Tag Archive for: UK

DLF Didbrook to host the UK Lawn Care Association

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DLF Didbrook to host the UK Lawn Care Association: Leading global seed breeders DLF are pleased to be playing host to the last event in a packed summer season of seminars and events for the UK Lawn Care Association (UKLCA).

Open to members, the visit to the trial plots and research facility at Hailes Farm, Didbrook, will take place on Tuesday 11th July with only a limited number of spaces remaining.

DLF Didbrook to host the UK Lawn Care Association

DLF Didbrook to host the UK Lawn Care Association

Hailes Farm has been home to research and development across the amenity, forage and agricultural breeding programme for more than 40 years. With cutting-edge technology, the facility has been deemed a centre of excellency for the trialling and evaluation of grass species in the UK – leading to the emergence of a number of high-performance varieties, used at topflight amenity venues at home and around the world.

In their capacity as sponsors of the UKLCA, DLF will be opening the gates to Hailes Farm next month for members to learn first-hand the science behind some of the most popular lawn mixtures and grass varieties. Following an introduction to DLF, visitors can look forward to a session on grass identification, an overview of the complex breeding processes and tips for optimising usage of the BSPB grass seed guide. Guests will then be given a tour of the trial plots to see some of the latest work and emerging trends in the world of grass seed.

“We are delighted to provide an opportunity to our members to develop their knowledge and understanding of grass science and technology- and where better to do that, than at DLF” comments Tom Arnold, Chairman of the UK Lawn Care Association. “The chance to visit facilities as established as DLF Didbrook are rare so it’s brilliant to be able to host this event with them and thank them for their continued support of those working hard in the UK lawncare sector.”

Numbers are limited, but those interested in attending or who would like further information should get in touch via the UKLCA website – www.uklawncare.net

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Ariens’ Arrow Takes Aim at the UK Stand-On Mower Market

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Ariens’ Arrow Takes Aim at the UK Stand-On Mower Market: The Ariens Arrow range of stand-on zero-turn mowers is now available to buy in the UK for the first time. Primarily designed for commercial users, the Arrow provides a perfect blend of power, performance and manoeuvrability, combining the comfort and speed of a zero-turn mower with compact size and agility.

Ergonomics have been prioritised in every aspect of the mower’s design. The standing driver position, with thighs leaning against the machine, is the most natural working stance and of particular benefit to users with back problems. The standing position enables the legs to absorb vibrations and unevenness efficiently, as well as allowing for easy, quick mounting and dismounting. An ergonomic control panel allows critical adjustments to be made on the move.

Ariens’ Arrow Takes Aim at the UK Stand-On Mower Market

Ariens’ Arrow Takes Aim at the UK Stand-On Mower Market

The Arrow’s mowing performance is enhanced by its compact design and very low centre of gravity. At a length of only 160cm, with a cutting width of either 81cm or 91cm, the mower can be driven closely and quickly around bushes and trees. With a full view from above of the entire mowing deck and clear visibility of the machine’s width, the driver can approach and drive around obstacles efficiently, navigating intricate shapes, flowerbeds and hillside terrain safely and easily. Where variable height is needed, the deck can be adjusted quickly to maintain high-quality cutting performance.

The Ariens Arrow’s space-saving dimensions and low weight (approximately 345g) also make a noticeable difference to daily handling. The mower’s narrow width allows good accessibility through small gateways and backyards, making it ideal for mowing small to medium and winding lawns. However, the Arrow also achieves high performance on larger lawns, allowing for the full driving speed of up to 13km/h.

When it comes to durability, the Ariens Arrow has all the features of a professional machine. Commercially designed Hydro-Gear ZT 3100 wheel motors provide maintenance intervals of 400 hours (after the first oil change). Highly stable blade carriers made of forged aluminium are combined with a fully-welded professional mower deck made of 4.5mm thick sheet steel and an extra-large tank for long range. The Arrow is backed by a warranty of five years or 1,000 hours (in line with the Ariens EMEAA warranty conditions).

