While much of the country wilted in last week's soaring temperatures, around 200 STIHL dealers were enjoying rather more comfortable conditions inside the air-conditioned surroundings of Contra House in Camberley.

They had gathered from across the UK to celebrate the manufacturer's 100th anniversary. But while the centenary naturally provided an opportunity to reflect on the company's history, there was an equally strong emphasis on where the business, and crucially, its dealer network goes next.

I felt the event itself struck a good balance. Dealers were able to tour the headquarters and distribution facility, hear from the senior management team and enjoy an awards ceremony hosted by television gardener Joe Swift that was split between the afternoon conference and the evening celebrations. (you can find details of all the award winners here).

Managing director, Kay Green, opened proceedings by reflecting on the journey from Andreas Stihl's original vision in 1926 of making hard work easier through engineering and innovation, to the global business the company has become today. While she highlighted the importance of product development, reliability and long-term support, one theme surfaced repeatedly throughout her presentation - the role of the dealer network.

Kay spoke about dealers as the people who bring the brand to life, providing the advice, technical expertise and customer service that builds trust and loyalty. Looking ahead, she outlined plans for increased marketing investment over the next two years, continued development of battery products, expansion into new customer groups and markets, and an ongoing commitment to sustainability. Her message was that building greater awareness would generate more demand, which she said would create more opportunities for their network.

Channel sales manager, Tim Rogers, then took delegates through the history of STIHL GB itself. Beginning with the establishment of the UK subsidiary nearly 50 years ago, he charted the company's growth through successive premises, warehouse expansions and key product introductions, arriving at today's purpose-built Contra House facility.

Along the way he highlighted landmark machines, the arrival of battery technology, significant turnover milestones and the steady growth of the business. As with Kay's presentation, dealer partnerships featured prominently as a constant throughout that development.

Head of marketing, Simon Hewitt, provided an entertaining trip down memory lane, using decades of advertising campaigns to show how STIHL has evolved its marketing alongside changing customer behaviour. From colourful campaigns in the 1960s and 70s, to the launch of the company's first website and the growth of dealer e-commerce, there were plenty of nods of recognition around the room.

His broader point, however, was a serious one. However good the products may be, customers first need to know the brand exists and, crucially, where to buy it. Marketing, he explained, has always been about raising awareness while directing customers towards the dealer network. Today that increasingly means television, digital advertising and supporting dealers' own online sales channels.

Another key presentation came from product manager Paul Hicks, focusing on the evolution of the manufacturer's battery portfolio and their plans for the next phase of its development. He outlined how each of the brand's battery platforms has expanded in recent years, from additions to the AS range through to the continued growth of the AK system, which he described as an important route for attracting new customers while retaining existing users within the STIHL ecosystem.

Much of the attention, however, centred on professional battery equipment. Paul reflected on how the AP platform has developed since its introduction, with a growing range of tools, batteries and charging solutions providing an alternative to petrol-powered equipment for both professional users and owners of larger properties.

Looking ahead, he introduced delegates to ALLPRO, the manufacturer’s next-generation 40-volt professional battery platform. Describing it as a significant step forward for the company's battery offering, Paul explained that it has been designed to build on the existing AP system while creating opportunities for further product development in the years ahead. Compatibility with existing AP products was highlighted as a key feature, while dealers were given an early glimpse of how the new range will be positioned to professional users when its marketing campaign begins later this year. 

Subsequent to the event, STIHL have announced a partnership with Kärcher for the new battery range, that you can read about in full here.

Perhaps that's what stood out most across the day. Yes, there was plenty of history. A century in business is undeniably a significant achievement and one worth celebrating. But the emphasis undoubtedly was on what comes next for the company and their dealers - whether that meant investment in marketing, new technologies, changing customer expectations or the opportunities presented by battery equipment.

To underline this, the company is now taking its ALLPRO roadshow around the country, giving dealers the opportunity to see the new battery platform first-hand and understand where it fits within their businesses. This underlined what I took away as the theme of the day. Even at 100 years old, the company emphasises that it is focused on finding new customers, opening new markets and helping dealers keep their offering fresh.

For those who made the journey to Camberley, despite the soaring temperatures, the conference served as both a celebration of what has come before as well as a look ahead to what can be achieved during century number two.

Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG and Andreas STIHL AG & Co. KG have announced the launch of a joint battery alliance.

L-R: Michael Traub, chairman of the executive board of STIHL AG and Hartmut Jenner, CEO & chairman of the board of management of Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG

The companies say the aim of this strategic partnership is "to offer professional users a common, high-performance and future-proof battery standard".

