Pro Landscaper Equipment Supplement June 2021

EQUIPMENT SUPPLEMENT JUNE 2021

IN ASSOCIATION WITH ISUZU TRUCK UK

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WELCOME

WELCOME M anufacturers are continuously updating their offerings. Rarely is there an entirely new item launched, but instead upgrades on previous models, some with small changes which make a big difference to the performance (as you’ll see on page 8) and some with integrated smart technology (page 6).

So, for our first equipment supplement of 2021, we wanted to ask the question: How has kit evolved? One

FOR OUR FIRST EQUIPMENT SUPPLEMENT OF 2021, WE WANTED TO ASK THE QUESTION: HOW HAS KIT EVOLVED? of the biggest focuses for kit suppliers is on their carbon footprint and the impact their equipment is having on our climate.

Lowering emissions, for instance, has

been crucial to fleet development at Isuzu Truck UK, our supplement sponsor.

Battery powered kit has soared in popularity recently – and it’s become a leading range for manufacturers such as Makita. How has its battery technology developed, from its first to its most recent launches? Find out on page 26.

From military tools to fun (and, at times, irritating) toys to versatile and valuable bots, drones are making a huge difference in the horticulture industry.

We take a look at how their innumerable uses have ventured into helping those at Kew with their reforestation efforts on page 11.

And, of course, you’ll find a selection of some of the latest additions to the market by the leading manufacturers, from chippers to stump grinders and hedge trimmers to hand tools.

The only question left to ask, we suppose, is: What’s next?

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CONTENTS 4. Interview with Graham Bird 6. Smart kit 8. Small changes, big difference 11.

Drones

14. Meet the supplier: Forst 16. Isuzu – commercial vehicles 18. Chippers 21. Stump grinders 22. Hedge trimmers 24. Pedestrian mowers 26. Makita – cordless technology

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INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW WITH GRAHAM BIRD ©Insta Potential

We speak to Graham Bird, supply chain director at Ground Control to find out what strides the company has made to move towards the use of purely battery powered equipment, as well as the trials it’s undertaking on EV vans.

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ince joining Ground Control in 2004, Graham has had many roles. While the company was turning over £8m, Graham worked as one of six contracts managers.

From here, he became senior contracts manager and then contracts director. Today, Ground Control turns over £122m and Graham is supply chain director, working closely with the field teams.

With such a role, and his previous experience, Graham has had a big hand in Ground Control's adoption of battery powered equipment. This is seeing the company’s static sites and directly employed teams move permanently towards 100% battery powered small tools – things such as strimmers, hedge cutters and leaf blowers, as well as automated mowers, of which there are three at The Tower of London and one at National Maritime Museum, with the number set to grow.

“We’ve gradually been replacing small tools, as they

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came to the end of their life, with battery powered kit,” explains Graham. “We’re really starting to make a conscious decision to make sure all our staff are using battery powered equipment.”

Indeed, Ground Control has now drawn a line in the sand, and it will no longer be buying any small tools with an internal combustion engine (ICE).

WE’RE REALLY STARTING TO MAKE A CONSCIOUS DECISION TO MAKE SURE ALL OUR STAFF ARE USING BATTERY POWERED EQUIPMENT Though these are changes which were important to Ground Control, it didn’t rush blindly into buying the equipment.

“I’m very open to trialling new equipment,” explains Graham, “We have trialled, and we continue to trial, different bits of kit from various companies.”

Some of these companies include Stihl, Husqvarna, Makita Honda, and EGO, with upcoming trials of ECHO. It’s Stihl and Husqvarna’s kit which have made up the staple pieces of equipment at Ground Control, with Husqvarna also able to provide automated mowers. “As well as other suppliers, I’ve got a good working relationship with Husqvarna, because it has a similar ethos to Ground Control in regard to the environment and how it cares for its staff,” Graham explains.

Apart from the obvious environmental benefits due to the reduction of fossil fuels, Graham has observed a number of other benefits which come from using www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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INTERVIEW

battery powered equipment. Though we’ve heard the benefits before, such as the reduction in fumes, weight, noise, and hand arm vibrations (HAVs), Graham emphasises how enormously beneficial these are for the maintenance teams: “Reduced noise isn’t just beneficial for the operative – though this is an enormous improvement from being exposed to the noise levels of ICE equipment – but it's also great for the environment they use them in.

"We’re able to start earlier, and work in locations such as hospitals, schools, business centres, housing associations, and sites like the Tower of London where there’s a large number of tourists.”

Often, cost is listed as a downside to battery powered equipment, but for Graham, though the initial outlay is more, the money saved after makes up for it twofold. This is down to the obvious lack of petrol or diesel costs, but also the reduction in maintenance costs: “You don’t need to replace carburettors, filters, spark plugs, etc., because it's an integral piece,” explains Graham. “As long as you are seeing to general maintenance – making sure blades are clean and oiled – you won’t have regular issues with it.”

Though all of Ground Control’s directly employed maintenance teams will soon be fully electric, with field teams following closely behind, there are still strides to be made with the technology of larger pieces of equipment before Ground Control can fully transition. The biggest downfall currently is the van’s payload, as the weight of the batteries diminishes how much they can carry. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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“We want to quickly transition over to EV, because fuel powered vehicles are the largest contributor to our carbon footprint,” explains Graham. “But equally, we don’t want to rush into purchasing vehicles when realistically over the next six months to a year more vans are likely to be released which will improve upon the vehicles currently on the market.”

