TGA Chair Richard Owens shares a short update from Lord’s Cricket Ground, capturing the atmosphere of the event and the value of coming together as an industry.
Our 2026 Spring Members’ Meeting took us to London, alongside a visit to the home of English cricket.
We kicked things off with a really strong afternoon programme, starting with four external speakers. Dan Hughes (Agrovista), Dr Minshad Ansari (Bionema), Scott Baker (Omex), and Robert Hawkin (Fielder Nutrition) all delivered excellent presentations, covering a range of topics across turf production, inputs and plant health. The sessions were well received, with plenty of questions and discussion throughout, which is always a good sign. Copies of the presentations are available on request for anyone who would like further details.
Following this, we were joined by a number of our TGA affiliate members. Lewis Blois (ICL), Rikki Brown and Liz Wootliff (Trimax), and Ollie Wright (Agrigem) all provided updates on their latest products and services. These sessions are always a valuable part of the day, and we’d like to thank all our affiliate members for their continued support of the Association.
Members’ Discussions
We then moved into our members’ meetings, starting with the open session. This gave everyone the chance to have an honest and constructive discussion about the current trading environment.
There was no avoiding the fact that things are challenging, particularly around rising input costs and pressure on margins, but the discussion in the room was both open and constructive. The focus was very much on how the industry can respond and adapt, rather than just the challenges themselves. There was strong agreement around the need to better communicate the value of quality turf and to strengthen the industry’s voice more generally.
The growers-only session that followed allowed for even more open conversation. These sessions are always a really important part of the meeting, giving grower members a trusted and confidential space to speak freely about both the challenges and opportunities within the sector.
By their nature, much of the detail discussed remains behind closed doors, but the value comes from creating an environment where members can be open and honest with one another. It’s a space where experiences can be shared, ideas tested, and common issues discussed without hesitation.
One of the main topics raised was the ongoing increase in input costs, particularly fertiliser and fuel, and how growers can respond. It was great to see a clear consensus in the room that the TGA should take a lead on this. As a result, we have since introduced the Energy & Production Cost Adjustment, which we are recommending growers add as a separate line on invoices. This will be reviewed regularly in line with market conditions and aims to help protect growers against these ongoing pressures.
Evening Dinner
After the afternoon sessions, many of the attendees stayed on for the evening dinner. This is always a great part of the event, giving everyone the chance to relax, catch up and continue conversations in a more informal setting. It’s often where some of the most useful discussions happen.
Visit to Lord’s Cricket Ground
The following morning, on what turned out to be one of the warmest days of the year so far, we made our way across to Lord’s Cricket Ground, where we were met by Head Groundsperson Karl McDermott.
This was a real highlight of the event. The tour gave a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most iconic venues in world sport, including recent investment and redevelopment work, as well as the day-to-day management of the pitches and outfields.
It was also fascinating to hear about Karl’s journey into the industry, the level of commitment involved, and the detail that goes into maintaining such a historic surface. It certainly gave everyone a real appreciation of the work involved.
Looking Ahead
Feedback from those who attended has been really positive, with strong engagement throughout and plenty of good discussion. Events like this continue to show the value of bringing the industry together.
For those who couldn’t make it this time, we’d strongly encourage you to join us at future events. Demonstration Day is next on the calendar and will be another great opportunity to get involved and catch up with others across the industry.
We are also starting to look ahead to the Autumn Members’ Meeting, so if you have any suggestions for venues or contacts, please do get in touch.
Interesting in becoming a member? Get in touch!
