Once more, Saltex presented cutting edge landscaping and groundcare kit to a visitor audience bristling with heads of fleets and assets and decision-making managers.
Some 30 products saw their public outing over the two-day show, including some startling launches in the robotic mower sector, now powering ahead across the industry as the need among operational teams to heighten efficiency grows more pressing.
Here, we sample the show, presenting a mix of new plus tried and tested stalwarts. The event offered a deep dive into latest advances, with sustainability and innovation taking centre stage via a diverse array of exhibitors committed to pushing the industry forward through technology and efficient solutions.
One area of growing interest was the move towards zero-emissions outdoor power equipment (OPE), an effort to reduce the carbon footprint and health impacts of traditional grounds maintenance practices.
Here are some of the highlight products showcased at SALTEX 2024:
Groundsman takes care of turf
Since 1990, Groundsman Industries have been developing their unique range of grass maintenance machines and accessories for maximum performance and durability.
On display the Turf Multi Cutter range offering excellent cutting ability and traction in all conditions with smooth operation and operator comfort. Two and four wheel drive and rear blade option for consistent sod thickness even on rolling terrane as well accommodating a wide range of blades and attachments. A Guillotine is available to measure and chop the sod in pre-set lengths.
Groundsman Tractor Mounting and Pedestrian Aerators all use Groundsman’s proven rugged Elliptical Plunge Action mechanism for aeration down to 15cm depth with minimal surface disruption. Quick-change tine-holders switch between Solid, Chisel, Hollow and Cluster Tines for dense pattern aeration, thatch removal or over-seeding.
The new SpeedPro aerator range can needle tine greens punching holes 30mm apart travelling at 50m per min with minimal surface disruption, it can also spike fairways, pitches and outfields penetrating compacted soil down to 20cm deep making it the most efficient versatile aerator for all surfaces. The SpeedPro range will be available in 1.2m 1.8m and 2.4m operating widths.
The Flexblade Collector attachment is available for most aerators as well as Groundsman to Core and Collect in one pass or for use independently for Follow-up Collection of Cores or Linear Aeration Soil.
Visit www.groundsmanindustries.com
Hit show for Hozelock
Saltex proved to be a success for Hozelock Exel – the parent company of stalwart sprayer brands Cooper-Pegler and Berthoud. The stand was specially redesigned to show more than 12 sprayers from both popular brands with new artwork and signage. The engaging presentation plus special prize draw attracted new and old customers alike.
Hot topics discussed were the Berthoud combination nozzle, the availability of parts and the Berthoud 3000 electric sprayer. This class-leading knapsack combines the comfort of the full padded harness with a bespoke Li-ion battery and four run positions to allow up to 6.5 hours constant run-time.
The combination nozzle includes the option of three spray patterns in one unit using a simple twist of the wrist. It comes as standard on the Floraly pump sprayer models and the Cosmos 18 knapsack but can be fitted on all Berthoud and Hozelock lances as an optional extra.
Contact Richard Wheatcroft, Key Account Manager Commercial Spraying, on 07814 871289 for enquiries on where to buy or interest in distributing. Visit https://www.cooper-pegler.com/en/
Hayter updates Harrier Pro line
Since its launch in 1970, the Hayter Harrier has become an industry icon.
“You spoke, we listened,” says Hayter’s Chris Cooper. “The updates to the Harrier Pro range are all about meeting the evolving needs of today’s contractors, who are time poor and need tools that can work reliably under tough conditions.” Among the latest innovations is the new 3-speed transmission available on the Harrier 56 Pro petrol model, giving users the flexibility to adjust speed for different grass conditions. For wet grass, the reduced forward speed improves collection, while higher speeds maximize productivity on dry lawns.
Celebrating the 55th anniversary of the Harrier and the latest updates, Hayter will be hosting a Harrier Pro Tour in March 2025. This tour will visit multiple locations across Great Britain, providing landscapers and contractors the chance to try the newly upgraded models themselves.
