Steve Bullman

STIHL is launching three new powerful and rugged professional battery-powered lawnmowers, perfectly suited to demanding lawn care in noise-sensitive areas. An extension to the AP System, the new lawn mowers are equivalent in performance to the well-respected 7 series petrol models. With a 48cm cutting width, the RMA 750 V is the smallest of the three new models. The RMA 756 V has a larger 54cm cutting width for faster working, while the RMA 7 RV is a dedicated mulching mower with no collection bag and a cutting width of 51cm. The 7 series mowers are the first to feature in STIHL’s exciting new Double AP Platform. Drawing power from two AP batteries, the mower utilises a 72 V motor to significantly increase the power output of the machine. This results in a mower capable of cutting large areas of overgrown grass, with no compromise in collection quality. The mono-comfort handlebar is standard across all new models and is designed to improve access to the collection bag. The construction of the handlebar is extremely sturdy thanks to the aluminium console and steel upper section, ensuring reliable use in tough working conditions. It’s also height adjustable and neatly folds over for compact transport and storage too. All models benefit from variable speed transmission, adjustable in five steps from 0 – 6 km/h. The gearbox is protected by a sturdy cover, preventing damage and premature wear, and the soft start feature prevents the lawn mower from jolting forward, for a more comfortable experience. For maximum durability, the models feature a powder coated aluminium deck with an abrasion resistant inner casing made from polymer, which is easy and inexpensive to replace. Three mowing modes are available to the operator, depending on the terrain being cut. Eco-mode automatically reduces the RPM when under light load to maximise battery working time. Standard mode can be used for day-to-day work, and Auto-Boost can be used to overcome particularly challenges patches of dense grass and vegetation. The power setting and drive speed can easily be adjusted thanks to the intuitive controls and electronic display. Other parameters such as the battery charge level and connectivity status can also be checked at a glance. With STIHL Connected built into the lawnmower as standard, it’s never been easier to monitor the working time and maintenance plan of your STIHL tool. For more information on the new 7 series battery-powered lawnmowers, visit www.stihl.co.uk.

STIHL has launched its highly anticipated Master Technician Course, the pinnacle of its dealer training programme, designed to provide expert-level servicing and diagnostics across the full STIHL product range. Following extensive development and a successful pilot earlier this year, the Master Technician Course is now available exclusively to STIHL Approved dealers who have completed the full training pathway, comprising Foundation, Intermediate, and Advanced Servicing courses. The final stage of the programme includes an online entry exam and pre-requisite modules, followed by an intensive three-day face-to-face training experience at STIHL’s headquarters, Contra House. This hands-on course offers participants an in-depth technical deep dive, featuring: · Eight specialist assessments · Extensive product usage training · A guided Contra House tour · A structured recertification process, including an annual online exam With a strong emphasis on practical learning, the Master Technician Course provides a small group setting, ensuring each technician receives expert guidance. Courses are strictly limited to six participants per session, allowing for focused, hands-on experience with STIHL’s latest tools and servicing techniques. Since launching the Master Technician learning pathway in 2023, nearly 100 face-to-face training courses have taken place across all four levels, reinforcing STIHL’s commitment to dealer training and technical excellence. The first Master Technician Course officially launched online on 10th February, with nine further face-to-face sessions planned throughout 2025. For more information, please contact [email protected].

FSI Stump Cutters UK Ltd return to The Arb Show at Westonbirt Arboretum this May, showcasing a wide selection of their industry-leading stump grinder range. Alongside stand highlights like the pedestrian FSI B21 and the powerful FSI D74, stand B08/B09 also offers visitors the chance to compete for a grand prize and FSI merchandise with the return of their ‘Cutter Wheel of Fortune’! It's been a busy twelve months for the team after making their debut appearance as FSI UK at The Arb Show last year. Cementing their status as Europe’s largest manufacturer of stump grinders, work has taken place both in the factory and in the field to ensure the range continues to meet the needs of the arb professional. Whether your preferred power option is engine, hydraulic or PTO, you can be assured to find robust walk-behind, self-propelled and remote-controlled stump grinders within the FSI range. The Arb Show is the perfect platform to showcase FSI’s full range, including the pedestrian FSI B21 and FSI B22 machines. The walk-behind FSI B21 with patented hill-hold system, and the self-propelled FSI B22, both offer a turntable design, vibration-damped handle, a slim 68cm design and easy operation, making them highly efficient and well-suited for users of all skill levels. Also on display will be the largest model in the FSI range — the powerful FSI D74. Powered by a 74hp Stage V diesel engine, the D74 is built for the toughest stump grinding tasks with its unmatched 735mm cutter wheel and impressive 230cm sweep, clearing stumps in minutes. The two-speed ground-drive ‘FSI power-drive' enables operators to switch between HIGH for fast movement or LOW for increased traction, while the full-featured remote control ensures optimal positioning with a clear view of the work area. Throughout the two-day show, the FSI team will be on hand to answer all of your stump grinder questions. Sign-up for our prize-draw and try your luck on the ‘Cutter Wheel of Fortune’ to win exclusive FSI merchandise - one lucky participant will get to take home an FSI B21 for 3 whole months – for free!

2024 was a record-breaking year for Aspen Fuel - with even more commercial customers across arboriculture, landscaping and groundcare discovering the benefits of using a cleaner petrol. Maintaining that momentum, Aspen Fuel are now looking forward to exhibiting at the Arb Show when it returns to Westonbirt Arboretum on Friday 16th and Saturday 17th May. Aspen are proudly the original and premium brand of alkylate fuel for the professional arborist. Free from ethanol, benzene and most other hazardous hydrocarbons traditionally found in pump petrol, Aspen delivers a longer shelf life and a cleaner burn, enhancing engine performance and reliability while providing an improved working environment for the operator. Available in 4-stroke and a pre-mixed alkylate petrol for air-cooled 2-stroke engines, Aspen offers a viable solution for those seeking a more environmentally friendly fuel source, without resigning fully serviceable petrol-powered equipment to the shed or scrapyard. The many proven benefits for people, machinery and the planet, has seen Aspen become the workstyle choice for a range of businesses within the arboriculture and forestry sectors, together with golf courses and local authorities. As of February 2025, the use of alkylate fuels has also been recommended by the Forest Industry Safety Accord (FISA) for the health of chainsaw operators. Those sceptical about making the switch are invited to stand C10 this May to speak with a member of the Aspen technical team, who can also explain the trial opportunities for you to ‘Experience the Difference’ within your business. More details will also be available on the various pack sizes and flexible delivery options which bring further time and budget savings by all-but eliminating trips to the petrol station. While on the stand, visitors can put their strength and skills to the test with the return of the infamous ‘Aspen Challenge’, for a chance to win a fantastic prize on each day of the show.