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SALTEX to reschedule to March 2021 SALTEX in November 2020 will result in a much stronger show in Spring 2021. “The new date will enable even more people to visit and celebrate the innovation, technology and the passion that the grounds industry represents – including excellent networking opportunities, as well as focussing on new business needs.”
In light of continued restrictions surrounding mass gatherings, combined with the unprecedented impact on all of us from Covid19, the Grounds Management Association’s (GMA) Board of Directors has taken the unanimous decision to move SALTEX to early Spring 2021. This outcome has been guided by discussions with key industry bodies, as well as exhibitors. Like everyone else, the GMA has continued to follow Government guidance, and the science
involved, to guide its business during this unprecedented time. Despite early optimism, a decision has been made to move the exhibition to March 2021 – taking into account the best interests of all parties involved. By acting now, it gives the sector an opportunity to re-group and recover ahead of the next trade show. SALTEX will be now held on 3 and 4 March 2021, and the GMA is also realigning the following year so that SALTEX runs in Spring 2022.
The GMA’s decision is based on ensuring the safety of everyone connected with such an event. The association believes this is the most responsible course of action – given current circumstances. Speaking about the announcement David Carpenter, Independent Chair of the GMA stated: “We would like to reassure our community that personal wellbeing remains our top priority. It is a case of mixed concerns at the moment, but I am hugely optimistic because I believe that the rescheduling of
Golf Environment Awards 2021 are open for business Golf clubs and greenkeepers around Europe are invited to apply for the Golf Environment Awards 2021. The GEAs recognise those in the golf industry that are breaking the mould and highlighting the wideranging environmental benefits of golf. Entrants may apply for awards in four categories – Environmental Golf Course of the Year, Conservation Greenkeeper of the Year, Outstanding Environmental Project of the Year and Operation Pollinator. This year we are excited to announce that, for the first time, a panel of judges, selected from across the golf industry, will
choose the winners from this year’s entrants. We are also pleased to introduce a new prize. A £750 grant will be awarded to each winner to invest into environmental and ecological projects at the club. We encourage all clubs, however big or small, to enter. Entry is free and each entrant will be assessed upon their own merits. A shortlist of finalists will be chosen from categories’ entrants and each will receive a visit from an STRI consultant who will perform an onsite ecological and environmental assessment, using current social distancing advice from the government in relation to Covid-19.
Applications are being accepted up to midnight on 7 August 2020 to give entrants additional time to put together an application during the current pandemic. Senior environment consultant, Sophie Olejnik, said: “We are so excited to be launching the 2021 Golf Environment Awards and, despite current circumstances, we want to remain positive and celebrate all that is good in golf. “We hope that the addition of our new judging panel and prizes will entice more of you to enter and be part of the Golf Environment Awards family.” Golf Environment Awards
Geoff Webb, CEO at the GMA said: “This has been a difficult decision to make, and I hope all our exhibitors join forces with us to mark a return to more ordinary working conditions in the not too distant future. Professional and personal lives have been placed on hold, and that in turn will have a knock-on effect. We want to help ease that load at the moment. “We’ve seen the grounds community come together and adapt during this challenging period, and we hope that exhibitors help us host something beyond a trade show - a celebration of what our industry can overcome when working together.” SALTEX
June/July 2020
The GMA believes that holding the 75th SALTEX on 3 and 4 March 2021 will help all companies get the respite required to readjust to changing professional and personal circumstances. The organisation understands the impact of Covid-19 for many businesses and individuals within the grounds management industry. Geoff Webb continues: “Next year, the event will provide a huge opportunity for our sector to regroup, reunite and celebrate. After this difficult period, the show will help to rekindle the economic activity of the industry. Until then, all our thoughts and support are with those facing the challenges posed by the spread of Coronavirus.” GMA is pleased to be able to honour all existing bookings and has also secured the same halls at the NEC to minimise disruption for exhibitors. It is also in the process of contacting exhibitors with new payment terms, with later dates, and it is also working with companies that may require further assistance during this challenging period. The GMA and its SALTEX partners are working closely together to assist businesses with the transition.
Industry News The latest news & industry case studies
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Sports Turf Maintenance Expert advice on maintaining surfaces in challenging times
Look for the Standard Following its launch, the Amenity Standard is receiving widespread and enthusiastic support from all sides of the amenity sector and is already being incorporated into tender documents and specifications going forward. The Amenity Standard, when held and displayed, demonstrates that all operational activities undertaken are at the highest professional standards and fully comply with all regulations, code of practice and good practice guidance. The key reason for introducing this UK wide standard is to
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provide assurance to the public and all users of an amenity space. Displaying and holding the Standard means that the organisation and individuals undertaking the operations are members of an approved assurance scheme. The assurance scheme is audited fully before being recognised by the Amenity Standard. Holding the Standard demonstrates that all the work undertaken is of the highest professional level and meets all legislative requirements and fully follows the code of practice and good practice guidance.
Linemarking Product spotlight as the industry returns to work
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