I received a press release from a well-known manufacturer this week, promoting their new battery powered mower. Nothing unusual about that, my inbox is always heaving with such things.

However, what made it stand out to me was that this particular release explicitly acknowledged that, as a supplier, they were aware that some members of the dealer network have genuine concerns about the industry's transition from petrol to battery-powered products.

To quote directly, they said, "In recent times, favour has gradually slipped away from petrol towards battery power. With the technology constantly improving, it is easy to see why; however, concerns are still raised by dealers unconvinced of the transition. From worries about limited runtimes, to charging time and up-front costs and poor performance, these concerns were once valid."

They went on to explain why they believe with their products, these concerns are no longer legitimate. With technological developments they said, notions such as 'range anxiety' are eliminated for end-users - and thus by extension, for dealers too.

The accuracy of these claims is for others to judge - but the very fact that this manufacturer was openly addressing concerns held by some dealers about battery products, I thought was noteworthy.

This ties in with a comment left by a dealer under a blog on this Weekly Update recently. It was the week that the starting gun was fired on the general election campaign that we're all currently enjoying so much. Believe it or not, this was just two weeks ago and not the eternity that one might immediately assume.

In that entry, I had asked the question of which party policies should dealers be specifically looking out for, that can directly affect how they trade? Our dealer commentator had picked up on the areas of legislation and regulation, expressing heartfelt concerns.

They wrote that there was something "serious on the horizon", explaining that this was, "..the idea of forcing people to transition from petrol to electric."

They elaborated saying, "I'm not against people choosing to switch to electric, but I am against being forced to do so. If the government can legislate against internal combustion engines in cars, currently banned from 2035, and motorbikes from 2040, don't put your head in the sand and pretend that it won't happen in our industry."

They continued, "We all know that electric propulsion does not adequately replace internal combustion, yet there seems to be some blind faith that the technology will miraculously get better. If that were believable the signs of it would be much more tangible than they are at the moment."

This dealer concluded with their stark assessment, " . . there is a real chance of our industry as we have known it, being legislated out of existence."

Powerful food for thought and one that inevitably raises the question for you, our dealer readers - is this a viewpoint that you also subscribe to? Does the move to battery inherently concern you? Perhaps not only with power levels but with disposal of used batteries also? Or are you fully on board, embracing the transition?

Examples can clearly be found in certain parts of the world of this notion of petrol machinery being "legislated out of existence" - specifically across various localities in the United States. Starting in California a few years ago, the latest news report on the subject that caught my eye was this one that said New York State is now considering a bill to ban the sale of, as they term it, gas powered outdoor equipment.

If you visit the website of our friends at the U.S trade journal, Rural Lifestyle Dealer, they have a page where they are collating news from around the States regarding these local regulation stories. Recent headlines include, 'Portland City Council Votes to Ban Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers'; 'Virginia Bill to Allow Local Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Bans Advances'; and 'Michigan City Bans Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers'.

So these types of legislation are clearly real and growing. Can we presume it's simply a matter of time before similar laws find their way onto UK books? It's an area I'm sure all of our readers will have thought about.

But what are your opinions on the subject? Please let us know in the comments below or drop me a line.

Neil Everett has joined Boss Off-Road Vehicles as national sales manager.

The Boss team, L-R:  Nala (office dog); Matt Richardson (after sales manager); James Crawford (workshop manager); Phil Everett (MD); Neil Everett (national sales manager); Ness Robinson (operations manager)

The company says Neil’s focus initially will be to develop the Corvus Off-Road Vehicles dealer network. They say he brings a wealth of experience from over thirteen years in the off-road vehicle market. Originally a part-time contractor to his previous company, he moved into a full-time role in sales support, working across all sectors from on-road motorcycles, parts, garments and accessories, defence, and off-road. 

“We’re delighted to announce Neil’s appointment,” says Boss MD Phil Everett. “A lot of his time in the industry has been spent managing dealer networks. He will be responsible for growing the Corvus dealer network and making changes where required. This will take it to the next level of growth, in readiness for more new model arrivals, and will also free up resources internally to focus on our other brands such as Paxster, Powerland, Faunamaster and Airops.”

Neil added, “I am thoroughly excited by this challenge and I am looking forward to developing the Corvus network, meeting the dealers, and working with new products within the BOSS ORV portfolio.”

