Steve Bullman

STIHL GB proudly announces the grand opening of its new, purpose-built head office and state-of-the-art distribution centre named Contra House, ushering in a new chapter of innovation and service excellence for the business. Dr. Nikolas Stihl, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the STIHL Group, presided over the opening ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the company's long history. Named Contra House in homage to the iconic STIHL Contra chainsaw invented by STIHL founder Andreas Stihl, this expansive 11,500m2 facility reflects STIHL GB’s dedication to providing unparalleled support to its dealers and end users. Home to more than 100 staff, Contra House is meticulously designed to enhance operational efficiency, customer service, and employee well-being. The new site features best-in-class dealer training facilities and a studio, collaborative workspaces, an on-site restaurant, and a fully-fitted technical workshop, ensuring seamless support for STIHL GB's 700-strong Approved Dealer network. At the heart of the operation lies the 9,000m2 distribution centre, which boasts next-generation picking and storage systems. This consolidation of logistics onto one site enables STIHL GB to streamline operations, resulting in a speedier and more efficient delivery service. Kay Green, Managing Director of STIHL GB, said: "The unveiling of Contra House symbolises a significant step forward in our commitment to product innovation and providing exceptional service to our customers and dealer network. We are thrilled to unveil the new facility, which not only embodies our rich heritage but also stands as a testament to our vision for the future.” Contra House distinguishes itself not only through its modern design and functionality but also its dedication to sustainability. The facility has proudly achieved BREEAM Certification, with features such as photovoltaic solar panels covering two-thirds of its roof area and 21 electric vehicle charging points, aligning with STIHL GB's commitment to responsible business practices. The official opening event, attended by more than 160 guests, also outlined STIHL GB’s partnership with Perennial, the UK’s only charity dedicated to helping people in horticulture. The STIHL team will volunteer in a wide range of fundraising activities to help the charity provide free and confidential advice, information and support to people working in, or retired from, horticulture and their families. For more information, please visit www.stihl.co.uk.

This month sees the addition of renowned Italian brand Zamberlan® to the comprehensive Carr’s Billington Safety portfolio. This exciting development extends the distributer’s offering and sees real innovation to the Forestry Boot Category. As chainsaw technology continues to evolve, Carr’s Billington Safety recognises the significance of this partnership and its timely introduction. The inclusion of Zamberlan® products underscores the distributer’s commitment to providing top-tier solutions that meet the evolving needs of forestry professionals. The Italian made Forestry Boots start at Cut Level 2. All boots within this range come as standard with S3 composite midsoles, Gore-Tex® technology, Vibram® Outsoles, and the option of the innovative BOA® Lacing system in the Delimber model. Recognising the pivotal role of weight in boot selection, the flagship, Logger Pro GXT RR not only provides Cut Level 3 protection and S3 composite midsoles but also impressively weighs in at 1000 g. For competition tree climbers, Zamberlan have included their Treelogy climbing shoe which boast’s their patented PULL UP System (with a tensile strength of up to 120 kg) and compatible with the Haas Velox Clip & Go System and features a Gore-Tex® membrane and Vibram® Mega Grip® Outsole. With its headquarters in the Italian Dolomites, Zamberlan® has over 90 years of heritage in crafting the finest mountain and safety footwear. The brand's enduring success is attributed to the family's continued hands-on management, supported by a skilled team of experienced footwear technicians. Carr’s Billington Safety’s Commercial Manager Neil Thomas said: “We have been patiently working for a while now on several projects were bringing innovation and technology to the market has been our core focus. We are delighted to be partnering in the UK with Zamberlan® Forestry and Safety Boots as they tick both these boxes.”