Forfar-based supplier of groundcare machinery and services, Gammies,say they were recently approached by charity Tayside 4x4 Response, seeking a product to fulfil a unique set of needs.

Jim Beattie, volunteer & chair at Tayside 4x4 Response with Les Gammie, depot manager at Gammies Groundcare with the Stihl PS3000 battery generator

Founded in 2010, Tayside 4x4 Response is a volunteer-driven charity dedicated to providing crucial support to the community during times of crisis. Their dedicated team utilises their own 4x4 vehicles to collaborate with emergency response agencies, including the Police, Firefighters, Council, SSEN, and the NHS.

As the organisation has grown, expanding from a modest ten volunteers to over thirty-six committed individuals, they have continuously evolved their resources to enhance the level of assistance they can offer. Their recent addition of a mobile unit, equipped with computers, internet access, power outlets, refreshment facilities, and comfortable seating, has revolutionised their ability to deliver aid on the move. 

Les Gammie, depot manager at Gammies, said, “When Tayside 4x4 Response approached us looking for a generator that could deal with powering numerous laptops, monitors and charging points for long periods of time, we were delighted to present a solution that also has no emissions and low noise levels. The Stihl PS300 also has a compact design allowing it to be integrated into a small space within the unit.”

Jim Beattie, volunteer at Tayside 4x4 Response, added, "This battery has allowed us to be more flexible with the support we provide reliable power for the events we attend, which are often across multiple days and in remote locations. Gammies after sales also means we have support if there’s issues with the generator."

Gammies say that between 2022 and 2023 they saw a modest rise of 3.74% in battery product sales, but already in 2024 there has been what they describe as an "exponentially large uptake in battery product popularity". They are predicting sales displaying an overall 55.67% increase this year.