Tag Archive for: Unveils

GMA unveils Pioneer Legacy

GMA unveils Pioneer Legacy: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has proudly launched the Pioneer Legacy initiative, a new recognition scheme that celebrates the remarkable achievements of both past and present members of GMA NextGen sponsored by Reesink UK (formerly the GMA Young Board).

This initiative aims to honour the contributions of young professionals who have significantly shaped the future of the grounds management industry. At its core is the Pioneer Mark, a unique legacy number awarded to each GMA NextGen member, symbolising their lasting impact on the profession. These marks will be awarded retroactively to previous members and will continue to be given to new members as they join.

GMA unveils Pioneer Legacy

GMA unveils Pioneer Legacy

“The GMA NextGen Pioneer Mark is a tribute to the remarkable work carried out by our NextGen members and former Young Board members,” said Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA. “Their contributions have helped shape the industry we see today and will continue to do so for years to come. By awarding each member with a Pioneer Mark, we are recognising their individual achievements and ensuring their legacy lives on within the grounds management industry.”

The first three Pioneer Marks were presented at SALTEX 2024, the UK’s premier event for the grounds care sector, to three GMA NextGen members: Louise Saunders, Joe Broadwood, and Anthony Facey, who have stepped down after a combined 20 years of exceptional service between them.

Anthony Facey (#016), Vice Chair of GMA NextGen, has brought innovative ideas and a collaborative spirit to the group. His work on various projects, including the ‘Schools into Stadia’ initiative, has significantly contributed to the growth and development of the industry.

Louise Saunders (#031) has been a driving force in promoting diversity and inclusion within the industry. As the first female member of the NextGen group, she has made great strides in championing women in the industry – as a result the group has welcomed three inspiring women (Meg Lay, Liddy Ford and Beth Gibbs) who will continue to drive the EDI strategy forward.

Joe Broadwood (#025), Chair of GMA NextGen, has been instrumental in advancing the professional development of young grounds people. His leadership in the ‘Schools into Stadia’ programme has been particularly impactful, helping to foster a new generation of grounds management professionals.

Jason Booth, Chief Operating Officer at the GMA, has paid tribute to the three members stepping down: “Louise, Joe, and Anthony have each brought fresh energy and vision to GMA NextGen. Over the years they’ve been instrumental in progressing key initiatives with the aim of getting younger people into the industry. Their leadership will be missed but their influence will continue to shape the industry through the legacy they leave behind. The aim of the new Pioneer Legacy initiative is to ensure the contributions of past and present members to the grounds management industry are recognised in the right way.”

This initiative not only celebrates individual achievements but also ensures that the contributions of these young professionals are remembered and honoured for years to come.

To find out more about the GMA NextGen, or to see how you can get involved, please visit www.thegma.org.uk/who/ambassadors

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Polaris unveils new Sportsman XP 1000

Polaris unveils new Sportsman XP 1000: Adding to its legacy of value and quality to customers, Polaris Off Road today unveiled further updates to its 2025 lineup, featuring new upgrades that are now available as standard on RANGER and Sportsman models, as well as a new, special-edition colour option available on the top-of-the-range Sportsman ATV.

POLARIS SPORTSMAN

In addition to the recently-announced Sportsman 570 lineup for 2025, Polaris now unveils the 2025 refresh for its top-spec sport ATV – the Sportsman XP 1000 S – which now includes the introduction of Turf Mode on tractor-homologated models for easier manoeuvrability, as well as performance improvements to the rear sway bar and drag links to increase durability.

Polaris unveils new Sportsman XP 1000

Polaris unveils new Sportsman XP 1000

Polaris introduces the all-new Sportsman XP 1000 S LE model in a striking new Lava Orange Metallic colour, featuring advanced Walker Evans Racing Shocks so riders can stay out longer with less fatigue and turf mode (tractor & L7e homologations) for easier manoeuvrability.

The Sportsman XP 1000 S takes off-road capability to new heights with the industry’s only 144cm wide stance that delivers superior stability, as well as exceptional torque thanks to its powerful 952cc ProStar engine, ensuring a confident ride even in the most challenging conditions. Key features include high-clearance dual A-arm suspension with 29cm front and 35.5cm rear travel, 27″ Duro Powergrip II tyres for optimal traction, and a high-strength frame engineered for maximum durability. All XP 1000 S models feature electric power steering (EPS) for less rider fatigue, on-demand all-wheel drive (AWD) for extra traction when it is needed most, as well as an engine braking system (EBS) and active descent control (ADC) for a more confident ride. Riders can also choose between three ride modes – performance (PERF), standard (STND), and work (WORK) – offering customisable throttle response. Performance mode offers a more aggressive feel, accelerating harder with less throttle movement, whilst work mode provides a smoother throttle response than standard mode.