Ground Control is, however, looking to purchase numerous vans by the end of this year, which it is already currently trialing, and has plans to pilot products from a variety of different suppliers.

WE WANT TO QUICKLY TRANSITION OVER TO EV, BECAUSE FUEL POWERED VEHICLES ARE THE LARGEST CONTRIBUTOR TO OUR CARBON FOOTPRINT There is also hope for the EV vans, as every year Ground Control assesses the sites its teams are allocated with an aim to reduce the area they travel to.

“On a yearly basis we save 320,000 miles through reallocation,” Graham tells us.

Not only is this cost effective for the teams, but it also reduces emissions and, perhaps more importantly, makes the proposition of EV vehicles viable. Though Graham thought the miles covered by a EV van would be an issue, but due to the reallocation every year and majority of teams doing approximately 100 miles a day, most EV vans can cover this.

Although currently it is mainly Ground Control’s direct employees who are switching to battery powered and EV, it wants to support its field teams and small entrepreneurial businesses to do the same, using its buying power to get them the best deals.

Ground Control isn’t just looking internally, either. “We want to help push and support the UK in its move to EV vehicles,” explains Graham. Besides having the largest fleet of Tesla in Europe, Ground Control also has goals of installing 10,000 EV chargers across the UK by 2025, and is offering a leasing scheme to partners and family members of staff to support them in a move to EV. It seems the future for Ground Control and its equipment is very green indeed.

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FEATURE

SMART KIT Wondering if there’s a way to connect your kit to your phone? Husqvarna and Stihl have got you covered.

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hat isn’t there an app for these days? You can turn on your heating without being home or switch on the lights without moving from the sofa.

You can connect your smart speakers to pretty much any electronic device, from the TV to your robotic vacuum cleaner.

So, why not use an app to connect your equipment too?

Husqvarna has been developing this technology for years. The Swedish manufacturer of outdoor power equipment sought a way to make managing machinery and tasks easier for those operating its kit, and it came up with Husqvarna Fleet Services.

The cloud-based system provides landscapers and tree care professionals with an overview of their machine fleet inventory, location information, and machine and usage status.

To start tracking and storing the data, a Bluetooth sensor needs to be fitted to the exterior of every machine in a landscaping team’s fleet, which is

surely little effort for large gains. And the Husqvarna robotic mowers already have built-in sensors, so if using these, it’s even easier to connect your kit.

Through Husqvarna Fleet Services, users can view their whole fleet inventory, both out in the field and in the warehouse. They’ll have access to accurate facts and statistics about the fleet such as what machines are in the inventory and their last-known location.

THROUGH HUSQVARNA FLEET SERVICES, USERS CAN VIEW THEIR WHOLE FLEET INVENTORY, BOTH OUT IN THE FIELD AND IN THE WAREHOUSE Operators can also see how much the machine has been used and when it’s time for a service, as well as its service history. For a fleet of robotic mowers, landscapers can see each one’s status and geo-position, on either a map or on a list, in real-time.

This allows track and trace, as well as mower scheduling options.

Huqvarna isn’t the only company to launch a smart system. German manufacturer Stihl has made waves with its offering, Stihl Connected, which gives fleet managers more visibility and control over the usage of their tools.

There are four central system components to Stihl Connected: Stihl Smart Connector, which is easily attached to the tool, the Connected app

THE STIHL CONNECTED SYSTEM CAN HELP TO IMPROVE DAILY WORK PROCESSES AND MAXIMISE RETURN ON INVESTMENT which links to the Stihl cloud, and Stihl connected portal. By efficiently analysing 6

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critical machinery performance data, the Stihl Connected system can help to improve daily work processes and maximise return on investment.

Using the new streamlined Connected app, fleet managers can easily find an overview of the fleet of tools, including model and ownership information, data on machine run times as well as maintenance schedules.

Fleet managers can easily see which tools are due for servicing or in service on the maintenance page. Here, they can also access the maintenance history, making it easier to effectively plan based on the tool availability and minimise downtime by sharing the information with a Stihl connected dealer, ordering spare parts ahead of time.

A ‘nearby’ function also allows users to see the tools which are in their immediate vicinity and allows them to view the last-known locations of the devices on a map.

Both Husqvarna Fleet Services and Stihl Connected allow their users to operate more efficiently and are well on their way to becoming essential systems for fleet managers. And they’re undoubtedly just the starting point for these equipment giants. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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FEATURE

THE BATTERY BOOM Battery powered ranges continue to grow, with the latest launches more powerful and efficient than ever. But just how far has it come?

MAKITA Makita launched its first battery powered product in 1969; the 6500D. In 1978, the company launched the 6010D – its first power tool with a rechargeable battery.

First launch: LXT A pioneer of using lithium-ion battery technology, Makita launched the 18V LXT platform in 2005. Today, the LXT system

is the world’s largest compatible 18V slide style battery system.

Recent launch: XGT Most recently, Makita launched its XGT 40V Max battery platform. With 40V Max and Twin 40V Max XGT products, the range is engineered to achieve the optimum power required for heavier load applications without sacrificing run time. www.makitauk.com ECHO Echo introduced its first batterypowered professional range in 2014 and subsequently introduced 50V lithiumion battery powered hedge trimmers, trimmers and power blowers. It continues to expand its 50V range today with upgrades and new launches.

First launch: DHC-200 hedge trimmer The DHC-200 hedge trimmer came with a 2Ah battery as standard with the option of a 4Ah battery. The range was touted as offering petrol performance.