The alliance is based around the ALLPRO battery system developed by STIHL, which will be used in the professional equipment of both brands in future.

Michael Traub, chairman of the executive board of STIHL AG explained, “Professional users need more than just high-performance tools. They need systems that cover a wide range of tasks, reduce complexity and ensure their investment pays off in the long term. This is exactly where ALLPRO comes in. The partnership with Kärcher expands the scope of our battery system to include further professional applications, thereby creating added value in our customers’ day-to-day work.”

Hartmut Jenner, CEO & chairman of the board of management of Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG, added, “Through the synergy between our equipment, we are creating far more than just a technical solution: we are consistently driving forward the electrification of professional applications, thereby securing a decisive competitive advantage for our customers."

Professional users will in future be able to use the same batteries and chargers for both their Kärcher cleaning equipment and their STIHL power tools. STIHL customers will have full compatibility with the existing AP system - and existing AP batteries can also be used with the new Kärcher battery-powered devices. For Kärcher customers, ALLPRO is an entirely new platform. However, Kärcher say they continue to guarantee full service, spare parts and battery availability for existing devices from the previous Battery Universe.

The result, say the two companies, is a working environment for professionals in which they can cover the entire spectrum of daily landscaping, forestry and cleaning tasks with just one battery system. The new batteries will be available from STIHL specialist retailers from 1 August 2026. Kärcher will launch the new batteries and the new tools on 1 January 2027.

In addition to these two companies, numerous other partners - including those specialising in forestry winches, equipment carriers and mobile refuelling systems - will be incorporating the ALLPRO battery system into their equipment. This means that users in the forestry and landscaping sectors, the construction industry, facility management and aid organisations have access to a range of more than 120 devices, all powered by the same battery packs. A charging and energy management system rounds off the offering.

Hamilton Ross Group has announced that it has entered into Heads of Terms to acquire Henderson Grass Machinery Ltd, with the transaction expected to complete on 30 September 2026, subject to due diligence and the execution of final agreements.

Henderson Grass Machinery is a long-established family-run business based in Haddington. Current owners Alasdair and George Henderson are now looking towards retirement after many years serving customers across the region.

The company says the proposed acquisition forms part of their long-term strategy to strengthen their regional dealer network and further enhance customer support. The addition of Henderson Grass Machinery would expand the Group's groundcare presence, reinforcing its representation of brands including Kubota, Baroness and Honda.

This move follows the developments earlier this year of firstly bringing all their operations together, followed by the acquisition of Ancroft Tractors Ltd.

Following completion, Henderson Grass Machinery will operate as part of Hamilton Ross Group. The Group also plans to consolidate its existing Macmerry operations into the larger Haddington site, creating a stronger presence across the Lothians while maintaining Henderson Grass Machinery's well-established local identity.

The business says that customers can expect continuity throughout the transition, with the same teams continuing to provide sales, service and support, backed by the additional resources and technical expertise of Hamilton Ross Group.

Commenting on the proposed acquisition, Jamie Gardiner, managing director of Hamilton Ross Group, said, "Henderson Grass Machinery is a long-established name with a loyal customer base. Our focus is on giving those customers the parts, technical support and long-term backing that come with being part of a larger group. We look forward to welcoming the Henderson team into Hamilton Ross Group and building on the excellent reputation they have established over many years."

Further updates are promised as the transaction progresses towards completion.

Crawfords Group has announced the launch of VoltWorx26, powered by Kress, a new free industry event focused on electrification, technology and sustainability within the amenity, groundcare and fleet sectors.

Delivered in partnership with Plumpton College, the event will take place on Tuesday 28th July at the AgriFood Centre, Plumpton College, Lewes, BN7 3AE.

They say VoltWorx26 will bring together local authorities, education providers, estate teams, greenkeepers, ground care professionals, sports pitch managers, fleet managers, contractors and organisations exploring more sustainable ways of working.

Crawfords state that the event has been created to support businesses and public-sector organisations as they consider the future of electric machinery, EV fleets, robotic mowing, charging infrastructure, sustainable ground care and practical steps towards net zero.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from industry speakers, attend breakout sessions, visit trade stands and network with suppliers and professionals already working with lower-emission technology.

Confirmed keynote speakers include Tom Harris, sustainability manager at Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, and Oliver Tucker, managing director of GreenBulb Energy, with additional speakers to be announced in the lead-up to the event.

