Tag Archive for: Launches

STIHL launches Master Technician Course

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STIHL launches Master Technician Course: STIHL has launched its highly anticipated Master Technician Course, the pinnacle of its dealer training programme, designed to provide expert-level servicing and diagnostics across the full STIHL product range.

Following extensive development and a successful pilot earlier this year, the Master Technician Course is now available exclusively to STIHL Approved dealers who have completed the full training pathway, comprising Foundation, Intermediate, and Advanced Servicing courses.

STIHL launches Master Technician Course

STIHL launches Master Technician Course

The final stage of the programme includes an online entry exam and pre-requisite modules, followed by an intensive three-day face-to-face training experience at STIHL’s headquarters, Contra House.

This hands-on course offers participants an in-depth technical deep dive, featuring:

  •  Eight specialist assessments
  •  Extensive product usage training
  •  A guided Contra House tour
  •  A structured recertification process, including an annual online exam

With a strong emphasis on practical learning, the Master Technician Course provides a small group setting, ensuring each technician receives expert guidance. Courses are strictly limited to six participants per session, allowing for focused, hands-on experience with STIHL’s latest tools and servicing techniques.

Since launching the Master Technician learning pathway in 2023, nearly 100 face-to-face training courses have taken place across all four levels, reinforcing STIHL’s commitment to dealer training and technical excellence.

The first Master Technician Course officially launched online on 10th February, with nine further face-to-face sessions planned throughout 2025.

For more information, please contact learning@stihl.co.uk.

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BAGMA launches ‘Paperless Solution’ for machinery installations

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BAGMA launches ‘Paperless Solution’ for machinery installations: The British Agricultural Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA) have teamed up with the UK paperless experts, Culverdocs to launch a new digital solution for recording machinery installations.

Months of development have culminated in the introduction of a mobile and desktop app with the capability to simplify and streamline the recording and storage of installation paperwork and other administrative tasks.

BAGMA launches ‘Paperless Solution’ for machinery installations

BAGMA launches ‘Paperless Solution’ for machinery installations

Available to all valid BAGMA registered installers, members and non-members, the introduction of the ‘Paperless Solution’ signifies the end of long-winded, handwritten triplicate forms which often end up torn or muddy at the end of a handover & installation session. Launched in September, dealerships and manufacturers around the country are already discovering the vast improvement in efficiency, accuracy and accountability when delivering machines.

For just £5.00 per user, per month, users can enjoy:

  • Information at your fingertips, in one web, tablet and mobile-friendly app
  • Simplified completion of Machine Installation Form
  • Unlimited submissions with e-signatures
  • Work offline, with sync feature when back online
  • Real-time digital copy, emailed to operators, companies, installers, BAGMA
  • Importing data from ODBC reports/spreadsheets and sending reports

Users wanting to further enhance functionality can opt to upgrade to the full BAGMA and Culverdocs ‘Unlimited’ package. For £20 per user, per month, companies can digitise multiple aspects of their business, creating a fully-bespoke digital platform to complete, store and integrate paperwork including machine installation forms, hire on/off, on site risk assessments and lead capture. The ‘Unlimited’ package also includes unrestricted user and administrator access, unlimited form/process conversion, support from the Culverdocs technical team and tailored branding of the app for your business.

“This software is a real gamechanger” says BAGMA General Manager Nick Darking. “We’ve all been there – out in a muddy field, in the rain trying to fill out triplicate forms on an install and ensure that those that need a copy, have one. With so much of modern life now digitised, it made complete sense to develop a solution where paperwork could be completed with just a few clicks.”

“Going paperless not only brings efficiencies with time and simplified workflows, it provides peace of mind that a solid process is in place to obtain full accuracy and accountability with every installation.”

Those wishing to find out more are invited to join BAGMA and Culverdocs for a free informative webinar, taking place at 10:30am on Thursday 15th May. To register your interest, or to find out more, visit www.bagma.com.

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GMA Launches 35 Under 35

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GMA Launches 35 Under 35: The Grounds Management Association (GMA), supported by ICL, is proud to launch 35 Under 35 – a brand-new initiative to celebrate the brightest young professionals and volunteers making a real difference in the grounds management industry.

Grounds management is an essential yet often overlooked profession, responsible for maintaining the quality, safety and playability of green spaces for sport, recreation and communities. This new initiative will shine a spotlight on 35 individuals under the age of 35 who have made, and continue to make, an outstanding contribution to the industry.

