grounds management industry. It’s all about helping people feel confident and connected in their roles, allowing them to provide safe and fit for purpose playing surfaces.”

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.

SIS Pitches Acquires Both DrainTalent and HeatTalent

/in , /by

SIS Pitches Acquires Both DrainTalent and HeatTalent: Global leader in sports surfaces SIS Pitches has acquired a majority stake in DrainTalent, a Netherlands-based business specialising in circular soil management systems, and HeatTalent, an innovative and sustainable, electric undersoil heating.  

This latest acquisition cements SIS Pitches’ position as the most comprehensive provider of pitch construction and maintenance by incorporating two further sub-surface technology systems at the cutting-edge of soil science within their already comprehensive range of add-on systems.

SIS Pitches Acquires Both DrainTalent and HeatTalent

SIS Pitches Acquires Both DrainTalent and HeatTalent

DrainTalent’s patented, flagship product – which shares the same name as the company – is a unique, sustainable soil management system that regulates moisture levels in soil by extracting water from the top layer and reintroducing it from below. This keeps grass healthier and improves recovery after use, resulting in less fixture cancellations.

Using the system’s sensors and climate information provided in the company’s app, grounds teams can manage their playing surface conditions remotely via a connected device. Working this way, a sports club can drastically reduce its water consumption while also promoting natural grass growth. With installations at both amateur and elite-level, DrainTalent has been proven effective across the most challenging playing conditions, guaranteeing optimal conditions all year round.

The acquisition also includes HeatTalent, pioneers of innovative electrical undersoil heating systems, some of which are already being used within the Eredivisie, having been installed at FC Utrecht. One of HeatTalent’s lead technologies include grid heating, a wired, uninsulated stainless-steel grid that heats the soil at much quicker speeds using low voltage and high frequency current pulses.

SIS Pitches’ acquisitions come off the back of impressive organic growth in recent years, with revenue up by 30% over 2024/25. In response, the company has opened new offices in the USA, Saudi Arabia, Georgia and Poland to meet the needs of its growing client base.

The acquisitions are also the latest step in an ongoing growth strategy, which seeks to invest in forward-thinking businesses that add a competitive edge to its existing portfolio. DrainTalent was a natural choice in this respect, with the company boasting its own Research and Innovation Centre. This facility – located next to the manufacturing site – is used to validate product performance, with all trials audited by a local independent consultancy.

George Mullan, Executive Chairman of SIS Pitches, said: “DrainTalent has an exciting range of products that complement what we do as a business, backed by data and the latest industry insights. It’s a company that aligns with our vision to deliver exceptional sports surfaces at every level of competition across the world. These acquisitions are an important step for our long-term growth, adding an extra dimension of performance for both new and existing customers.”

Ivo Lamot, CEO of SIS Pitches, added: “These acquisitions mark an exciting step forward. For existing clients, we’re unlocking enhanced pitch longevity, reducing water usage and maintenance costs, ensuring greater year-round playability. Similarly, DrainTalent clients will now have access to premium surface technology and a seamless end-to-end service through SIS. This combined offering is unmatched in the market.”

Arno Reimert, Managing Director at DrainTalent believes the investment from SIS will be key to the system’s long-term success: “Our shareholders and management see great potential in cooperation with the SIS team to grow global sales and development of the DrainTalent company and its products. With SIS’s proven installation expertise and global reach, we’re now positioned to deliver even greater value – from sustainability gains and lower lifetime costs to a seamless experience for facility owners and grounds teams. It’s a powerful combination that takes our system to the next level.”

Recognising the product’s success and brand visibility, DrainTalent will continue to operate under its current name, as an affiliated company within SIS Pitches.

For more information about DrainTalent, please visit: draintalent.com

To find out more about HeatTalent, go to: heattalent.com

For more details about SIS Pitches, visit: sispitches.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.

Robotics and Green Tech Take Centre Stage

/in , , /by

Robotics and Green Tech Take Centre Stage: The GroundsFest Academy continued its mission to upskill the industry with another free educational day, held on 31 July at Lantra House, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.