“We displayed the Arrow series for the first time at Saltex in November 2022 and were overwhelmed by the reception,” says Brad Stiles, Vice President of Sales, EMEAA. “It’s clear that the launch of the Arrow in the UK offers an exciting new option for professional users seeking the ability to mow large areas of grass while manoeuvring around obstacles with ease.”

The ARROW stand-on zero-turn mower is now available to buy in the UK with either a 32” or 36” deck. Visit www.ariens.eu to find out more.

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UK Loggers Championships to be held at SAGE

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UK Loggers Championships to be held at SAGE: There’s yet another reason to make a date to visit SAGE, the UK’s biggest outdoor trade show in the sports and grounds maintenance industry, as it has just been announced that the UK Loggers National Championships will be held at the event.

The competition, which showcases the expertise and superb skills of the best loggers from around the country, will be hosted on the 19th and 20th of July 2023, at the stunning Three Counties showground in Malvern, Worcestershire.

UK Loggers Championships to be held at SAGE

UK Loggers Championships to be held at SAGE

The UK Loggers National Championship is a fierce test of precision and skill determining an overall precision chainsaw champion – with the best among the competitors going on to represent their country at the World Logging Championship next year. Consisting of five disciplines, the championship tests every facet of logging – from cross cutting, to felling, limbing, a chain change and a relay race.

Back for its third year, SAGE is the ideal place to host this contest, as it’s set to be the biggest yet.

Richard Siddons from UK Loggers said: “When we learnt more about SAGE and how it’s all about providing interactive, hands-on experiences and demonstrations, it was clear this would be the ideal place to hold the UK Loggers National Championships.

“Not only is there a huge amount of outside space available for us to hold the contest, we’ll also be surrounded by people who will appreciate the skill and experience of those taking part in the competition.

“We plan to put on a great show for those watching, who will also hopefully learn a little more about the many different aspects of precision chainsaw competing. And, of course, the champion will also be crowned, as well as the best few chosen to represent the UK next year at a global level.”

SAGE will also be an excellent event to network with others in the industry, as well as mingling with experts who will be providing demonstrations and interesting talks. Visitors will be able to view the latest equipment, share the newest techniques and truly ‘try before you buy’ – with the outside space meaning the sky really is the limit!

Companies are invited to be a part of the action and sponsor the UK Loggers National Championships, with only very limited places available. As part of the sponsorship package, brands will have a presence on the SAGE website and social platforms, printed banners, a big-screen ad, tannoid announcements and video footage of your demo. To enquire about these options, or to book exhibition space, please contact Vicky Panniers vp@sportsandgrounds.co.uk.

Find out more about the green measures at SAGE 2023 here https://sportsandgrounds.events/sustainability/

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Groundcare Supplier award for Wiedenmann UK

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Groundcare Supplier award for Wiedenmann UK: Wiedenmann UK has welcomed winning an industry award. The sales teams at top dealers, Ernest Doe & Sons voted Wiedenmann UK their top supplier of groundcare equipment in a poll of dealer staff.

The award was presented at the Ernest Doe & Sons 63rd annual Show at Ulting, Maldon where Does also celebrated 125 years in business.

Groundcare Supplier award for Wiedenmann UK

Groundcare Supplier award for Wiedenmann UK

Angus Doe, Managing Director, left, and Andy Turbin, Groundcare General Sales Manager, right, presented Wiedenmann UK’s Sales Manager, Chas Ayres, centre, with the award.

Ernest Doe & Sons represent Wiedenmann UK in London boroughs Essex, Surrey, Sussex, Herts , North London, M25, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.

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New acquisition for Barenbrug UK

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New acquisition for Barenbrug UK: Grass-seed breeder Barenbrug UK has announced its acquisition of the Scottish group of businesses that comprises Watson Seeds, Seed Logistics and GroGreen.

Founded 33 years ago by third-generation seedsman Johnny Watson, Watson Seeds is well-known in the industry and enjoys a loyal customer following.

New acquisition for Barenbrug UK

New acquisition for Barenbrug UK

“Barenbrug’s acquisition of the group reflects the long-standing strength of the relationship that exists between these companies,” says Paul Johnson, Managing Director of Barenbrug UK.

