Tag Archive for: FSI

FSI B31-980 proves ‘no lightweight’

/in , /by

FSI B31-980 proves ‘no lightweight’: Over 300kg lighter than his previous machine, and with no compromise on build quality or powerful performance, an FSI B31-980 is proving itself to be ‘no lightweight’ for Dave Williams of Tree Stump Solutions.

A big fan of the FSI equipment, Dave was looking to replace the largest stump grinder on his fleet when FSI introduced the higher horsepower model to the range – and he wasted no time in getting his hands on one!

FSI B31-980 proves ‘no lightweight’

FSI B31-980 proves ‘no lightweight’

Offering stump removal services to domestic customers from Northamptonshire to Cambridgeshire, owner Dave Williams established Tree Stump Solutions in 2011. Over that time, he’s used various makes and models of stump grinder – but admits that the FSI machines have always been his firm favourite. “I’ve been using a pedestrian FSI B20 stump grinder for over five years now and the build quality of that is outstanding – I’ve never had to repair or replace anything, not even the bearings” Dave explains.

With the FSI B20 catering for tasks at the smaller end of the spectrum, the need arose to replace his largest machine and he knew just where to look. “I’d seen the FSI B31 with the 26hp engine which was an ideal size operationally, and when FSI combined this same narrow design and build quality with a 38hp engine I knew it was exactly what I wanted!”

Dave took delivery of his FSI B31-980 from DJB Machinery in March 2025 and it is already exceeding expectations. “The machine this replaced weighed close to 1000kg. This FSI B31-980 comes in at 680kg which makes a huge difference to transporting it to site and, also, exerts a lot less downward pressure when manoeuvring the unit over customer patios and gardens.” He continues, “It’s a very well-balanced machine, with a lot of processing power for a stump grinder of its size.”

“Not only am I a big fan of the machines themselves, the team at FSI and DJB Machinery are a pleasure to deal with” Dave adds. “I enjoy a stop on the FSI stand at trade shows and feel like my thoughts and feedback are really valued by the team – they’re clearly professionals who genuinely care about their equipment and the requirements of their customers. With FSI, it’s the full package.”

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.

FSI UK return to The Arb Show

/in , , /by

FSI UK return to The Arb Show: FSI Stump Cutters UK Ltd return to The Arb Show at Westonbirt Arboretum this May, showcasing a wide selection of their industry-leading stump grinder range.

Alongside stand highlights like the pedestrian FSI B21 and the powerful FSI D74, stand B08/B09 also offers visitors the chance to compete for a grand prize and FSI merchandise with the return of their ‘Cutter Wheel of Fortune’!

FSI UK return to The Arb Show

FSI UK return to The Arb Show

It’s been a busy twelve months for the team after making their debut appearance as FSI UK at The Arb Show last year. Cementing their status as Europe’s largest manufacturer of stump grinders, work has taken place both in the factory and in the field to ensure the range continues to meet the needs of the arb professional. Whether your preferred power option is engine, hydraulic or PTO, you can be assured to find robust walk-behind, self-propelled and remote-controlled stump grinders within the FSI range.

The Arb Show is the perfect platform to showcase FSI’s full range, including the pedestrian FSI B21 and FSI B22 machines. The walk-behind FSI B21 with patented hill-hold system, and the self-propelled FSI B22, both offer a turntable design, vibration-damped handle, a slim 68cm design and easy operation, making them highly efficient and well-suited for users of all skill levels.

Also on display will be the largest model in the FSI range — the powerful FSI D74. Powered by a 74hp Stage V diesel engine, the D74 is built for the toughest stump grinding tasks with its unmatched 735mm cutter wheel and impressive 230cm sweep, clearing stumps in minutes. The two-speed ground-drive ‘FSI power-drive’ enables operators to switch between HIGH for fast movement or LOW for increased traction, while the full-featured remote control ensures optimal positioning with a clear view of the work area.

Throughout the two-day show, the FSI team will be on hand to answer all of your stump grinder questions. Sign-up for our prize-draw and try your luck on the ‘Cutter Wheel of Fortune’ to win exclusive FSI  merchandise –  one lucky participant will get to take home an FSI B21 for 3 whole months – for free!

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.

Lee Hatton becomes shareholder of FSI Stump Cutters

/in , /by

Lee Hatton becomes shareholder of FSI Stump Cutters: It’s been an incredibly busy and exciting 15 months since the formation of the wholly owned UK subsidiary of FSI Stump Cutters.

The establishment and subsequent strengthening of a nationwide dealer partner network and the introduction of the higher horsepower FSI B31-980 are two of many significant developments – the latest of which is the announcement that Sales Director Lee Hatton has officially become a shareholder of FSI Stump Cutters UK Ltd.

Lee Hatton becomes shareholder of FSI Stump Cutters

Lee Hatton becomes shareholder of FSI Stump Cutters

Lee has been a major part of the success of FSI in the UK and Irish stump grinding markets throughout 2024. Coming from a background as an area sales manager, this hands-on experience and sales know-how has created strong foundations for Lee to support both new and highly experienced dealers across FSI’s UK partner network. He has become the port of call for new and prospective customers across the country, reaffirming the belief that owners and operators value interaction with FSI directly, as well as with their local FSI partner – resulting in increased sales and market share.

Engaging with end-users is something FSI as a manufacturer have always prioritised and is why, together with Lee, members of the Danish team have been present at all major UK shows and events. This not only demonstrates FSI’s commitment to the UK but provides a platform for end-user feedback and requests which are helping to shape future developments across the Engine, Hydraulic and Tractor-mounted range. This is something that is set to continue with FSI retaining a strong presence, in both staff and equipment, at The Arb Show this May.