With a strong focus on robotics and sustainable technology, the CPD-accredited event brought together the GroundsFest Academy, Husqvarna, Origin Amenity, and Lantra to highlight how innovation is transforming the way outdoor spaces are managed.

Robotics and Green Tech Take Centre Stage

Robotics and Green Tech Take Centre Stage

Attendees – ranging from contractors and council staff to colleges, airport grounds teams and greenkeepers – were treated to a hands-on, interactive experience. Robotic mowers, battery-powered tools, and automated line-marking systems were put through their paces on a purpose-prepared green space, while expert-led talks explored current trends, training opportunities, and the broader impact of green technology.

“This was our second free educational day – and it’s incredible to see how far things have moved on in terms of robotics and green technology – even in a short space of time,” said Bradley Tennant, Director of Education for the GroundsFest Academy.

The day covered key topics including the benefits of robotic mowing systems, the rise of battery-powered machinery, and how these technologies can support sustainability targets. Practical sessions, combined with product demos, gave visitors a chance to see the equipment in a realistic setting.

Simon Hughes, Line Marking Sales Manager for Origin Amenity Solutions, said the event was an ideal platform to share fast-evolving tech:

“We felt it was important to get involved and to get in front of people – the right people. When it comes to technology – the systems, the software, there’s a lot that can assist you and free up labour to do other tasks while robotics handle routine work. Every year we are developing. Everything’s changing and we must get that across to customers. So, it’s good to get out there and stay ahead of the field.”

For many, it was also a valuable opportunity to ask meaningful questions and see how the machines could work in their day-to-day roles.

Adam Little, Key Account Manager for Husqvarna, said:

“There was an abundance of questions from the delegates – which shows how good the event was and how engaged the group was. Demonstrating the machines on green space marked out like a football pitch gives people a feel for how they’d actually use them. If you asked anyone who came, they’d say it was a very informative day.”

As well as showcasing technology, the day also included career guidance and training insights from Lantra – something that resonated with attendees of all ages and experience levels.

David Fisher, Lantra’s Head of Industry Partnerships, said:

“Whether you’re new to the industry or have been in it for years, there’s always more to learn. We’ve been pleased to host today’s event and share updates on our training and qualifications. It’s been great to be involved – and we look forward to more opportunities like this in future.”

That educational focus was echoed by Victoria Fiander, Assessor in Horticulture & Sports Turf at Wiltshire College:

“It’s really good to come here and keep your CPD going. These events are so important for bringing new talent into our industry – showing the younger generation what technology is out there. It’s not just about cutting grass. Events like this are great to showcase what we do in our industry. It’s really important to stay up to date with emerging technology to help us with climate change and sustainability.”

For many attendees, the event proved a turning point in how they view robotics and battery-powered solutions.

Nick Williams, Estates & Grounds Maintenance Team Leader at Aspire Housing, said:

“We went to a demo three or four years ago and the range just wasn’t there. But it’s come on in leaps and bounds. Now it feels like a real option for us. This is event has been fantastic because it’s not just sitting in a classroom – you’re outside, seeing it in action. I’m going to go back and tell the team all about it. Hopefully we’ll invest in some battery-powered kit.”

Others were keen to take what they’d learned and implement change.

Des Porter, Parks Team Leader at South Oxfordshire & Vale of White Horse District Councils, said:

“Our grounds team is still quite old school – petrol and diesel – but our goal is to be fully electric by 2030. I’ve got some great information today and I’ll be going back with proposals for making that switch.”

With momentum building and the appetite for education clear, the GroundsFest Academy plans to continue offering free, accessible training to help the industry stay at the forefront of innovation.

“Everyone benefits when knowledge is shared in the right environment,” added Bradley Tennant. “We’re excited to keep pushing forward with more events like this – and to help people at all levels get ready for the future. Everyone walked away with a smile on their face – and for me, it’s exactly how I’d want to be trained. That’s what makes this format so successful.”