GMA Launches 35 Under 35

GMA Launches 35 Under 35

GMA 35 Under 35 is proudly backed by ICL – a global leader in turf and landscape solutions. Trusted by many of the UK and Ireland’s top sports venues, ICL brings cutting-edge innovation, technical expertise, and decades of experience to the industry, helping turf professionals raise standards, solve challenges, and push the profession forward. ICL’s support ensures the GMA 35 Under 35 initiative is positioned as a key fixture in the grounds industry calendar for years to come.

The free-to-enter initiative is open to both self-nominations and nominations by peers, offering a valuable opportunity for individuals to showcase their achievements and gain recognition for their impact on the industry. Participants will also have exclusive access to technical and agronomic training modules developed by the GMA and ICL technical team, along with unique network sessions at SALTEX.

Selected by an expert judging panel, the final 35 will be profiled across the GMA’s digital channels and wider industry media – giving them a platform to showcase their achievements and helping to inspire the next generation of grounds professionals.

Geoff Webb, Grounds Management Association CEO, said: “Grounds management is rapidly evolving, competing with every other sector for future talent. Its success hinges on fresh ideas combined with the invaluable experience of today’s grounds teams. That’s why recognising and supporting the next generation is crucial for the industry’s continued growth.

“The GMA 35 Under 35 initiative celebrates future managers and inspiring tomorrow’s talent- by spotlighting these individuals, we aim to celebrate their achievements but also attract new talent to create a vital pipeline to complement the expertise of seasoned managers, ensuring smooth succession planning and addressing the challenge of an aging workforce.”

Simon Barnaby, ICL National Key Account & Business Development Manager UK & Ireland – Stadia, said: “At ICL, we’re committed to supporting the future of turf care, and the GMA 35 Under 35 initiative is a great way to recognise young professionals already making a difference. Just as importantly, it gives them a chance to keep learning – through training, development, and being part of something bigger. We’re proud to support a programme that not only celebrates achievement but helps the next generation build their confidence and grow their careers.”

The inaugural GMA 35 Under 35 will culminate in a celebration across the GMA’s digital platforms and wider industry media, showcasing the achievements of those recognised and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.

Register your interest now: Nominations for the inaugural GMA 35 Under 35 open later this month, you can register your interest now by clicking here.

For more information visit thegma.org.uk.

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Pellenc Launches the Essential Line

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Pellenc Launches the Essential Line: Pellenc has announced the launch of the Essential Line – a range of on-board battery tools which offer a practical and cost-effective solution for maintaining green and urban spaces.

Pellenc is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Etesia UK.

Pellenc Launches the Essential Line

Pellenc Launches the Essential Line

Known for its expertise in lithium-ion battery technology, Pellenc continues to develop lightweight, powerful tools that make life easier for professionals. The new range includes the Helion Essential hedge trimmer, two Excelion Essential brush cutters, Airion Essential blower, and the ULiB 200E and 400E batteries—providing a complete package for professionals seeking reliable and efficient tools.

Helion Essential: Trim with Ease

The Helion Essential hedge trimmer delivers exceptional performance for trimming and finishing tasks. Its 64 cm (24.8 in) blade with double-edged teeth ensures precise, clean cuts. The trimmer’s balanced design improves manoeuvrability, while its ergonomic swivel handle and protective guard enhance user safety and comfort.

The tool features an advanced HMI (Human-Machine Interface) that displays the remaining battery charge and allows the user to select from three cutting speeds. Compatible with the ULiB 200E integrated battery with up to 3 hours runtime and Pellenc’s ULiB backpack battery range, the Helion Essential provides extended operating time—ideal for professionals who need dependable performance.

Excelion Essential: Power Through Large Areas

The Excelion Essential brush cutter combines high performance with ergonomic design, making it perfect for noise-sensitive areas. Powered by a brushless motor, it boasts a cutting diameter of up to 460 mm (18.1 in) with the Tap Cut 3 cutting head, allowing professionals to cover large areas quickly and efficiently.

Available with a choice of double (cow horn) or loop handle models, the Excelion Essential adapts to different work environments. Its LED screen displays battery levels and allows users to select from three speed settings, adjusting performance based on the task. As with other Essential tools, it is compatible with the ULiB 200E and 400E (recommended) batteries with run times up to 2 hrs and the Pellenc ULiB backpack battery range, that offers significant increases in run time.