“Barenbrug has long been one of Watson’s main seed suppliers, and these businesses are very closely aligned in ethos and values: family-owned, with the emphasis on integrity, quality and service, and focusing on the customer’s needs, whether that’s for agricultural, sport or amenity applications.”

Mr Johnson says the acquisition of Watson Seeds, Seed Logistics and GroGreen is a significant step for Barenbrug’s UK operation. “By giving us a much stronger offering in Scotland, we will complement our existing geographies and strengthen our position across the United Kingdom.

“In the amenity sector, this will open up opportunities for growing our market share in a new geographical area while maintaining Barenbrug’s position as a global grass breeder and producer.

“Growth for Barenbrug always translates into success for our distributors.”

Johnny Watson, founder of Watson Seeds, expressed his delight at the sale of the business to Barenbrug.

“This is a meeting of two likeminded companies known for their commitment to excellence in grass,” he says.

“I’ve known Barenbrug all my life, and I knew the fit between these companies would be perfect.”

“I’m excited that the acquisition will see business as usual. Our ambitious plan for continued growth and development will benefit from access to the resources and support of the global Barenbrug group.

“I’m delighted that we have a new, exciting chapter in our company, for the benefit of our customers and to meet the challenges and opportunities of our customers in the future,” he adds.

“With a long family history in the grass industry, I have nothing but heartfelt enthusiasm in seeing this acquisition by a company who truly understands our business.”

Barenbrug UK, Watson Seeds, Seed Logistics and GroGreen will continue to function separately, maintaining their individual identities

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Upgrades and Launches for Etesia UK

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Upgrades and Launches for Etesia UK: Etesia UK will have a range of pedestrian and ride-on mowers, brushcutters and the award-winning ET Lander electric utility vehicle on display at SALTEX 2022.

Etesia, located on stand E072, are specialists in building high quality grass cutting machinery and have been a regular exhibitor at SALTEX over the years, choosing the show as a platform to launch new products and make exciting announcements. This year is no exception.

Upgrades and Launches for Etesia UK

Upgrades and Launches for Etesia UK

In addition to showcasing many of their most popular products, Etesia UK will be launching the Electric Bahia M2EL lithium and will be announcing a new feature of the ET Lander electric utility vehicle.

The groundscare industry first got the chance to view the utility vehicle at SALTEX in November last year, where it won the prestigious SALTEX 2021 Innovation award within the vehicle category, while also finishing second within the environmentally friendly category.

The ET Lander will be returning to this year’s SALTEX but this time visitors will be pleased to see that the new models will be fully N1 homologation compliant meaning that the ET Lander will be fully road legal along with being able to be used off road.

The new models will also feature lithium-ion batteries which ensures that the range of the ET Lander will extend to 100km and have a charger system compatible with a standard type 2EV car charger. These models will also come in a new sleek, black option.

100% electric, spacious, well-equipped and user-friendly, it is built on a robust chassis and has an array of options including a three-way tipper bed with dual control from the fully fitted two-seater cab or by remote control when outside the vehicle. With a length of just 3.72 meters, the ET Lander is very compact. Thanks to the power steering, the short turning radius of 4.40 meters and 360 ° visibility, it goes anywhere. The autonomy of the vehicle lasts for a full working day – without noise pollution, can transport loads of up to 940kgs and can also tow up to 750kgs.

Etesia’s other exciting news is that the Bahia M2E – the world’s first 100% electric professional ride-on-mower with grass collection, is now powered by a 48V, 100Ah lithium battery. This enables users to get up to 4 hrs 30 mins of action before it needs recharging.

A pocket-size ride-on mower, just 0.82 m wide and 1.98 m long, the Etesia electric Bahia features an incredibly tight turning circle. It nips into every nook and cranny and can be easily transported. With its low centre of gravity, the Etesia electric Bahia’s 33/67 weight distribution on the front/rear axles make it a highly stable mower that masterfully copes with slopes.

It is also highly economical – the electric Bahia’s running costs are £0.35 against £3.57 for the petrol version and there are the obvious reduced maintenance costs – such as no belt, no filters, and no engine oil.