Watch the video highlights of the day here – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_4A8bdbfaY

For more information, please visit www.groundsfestacademy.com

You can also follow GroundsFest on X, Facebook and Instagram @GroundsFestAcademy for much more news, reviews and insightful views

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.

New services and savings as BAGMA return to GroundsFest

/in , , /by

New services and savings as BAGMA return to GroundsFest: It’s been an incredibly busy 12 months for the team at the British Agricultural Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA) as they work to deliver brand new services and savings for the thousands of BAGMA members across the country.

Those looking to find out more about all of the exciting changes can do so by speaking to the team at GroundsFest 2025 in their new location on stand 39.

New services and savings as BAGMA return to GroundsFest

New services and savings as BAGMA return to GroundsFest

In a time of adversity, BAGMA aims to continue its work on fighting for better terms and conditions for agricultural, groundcare and garden machinery dealers nationwide. In the last year BAGMA have launched a new Members Forum and online Jobs Hub, as well as providing continued support when it comes to advice and training.

On the subject of training, visitors to GroundsFest will be among the first to learn about the brand-new course titled ‘Safety Essentials for Technicians – Off-Highway Electric Vehicles & Electric Outdoor Power Equipment’. Developed especially for BAGMA, this one-day safety course is designed to highlight hazards, compliance and best practice for those working on or around electrically powered off-road machinery such as electric tractors, UTVs, mowers, and telehandlers.

BAGMA have also been working closely with their varied portfolio of approved Service Providers to develop exclusive offers and savings on a range of services including dealer management software (DMS), finance solutions, utility contracts and more. Among the newest names on the ever-growing list is Novuna Vehicle Solutions, who have partnered with some of the largest vehicle brands to provide BAGMA members with exclusive discounts on Contract Hire cars and vans.

Stand 39 is also the place to learn more about BAGMA’s ‘Paperless Solution’. Working in conjunction with the UK’s paperless experts, Culverdocs, BAGMA are transforming the task of business administration with a new digital platform to streamline the recording of Handover & Installation paperwork and much more. More information on this and the full range of BAGMA’s services can be found by speaking to a member of the team when GroundsFest returns to Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on the 9th and 10th September.

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.

Robotic Innovation with Agrovista Amenity and XDC

/in , , /by

Robotic Innovation with Agrovista Amenity and XDC: GroundsFest 2025 visitors can expect a glimpse into the future of turf maintenance on stands RB380 and RB381, as Agrovista Amenity and XDC showcases two of the most advanced robotic solutions on the market – the RM21 Combo Mower and the Thor Robotic Mower.

The RM21 Combo Mower, distributed exclusively by Agrovista Amenity in partnership with XDC, is a true multi-tasking marvel. Combining precision line marking and mowing in one fully autonomous unit, the RM21 stands out for its ease of use, versatility, and forward-thinking features. From training grids to bespoke pitch plans, users can map out and control tasks via an intuitive tablet interface or mobile app, while optional attachments such as a dew brush, or grass collector extend its functionality across a wide range of turf environments.

Robotic Innovation with Agrovista Amenity and XDC

Robotic Innovation with Agrovista Amenity and XDC

A large-capacity battery and 25L paint container enable multiple jobs to be completed back-to-back, with centimetre-level accuracy, smart path planning, and 360° LiDAR object detection ensuring safe, efficient performance – even under trees or around obstacles.

Also on display will be Thor – a powerhouse robotic mower engineered for sports turf, golf courses, and large-scale green spaces. With a 730mm cutting width and the ability to tackle up to 9 acres per day, Thor brings together AI vision, dual-RTK GNSS, and LiDAR to deliver elite-level performance and total reliability. Its cloud-based fleet management system allows multiple units to be coordinated remotely, with real-time insights and reporting to streamline team productivity and performance.

From automated graphics marking to data-driven maintenance planning, these robots are designed to transform how turf professionals operate.

See both the RM21 and Thor in action at Stands RB380 and RB381 – and discover how robotics can help you do more, with less.

For more information about Agrovista UK, visit www.agrovista.co.uk/amenity

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.