2025 Sportsman XP 1000 lineup

2025 Sportsman XP 1000 – Blue Slate Metallic Smoke (L7e)

2025 Sportsman XP 1000 Touring – Onyx Black (L7e)

2025 Sportsman XP 1000 S Steely Blue (MD / T3a / T3b / L7e)

NEW 2025 Sportsman XP 1000 S LELava Orange Metallic (MD / T3a / T3b / L7e)

2025 Scrambler XP 1000 lineup

2025 Scrambler XP 1000 – Storm Gray (L7e)

2025 Scrambler XP 1000 S – Lifted Lime Pearl (T3a / T3b / L7e)

POLARIS RANGER

The performance-meets-value mid-size Polaris Ranger 570 has been providing unstoppable utility performance for more than a decade, thanks to its reliable and powerful Prostar 570cc DOHC engine, and unmatched versatility with a 227kg rear bed capacity, 560kg towing capacity, on-demand all-wheel drive and Turf mode to master any job – big or small. With its compact size at just 142cm wide, tight turning radius for agile navigation, and over 25cm of ground clearance, the Ranger 570 can go anywhere.

For 2025, all RANGER 570 models now feature the integration of Electric Power Steering (EPS) as standard, including the base model. These enhancements continue Polaris’s commitment to delivering unmatched versatility and performance for unbeatable value.

2025 RANGER Mid-Size lineup

2025 RANGER SP 570 EPS – Sage Green (MD / T1a / T1b)

2025 RANGER SP 570 EPS Nordic Pro Edition – Black Pearl (T1a / T1b)

*For availability and pricing in your market, please speak to your regional Media Contact or contact the Polaris EMEA Press Office at press@polaris-orv.media

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Kubota unveils new Z4-541

Kubota unveils new Z4-541: Expanding Kubota’s existing zero-turn mower range and tailored for the pro-consumer market, the Z4-541 is a 54-inch petrol model which boasts a larger chassis, exceeding the dimensions of the current Z1 and Z2 models.

Operation and efficiency

The introduction of the Z4-541 broadens the existing zero-turn lineup, building upon a larger chassis while maintaining maneuverability comparable to smaller models.

Kubota unveils new Z4-541

Kubota unveils new Z4-541

The 360-degree turning capability enables effortless navigation around obstacles, while the machines’ low centre of gravity and wide-profile drive wheels ensure exceptional stability and balance, making the machine suitable for tasks on uneven terrain.

The Z4-541’s robust 54” steel fabricated deck comes as a 3-blade side discharge, with enhanced performance and cut quality, and featuring quick-dial height adjustment and K-lift deck operation for easy raising and lowering of the deck. Regardless of whether the machine is fitted with the side discharge or mulching kit, rest assured it will cover expansive areas, delivering a professional finish.

This specific model also features an optional OCDC (Operator Controlled Discharge Chute) kit, enabling operators to temporarily shut the side discharge, perfect for maintaining clean pathways and protecting parked vehicles from debris.

Performance

The Z4-541 is equipped with a petrol Kawasaki V FS730-V engine producing 24hp/17.9kw. The design of V twin engines allows the machine to run quieter and smoother with fewer vibrations than most traditional single-cylinder engines. A rear “wrap around” bumper gives added protection and comes as standard, along with a rear towing hitch, ideal for small light trailers.

Tailored for expansive areas, the versatility of this machine makes it well-suited for tackling large residential gardens or demanding commercial landscapes and green spaces – excelling in diverse settings and guaranteeing maximum efficiency with every operation.

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Bernhard and Company unveils new brochure

Bernhard and Company unveils new brochure: Bernhard and Company has unveiled its all-new brand and sharpening systems brochure, packed with comprehensive details and stunning visuals, showcasing the company’s latest offerings and renowned customer service.

The new brochure includes full details of Bernhard and Company’s latest grinding machinery, including the recently launched Express Dual 4300 reel grinder. The brochure also features the full range of Anglemaster bedknife grinding machines, as well as small machines and accessories.

Bernhard and Company unveils new brochure

Bernhard and Company unveils new brochure

Steven Nixon, Managing Director for Bernhard and Company, said: “We’re really pleased to have launched our brand-new product brochure. In addition to extensive product information, we’ve added great new visuals, interactive elements, and consumer case studies to give prospective customers everything they need during the buying process.

“Our customers are the bedrock of our business, and their feedback provides us with key information on how we can improve our products and services. So, it was crucial for us to ensure that we included as much customer opinion as possible within this brochure, to really allow those viewing it to understand what it is like to be a customer of Bernhard and Company – no matter the type or scale of business,” he added.

This digitally interactive brochure also includes QR codes throughout, that link to videos of customer case studies from all around the world, and product demonstrations to allow prospective customers to gather deeper insight into the products and solutions on offer.