For details visit www.hayter.co.uk
Toro eProStripe
The new Toro eProStripe 560 was part of Reesink and Toro’s largest ever machinery line-up at SALTEX this year – and with good reason. It is an ideal pedestrian mower for a landscaper’s shed. Compact and manoeuvrable, with the ability to produce high-definition stripes, and now entirely fuel free. Two lithium-ion batteries ensure maximum performance and runtime but with low vibration levels and zero exhaust emissions making it a pleasure to use. Its two-piece rear roller design and zero-turn capability make it easy to produce customer-pleasing visually striking stripes.
The dual mow and collect function means you can cut, remove debris and smooth the grass in one go and the high-capacity 21 gallon/80 litre grass box reduces the number of times the box needs emptying, minimising downtime. Modernising a nearly perfect design, the eProStripe 560 takes precision mowing and striping to the next level, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Kress stress sustainable innovation
Kress’s presence brought battery-powered alternatives designed to tackle the challenges of conventional petrol-powered equipment. Its approach mixes high power and reliability in its battery systems, aiming to match or even exceed performance levels of traditional tools. This emphasis on sustainability is central to Kress’s mission to lead the shift away from petrol machines by focusing on advanced battery technology.
Stand visitors could engage with its latest equipment, including professional and commercial OPE and robotic mowers, engineered to run efficiently without harmful emissions. A quieter, cleaner alternative addresses two pressing concerns within the sector: environmental impact and noise pollution.
Quieter machines offer an added benefit, making it easier for maintenance work to be carried out in populated areas or during non- working hours without disturbing the surrounding environment.
The showcase of such battery-powered solutions, including autonomous equipment like robotic mowers, sparked valuable discussions among attendees, many of whom see the transition to zero-emission grounds maintenance as inevitable but complex.
Saltex 2024 highlighted how innovations in battery technology and automation could pave the way for more sustainable operations without compromising effectiveness, presenting a platform for brands, professionals and innovators to exchange ideas and explore the future of environmentally responsible practices.
https://www.kress.com/en-gb/
EGO revamp pro kit
Visitors learned how outdoor power equipment specialist EGO Power Plus is revamping its professional tools in 2025, with its most powerful hand-held battery-powered blower and new Pro X backpack blower displayed. A composite wide deck professional mower and EGO’s first-ever robot mower were also unveiled.
Campey rolls out electric sarel unit
Sportsturf and groundcare machinery maker Campey Turf Care Systems unveiled its electric sarel roller to deliver “efficient, eco-conscious” aeration of bowling greens and cricket squares.
The robust, 60 cm-wide unit is built to improve soil health and optimise grass growth on areas up to 3,000 m². Using 70 sharp, durable spikes, it precisely penetrates soil 223 times a square metre to boost air circulation and water absorption, reducing soil compaction to promote deeper, healthier root growth for strong and resilient turf.
The high-capacity battery allows long, unbroken, silent running with zero emissions, making the roller suited to noise-sensitive sites such as sports clubs and public parks.
A transport roller securely shields the spikes while moving the unit, preventing damage and extending operational life.
Paxster UTV gains spray capacity
UK distributor BOSS ORV has added a Nomix Enviro manual sprayer unit to the Paxster eCompact Air electric utility vehicle. The spot spray feature extends versatility for the vehicle, launched earlier this year to work in groundcare, horticulture, construction forestry, estates and leisure.
Infinicut reveal 26” walkbehind
Infinicut, stand sharing with parent DeWalt, introduced a 26” fixed head (FX) pedestrian mower, utilising dedicated cutting head technology featuring new cutting unit platform to allow far wider variance in cutting height without compromising attitude angle.
The TMSystem remains integratable easily and quickly, while an all-new grass basket minimises air turbulence to further enhance clipping collection on golf, tennis and cricket surfaces. An app-based disease control advance also featured.