As always, the company’s knowledgeable staff will be available throughout the two days to advise and assist.

For further information, please contact Etesia UK on 01295 680120 or visit www.etesia.co.uk.

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Etesia UK on Twitter @EtesiaUK and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/EtesiaUK. You can also view the latest Etesia videos by visiting www.youtube.com/EtesiaUK.

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Toro UK dealers visit US Head Office

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Toro UK dealers visit US Head Office: Toro U.K. Limited recently took a group of UK dealers to Minnesota, USA, to visit The Toro Company’s global headquarters in Bloomington, and tour one of the company’s manufacturing facilities.

Dealers had the opportunity to tour Toro’s headquarters to see first-hand the vast testing facilities that underpin the quality of our full product portfolio, and visit Toro’s Center for Technology, Research & Innovation. They were shown how Toro utilizes cutting-edge technology in the development of new products. This included experiencing the many applications of Virtual Reality in product development and watching prototype parts being 3D printed.

Toro UK dealers visit US Head Office

Toro UK dealers visit US Head Office

The group was taken to the Toro manufacturing facility at Windom, Minnesota, where they were able to see zero-turn mowers, snowblowers and specialty equipment manufactured and assembled.   Dealers were impressed by the scale of the operation, and they were able to have a Q&A session with the factory team leaders to better understand how Toro has adapted and managed through the current supply chain issues the industry is facing.

Adding a bit of Minnesota fun alongside business, the dealers had an opportunity to experience full Toro hospitality when they went to watch the Minnesota Twins play the Chicago White Sox.  Enjoying a real American institution on a glorious summer day, the dealers also saw the full Toro fleet in use at the baseball stadium in preparation for the game, before enjoying a drink and the atmosphere.

“I was so pleased to be able to take a group of dealers to visit our colleagues in the US, now that Covid travel restrictions have eased,” said Craig Hoare, Sales & Marketing Manager – Toro U.K. Limited. “It was not only a way for us to say thank you to our dealers, but it was also a great opportunity to expose UK Dealers to the extensive infrastructure that backs up the UK operation and to share some of the plans, investment and products coming from Toro in the near future.”

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Dealers recognised by Reesink UK

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Dealers recognised by Reesink UK: Every year Reesink UK recognises its dealers whose performance in the three areas of Service, Parts and Skills reflect outstanding customer service standards, goals and considerations.  

Reesink awards those dealers achieving the best scores in keeping with its Service Level Agreement, which benchmarks great customer service, and the highest combined score across all three categories wins an overall Dealer of the Year for Excellence in Customer Support. In 2021 that much coveted award went to Lloyd Limited in Carlisle.

Dealers recognised by Reesink UK

Dealers recognised by Reesink UK

Lloyd Limited also won Gold for Excellence in Skills; while Cheshire Turf Machinery topped the bill for Excellence in Service; and Excellence in Parts went to Reesink Turfcare South East.

Reesink Turfcare South East also got a silver hat-trick for Excellence in Service, Excellence in Skills and Aftermarket Dealer of Excellence; and Reesink Turfcare Scotland took home silver for Excellence in Parts.

Lee Rowbotham, service and training manager at Reesink UK, says: “The Aftermarket Dealer Awards are how we thank our service locations for showcasing the high standards for customer service Reesink has. And illustrating to customers that our core customer service standards, goals and considerations reach them.”

Reflecting on the win, Simon Burton, group aftersales manager at Lloyd Ltd, says: “We’re delighted to have won two awards. It’s fantastic to know that our policy for maximising service personnel skills through manufacturer training is being recognised. With the support of our Reesink Product Specialist and Service Manager we have achieved the Aftermarket Dealer Award and this demonstrates the importance of working closely with Reesink and shows what can be achieved from a strong partnership.”

Peter Biddlecombe, aftersales manager at Reesink Turfcare South East says: “The annual awards are really important as they give an immediate indicator of current aftersales service levels and other areas to focus on accordingly. Receiving award/s is an achievement to be proud of and brilliant for staff members to recognise they’re doing a good job. It shows customers you’re a trusted company as an award winner and positions you as one of the best in the field.”

