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STIHL strengthens its global network in Oradea

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STIHL strengthens its global network in Oradea: The STIHL Group has officially opened its first battery-only production site in Oradea, Romania. The investment of €125 million marks a major milestone in the company’s transformation toward battery technology and strengthens its European manufacturing footprint. 

The new facility becomes STIHL’s European centre of competence to produce battery packs and battery-powered tools, adding a key hub to the Group’s global network. Designed as a core element of the Group’s international production network, the site will play a central role in meeting the growing demand for battery-powered products across European markets.

STIHL strengthens its global network in Oradea

STIHL strengthens its global network in Oradea

Construction began in March 2024 and was completed in less than 18 months. The factory will gradually ramp up operations to reach an annual capacity of 1 million battery packs by 2026. By 2028, output is expected to rise to 1.8 million battery packs and 1.7 million battery-powered tools. Production initially focuses on battery-powered blowers and AP battery packs from the professional STIHL range. Over time, the portfolio will expand to include additional battery-powered equipment such as brush cutters, chainsaws, and other tools.

The new facility has 47,000 square metres of operational space on a 147,000 square metres site. The plant is equipped with flexible multi-product production lines and a high degree of automation, integrating Industry 4.0 principles that ensure digital traceability, optimised processes, and outstanding operational efficiency.

Expansion of global network to drive future growth

Battery technology has become a major growth driver for the company. Today, more than one in four of all STIHL products sold worldwide are battery-powered. The company aims to increase this share to approximately 35% by 2027 and to about 80% by 2035, a clear reflection of the accelerating transformation in the industry.

“The new plant in Oradea expands our global network and strengthens STIHL’s position in the fast-growing battery segment. It is a vital addition that will secure our long-term competitiveness in Europe and support our customers with high-performance products developed and built for professionals and demanding consumers worldwide,” said Dr. Nikolas Stihl, Chairman of the Advisory and Supervisory Board.

The decision to build the new plant in Oradea reflects STIHL’s strategy to strengthen its European footprint and to locate production close to key markets. The city offers excellent logistical connections, a modern infrastructure, and access to a highly qualified workforce, ideal conditions for sustainable industrial growth within the European Union.

During the opening event on October 15, 2025, Prime Minister of Romania, Ilie Bolojan, emphasised the national significance of the investment: “The STIHL factory in Oradea is not merely an economic investment. It is a powerful signal that Romania can be a reliable partner, a competitive industrial destination, and a place where things can be done well to European standards. This investment represents jobs, cutting-edge technology, a genuine transfer of know-how, and positions Romania at the heart of an industry undergoing continuous transformation. I thank everyone who contributed to this project, the STIHL team, local authorities, technical partners, and all those who worked on site day after day. It is the result of a shared, responsible effort.”

Continuing this point, Florin-Alin Birta, Mayor of Oradea Municipality, highlighted the importance for the local economy: “The fact that an international group such as STIHL has chosen Oradea for an investment of this magnitude confirms the city’s attractiveness and its strong development direction. The Oradea City Hall consistently supports investments that bring added value to the community, aware that a dynamic economic environment is the engine of prosperity. Our goal is to strengthen Oradea’s position as a city open to innovation, performance, and collaboration with reputable investors.

“Through major projects such as the STIHL factory, we demonstrate that sustainable development and competitiveness can go hand in hand, transforming Oradea into an increasingly attractive industrial and technological hub at both regional and European levels.”

The success of the Oradea project is also a story of people and partnership. Thanks to the close cooperation between STIHL experts from Germany, the local management team and regional partners, the new plant was completed efficiently and on schedule.  This joint effort not only created a modern production facility but also laid a strong foundation for the company’s future in Romania.

The organisational setup of the new site was overseen by Dr. Robert Feulner, Managing Director of the newly founded ANDREAS STIHL Power Tools S.R.L. “The new Oradea plant reflects both technological excellence and strong local collaboration. We feel very much at home here and are impressed by the professionalism and commitment of the people in this region. It’s clear that choosing Oradea was the right decision for STIHL’s future.”

Recruitment and training are progressing steadily. The plant currently employs around 135 people and will reach approximately 700 employees by 2028. STIHL aims to become one of the most attractive employers in the region, offering long-term career opportunities, modern working conditions, and a corporate culture valued by nearly 20,000 employees worldwide.

State-of-the-art manufacturing plant

The Oradea plant combines advanced production technology with a strong focus on sustainability. Flexible, multi-product assembly lines allow the site to adapt quickly to different battery models and tool types. A high level of automation and the integration of Industry 4.0 principles ensure digital traceability, data-driven quality control, and high operational efficiency.

Sustainability was a central design principle from the very beginning. The facility has been certified by the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB) with the gold standard, recognising its energy-efficient construction and use of renewable energy systems. The combination of photovoltaic and a geothermal system significantly reduces fossil fuel use. During the day and under favourable weather conditions, the plant can generate renewable energy to cover its internal electricity demand.