Recent launch: DCS-2500T chainsaw The DCS-2500T, the first batterypowered top handle chainsaw, is the latest addition to Echo’s X Series of "best in class" products, tested in extreme conditions to ensure flawless operation. www.echo-tools.co.uk

SMALL CHANGE, BIG DIFFERENCE

Slight changes to the design of a product can make a huge difference to the end user, as these suppliers know first hand

MAKITA Innovative blade technology Makita has launched a range of cordless hedge cutters that incorporate its innovate asymmetric blade design to deliver an efficient, clean and controlled cut every time. Unlike traditional blades (that have two cutting edges and a uniform tooth shape), Makita’s asymmetric blade has a precision 8

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engineered tooth profile with three cutting edges that ensure efficient cutting and less friction (meaning extended run times).

The asymmetric blade can easily grip the material thanks to the rear tooth’s shallower edge – and the front tooth’s steeper angle makes light work of tackling mature growth, thick branches and hedges.

Machines with this technology are available with single or double sided 60cm and 75cm blades. www.makitauk.com

HAIX Comfortable and effective footwear Haix Airpower X21 has changed to the Airpower XR22, making the working day safer and more comfortable. The key change has been to use a new sole unit on the boot.

It keeps a PU (Polyurethane) midsole for cushioning and support, but now has a new high performance rubber outsole, where the previous sole was TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane).

Benefits include improved slip resistance, durability, and a more effective tread pattern. www.haix.co.uk www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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s

UNBEATABLE QUALITY. UNRIVALLED VERSATILITY. Ideal for large areas where lightweight machinery is required to minimise turf damage but high horse power and exceptional lift capacity for its size cannot be compromised. The TH Range of ISEKI compact tractors are equipped with a Stage V compliant powerful 35hp or 40hp 3-cylinder turbo diesel engine and 3-speed hydrostatic transmission for ease of use whilst manoeuvring.

With a 1200kg lift capacity at the ball end the TH range can operate a wide range of implements with ease. The 2 speed rear PTO with 2 mode engagement and auto stop function plus mid PTO to suit a variety of implements. For the ultimate comfort an air conditioned cab is available as an option. Other additional extras include front loader and mid-mount deck for the ultimate versatility.

Contact your local dealer to book a demo on your site today!

Designed & Engineered in Japan www.iseki.co.uk

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THERE’S AN EASIER WAY TO AVOID PAYING £100 A DAY.* Find out how the Isuzu Euro 6 range meets the Low Emission Zone targets. euro6.isuzutruck.co.uk 01707 282944

*Up to £100 a day applies to vehicles operating within the London Ultra Low Emission Zone from April 2019, and soon in proposed low emission zones (LEZ) across major towns and cities in the UK.

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13/05/2021 12:12

FEATURE

FEATURE

DRONES AWAY We speak to Justin Moat, Tim Wilkinson and Jenny Williams from Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, to find out more about how drones are helping with reforestation efforts

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oyal Botanic Gardens, Kew’s goal has always been to understand, document and protect plants. In doing so, it is helping in the fight against some of the largest issues of today such as climate change and biodiversity loss.

Part of this huge effort, Spatial Analysis is a small yet dynamic team that deals with mapping, helping to answer where plants are, why they’re there and how they got there.

Alongside the rest of their team, Justin, Tim and Jenny work across the board using a whole host of technologies and equipment to measure and quantify the landscape.

One area which is of specific interest is reforestation, and one piece of equipment in particular has helped immensely with this work – drones. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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How exactly can drones help with reforestation?

Tim: There are a whole suite of different technologies which are pushing forward against this frontier. We’re mainly focused on the monitoring end, looking at the success or failure of restoration, but also within deforested areas to understand what was there before and after, and how its been lost.

Jenny: A lot of what we do on site is making sure the work we’re doing really

counts. Right tree right place for the right purpose is so crucial; there’s no point putting valuable resources somewhere you haven’t assessed. It’s also important to find out whether we even need to intervene, or whether nature can take care of itself.

Drones help us with this work because they can access and monitor areas it would take hours and hours – if not days – to get to on foot. In Madagascar, we opportunistically sent up drones and

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FEATURE

Fixed wing • Small aeroplane.

• Can cover a large area and stays in the air for a long time due to its ability to glide, using less power.

• Has to keep moving.

• Can’t carry a large amount of weight.

• Needs a good amount of space to take off and to land.

• Over an hour of run time.

Quadcopter • Multi rotor stable platforms.

• Has to continually power itself to keep it in the air and keep it stable.

• Can take more weight, but this does reduce flight time.

• Relatively small space needed to take off and landing, it can therefore travel through small spaces, like a tree canopy.

• Run time of up to 45 minutes. discovered a large site of deforestation which no one knew was there. It turned out to be an excellent site for reforestation, because we could infill and know it would be naturally protected.

Drones help not only to narrow down what you’re looking at – structure, diversity, location – but they also allow us to see the bigger picture too, to figure out where we should focus our reforestation efforts – is it on the edges of the forest which have historically been chosen to form a buffer, or the inside?

Justin: In Peru and Brazil we’re currently monitoring restoration sites which are 14 years old. We can now begin to analyse the structure and complexity of the forest. That is all measured through sets of photographs and three-dimensional imagery we get back from the drone.

As well as your standard camera, you can add multispectral which allows 12

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All images ©Jenny Williams @RGB Kew

DRONES Though there are a variety of drone types, categorising them simply drones can either be fixed wing or quadcopter.

you to look at wavelengths of light.

