Tag Archive for: Robotics

Husqvarna partners with Relox Robotics to expand golf solutions

/in , /by

Husqvarna partners with Relox Robotics to expand golf solutions: Husqvarna Group has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Relox Robotics to add an autonomous golf range ball picking solution to its portfolio across European markets.

The partnership marks a further step in Husqvarna’s commitment to advancing automation and efficiency within professional golf environments, as demand grows for smarter operational solutions.

Husqvarna partners with Relox Robotics to expand golf solutions

Husqvarna partners with Relox Robotics to expand golf solutions

Under the terms of the agreement, Husqvarna will become the sole distributor of Relox Robotics’ Range Picker™ across Europe. The autonomous solution is designed to operate fully unattended on golf driving ranges, supporting increased uptime, reduced manual handling and more efficient daily operations for range operators.

The Range Picker™ features autonomous navigation, self-charging, and automated ball dumping, enabling continuous ball collection without the need for manual intervention. Under the partnership, deployments are planned for Q1 2026, supporting early spring installations at selected driving ranges.

“Robotics is reshaping how golf facilities operate, from course maintenance to range management,” said Olle Markusson, Senior Director Robotics at Husqvarna Group. “By partnering with Relox Robotics, we are able to offer a proven autonomous ball picking solution that complements our market-leading robotic mowing platforms for golf courses and supports a more automated, efficient driving range environment.”

Automation is increasingly becoming a priority for driving range operators looking to improve productivity, reduce labour dependency, and enhance the customer experience. This partnership brings together Husqvarna’s long-standing expertise in robotic turf maintenance with Relox Robotics’ specialist knowledge in autonomous range operations, to deliver a comprehensive robotics ecosystem for driving ranges.

Husqvarna continues to expand its presence in professional golf across Europe and will provide robotic mowing solutions at the 2026 Husqvarna British Masters. This follows a successful deployment at last year’s AIG Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl, where Husqvarna’s autonomous mowers maintained all 18 fairways during the tournament, marking the first time robotic mowers have maintained fairways live on the world golf stage.

First deliveries under the Husqvarna–Relox partnership are scheduled for Q1 2026 through Husqvarna’s network of professional partners across Europe. The autonomous Range Picker™ will have a recommended retail price of €39,500 (excluding VAT), subject to final confirmation.

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

GroundTech robotics and renewables work in perfect partnership

/in , /by

GroundTech robotics and renewables work in perfect partnership: Rushden Golf Club has introduced three Echo TM-2050 robotic mowers to maintain its newer back nine holes, in a partnership with autonomous specialists GroundTech.

The investment marks a major step forward in both sustainability and efficiency with the trio, powered by bespoke solar panels, alleviating the pressure on a busy greenkeeping team of four.

GroundTech robotics and renewables work in perfect partnership

GroundTech robotics and renewables work in perfect partnership

The historic Northamptonshire course has gone through a number of redevelopments and expansion since its formation in 1919. The back nine, opened in 2013, offers an interesting contrast to the original parkland front nine, with a flatter, more open layout. Ideal terrain for an autonomous mower, Director Paul Newell got in touch with GroundTech. “I’d been keeping an eye on the new technologies and identified how much time robots could save us, freeing up our skilled team to focus on improvements in other areas of the course” he explains.

“After a demonstration, the whole team were impressed with the outstanding quality of cut and presentation from the Echo mowers – arguably more accurate and consistent than traditional machines.”

There was just one more issue to overcome, the distance the mowers would be operating away from mains power. “GroundTech’s Marcus Glover quickly suggested a solution in the form of solar panels, which ensures the mowers can operate efficiently when not in close proximity to mains power. This was key to making the whole package work for us and, just a few months on from install, we couldn’t be happier with the whole set-up.”

The TM-2050’s – the largest of the Echo commercial range – can mow up 75,000m2 making them ideal for situations that require high performance and high productivity. At Rushden, the robots are responsible for cutting all areas except the tees and greens, and members have been quick to spot the improvements. “It’s clearly the future of course management, and as one of the first clubs in Northamptonshire to make the jump, we’re delighted the members can already see the difference in presentation and have been so willing to embrace innovation” he adds.

Paul was also quick to praise the club’s first collaboration with GroundTech. “They’ve been brilliant at guiding us through the transition, ensuring the team are all fully happy with the technology and working with us to find solutions such as the solar panels that really meet our needs. We are excited to explore extending the scope of the Echo units in other areas of the course over the coming months and years. “

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.

GroundsFest Academy’s Free Robotics & Green Innovations Seminar

/in , , /by

GroundsFest Academy’s Free Robotics & Green Innovations Seminar: The GroundsFest Academy is set to host another free educational event on 31 July 2025, focusing on the latest robotics and sustainable technologies in the groundscare and landscaping industries.

Taking place at Lantra House, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, this CPD-accredited day brings together leading experts from Husqvarna, Turf Tank, and Lantra to explore how innovation is reshaping outdoor spaces.