Biodiversity goals were also taken into account, as the factory features green roofs, more than 250 newly planted trees, and the preservation of an existing forest area within the site, ensuring a balanced coexistence between industrial activity and the surrounding environment.

For more information, please visit www.stihl.co.uk

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The jewel in the crown – ECHO’s DCS-3500T

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The jewel in the crown – ECHO’s DCS-3500T: ECHO have recently launched the DCS-3500T, a 56V battery top handle chainsaw. It joins the much praised DCS-2500T in the extensive 56V professional line-up.

The DCS-3500T is capable of taking on bigger jobs than its smaller sibling, as a result of a longer 35cm (14”) bar and, by swapping to the 252Wh battery, more power. But it is still lightweight and compact in design, making it highly manoeuvrable. Switching to the larger battery also means longer runtimes – very useful when climbing.

The jewel in the crown – ECHO’s DCS-3500T

The jewel in the crown – ECHO’s DCS-3500T

With safety in mind, ECHO have introduced a 2-step, single-finger throttle lockout safety system which prevents accidental activation. Additional safety and comfort comes in the form of the patented QuickDraw hook enabling hooking and unhooking with just one hand, while the reduced gap between the roller chain catcher and the sprocket guard prevents accidental climbing rope damage.

Other useful features include an air inlet filter that prevents dirt and dust from entering the cooling passage, electronics and motor compartment, providing less maintenance and longer lifetime. A drop prevention nut and side chain access tensioner come as standard for quick chain adjustment.

The ECHO DCS-3500T is available now from ECHO dealers nationwide and is priced at £499 (inc-VAT) without battery and charger.

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Bedford School Invests in Groundbreaking RM21

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Bedford School Invests in Groundbreaking RM21: Bedford School has taken delivery of the revolutionary RM21 Combo Mower, marking a new chapter in sports surface maintenance at the prestigious independent school.

The RM21 Combo Mower – now available in the UK and Ireland through an exclusive partnership between Agrovista Amenity and XDC Autonomous Solutions – is a cutting-edge machine that combines line marking and mowing in a single autonomous unit. Unlike traditional robotic line markers or standalone mowers, the RM21 brings genuine multi-functionality to turf management, saving time and boosting productivity.

Bedford School Invests in Groundbreaking RM21

Bedford School Invests in Groundbreaking RM21

“We’re the new proud owner of the RM21,” says the school’s Head Groundsman George Mills. “For us, it’s the line marking capability that was the biggest selling point – but the fact that we’ve also got the mowing function gives us added flexibility, particularly during the wetter months when our pitches can be difficult to access with heavier equipment. We’ve even thought about using it on the lawns in summer to free up the gardeners for other jobs.”

Thanks to its modular design, the RM21 doesn’t just cut and mark. A growing range of interchangeable attachments – including a grass collector, automated dew brush and ball picker – make it a versatile, all-season solution. The school also plans to use the robot to mark running tracks, cricket boundaries, rugby and football pitches, tennis courts, and hockey fields across its sprawling grounds and neighbouring training facilities.

The RM21 is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by XDC Autonomous Solutions, who also provide technical support, training, and service backup. Through a strategic collaboration, Agrovista Amenity has become the exclusive sales distributor – a move that proved pivotal for Bedford School.

“Honestly, what made my mind up was Agrovista becoming part of the fold. Having someone I know and trust – someone I can go to if there’s an issue – gave me the confidence to purchase outright rather than go down a lease route,” George explains. “They know I’m a good customer, and I know Agrovista Amenity will always be there if I need them.”

Agrovista’s national network of over 40 experienced representatives ensures the RM21 is well supported and promoted across the UK, while XDC’s technical expertise guarantees high-quality backup and training for users.

For George, the RM21 represents far more than a piece of kit. It’s another tool in the box from a supplier that’s become a trusted, all-encompassing resource.

“Agrovista have pretty much become a one-stop shop for us. Fertilisers, seed, sprinklers, fittings, hose pipes, robots – anything we need in our industry, they’ve got it. That’s a big advantage. It saves me time, reduces admin, and means I can spend more time doing what I enjoy – being out on the grounds, not stuck behind a desk.”

With sustainability also front of mind, the school is already exploring the wider benefits of battery-powered equipment across its estate. The RM21 fits well into that vision.

“We’re starting to look seriously at battery options across the board,” continues George.

“This robot is another step in that direction. It’s efficient, flexible and ultimately gives us time back to focus on detail and quality.”

As robotic technology continues to reshape the landscape of grounds management, the RM21 Combo Mower – backed by Agrovista Amenity and XDC – looks set to lead the charge.

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

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SIS Pitches Reports Surge in Hybrid Pitch Installations

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SIS Pitches Reports Surge in Hybrid Pitch Installations: Leading sports surfaces specialist, SIS Pitches, has reported a 44% year-on-year increase in hybrid pitch installations, driven by demand from Premier League football clubs.