The new Bernhard and Company brochure for 2024 is easy to download by visiting: https://bernhard.co.uk/product-brochure/

To find out more about Bernhard and Company, you can visit the company’s website: www.bernhard.co.uk

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Flood Re Unveils the Flood Resilient Garden

Flood Re Unveils the Flood Resilient Garden: Today at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Flood Re, in collaboration with Dr. Ed Barsley and Naomi Slade, unveils the pioneering Flood Resilient Garden. 

Today, 1 in 4 homes in the UK are at risk of flooding – not just by the coast and rivers, but in urban areas too. Flooding doesn’t just damage homes and gardens; it devastates lives, causing lasting financial and emotional strain. In total, 5.4 million (1 in 8) UK adults with gardens have experienced the devastating impact of flooding on their green spaces.

Flood Re Unveils the Flood Resilient Garden

Flood Re Unveils the Flood Resilient Garden

From Roots to Resilience

The Flood Resilient Garden is designed to inspire and educate homeowners about the critical role their garden can play in flood defence. Incorporating sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), native flood-tolerant plant species, and innovative water management techniques, the garden is a model for future landscaping under the threat of increasing extreme weather events due to climate change.

In a groundbreaking display at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the Flood Resilient Garden will intentionally flood to demonstrate its unique capabilities. This never-seen-before feature will illustrate how the garden adapts to changing water levels. Visitors will witness firsthand how the central swale becomes a lively stream, channelling rainwater into a feature pond where it can gradually soak away, while large water tanks double as ornamental ponds which store water for later use.

Leading weather & climate change expert Laura Tobin Joins the Cause

Adding to the excitement, leading weather & climate change expert Laura Tobin will be on hand to discuss the garden’s role in mitigating flood risks.

Laura Tobin Said:  “The Flood Resilient Garden shows that adapting to climate change can still be beautiful and homeowners don’t have to give up having a lovely garden to make it work hard against extreme weather. It’s about blending smart, sustainable choices with thoughtful design to protect our homes and communities”.

A Nation at Risk

The unveiling also shines a light on the latest insights from Flood Re, revealing a concerning lack of flood awareness amongst UK citizens.

Flood Re’s research shows that only 5% of people living in areas at high-risk of flooding could correctly identify their flood risk. Concerningly, 68% of people in high-risk flood areas incorrectly think their flood risk is low.

The research shows that despite Brits spending an average of £402 on their gardens over the past year, they are not taking the crucial steps they need to protect their homes and gardens from flooding.

Indeed, 90% of homeowners, rising to 93% in high and mid flood risk areas, haven’t taken any steps to make their homes and gardens more flood resilient. Despite the extreme weather conditions, this doesn’t look to be changing, with only 9% of homeowners planning to add flood resilience measures to their homes and gardens in the next year

Build Back Better

In the event of a flood, Flood Re’s Build Back Better scheme allows eligible customers with specific home insurers to receive up to £10,000 as part of a claim.

The amount is meant for home and garden improvements that go beyond basic repairs, focusing on enhancing the property’s resilience against future floods

The Flood Resilient Garden is not just a temporary exhibit. After the show, it will find a permanent home at Howbery Business Park, allowing the public to explore its features and learn about flood resilience year-round.

Flood Re is on hand to help you invest wisely in your garden to make it beautiful and resilient. Check out all the best tips and tricks to make your garden both beautiful and resilient here.

Flood Re CEO Andy Bord, said: “Gardens bring joy to so many of us but they also provide an important first line of defence to flooding. With this garden we’re hoping to inspire more people to think about their flood risk and get smart with their spending by considering the plants and garden features that will both endure a flood and could also help reduce the physical destruction and psychological distress when a flood strikes. If flood resilient features and water storage capacity were to become a feature of most gardens in a neighbourhood, the positive combined effect would be enormous!”

Naomi Slade, Garden Designer, said: “People spend a huge amount of time and money on their gardens and floods can wreak havoc and cause a huge amount of disruption, heartache and expense. The principles showcased within our Flood Resilient Garden are impactful, practical and transferable, but crucially we’ve shown that making a garden more climate and flood-resilient does not have to be a compromise on either its form or function.”

Ed Barsley, The Environmental Design Studio, said: “With the increase in extreme weather events, heavy rainfall and flooding as well as drought, and even wildfires, many people are anxious. As individuals they can feel powerless to make a difference. But gardens are hugely powerful tools and the Flood Re: The Flood Resilient Garden sends a positive message of agency and hope, and it is packed with practical, achievable ideas and solutions to enable people, as we adapt to the climate crisis.”

For more information, interviews, or a guided tour of the Flood Resilient Garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, please contact:

Headland Consultancy: Beth Kelly – bkelly@headlandconsultancy.com

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