Wessex debut RoviMo robotic mower
First showing at Saltex for the RoviMo wide area robotic roller mower created a level of interest among visitors keen to discover more about its capabilities for striping up match pitches to the exacting demands of VAR offside technology and EUFA regulations. Currently trialling at a Premier League club, with six machines already in action across mainland European football, the machine is now made in Andover following Wessex’s acquisition of the manufacturer.
“We think the machine can stripe up a pitch in around two and a half hours, taking eight runs to create one stripe,” Wessex’s Peter Farndell told The Landscaper, adding: “To be honest, I never thought we would enter the roller mowing market.”
Double debut for Stihl kit
Stihl’s GTA40 professional pruner was put through its paces in the demo area. Targeted at landscapers, arborists and foresters, the unit will hit the dealers in January to February, commercial solutions manager David Tingle confirmed. “We also presented our new BRA 600 blower that comes out 2025 – using a double AP system to give us the power that will be equivalent to our popular BR600 petrol model.”
Foamstream bubbling up
Non-herbicidal solution Foamstream, now supplied by Campey Turf Care Systems and available to rent, is one way operators can deliver chemical-free weed control.
Proven effective on moss and weed species, it blends hot water and an organic, biodegradable plant oil and sugar foam to insulate the water to retain heat and penetrate the plant and roots, also sterilising surrounding seeds and spores, reducing further weed growth and treatment cycles.
Fitting for facilities pursuing green maintenance, the system’s high-pressure cleaning rids surfaces of gum and graffiti and sanitises surfaces and street furniture.
Trilo vacuum sweeps clean
The M3 from the Trilo Multipurpose leaf and debris collector line featured alongside shaft selections to transform the 3m3 collector into a maintenance machine for all seasons. Units span 3-30m3 to suit a spread of environments from roadside verges to sports turf, golf courses and green spaces. Powerful suction and modular construction combine to make light work of leaves, pine needles, clippings and other debris, making light work of the most time-consuming tasks of the autumn and winter months. Attachments are available for effective scarification or convenient cut and collect, all swapped in and out in under an hour, with minimal tools.
Zero-turns star for Kubota
Kubota displayed a vast array of leading compact tractors, RTVs and mowing solutions including the expanded zero-turn range, with the new Z4- 541 seen for the first time in the UK.
The mower features robust 54” steel fabricated deck, 24hp petrol engine and 360-degree turning to navigate obstacles and deliver balance and stability for mowing tasks on uneven terrain. It is equipped with side discharge with optional operator controlled discharge chute (OCDC) enabling operators to temporarily shut the chute to prevent clippings from ejecting on to pathways. A mulching kit is also available.
The zero-turn line-up blends manoeuvrability with a spread of chassis sizes, power sources and discharge options to suit all domestic, pro- consumer and professional applications.
Baroness and its mowers and implements lines joined Kubota to showcase Japanese excellence and provide sports turf and green space managers with a complete maintenance solution.
GKB solutions for all surfaces and seasons
If aeration, overseeding or topdressing natural surfaces was on your agenda, or routine brushing or more intensive renovations of synthetic surfaces, GKB was well worth a visit, with Combislit debuting. With regular aeration needed more than ever, the unit delivers fast, effective relief up to 15cm (6”) with minimal surface disruption. Available in 1.6m and 2.0m working widths, the Combislit uses Evolvente blades to spike and open all types of natural and hybrid. The Combislit joined the Deep Tine Aerator (DTA) multi-functional Sandfiller and Combitool.
DrainTalent fosters sustainable sportsfields
Following an exclusive UK partnership with Hewitt Sportsturf, DrainTalent showcased its award-winning sustainable, circular soil management system. Professional clubs throughout Europe are applying the system to improve pitch quality and plant health, with installations at a number of elite venues including FC Utrecht and FC Twente. DrainTalent monitors moisture within the soil profile in real-time to keep conditions balanced, based on pitch requirements and live weather conditions.
Smart moves from Husqvarna
The boundary wire-free successor to the Automower® 535 AWD will bring cutting-edge technology to commercial groundskeeping, says leading robotic mower maker Husqvarna.
