TGA Spring Members’ Meeting 2025: A Two-Day Recap
The Turfgrass Growers Association (TGA) came together on 13–14 March in York for its Spring Members’ Meeting—two productive days of updates, discussions, and guest presentations. With around 40 people attending from across the UK, Thursday focused on TGA business and member conversations, while Friday brought in affiliates and external experts who shared invaluable insights on everything from turf research to mental wellbeing. Here’s a look at how the event unfolded.
Thursday, 13 March: Members’ Discussions & Evening Dinner
- Welcome & Association Updates
TGA Chair Richard Owens opened the meeting by welcoming everyone, thanking members for their ongoing support, and giving a brief update on association activities. Richard reminded attendees that the association exists to represent the membership—but it can only be effective with the ongoing input and engagement of its members. - Looking Ahead: 2025 AGM
Members were reminded of the 2025 AGM and the importance of director nominations. Fresh perspectives are always encouraged on the board, ensuring the TGA continues to reflect the needs and ideas of an evolving membership. To be considered, the nominees organisation must have been a TGA member for at least two years and actively participated in TGA Members’ Meetings. - Member Spotlight
Each attendee had the chance to share developments within their own businesses, touching on new ventures, staff changes, or market trends. It was a relaxed, supportive session that set a collaborative tone for the day. - Future Meeting Suggestions
Attendees brainstormed a range of ideas for upcoming TGA gatherings, from potential venues and speaker topics to hands-on demonstrations or field visits. - Industry Challenges & Opportunities
Much of the discussion revolved around:
- Achieving a suitable sale price for turf, given oversupply in some regions
- Recruitment, training, and staff retention hurdles
- A shared desire to collaborate and adapt to maintain growth in the face of industry challenges
- Updates & Open Discussion
Conversations naturally led to practical ways of addressing these topics, with members freely sharing successes and lessons learnt. There was also excitement about the forthcoming 2026 TGA Summer Show, which promises to spotlight innovation and strengthen ties within the community.
Evening Dinner
That evening, everyone moved on to the York Minster Refectory for a sociable three-course meal. This provided a wonderful opportunity for new members to settle in and for long-standing members to catch up with old friends. The lively, welcoming atmosphere carried over from day to night.
Friday, 14 March: Guest Speakers & Industry Insights
Friday offered a series of engaging presentations from both TGA-affiliated organisations and external experts:
- STRI Presentations
- Tina Jessop introduced the STRI, discussing recent organisational changes, ongoing scientific research, and partnerships with sports venues at both community and elite levels.
- Joe Woodcock delved into STRI Group’s design and consultancy work, covering everything from local football pitches to international stadium projects.
- Sam Swires shared insights on research and development. STRI’s origins in golf-course research have expanded over time, and they now handle numerous bespoke, often confidential, turf trials that keep them at the forefront of turf innovation.
- Fertiliser R&D (ICL)
Lewis Blois provided a closer look at the R&D behind fertilisers, focusing on how controlled slow-release technology works and the way grass crops take up nutrients. Members appreciated the practical details on product development and tips for optimising fertiliser applications. - Mental Wellbeing (Perennial)
Helen Waddington offered an eye-opening session on the importance of mental wellbeing within the horticulture and agriculture sectors. She highlighted Perennial’s free, confidential support services, available not just for field workers but for office staff, retirees, and families. Helen shared the story of “Pete,” a greenkeeper who overcame personal challenges with the help of Perennial, reminding everyone to be mindful and supportive of one another. - Firefly Automatix
Dan Aposhian covered Firefly’s journey from a small parts business to a leading name in automated harvesting machinery. He showcased the R300 automated roll harvester, which relies on electronics rather than hydraulics, resulting in lower horsepower usage and greater efficiency. Although Firefly is well established in North America, they’re now making strides into the UK market. - Inheritance Tax Changes (BHP Chartered Accountants)
Louise Barnaby addressed upcoming inheritance tax (IHT) changes starting in April 2026—and additional pension rules from 2027. Key points included:- 100% relief for Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR) applies only to the first £1 million of qualifying assets.
- Assets above that threshold receive 50% relief.
- Any unused allowance cannot be transferred between spouses.
- Pensions will no longer be fully IHT-exempt after April 2027.
She advised early planning—through lifetime gifting, restructuring, and seeking professional advice—to help safeguard future business continuity.
- Wessex International Machinery
Sheldon Piplock shared the history of Wessex, founded in 1962, and highlighted their professional-grade mowers. The innovative Spirocut 4 blade system, designed to lift and straighten grass for a cleaner cut, drew particular interest among growers keen to improve turf quality. - Agrigem
Concluding the speaker line-up, Ollie Wright—a steadfast TGA supporter and council member—showcased Origin Enhanced Nitrogen (OEN), designed to minimise nitrogen loss during fertiliser application. Members were keen to explore ways to optimise nutrient uptake and reduce waste.
A Productive & Positive Gathering
Over the two days, TGA members discovered fresh ideas and practical solutions to ongoing industry challenges. From the collaborative “member spotlight” session on Thursday to the in-depth expert presentations on Friday, the meeting struck a warm and supportive tone throughout.
With around 40 people in attendance, the event delivered exactly what members look for—updates on pressing industry matters, a chance to connect with like-minded professionals, and constructive insights from experts who share the TGA’s commitment to progress. The gathering also set the stage for future TGA initiatives, particularly the eagerly anticipated 2026 Summer Show.
We look forward to continuing these conversations and building on the sense of unity felt by everyone in York. Here’s to another successful year for the TGA and all our members!