John Deere has announced a unique open day for those planning to leave the military in search of a new career. 

On 13 June the company will invite servicemen and women to its UK & Ireland headquarters in Nottinghamshire for a special event designed to shine a light on technician roles working throughout the brand’s dealership network. 

The company says the John Deere Military Hiring Programme Insight Day provides an opportunity to see first hand some of their agricultural and professional turfcare equipment which requires skilled, dedicated technicians to service and maintain. 

There will be networking opportunities with representatives from the John Deere business as well as dealers, and presentations will set out how fulfilling the role can be. 

Allan Cochran, training centre manager, said, “We launched the John Deere Military Hiring Programme in the UK and Ireland last year and are starting to see those who have been through the training start new careers at our dealers. 

“We strongly believe in the pool of talent resettling from successful careers in the military. We have thousands of examples worldwide demonstrating that they have the ideal skillset to slot seamlessly into technician roles.

“There’s nothing like seeing the machinery up close and speaking directly to those who already work in the businesses to get a sense of what your future career could look like, so this day is a great opportunity to explore the people, the place and the product.” 

The Military Hiring Programme is a worldwide initiative to support resettling servicemen and women. Those who apply are connected to an individual within John Deere who has already made the transition before being put through a raft of free training to prepare them for a career as a technician. 

Allan concluded, “I urge anyone who is looking for a new career away from the military, or those who have already left, to sign up for this event and see for themselves what a future with John Deere looks like.” 

PSD Groundscare has announced a new appointment, intended to strengthen their team and drive business growth.

Peter Mercer has joined the company as business development manager (BDM) for the South West of England. His appointment comes after the recent inclusion of SABO battery and petrol walk-behind mowers into the PSD range. Peter’s appointment allows Stuart Mercer (sales director) to focus further on continuing to develop business in Scotland and Ireland.

A well-known face in the industry, Peter originally joined the GGM Group in 2008 and has extensive industry experience, including previously working within dealerships. In his new role, PSD say he will be responsible for the market and dealership machinery sales growth throughout the groundscare, turfcare, landscape and arborist sectors.

Peter said, “I am absolutely delighted to be back in this new role at PSD, driving the business forward as well as working with old faces, and meeting new ones. I can’t wait to get out to meet dealers and help them to develop their business with our range of quality solutions”.

Stuart Mercer, sales director said, “Peter’s appointment shows PSD’s commitment to ensuring that we continue to exceed customers’ expectations. With his experience and industry knowledge, we know he is the right person for the job and he can’t wait to get going.”

Polaris Off Road Vehicles has announced the expansion of its dealership network in Scotland with the appointment of Agricar as a new dealer serving the Fife area.

Already a trusted name in Stirling, Agricar will bring their expertise to Fife, operating from the former Land Rover dealership in Cupar.

The new dealership will offer the manufacturer's full line-up, along with parts, accessories, and servicing.

“We are thrilled to welcome Agricar as our new dealer in Fife,” said Neil Pirie, district sales manager for Polaris UK. “Their proven track record in Stirling and commitment to exceptional customer service makes them the perfect partner to expand the Polaris brand in this region.”

The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has announced the appointment of Sarah Hunter as its new head of events.

The Association says with her extensive experience and proven track record in event management, Sarah brings a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to this role.

As head of events, Sarah’s immediate focus will be on SALTEX 2024. Sarah will play a crucial role in shaping the overall strategy and execution of this year’s exhibition. 

"I am thrilled to join the GMA team and lead the events strategy for SALTEX 2024," said Sarah. "I am committed to delivering events that exceed expectations and provide immense value to our attendees, exhibitors, and partners. I am confident that SALTEX 2024 will set a new standard for excellence in the industry." 

Sarah is a seasoned events professional and joins the GMA after 12 years with NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting), a certification body in the construction industry. Throughout her tenure, Sarah says she spearheaded hundreds of successful events, exhibitions, conferences, and webinars across the UK, from concept to completion.  

"We are delighted to welcome Sarah Hunter to the GMA as our new head of events," said Sarah Cunningham, director of commercial and events at the GMA. "Her exceptional leadership skills and passion for delivering outstanding events make her the perfect fit for this role."

SALTEX takes place at Birmingham NEC on 30th and 31st October 2024.