The growth in demand for durable, high-performance playing surfaces among football’s elite in preparation for the current season has meant that SIS stitched hybrid playing surfaces for half of the clubs in the Premier League this summer to help them prepare for the current season. The growing adoption of SIS Grass Hybrid at stadiums and training facilities has also been seen abroad, especially across Europe, the Middle East and in North America.

SIS Pitches Reports Surge in Hybrid Pitch Installations

SIS Pitches Reports Surge in Hybrid Pitch Installations

In the past six months alone, SIS Pitches has stitched hybrid surfaces at stadiums or training grounds for the likes of Aston Villa, Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Liverpool, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest.

Notable among its list of successful projects this summer was the stitching of the new hybrid pitch at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium. The state-of-the-art playing surface was installed alongside a SIS Air AquaCycle aeration and water management system, making it one of the most advanced playing surfaces in the world.

SIS’ impact is equally felt across the Championship, League One, and League Two. Clubs such as Birmingham City, Wrexham, Derby County, Wycombe Wanderers, Stevenage, Mansfield, Colchester United, Swindon Town, Notts County and Stockport County have all benefited from SIS Grass Hybrid or SIS Synthetic artificial surfaces. Notably, Stockport County’s SIS Grass Hybrid pitch at its Edgeley Park stadium contributed to the club winning the EFL’s Grounds Team of the Season award two years running.

Non-league clubs are also embracing the latest hybrid pitch technology, recognising the performance and durability benefits seen at higher levels. Hednesford Town is one such example, having invested in a new SIS Grass Hybrid surface at its Keys Park home with the same aeration, vacuum drainage and water recycling and management system installed at Everton’s new world-class sporting, music and entertainment arena.

Earlier this summer, the leading sports surfaces specialist made a multi-million-pound investment in a new fleet of 16 hybrid pitch stitching machines, which allow faster installations and greater configurability for its global customer base. This investment also eases operational pressure for groundspeople working at multi-use stadia, whose narrowing timeframes to install hybrid grass pitches between matches and non-sporting events represents a major challenge. This need for speed and flexibility – without compromising quality – has been driven by clubs and franchises around the world seeking to maximise stadium revenue by hosting concerts, exhibitions and fixtures spanning multiple sports.

Ivo Lamot, CEO at SIS Pitches said: “Demand for our elite-level hybrid pitch technology has never been greater, not just among clubs in the Premier League but many others around the world.

“The rise of the multi-use stadium and the revenue it can generate means many forward-thinking clubs are looking to install or replace their playing surface in a much tighter timeframe than before. Having invested significantly in our advanced stitching capabilities, we’re best placed to meet those needs, which is resulting in an increase in projects from new and existing clients.

“Furthermore, with the recent launch of our new Game-Ready Hybrid pre-stitched turf product, means we can harvest and transport turf with the hybrid fibres already within the profile. This means a ready-to-play, reinforced surface can be installed in an exceptionally quick timeframe.

“One of the best things about hybrid pitch technology is its accessibility at all levels of competition. We’re seeing an increase in interest from clubs further down their respective countries’ football pyramids, eager to benefit from the consistency and durability it brings. We’re fully expecting this growth trajectory to continue well into next year and beyond.”

For more information on SIS Pitches, visit www.sispitches.com

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GKB to celebrate 10 Years in the UK at SALTEX

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GKB to celebrate 10 Years in the UK at SALTEX: GKB Machines are pleased to be returning to SALTEX in what is a special year for the company as they celebrate 10 years of their UK operation. Stand A080 promises to encapsulate the very best of innovation, growth and partnerships from the last decade – including the new Deep Clean for synthetic surface maintenance which will be making its global debut.

While GKB Machines was founded in 1946, the dedicated UK division was only established in 2015, which makes the growth and the success of GKB in the UK grounds management industry even more impressive! Under the stewardship of Tom Shinkins, GKB has gone from strength to strength, with equipment from their natural and artificial portfolio finding homes with professionals at all levels – from grassroots facilities to elite venues around the country.

GKB to celebrate 10 Years in the UK at SALTEX

GKB to celebrate 10 Years in the UK at SALTEX

At SALTEX, one of the latest additions to that range will be on show in the form of the new Deep Clean. A core part of the GKB synthetic maintenance range for many years, the Deep Clean has been enhanced and redeveloped in collaboration with SMG. The next generation machine will be available in 1.2m, 1.5m and 1.8m working widths and will offer improved cleaning and maintenance performance on all types of synthetic surface.

Developed with grassroots facilities in mind and showcasing the very best in GKB engineering, visitors can also expect to see the GKB Combitool. Providing the perfect partnership of versatility and efficiency, the Combitool features four attachment slots which can be quickly and easily tailored to the needs of any facility. Suitable for natural and hybrid surfaces, operators can rake, roll, slit and brush in a single pass making it ideal for community clubs and smaller venues looking for professional results at an accessible price.

See the range first hand and celebrate a decade of turf maintenance excellence with the GKB Team with a stop by stand A080 when SALTEX returns to The NEC this November.

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