“Lee has worked with us since the establishment of FSI UK and has not only shown impressive results in cooperation with our FSI Partner network, but also that he shares the values of FSI – especially his willingness to go the extra mile for both our customers and our dealers” comments FSI Stump Cutters Managing Director Kim Schmidt. “At FSI we’re in it for the long run, making sure we take the right decisions from day one. Making Lee a shareholder feels like the right decision to ensure progress and long-term stability in our UK subsidiary as we continue to grow.

Looking ahead, we’re in a stronger position than ever to delivering unmatched service and reliable stump grinding solutions for years to come.”

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.

FSI B21 a great fit for JB Tree Services

/in , , /by

FSI B21 a great fit for JB Tree Services: An FSI B21 stump grinder is proving that compact certainly does not mean a compromise in efficiency and performance for Joe Baker of JB Tree Services.

With the majority of jobs coming from residential customers in and around Trowbridge, his recently  purchased FSI B21 gives him the manoeuvrability to tackle stumps in tight and restricted spaces as well as providing full control over his work schedule compared to the trepidation of relying on hire machines.

FSI B21 a great fit for JB Tree Services

FSI B21 a great fit for JB Tree Services

After working as a tree surgeon for Bath Council for six years, Joe started working for himself full-time in 2021. Commercial and council work for Trowbridge Town Council remains a key part of his offering, but he explains that the majority of demand for him and his team of two comes from residential customers. “These sorts of customers are looking for a ‘one stop shop’ – if they’re having a tree removed, they also want the stump dealt with on the same day.”

“I started off hiring a stump grinder as and when I needed one, but found they’d turn up used and abused, nearly always blunt. The time was definitely right to invest in our own machine that would be well maintained and available whenever we needed it.” While no stranger to stump grinders, Joe had no prior experience of an FSI, but admits it took little convincing that the brand was the perfect solution! “We had the slightly bigger FSI B31 on demonstration from GA Groundcare Ltd and the first thing we noticed was the outstanding build quality. The whole team had the opportunity to use it and all agreed that of all the various makes and models they’d used, in operation, this was by far the best.”

Peace of mind

Decision made, the pedestrian FSI B21 stump grinder joined the machinery fleet in August 2024. “There’s a lot to like about this machine, with a lot of features bringing newfound efficiency to stump removal.” He explains, “Firstly, the 14hp engine delivers impressive power. The turntable feature is brilliant in terms of operator comfort, the safety bar allows us to disengage the cutter wheel for safe and unhindered movement around the stump. The hill-hold system which is unique to FSI is another gamechanger – blocking any forward wheel motion and allowing us to pull the machine backwards to easily navigate ramps, steps and uneven terrain.”

“The peace of mind of being able to fell a tree in the morning and having the FSI B21 to hand to grind the stump in the afternoon is brilliant, seeing the machine in high demand since we’ve had it. The back-up from GA Groundcare has also been excellent. We can’t fault the machine or the service we’ve had from start to finish.”

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.

FSI B31-980 launches

/in , /by

FSI B31-980 launches: Last year, the FSI B31-749 stump grinder took the arboricultural market by storm, with its 26.5hp engine combined with a compact, manoeuvrable design.

While the B31-749 quickly became a favourite with professionals, FSI listened to industry feedback and recognised the appetite for even more power. In direct response to this demand, FSI are pleased to introduce the new, higher horsepower, FSI B31-980.

FSI B31-980 launches

FSI B31-980 launches

As the world’s only dedicated stump grinder manufacturer, FSI have a long and proven history of industry firsts. FSI were the first to introduce a pivot point design on pedestrian stump grinders, and continued innovation has seen features like the FSI power-clutch, safety bar and hill hold brake system going on to set the industry standards. “The market is constantly evolving, and we strive to always stay ahead of the curve” explains FSI Managing Director Kim Schmidt. “By actively listening to our customers, we can identify emerging trends and develop products that truly meet their needs.”

Responding to customer feedback has driven the introduction of the FSI B31-980. Building on the success of the B31-749, the new model retains the same narrow design (74cm), reliable performance, stability and manoeuvrability operators have come to expect from FSI. However, the increase from a 26.5hp to 38hp engine, delivers the additional power users require to quickly and effectively tackle stumps and navigate challenging terrain.

The compact build, combined with counter-rotating tracks and low centre of gravity, optimise manoeuvrability of the FSI B31-980 making it ideal for a diverse range of working environments. When navigating tough terrain, or cutting on slopes, the built-in hydraulic motor brakes and counterbalance valve found on the B31 range ensures stability during intensive operations.

Efficiency is assured thanks to two hydraulic cylinders which enable it to cover 120cm in a single sweep, while the ergonomic operator panel offers an exceptional view of the working area and conveniently places all necessary controls at your fingertips. Like the FSI B31-749, routine maintenance also remains simple. The hydraulically-driven cutter wheel on the FSI B31 eliminates the need for daily maintenance, minimising operating costs and reducing time spent in the workshop.

“At FSI we are always listening and are proud to respond to what the market needs – whether it’s a completely new feature or a request for more power. We are committed to delivering the solutions our customer’s demand.” Kim continues, “We are delighted to be showcasing the FSI B31-980 at a number of events with our FSI partners throughout Europe over the next few months, including GaLaBau in Germany, Groen Techniek in The Netherlands, Salon Vert in France and APF in the United Kingdom.”

Visitors to APF looking to see the new FSI B31-980 or wishing to discuss their stump grinder requirements with the team can do so on stand 1560/1580.

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.