Available from February 2025, the 535 AWD EPOS features all-wheel drive system to heighten performance on the most demanding surfaces. Handling up to 70-degree slopes, the latest 535 is built to tackle rough, hilly and undulated terrain, delivering a fine cut in even most difficult to reach areas requiring specialised attention, the company says. Capable of covering up to 6,000 m2 in 48 hours, the mower will offer pattern cutting from Q2 2025, available as a software update over the air.
As with all EPOS™ navigated robotic mowers from Husqvarna, this model operates without a boundary wire, which makes installation “robust and flexible”. Greenkeepers and grounds teams can programme wire-free moving zones to adapt more easily to site needs, says Husqvarna, although a boundary wire option is also available.
UK RRP £5,199.00 (inc VAT)
https://www.husqvarna.com/uk
AI-ready robotic mowers “turfcare disrupter”
Husqvarna’s AI-ready platform of autonomous robotic commercial mowers, includes two UK launches, available from March 2025 – the Automower 580L EPOS and 560 EPOS, “set to disrupt turfcare in sportsfields and golf courses”.
“Performance, power and efficiency” are key notes of the pair, with advanced autonomous capabilities, including wire-free mowing and selectable cutting patterns to let businesses maintain their turfccare “while saving time, cuttings costs and enhancing turf quality”, the manufacturer says.
The platform aligns with Husqvarna’s vision of “advancing the future of landscaping through smart technology and ensuring commercial users
have access to state-of-the-art solutions that drive productivity and deliver superior results”.
“Engineered to be future-proof” and capable of using new features as they become available, the platform will be compatible with a new solar panel charger for remote sites, tailored to work seamlessly. AI-ready, first applications include a night vision camera with “exceptional” obstacle avoidance capabilities. available in 2026 and compatible with the three new models.
Geared to golf and sports clubs, 580L EPOS is equipped with a low-cut disc to allow heights down to 10mm. Wire-free operation and selectable mowing patterns make the model suited to fairway or sportspitch duties, “optimised for maximum uptime with remote start options”.
Tailored for facilities management, the 560 EPOS is also optimised for maximum uptime with remote start options, while featuring selectable pattern, wire-free mowing and flexible front wheel axle for hilly, large, and complex landscapes.
Key Facts
580L EPOS:
- Up to 16,000 m² (in 48h) (4 acres)
- Cut height 10-50 mm (0.4-2”)
- 45% slope performance
- 80W cutting motor
RRP: £7,799.00 (incl VAT)
560 EPOS:
- Up to 12,000 m² (in 48h) (3 acres)
- Cut height 20-60 mm (0.8-2.4”)
- 50% slope performance
- 40W cutting motor
RRP: £6,099.00 (incl VAT)
Groundsman takes care of turf
Since 1990, Groundsman Industries have been developing their unique range of grass maintenance machines and accessories for maximum performance and durability.
On display the Turf Multi Cutter range offering excellent cutting ability and traction in all conditions with smooth operation and operator comfort. Two and four wheel drive and rear blade option for consistent sod thickness even on rolling terrane as well accommodating a wide range of blades and attachments. A Guillotine is available to measure and chop the sod in pre-set lengths.
Groundsman Tractor Mounting and Pedestrian Aerators all use Groundsman’s proven rugged Elliptical Plunge Action mechanism for aeration down to 15cm depth with minimal surface disruption. Quick-change tine-holders switch between Solid, Chisel, Hollow and Cluster Tines for dense pattern aeration, thatch removal or over-seeding.
The new SpeedPro aerator range can needle tine greens punching holes 30mm apart travelling at 50m per min with minimal surface disruption, it can also spike fairways, pitches and outfields penetrating compacted soil down to 20cm deep making it the most efficient versatile aerator for all surfaces. The SpeedPro range will be available in 1.2m 1.8m and 2.4m operating widths.
The Flexblade Collector attachment is available for most aerators as well as Groundsman to Core and Collect in one pass or for use independently for Follow-up Collection of Cores or Linear Aeration Soil.