Through this, (working with UK's Rutherford Appleton Lab) we can observe vegetation health – as well as hyperspectral where instead of picking up just blue, green and red, you’re able to pick up all of the wavelengths of light right the way through to near infrared, which again hugely helps us to observe vegetation health, but also differentiate species.

There is talk of drones being used for seeding, fertilisation and weed control. What are your thoughts on this?

Justin: I would say at this precise moment it’s quite experimental. Drones can administer herbicides and pesticides, but this comes with it's own set of problems and issues. There are some new initiatives out there where drones shoot and spread seed pellets into the

DRONES HELP NOT ONLY TO NARROW DOWN WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING AT...THEY ALSO ALLOW US TO SEE THE BIGGER PICTURE ground, and there are initiatives to use drones to plant mangrove seedlings, but these are all very experimental. It’s easy enough to chuck seeds out, but who is going to look after them? The germination rates are incredibly low.

Jenny: These things are fantastic, and we don’t want to discourage it at all, but

you need the right science behind it. In Madagascar, for example, everything is unique and so seed bombs may not work well because you’re never going to be able to put the right seeds in the right place and there’s not enough information about any of them to help them grow. In a more temperate forest, where you have only two or three species, it might work better.

Tim: We’ve seen drones used for collecting samples and that’s very exciting. Tall trees are obviously very hard for us to get to, but with drones we can safely collect leaves and flowers and also potentially seed at that point, too.

What further advancements can we expect to see?

Justin: We’ve already seen a lot of advancements over the years – the latest technology allows drones to pick up commercial flights, so you can see where aeroplanes are, avoiding any interactions.

The next advancement for drones is light detection and ranging (LiDAR) which will allow us to build three dimensional maps but also to penetrate the canopy, so you don’t just see the leaves on the top, you can hop down through the canopy to the ground if you’re lucky.

Light and temperature sensors are also coming in, and there’s an experimental sensor which can detect chemical compounds, which could, for example, identify pheromones from trees under attack or stress. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

13/05/2021 16:02

Expert 900 Series 48V battery brushcutter

Perfected

Rubber cased handles: Provides grip and insulation from vibration.

By green-fingered engineers.

Stiga batteries are tested for real life working conditions – far beyond the industry standard.

Fingertip STIGA control pad: Conveniently positioned to control cutting speed and display battery status.

Compact to store: The handlebar easily folds flat for space-efficient storage.

Cutting speed control: Pressure sensitive trigger for variable cutting head speeds.

High-efficiency brushless motor: 1kW output for maximum cutting performance. Reduced noise, no fumes or engine maintenance.

Noise reduction built in: Aluminium gearcase provides noise insulation and maximum torque.

Reliable, long-lasting power: The STIGA battery harness accommodates 2 x 48v 7.5Ah batteries for double the power and a runtime of 3 hours and 20 minutes.

Heavy duty cutting: Effortlessly deals with thicker, longer wild grass and weeds.

STIGA Battery Harness: Ergonomically designed to distribute the weight of the batteries evenly reducing physical stress and fatigue.

48V range

EPower lasts. The high performance that drives the Expert range of cordless garden tools.

Leaf Blower

Hedge Trimmer Backpack

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Lawn mowers

Next level engineering.

13/05/2021 12:12

FEATURE

MEET THE SUPPLIER

Sales director Kenny Brock explains how Först has built a name for itself as a leading brand in chippers What is your role at Först and how has it developed over time?

My current role is sales director. I joined the company as an area sales manager for the East of England and from there I moved to UK sales manager. In January this year I took the sales director role for the group, which includes responsibility for sales in all regions including our German subsidiary business and export business.

Can you tell us a bit about Först?

Först is a brand of Redwood Global Ltd. Redwood has been supplying to the arb sector for about 30 years; we started as an importer of chippers from Germany before creating Först and building our own machines in 2013. One of the unique things about us is that we sell direct to the end user. We understand 14

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the market in detail and know exactly what customers want from a chipper.

That gave us a great place to start in designing the perfect all-round machine.

ONE OF THE UNIQUE THINGS ABOUT US IS THAT WE SELL DIRECT TO THE END USER. WE UNDERSTAND THE MARKET IN DETAIL AND KNOW EXACTLY WHAT CUSTOMERS WANT FROM A CHIPPER We are now the largest woodchipper manufacturer in the UK and Europe, and about twice the size of the main UK competitor. The numbers speak for themselves really in how the market has taken to the brand.

How was the Först brand created?

Lots of conversations with customers, lots of finding out customer pain points and just building a product that removed those things and worked better than

anything else. They’re robust, tough and the performance in processing all types of material from wet, green brash to gnarly apple is exceptional. We actually started on a farm in Hampshire. It was a pretty rudimentary start, but we had lots of passion and a great team.

For those new to the brand, could you describe some of the core benefits?

Firstly, performance. Först machines really do offer an exceptional chipping performance. Next would be quality and reliability, they are robust machines build for a tough environment. Finally, our aftersales back-up and support. We were the first manufacturer to offer a threeyear warranty, and that is a genuine three-year warranty. We really do look after customers and have strong belief in the principle that service gets the second sale, and we live by that. Our direct sales model is great for customers too; you deal directly with us as the manufacturer and get serviced direct too. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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FEATURE What’s available in the range?

We have two core machine sizes – 6” x 8” capacity and 8” x 10” capacity. We have a wheeled, tracked and PTO variant of both sizes, and a range of petrol and diesel engines. The bestselling machine is the ST6P, the 6” sub-750kg machine which is an outstanding chipper. We have a fully stage V emission compliant range too, including the 8D series which is the 8” capacity 55hp diesel products, they are another great seller offering performance that is second to none in the market.