Airion Essential: Blow with Power and Comfort

The Airion Essential leaf blower combines power, comfort, and efficiency in a lightweight, ambidextrous design that reduces wrist fatigue. With its angled air intake, the blower limits strain on the user, enabling comfortable operation over long periods.

The blower’s LED screen provides real-time battery information and offers control options such as Boost mode for a powerful 23N thrust, Cruise Control, and three adjustable working speeds to suit different tasks. Quiet and lightweight, the Airion Essential is ideal for work in urban settings and noise-sensitive environments. It’s compatible with the ULiB 200E and 400E (recommended)  batteries, with up to 2 hrs runtime for demanding tasks.

ULiB 200E & 400E Batteries: Compact, Reliable Power

The ULiB 200E and 400E batteries offer a reliable power source for all Essential tools. Compact and ergonomic, these batteries feature an easy-to-use clipping system and a clear battery level display.

ULiB 200E: Weighing only 1.4 kg (3.08 lbs), it provides 189 W/h of power, making it ideal for tasks where a balance between weight and power is essential.

ULiB 400E: At 2.4 kg (5.29 lbs), it delivers 389 W/h of power, perfect for longer, more demanding tasks.

Both models come equipped with RFID diagnostics to ensure consistent, reliable performance.

With the launch of the Essential range, Pellenc continues its tradition of delivering innovative, high-performance solutions for green space professionals. These practical and affordable tools combine power, comfort, and durability—ensuring that top-tier performance is accessible to all.

Pellenc battery-powered equipment is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Etesia UK.

For more information, visit www.etesia.co.uk/pellenc

You can also follow Pellenc on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @PellencUK for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

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GroundsFest Academy Launches with Free Educational Day

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GroundsFest Academy Launches with Free Educational Day: The highly anticipated first GroundsFest Academy event is set to take place on May 13, 2025, marking the beginning of a new era in free, hands-on education. The first session, hosted in partnership with DLF, titled ‘Seed Science,’ will be held at DLF Seeds’ UK head office in Inkberrow, Worcestershire.

This CPD-accredited educational day is completely free to attend, thanks to GroundsFest’s commitment to reinvesting profits from the show back into the industry. The Academy aims to provide valuable training, helping attendees refine their skills, discover new techniques, and gain insights from leading experts.

GroundsFest Academy Launches with Free Educational Day

GroundsFest Academy Launches with Free Educational Day

Who Can Attend?

The GroundsFest Academy is designed for anyone working across the groundscare, landscaping, greenkeeping and sports turf sectors. Whether you’re an industry professional looking to deepen your knowledge or a newcomer keen to gain practical experience, this event offers an excellent opportunity to learn and network.

What to Expect

The Seed Science event will feature expert-led, hands-on sessions covering key aspects of seed science, including:

Grass & Seed Identification – Learn how to distinguish different grass species and seed types through practical exercises.

Germination & Pre-Germination Tests – Gain insights into how and why seeds germinate, with live demonstrations and interactive learning.

Site Tour of DLF – Discover how seed production, testing, and breeding processes work firsthand.

Sowing, Aftercare & Maintenance – Develop your understanding of best practices for sowing and maintaining grass seed.

A Unique Learning Experience

The day will be structured to encourage participation and engagement. Attendees will be split into groups and will take part in quizzes throughout the sessions. The winning group will receive a special prize, adding an element of fun to the learning experience.

Bradley Tennant who is leading the GroundsFest Academy initiative expressed his enthusiasm for the launch, stating: “We’re absolutely delighted to be launching the first-ever GroundsFest Academy. Thanks to the support of DLF, we’re able to offer such a high-quality educational event. The DLF team share our passion for knowledge and innovation.”

Matt Gresty, MM and Designer Sales and Brand Manager for DLF UK, said: “DLF are pleased to host the inaugural Groundsfest Academy Education Day on Seed Science, we look forward to providing an interesting and informative day for all attendees.”

Secure Your Spot

The GroundsFest Academy offers a unique opportunity to learn from industry leaders while networking with fellow professionals. With limited spaces available, early registration is recommended to avoid disappointment.

To view the full seminar programme and to secure your place, visit the dedicated GroundsFest Academy website www.groundsfestacademy.com

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