Mark Woodward, service director at Cheshire Turf Machinery, says: “The Toro Excellence in Service award is extremely important to Cheshire Turf Machinery and is our third accolade in succession. This is a testament to all our staff who work incredibly hard throughout the year maintaining consistently high standards and giving peace of mind to all our customers”.

Lee concludes: “Over the years, we have continually invested in our customer service and especially so in our after sales offering and to see that represented by the dealers so brilliantly means we are achieving in our goal to keep on improving the overall experience for all our customers.”

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Etesia UK welcomes new dealer

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Etesia UK welcomes new dealer: Etesia UK is delighted to welcome Abrey Agricultural to its vast dealer network.

The Abrey’s are originally a farming family which went into the machinery trade, and son Toby started importing specialist agricultural machinery from Austria. He did so for twelve years, before starting a groundcare division in 2012. This side of the business quickly grew, and he now supplies a variety of leading groundcare brands.

Etesia UK welcomes new dealer

Etesia UK welcomes new dealer

Etesia is the latest brand to be added to the Abrey portfolio after Toby saw it as an opportunity to grow the business.

“I’m certainly hoping to reach new customers with the Etesia machines,” he said. “I want to progress and do more work with the Cambridge colleges, and you need good brands to offer them. If you haven’t got enough in your range, then you are limited. Etesia fits a treat in this respect.

“There are also many affluent areas around here and we have customers with big gardens. They all need something bigger, stronger, and better than what they are using, and this is where Etesia comes in.”

Etesia has been leading the way in building high quality grass cutting machinery for both the professional and domestic market since 1989. Over the years the company has grown rapidly and now offers a wide range of products that include a variety of walk-behind, ride-on mowers, green technology, the popular Attila range of brush cutters and the all-new award-winning ET Lander electric utility vehicle.

Toby added that his first experience of using an Etesia machine was hugely positive.

“I originally tried an Etesia Hydro 124 diesel ride-on mower, and it was raining at the time,” he said. “It wasn’t a problem though and it picked everything up in the wet – there was no doubt about it. I didn’t have to unblock it – it unblocks itself. It is a very impressive machine.

“Another big benefit of the Etesia machines is that you can take the grass box off and put a drop chute on the back in seconds. You can’t do that on many other machines.

“The Etesia brand has a great reputation; they are very versatile, strong machines that do the job.”

Abrey Agricultural, based in Saffron Walden, Essex, will be offering the full-range of Etesia products within an approximate 30 mile radius.

For further information, please contact Etesia UK on 01295 680120 or visit www.etesia.co.uk.

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Etesia UK on Twitter @EtesiaUK and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/EtesiaUK You can also view the latest Etesia videos by visiting www.youtube.com/EtesiaUK

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The Turf Tank UK Roadshow

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The Turf Tank UK Roadshow: Turf Tank is taking robotic line marking on the road with five dates across England, starting at Manchester University on 7th July.

The roadshow will also visit Bournemouth and Leeds universities on 12th and 19th July, Liverpool Football Club’s LFC Academy on the 20th, and finish at Surrey University on the 26th.

The Turf Tank UK Roadshow

The Turf Tank UK Roadshow

Live demonstrations will take place, including the Turf Tank One’s set-up, programming and operation along with the base station. Any questions can be answered during every stage, and lunch and refreshments will be provided during the demonstration, with games and prizes also on offer.

Having already completed two dates in Belfast during May, Turf Tank UK Country Manager, Matt Murray, is looking forward to welcoming people to the roadshows in England.

“Over two days in Belfast, meeting people and showing them what the robot can do was fantastic,” Matt explains “I think the real benefit of people coming to a location similar to their own is they can see how the robot can work for them, how it can handle their conditions and ultimately, how seamless the process is.

“It’s also an excellent opportunity to ask any questions they might already have about robotic line marking, how the GPS side of things works or anything that comes up during the day.

“We like to keep it fairly informal, and everything is based outside on the turf, so it’s a solid four-hour session that people get a lot from.”

Free online registration is now open for every venue, and alex@turftank.co.uk or matt@turftank.co.uk can answer any questions regarding the events.

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