Where can industry professionals purchase the products?

In England and Wales, you buy direct from us. We have locations in Andover, Hampshire and Doncaster, South Yorkshire and area sales managers covering the country. In Scotland, you can buy from our partner, ILH Groundcare Machinery, and in Ireland through Glendun Plant Sales. Two great partners who live by the same service principles as we do.

Can you tell us about service support?

The service support we offer is absolutely first class and our customers will tell you the same thing. We have a brand called FörstAssist which is there purely to provide service and support for

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our customers. If you have any queries or issues, they are on the end of the phone with support and approximately 90% of the time they can answer your questions

WE HAVE A BRAND CALLED FÖRSTASSIST WHICH IS THERE PURELY TO PROVIDE SERVICE AND SUPPORT FOR OUR CUSTOMERS and get you back on track. If they can’t, however, and you need a machine fixing, we will come to you and get you fixed.

What has been the response to the latest launch, the Först TT6?

We’ve barely scratched the surface with the TT6. It launched as lockdown hit so we’ve not really got out there with it yet.

That said, we have a really decent order book for it and everyone who has seen it really likes it and has been ordering so I’m sure it’s going to be keeping us very busy. Being a turntable, below 750kg and offering the performance it does – it’s only going to go one way.

How does Först get to know its customers?

Our direct sales model means we have a lot of communication with the end user, and due to the nature of the product we

get out a lot to do demonstrations and show prospects the machines.

We have a strapline that ‘Every customer is a VIP’ and we actually believe that; it is written on the office wall and we work to build longstanding relationships with our customers based on great product and great service. We obviously do all the other good things too like social media; it’s great to be able to engage with customers online and seeing the machine in action all around the globe.

What can we expect from Först over the next few months?

The big question! All I can say right now is that there is a lot going on back at HQ. The engineering and product design team has doubled in size over the past 12 months and there are some exciting things coming. I’m going to leave it there but be assured you will be seeing some exciting innovations in the coming months. We have just launched a new website, actually, so that is something new! Check it out, we hope you like it.

To view the Först range or book a free demonstration, please visit: www.forstglobal.com

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13/05/2021 14:13

ADVERTORIAL

HARD GRAFTER

Isuzu Truck’s range of commercial vehicles not only fits performance needs but also emission demands

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suzu Truck (UK) Ltd supplies commercial vehicles from 3.5t up to 13.5t GVW to the UK market.

Our product range offers a broad spectrum of cabs, wheelbases and body specifications with complete servicing solutions and finance options.

Every model in the range comes with a three-year unlimited mileage warranty and Isuzu Assist – our breakdown service – as standard and is also backed up by our CARE customer support service. Also, each truck is fitted with dual airbags.

The Grafter, at 3.5t (N35), can handle an impressive amount of mileage during the course of its working life.

Operators see the three main benefits of our Grafters being their impressive payload capacity, how easy they are to manoeuvre and their ability to tow up to 3.5t* (*subject to specifications).

Richard Waterworth, head of sales at Isuzu Truck UK says: “Payload, efficiency and reliability are a must for operators and Isuzu provides this in abundance with Japanese engineering being at the forefront of our product range.”

Our 7.5t (N75) trucks have long been admired for their impressive payload 16

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carrying capacity and are renowned for their durability. They are ideal for operators demanding high payload, manoeuvrability, accessibility, reliability, performance and driveability.

PAYLOAD, EFFICIENCY AND RELIABILITY ARE A MUST FOR OPERATORS AND ISUZU PROVIDES THIS IN ABUNDANCE WITH JAPANESE ENGINEERING BEING AT THE FOREFRONT OF OUR PRODUCT RANGE With today’s increasingly busy road networks and city centres becoming more congested and difficult to navigate around, our compact footprint comes into its own. Due to our forward design cab, which gives our vehicles a reduced turning circle, we are able to fit equivalent body lengths to that of other manufacturers but reduce the overall length of the vehicle.

With more and more Low Emission Zones (LEZ) popping up around the UK, it is going to prove incredibly tough for any company to operate in these areas if their vehicles incur a regular

daily charge. Crucially, all our vehicles comply with Euro 6 emissions which gives customers a degree of futureproofing.

We understand the complexities of running a business and therefore Isuzu Truck UK partnered with BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions and we are currently offering three bespoke finance solutions.

These routes to ownership may suit many landscaping businesses with quiet periods during the year. With a number of finance plans available, the flexibility and different ways of procuring our vehicles will certainly help customers plan ahead and give them the reassurance that they are able to tailor and choose the right option for themselves. For a limited period, Isuzu Truck UK are also offering (on the 3.5t range only) a comprehensive Extended Warranty and Service package.

We are also backed by a comprehensive commercial dealer network which fully understands the customer service levels that are expected in the commercial vehicle sector.

For more information about Isuzu truck range and competitive finance packages up to 72 months across all models, please call 01707 282 944 or visit www.isuzutruck.co.uk. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

13/05/2021 09:46

Biomass Wood Chippers Crane Mounts Tractor Guarding Forestry Winches Firewood Processors Portable Sawmills Grapple Saws Tree Shears Cone Splitters Sawdust Extractors Woodchip Blowers Timber Trailers Forestry Cranes Log Splitters Wood Saws

www.fuelwood.co.uk

Billet Bundlers

01926 484673

And Much More

Sales

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Service

Support

sales@fuelwood.co.uk Beausale : Warwick : CV35 7AF

13/05/2021 12:13

KIT

CHIPPERS Heavy-duty tools for heavy-duty tasks.