GroundsFest Academy's Free Robotics & Green Innovations Seminar

GroundsFest Academy’s Free Robotics & Green Innovations Seminar

Attendees will gain hands-on experience with robotic mowers, battery-powered machinery, and automated line-marking technology, alongside expert-led talks and practical training sessions.

Topics include:

  • The benefits of robotic mowing systems and how to implement them
  • Sustainable machinery solutions and green technology trends
  • Live robotic line marking demonstrations
  • Career guidance and training course insights from Lantra

The event runs from 09:00 to 15:30, and is completely free to attend, with CPD points and certificates provided to all participants. Lunch and refreshments will also be provided.

Bradley Tennant, Director of Education for GroundsFest Academy, commented:

“The GroundsFest Academy is about bringing innovation and education together in a way that’s practical, engaging, and completely free to access. This Robotics and Green Innovations day is a chance for professionals to get hands-on with the technology that’s changing our industry, while also gaining CPD points and valuable knowledge to take back to their teams or their own projects.”

The GroundsFest Academy is made possible thanks to the ongoing success of the main GroundsFest event, with profits being reinvested directly back into the industry. This commitment ensures that professionals at all levels have access to free, high-quality training opportunities throughout the year – helping to support long-term growth, innovation, and education across the groundscare and landscaping sectors.

Register for your free place at www.groundsfestacademy.com

You can also follow GroundsFest on X, Facebook and Instagram @GroundsFest 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.

Agrovista Invests in Robotics & Expands Line Marking Team

/in , /by

Agrovista Invests in Robotics & Expands Line Marking Team: Agrovista Amenity is enhancing its line marking capabilities with a major investment in robotic technology and key industry appointments.

As part of this strategy, the company has secured an exclusive partnership with XDC Autonomous Solutions for the distribution of the RM21 Combo Mower in the UK and Ireland. Alongside this, the appointment of David Mitchell as Line Marking Business Development Manager reinforces Agrovista Amenity’s commitment to innovation and expertise in the sector.

Agrovista Invests in Robotics & Expands Line Marking Team

Agrovista Invests in Robotics & Expands Line Marking Team

The RM21, distributed exclusively by XDC, is a game-changing piece of equipment that combines line marking and mowing in a single unit. Unlike traditional line marking robots or standalone mowers, the RM21 can autonomously cut and mark a pitch. Its modular design also includes a growing range of attachments, such as an automated dew brush, a grass collector, and a ball picker for driving ranges, making it a versatile asset for grounds teams across various sectors.

Dan Hughes, Agrovista Amenity’s Head of Commercial, highlighted the importance of this collaboration:

“After five years of growing our amenity, landscape, and consumer business, we identified line marking as an area where we could apply our expertise and leverage cutting-edge technology. The RM21 is not just a line marker – it’s a complete solution with the potential to revolutionise grounds management. Partnering with XDC ensures that we can bring this technology to market with the technical support, training, and after-sales service that our customers expect.”

Under the agreement, Agrovista Amenity will be the exclusive distributor and seller of the RM21, while XDC provides technical sales support, training, and service backup. This allows Agrovista Amenity to leverage its extensive network of over 40 representatives to promote the RM21 effectively, while XDC focuses on delivering expert technical assistance.

To strengthen its position in the line marking market, Agrovista Amenity has appointed David Mitchell as Line Marking Business Development Manager. With six years of experience at Linemark UK, a manufacturer of paint and machinery for line marking, David brings a deep understanding of the sector.

“I see this as an opportunity to develop a strong line marking offering with the right products and people. The RM21 is a fantastic machine, and with the expertise of XDC and Agrovista Amenity’s resources, we have a real opportunity to deliver a competitive, easy-to-use product that enhances operations.”

Matt Murray, XDC’s Director of Sales, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership and highlighted the RM21’s distinctive advantages:

“The RM21 is a truly unique product – the only combo line marking mower in the world. Not only does it offer significant time and cost savings, but its versatility opens up new possibilities for grounds management. With Agrovista Amenity’s established market presence and extensive sales network, we see this as the perfect opportunity to introduce this groundbreaking technology to a wider audience.”

David also highlighted the growing role of robotic technology in the industry: “The RM21 is not here to replace staff but to support them. Grounds teams face increasing demands, and automation can handle time-consuming tasks, allowing them to focus on more technical aspects of their work. The feedback we’ve received so far has been overwhelmingly positive.

Many customers who previously used other GPS line marking solutions have made the switch, recognising the RM21’s superior value for money and future-proof capabilities.”

Agrovista Amenity’s investment in robotics is part of a long-term strategy to provide innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of grounds teams. While the initial focus is on the RM21, discussions are already underway to explore the potential for offering a wider range of robotic solutions in the future.

As Agrovista Amenity continues to expand its line marking division and explore new technologies, the company remains committed to delivering solutions that combine innovation, efficiency, and reliability.

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.