More than 700 dealers, customers, suppliers and journalists from across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) headed to Doosan Bobcat EMEA’s campus in Dobříš, Czechia for Bobcat Demo Days 2024.

Having run from 21 May to 5 June, attendees received what the company describes as "unprecedented access to the organisation’s comprehensive equipment lineup over a series of 10 intense full-day experiences."

Launched in the EMEA region in 2011, the manufacturer says the Demo Days allowed invited guests to gain insights into their latest advancements through hands-on time with machines and in-depth factory tours. This year’s edition featured more than 90 demo models, including the new lineup of material handling units, skid-steer loaders, compact track loaders, compact wheel loaders, mini-excavators, telehandlers, ground maintenance equipment and light compaction models.

Jan Moravec, vice president of product, Bobcat EMEA, said, “Bobcat Demo Days 2024 allowed visitors to gain firsthand experience of our latest innovations, products, attachments and services, while providing a golden opportunity for our team members to engage with Bobcat’s community from all over the EMEA region. These invitation-only events are among the most anticipated fixtures in our annual calendar.”

On show this year were developments such as the TL25.60e electric telehandler concept, the RogueX2 concept loader, Operator Presence technology, the Pedestrian Detection Camera, and next-generation Digital Access software.

Discover the Latest in Garden Machinery with Exclusive Deals, 2025 pricing, Sector Updates, and Exciting Activities. 

British garden machinery company Handy will be showcasing its extensive product ranges and highlighting its support for dealers in its biggest-ever garden machinery event, Handy LIVE 2024, which will be held at the prestigious Moulton Grange Country Estate in Northamptonshire on Thursday 5th September, at 9:30 am – 3:30 pm  

Why Attend This Event?  

• Effective Planning for the Upcoming Year: Gain insights and strategies to prepare for a successful 2025.
• 2025 Pricing and On-the-Day Deals: Take advantage of special pricing and exclusive offers available only during the event.
• Webb Eco Launch: Be among the first to witness the new Cordless Battery 20V Webb Eco product line.
• Sector Insights: Learn the latest trends and developments from industry experts. 
• Showcasing Top Brands: Explore cutting-edge products from leading Handy brands in the industry. 
• Free Breakfast and Lunch 
• Outdoor Activities: Take part in a host of activities on the day - try your hand at axe throwing, or become a target expert and have a go at air rifle shooting,

Your Garden Machinery Experts  

Prepare to be inspired by the wealth of knowledge and expertise brought to you by our panel of gardening professionals. 

Meet Adam Woolcott, the expert gardener for Webb with a string of top awards, including multiple golds at the famous Chelsea Garden Show. He’ll be your guide, showcasing engaging talks and practical demos.  

Joining Adam is the charismatic Tommy Cross, a familiar face from Greenworks and QVC. With his infectious enthusiasm and deep-rooted passion for all things Greenworks, Tommy will be guiding you through a series of engaging presentations and demonstrations. 

Secure Your Free Tickets  

Get your free tickets here - LIMITED Numbers 

Showcasing Top Garden Machinery Brands 

Handy’s brands - Webb, The Handy, Greenworks and AVA - will be on display and available for dealers to get hands-on with.  This will include cordless, petrol, electric and hand powered lawnmowers, line trimmers, hedge trimmers, pole saws, chainsaws, blowers & vacuums, tillers, trolleys, spreaders, log splitters, pressure washers and more.  In an exclusive preview, the new Webb Eco 20V Cordless Battery range will also be launched on the day.   

Secure Your Free Tickets  

Get your free tickets here - LIMITED Numbers! 

About Handy  

Since 1938 Handy has grown to become one of the UK’s largest independent garden machinery wholesale distributors and manufacturers, supplying specialist dealers, large national retailers, garden centres and mail order companies, from its purpose-built 70,000ft Swindon site which is home to more than 45 full-time staff.  

Handy has developed some of the UK’s leading machinery brands including Webb, The Handy and Q Garden. These distinct brands are a testament to the company’s creative and manufacturing prowess.  

As the UK-appointed distributor for the Greenworks brand cordless equipment, Handy is at the forefront of leading battery technology offering a full complement of cordless equipment. 

To this day, Handy remains a family-owned British business.  Its experience, expert knowledge and dedicated customer service – which includes carrying over 10,000 spare part lines - have enabled it to build a team driven by high performance and family values.  

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