GREENMECH GreenMech CS100 If ‘on-the-spot’ chipping in confined spaces is what you are looking for, then the GreenMech CS100 is the solution.

Designed for professional landscapers who need to access narrow passages alongside properties, in gardens or hardto-get-to sites, the CS100 woodchipper is a mere 760mm (30inch) wide. Known as ‘The Pocket Rocket’, the GreenMech CS100 with its 18hp electric start petrolengine makes light work of timber, wood waste and vegetation.

Tech specs: • 760mm unit width to fit through standard gates and doorways • 18hp electric-start Briggs & Stratton petrol engine • Twin reversible chipping blades • Adjustable discharge chute • Optional dedicated trailer www.greenmech.co.uk FÖRST Först ST6P The Först ST6P is the fastest, most aggressive and most robust 6” woodchipper on the market. Using the industry-renowned FörstGrip feed roller and Först flywheel system, the ST6P is unmatched in processing all types of material – and also weighs under the 750kg towing threshold. Contact Först for a demo.

Tech specs: • Sub-750kg towing weight • Stage V emission compliant 37HP petrol engine • Unmatched performance in processing all types of material • Easy maintenance • Three-year warranty www.forst-woodchippers.com

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13/05/2021 11:04

Petrol has had its day.

ALPHA RANGE Professional tools and plug-in batteries for everyday use.

● Batteries from £320 + VAT ● Tools from £399 + VAT ● 4 year Battery Warranty ● IP54 Waterproof Rating ● 1hr 30 mins – 5 hours run time on a single charge

Distributed in the UK & Ireland by

Tel: 01295 680120 • email: sales@etesia.co.uk www.pellencuk.com ஶPellencUK

ஶ@PellencUK

ஶEtesiaUK

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STANLEY Petrol Tool Advert April 2021.pdf

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Ladder falls result in 130 A&E visits every week* Stay safe at height with a PLATFORM TRIPOD LADDER 1.

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inc VAT

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TO ORDER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

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* NHS Digital, Hospital Episode Statistics for England. Admitted Patient Care Statistics 2019-20.

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13/05/2021 12:14

KIT

STUMP GRINDERS We speak with stump grinder suppliers to uncover their latest launches.

GLOBAL RECYCLING Bandit SG-40 Stump Grinder Specifications • 18” diameter cutter wheel • Three-position swing-out operator console • New track tensioning system • Sealed slew bearing • Improved better centre of gravity Advancements have led to the Bandit SG-40 taking over from the already successful ZT1844. The SG-40 is a highly productive grinder that packs power plus portability. It aggressively tracks down and sweeps away stumps with the ease.

A newly designed spindle and hub assembly promotes a long-lasting lifetime of oscillating motion and a new swing geometry extends the cutterwheel grinding width to a massive

47”. With that type of coverage area, you’re sure to spend more time grinding at the stump rather than repositioning. www.globalrecycling.eu

PREDATOR Terminator Pro Specifications • Weight: 21kg (without leg) • Fit: Stihl MS 500i (other engines available) • Teeth: Quick change Multi Tip

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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• Grinding time: 10” diameter stump = approximately 15 minutes • Terminator is £2,495 (exc. VAT, without chainsaw engine) The Terminator range of stump grinder attachments are built for total access tree stump removal. Simply fit the Terminator to a range of Stihl chainsaw engines, and you have a portable stump grinder that's easy to carry and gets to the stump fast. The latest generation is the 'Terminator Pro' – fitted to the Stihl MS 500i chainsaw engine, this is the lightest yet at only 21kg. Carry the Terminator up steps, through property, across flower beds, unstable terrain or prize lawns, with only the operator's footprint. www.stihl.co.uk

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KIT

HEDGE TRIMMERS Top options for those needing a little extra reach.

MAKITA DUH601

HUSQVARNA 520iHT4

KÄRCHER HT 650/36 Bp

The DUH601 18V LXT Hedge Trimmer gives users maximum control with a fiveposition rotating rear handle and tripleedged cutting teeth.

• Brushless motor reduces friction to improve run time and productivity.

• Equipped with a battery protection circuit to prevent battery damage.

• Curved, double sided blade for maximum efficiency.

• Can deliver up to 4,400 strokes per minute.

• Three speed options available. www.makitauk.com

Husqvarna presents the 520iHT4. It can tackle demanding hedges, with up to a 4.5m reach. At only 5.3 kg, this is powerful and lightweight with high performance.

• Length adjustable telescopic tube and 120° angle adjustable cutter bar.

• Advanced brushless motor 25% more efficient than a standard brush motor.

• Weatherproof (IPX4).

• Keypad is easy to operate.

• savE™ mode for maximum runtime.

• Battery pack is designed for demanding professional use. www.husqvarna.com/uk

The battery-powered HT 650/36 Bp hedge trimmer creates impressively precise, clean cuts and is highly ergonomic. It sits perfectly in your hand with a rotatable grip for comfortable working, while the anti-blocking system ensures maximum safety.

• Voltage: 36V • Blade length: 650mm • Tooth spacing: 33mm • Stroke rate: 2,800rpm/3,200rpm • Weight (without blade and battery): 4.1kg www.kaercher.com/uk

STIHL HLA 135

EGO HT2000E

ECHO HC-2320

Stihl has launched the new HLA 135, a robust and powerful cordless long-reach hedge trimmer, ideal for commercial applications and trimming and pruning back large hedgerows.