Breakout sessions will include insight from Paul Larsen, turf consultant at PLarsen Consultancy, who will be exploring turf quality and performance using Kress robotic mowers, Ed Dennett, marketing manager of Fendt, Northwest Europe, who will discuss where electric tractors fit in public-sector and professional turf, and Will Clarke, managing director of Direct Enviro Services, who will be discussing VM-AI in vegetation and green space management, exploring how innovative technology is helping organisations manage landscapes more efficiently and sustainably.

Visitors will also be able to meet a range of industry brands and event partners, including Fendt, MAXUS, Isuzu, Manitou, Can-Am, Komatsu, Paragon Finance, Direct Enviro Services and GreenBulb Energy.

Nunzio Rio, sales director at Crawfords Group, said, “VoltWorx26 has been created to give organisations practical insight into the future of amenity and fleet electrification. Many local authorities, schools, estates, sports facilities and contractors are now looking at how electric machinery, robotics, charging and low-emission technology could work for them. This event is about bringing those conversations together in one place and helping attendees explore what is possible.”

Registration is free, but spaces are limited.

STIHL GB celebrated the achievements of its dealer network at its STIHL 100 Dealer Conference last week, bringing together their Approved Dealers from across the country for a landmark event marking the company's centenary year.

Winner of the top STIHL 100 Award was Ron Smith & Co. Pictured L-R: Tim Rogers, STIHL GB channel manager; Mark Smith, md Ron Smith & Co; Kay Green, md STIHL GB; and TV gardener, Joe Swift

The event marked 100 years since Andreas Stihl founded the business in 1926 with the company describing the event as providing an opportunity to recognise "the vital role dealer network continues to play in delivering expert advice, service and support to customers nationwide."
 
A highlight of the conference, held at British HQ, Contra House, was the STIHL Dealer Awards, hosted by garden designer, broadcaster and writer Joe Swift, who presented awards recognising excellence across the dealer network.

Among the evening's major winners were Sam Turners & Sons, who received the Marketing Excellence Award, Gammies Groundcare, who received the Leading Battery Dealer award, and Louise Danbury-Peters from Ibbetts who was recognised with the Star of the Dealership Award. Additional awards were presented across a range of categories celebrating outstanding business performance, customer service, and technical expertise.

The final award of the night, the STIHL 100 Award, was presented to Ron Smith & Co. for all-round excellence, recognising their consistent growth and commitment to the highest standards across every part of the business. As well as the award itself, director Mark Smith was presented with a Centennial Edition MS 500i chainsaw, which was launched in May to celebrate the company’s anniversary.
 
Kay Green, managing director of STIHL GB, said, "As we celebrate 100 years of STIHL, it is fitting that we recognise the people who have played such an important role in our success. Our dealer network has always been at the heart of the STIHL business, providing customers with trusted advice, expert support and exceptional service.
 
"The STIHL 100 Dealer Conference was a fantastic opportunity to get together, reflect on our shared achievements and celebrate the outstanding individuals and businesses that continue to set the standard across the network. Congratulations to all of this year's winners and finalists on their well-deserved recognition."
 
The full list of award winners

• Marketing Excellence Award - Sam Turner & Sons
• Leading Parts & Accessories Dealer - Hire Services (Southern)
• Customer Service & Aftercare Award - Sam Turner & Sons
• Leading Retail Experience Award - Balmers
• Technician of the Year - Wayne Bodinnar, Tudor Environmental
• Star of the Dealership - Louise Danbury-Peters, Ibbetts
• Leading Garden Machinery Dealer -  Ron Smith & Co
• Leading Battery Dealer - Gammies Groundcare Ltd
• Leading Commercial Solutions Dealer - Denbigh Plant Services
• Leading Forestry & Arb Dealer - Gustharts
• STIHL 100 Award - Ron Smith & Co

Massey Ferguson has added to its internal team with Dave Chell rejoining as area sales manager covering north east England, and Aled Beech as sales support specialist for the west of the country, including Wales.

 
The company say Dave will be a familiar face to some MF customers and dealers, having been with the business in a sales support role until 2023.
 
Dave said, “I’m delighted to be back with the Massey Ferguson brand and team. It’s a product I’m passionate about and my knowledge and experience will be a great advantage to quickly support dealers in my area. My previous role in sales support means I understand what our customers and dealers require, which I can use to my benefit as area sales manager.”

 
In the west and Wales, Aled, who comes from a family livestock farm in North Wales, has worked for AGCO since 2023 in technical support before moving to the role of sales support specialist with Massey Ferguson earlier this year.
 
Aled said, “The switch to sales support specialist means I’m now responsible for product training and updates to help MF dealers become self-sufficient. Alongside this, I’ll also be on hand to support our dealer network with product-related queries and assist the MF UK sales team at shows and events.”

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