Visit www.groundsmanindustries.com
Hit show for Hozelock
Saltex proved to be a success for Hozelock Exel – the parent company of stalwart sprayer brands Cooper-Pegler and Berthoud.
The stand was specially redesigned to show more than 12 sprayers from both popular brands with new artwork and signage. The engaging presentation plus special prize draw attracted new and old customers alike.
Hot topics discussed were the Berthoud combination nozzle, the availability of parts and the Berthoud 3000 electric sprayer. This class-leading knapsack combines the comfort of the full padded harness with a bespoke Li-ion battery and four run positions to allow up to 6.5 hours constant run-time.
The combination nozzle includes the option of three spray patterns in one unit using a simple twist of the wrist. It comes as standard on the
Floraly pump sprayer models and the Cosmos 18 knapsack but can be fitted on all Berthoud and Hozelock lances as an optional extra.
Contact Richard Wheatcroft, Key Account Manager Commercial Spraying, on 07814 871289 for enquiries on where to buy or interest in
distributing.
Visit https://www.cooper-pegler.com/en/
Hayter updates Harrier Pro line
Since its launch in 1970, the Hayter Harrier has become an industry icon.
“You spoke, we listened,” says Hayter’s Chris Cooper. “The updates to the Harrier Pro range are all about meeting the evolving needs of today’s contractors, who are time poor and need tools that can work reliably under tough conditions.”
Among the latest innovations is the new 3-speed transmission available on the Harrier 56 Pro petrol model, giving users the flexibility to adjust speed for different grass conditions. For wet grass, the reduced forward speed improves collection, while higher speeds maximize productivity on dry lawns.
Harrier Pro Tour – March 2025
Celebrating the 55th anniversary of the Harrier and the latest updates, Hayter will be hosting a Harrier Pro Tour in March 2025. This tour will visit multiple locations across Great Britain, providing landscapers and contractors the chance to try the newly upgraded models themselves.
For details visit www.hayter.co.uk
Toro eProStripe
Crisp, impeccable stripes – quietly
The new Toro eProStripe 560 was part of Reesink and Toro’s largest ever machinery line-up at SALTEX this year – and with good reason.
It is an ideal pedestrian mower for a landscaper’s shed. Compact and manoeuvrable, with the ability to produce high-definition stripes, and now entirely fuel free.
Two lithium-ion batteries ensure maximum performance and runtime but with low vibration levels and zero exhaust emissions making it a pleasure to use.
Its two-piece rear roller design and zero-turn capability make it easy to produce customer-pleasing visually striking stripes.
The dual mow and collect function means you can cut, remove debris and smooth the grass in one go and the high-capacity 21 gallon/80 litre grass box reduces the number of times the box needs emptying, minimising downtime.
Modernising a nearly perfect design, the eProStripe 560 takes precision mowing and striping to the next level, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Kress stress sustainable innovation
Kress’s presence brought battery-powered alternatives designed to tackle the challenges of conventional petrol-powered equipment. Its approach mixes high power and reliability in its battery systems, aiming to match or even exceed performance levels of traditional tools. This emphasis on sustainability is central to Kress’s mission to lead the shift away from petrol machines by focusing on advanced battery technology.
Stand visitors could engage with its latest equipment, including professional and commercial OPE and robotic mowers, engineered to run efficiently without harmful emissions. A quieter, cleaner alternative addresses two pressing concerns within the sector: environmental impact and noise pollution.
Quieter machines offer an added benefit, making it easier for maintenance work to be carried out in populated areas or during non- working hours without disturbing the surrounding environment.
The showcase of such battery-powered solutions, including autonomous equipment like robotic mowers, sparked valuable discussions among attendees, many of whom see the transition to zero-emission grounds maintenance as inevitable but complex.
Saltex 2024 highlighted how innovations in battery technology and automation could pave the way for more sustainable operations without compromising effectiveness, presenting a platform for brands, professionals and innovators to exchange ideas and explore the future of environmentally responsible practices.
https://www.kress.com/en-gb/