• 5.6kg (without battery), 249cm long.

• 600mm double-sided, double-edged blades cut through 16 to 18mm branches.

• Cutter bar can be rotated through 145º.

• A new, more comfortable control handle boasts three-speed pre-selection levels through an LED display.

• Maximum stroke rate of 4,000rpm. www.stihl.co.uk

EGO’s 51cm hedge trimmer is ideal for narrow, small-to-medium hedges with thick stem widths. A dual-action, singlesided blade ensures smooth and precise cutting. with reliable power as well as reduced vibration and noise.

• Excellent run times and consistent cutting capability.

• Laser cut, diamond ground blades with dual action.

• Built in protection, safety blade and electric brake.

• Five-year domestic warranty. www.egopowerplus.co.uk

Replacing the HC-156 ,the new ECHO HC2320 is a lightweight, double-sided hedge trimmer with a 639mm blade for tackling larger, taller hedges. The lighter weight and ergonomic construction combine with robust components to give a rugged yet easy to use hedge trimmer with sharp Japanese blades for precise cutting and higher productivity.

• Low emission 21.2cc engine.

• Tool-free access to air filter.

• Weight (dry) of 4.6kg.

• Two-year professional warranty. www.echo-tools.co.uk

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www.prolandscapermagazine.com

13/05/2021 11:26

UNDER 1 MINUTE TO ATTACH

NEWLY LAUNCHED ATTACHMENTS

EXCAVATOR FORKLIFT

PATENT APPLIED FOR

FITS 1.0 TO 3.5 TONNE EXCAVATORS FOR PALLETS, BAGS OR LONG LOADS

www.excavatorfor klift.com

buy, sell and hire Advertise new and used arb kit for sale or hire in our

magazine.

spaces available from £100

Contact Millie on 01903 777570 or millie.genner@eljays44.com to book your spot.

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13/05/2021 16:04

KIT

MOW YOUR OWN WAY We speak to four suppliers to learn more about their latest mower launches as well as some of their top mowing tips.

STIGA Twinclip cordless mower The new Expert 900 range of lawnmowers and garden tools have been engineered for real-life working conditions. The Twinclip cordless mower packs power and strength into one robust machine. With reliable longlasting power from a smart intelligent battery system, a highly efficient brushless motor and built from tough robust materials, this mower featuring a Twinclip blade offers efficient cutting flexibility. www.stiga.com/uk

ISEKI SF551 Powerful and productive 1,300L collection mower, the SF551 with 49hp Stage V compliant diesel engine, hydrostatic transmission and 4WD offers effortless operation. Tackling the most dense and wet grass without faltering, leaving a pristine finish.

Available with a range of rotary, Muthing flail or verticutter decks. www.iseki.co.uk

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MAKITA DLM533 The self-propelled DLM533 Twin 18V (36V) LXT brushless lawnmower tackles large areas up to 2,300m 2 with ease.

The mower is powered by two 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries in series to drive the 36V brushless motor and features an aluminium deck and 70L grass collection box – as well as variable speed control. To extend run times, the DLM533 holds four batteries – so once the first set are run down, the second set automatically takes over. www.makitauk.com

HUSQVARNA Husqvarna LB 442i Husqvarna LB 442i is a compact and cordless battery powered lawnmower with a 42cm mulching cutting deck. Designed for users in need of a reliable and quiet mower with low running costs and easy maintenance. Ideal for managing complex smaller areas, including narrow passages or obstacles to mow around. www.husqvarna.com/uk

TOP TIPS

1. Cut no more than a 1/3 of the leaf blade in one go.

2. Switch to battery-powered lawnmowers. They are perfect for professionals working in noise sensitive areas, such as hotels, golf courses, hospitals, care homes, schools and public parks. Look for models that enhance productivity – such as the ability to switch batteries between tools and tasks within the same battery platform, as well as useful technologies that extend the life of the battery and performance.

3. Go cordless. Thanks to advances in battery technology, leading manufacturers are able to offer lawn mower solutions that are comparable to petrol or corded equivalents. Users needn’t be constrained by cables, risk running over cords, or concern themselves with transporting fuel.

4. Look closely at the product features to make sure the model chosen can deliver the output needed in the most efficient way.

5. Higher heights of cut promote deeper root growth, naturally allowing greater access to water and nutrients within the soil increasing the turfs tolerance to environmental stresses. Cutting between 2” to 3” also allows less light to reach the soil surface keeping it cooler, additionally decreasing the amount of weeds that are able to germinate.

6. Sharp mower blades will cut blades of grass cleanly, decreasing the amount of water lost from the grass, helping turf to cope with moisture deprivation. Tearing or shredding grass blades can also make the plant more susceptible to disease. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

13/05/2021 11:22

Alltrec 100% Electric Tool Carrier producing no CO2 emissions during operation

A versatile machine that can be used with several different attachments, making it perfect for cutting grass, controlling weeds, brushing or cleaning.

It has no CO2-emission and is suitable for use in multi-use sports complexes, urban areas, campsites, holiday resorts and theme parks.

For more information visit www.campeyturfcare.com

   

Reaching safely Hedgeheights cutter Weed controller Save money with our powered access solutions

Weed brush

CampeyTurfCare CampeySportsTurfMachinery CampeyMachinery CampeyTurfCare

Cutting deck

www.promaxaccess.com

Reaching heights safely Quick and easy access for roof repairs, both internal and external

Compact machines able to access difficult to reach areas Manoeuvres through standard gateways and narrow paths Low ground

www.promaxaccess.com Save money with our pressures avoiding ■ Extensive range of compact damage to drives, powered access solutions

tracked ‘Spider’ access platforms

paths and lawns Quick and easy access for roof Dual powered repairs, both internal andfor external silent, or internal ■ Compact fume machines able to access free working difficult to reach areas Site to site Manoeuvres through standard transportation on gateways standard and narrow paths plant trailer ■ Low ground pressures avoiding Full range of damage to drives, vehicle compact paths andmounted lawns access platforms ■ Dual powered for silent, or internal Avoids costly hire fume free charges working

Compact machines able to access difficult to reach areas Manoeuvres through standard gateways and narrow paths

6”, 7.5” & 8” Tracked Chippers

Track widening system & greater ground clearance

Site to site Cost effective transportation on investment standard plant solutions / low cost ■ trailer of ownership

Established 1999 6” Towed Chippers

A full range of compact vehicle mounted access platforms which can be quickly set up on a standard driveway or single lane carriageway. Insulated cage options available.

Full range of compact vehicle mounted access platforms

Stump Grinders - 28hp, 50hp & 75hp

Promax Access Ltd

Promax Access Ltd Avoids costly hire charges 01226 716657 Unit 8, Acorn Phase 3, Cost effective High Street, Grimethorpe, 01226 716658 investment Barnsley, South Yorkshire S72 7BD solutions / low cost of ownership Tel: 01226 716657 Email: sales@promaxaccess.com A full range of compact vehicle mounted access platforms which can be quickly set up on a standard driveway or Web: www.promaxaccess.com Fax:Insulated 01226 716658 single lane carriageway. cage options available.

Unit 8, Acorn Phase 3, High Street, Grimethorpe,

Telephone:

Barnsley, South Yorkshire S72 7BD

Email: sales@promaxaccess.com

Fax:

Members of the International Powered Access Federation

Web: www.promaxaccess.com

Tracked Access Platforms 14m, 15m, 19m & 20 Metres

Promax Access Ltd Unit 8, Acorn Phase 3, High Street, Grimethorpe, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S72 7BD Email: sales@promaxaccess.com Web: www.promaxaccess.com

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Telephone: 0118 940 1740 Email: info@dbm-hire.co.uk web: www.dbm-hire.co.uk

Telephone:

01226 716657

Fax:

01226 716658

Members of the International Powered Access Federation

27/07/2016 10:23 13/05/2021 12:15

ADVERTORIAL

KEEPING IT CORDLESS emissions are produced during use, cordless machines are more environmentally friendly and safer to operate.

Mark Earles, business development manager for garden machinery at Makita UK, explains how cordless technology has evolved to become the go-to solution for professionals to tackle any task with ease

W

ith a wide range of tasks to undertake across the working day, professionals need an extensive selection of reliable, durable and versatile machines to hand to tackle them effortlessly. For anyone working outdoors, it is important to opt for tools that offer maximum flexibility – to make sure the entire working area can be covered with ease.

Cordless tools offer a number of benefits. The absence of a power lead increases manoeuvrability around a site or when working at height. There are no trip hazards from trailing cables.

No fuel or oil is required on site, so there is no need to worry about the safe transportation and storage of fuel or contamination from fuel spills. As no 26

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Innovative battery technology Advances in battery technology mean that the cordless models of today can deliver the performance output needed for outdoor tasks without compromising on battery run times. For example, Makita uses lithium-ion batteries, which will work for long periods of time without the need to regularly recharge them. These batteries do not need to be drained down completely before charging.

Makita’s unique smart system technology provides data communication between the battery and the charger, as well as the battery and the tool, to deliver protection against overloading, over-discharging and overheating. This significantly speeds up the charging process and minimises downtime. For example, using the DC40RA 40VMax fast charger a 2.5Ah XGT battery can be charged in just 28 minutes and a 4.0Ah battery in 45 minutes.

it is important to consider their durability. For example, XGT batteries are engineered with a heavy-duty outer casing and cell holder and shock absorbing housing that work to protect

ADVANCES IN BATTERY TECHNOLOGY MEAN THAT THE CORDLESS MODELS OF TODAY CAN DELIVER THE PERFORMANCE OUTPUT NEEDED FOR OUTDOOR TASKS WITHOUT COMPROMISING ON BATTERY RUN TIMES the battery if dropped. Each XGT battery also has an IPX4 rating, which is ideal for those working in unpredictable weather.

Another design feature to consider is the inclusion of a brushless motor.

As there are no moving parts within the motor causing friction, wear and tear and ongoing maintenance costs of brushless tools are minimised. No friction also means that no energy is lost through heat production, which increases run times and reduces the need to regularly stop to replace or recharge the batteries.

Makita’s XGT range consists of both construction and garden machinery products, offering professional landscapers a wide selection of highpower models to tackle any task with ease. To find out more, visit: www.makitauk.com

Tools that deliver When selecting machines that will need to withstand unpredictable outdoor environments and heavy-duty applications, www.prolandscapermagazine.com

13/05/2021 10:06

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Isuzu 3.5t Euro 6

Compact footprint, same powerful performance and payload.

Due to Isuzu’s forward cab design we are able to fit equivalent body length to that of European manufacturers but reduce the overall length of the vehicle.

For the ultimate flexibility the 3.5t Grafter chassis cab is available with either single or twin rear wheels. This versatility delivers a unique blend of body options, payload, comfort and performance.

01707 282944 / isuzutruck.co.uk

*Terms & Conditions apply. Subject to specification. Images shown are for illustration purposes only.

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