Smarter Kit, Stronger Teams: the power of autonomous and battery technology takes place 16 September at 11.00 – 11.45 at GroundsFest.
The session is sponsored by Kress.
THE PANEL
- Jim Kirkwood, Kress
- Mike Day from Mike Day Garden Maintenance
- Paul Larsen, turf consultant
- Chaired by HortWeek columnist, Neville Stein
This session cuts through the hype to give you an unvarnished look at what battery and autonomous technology really means for your daily operations.
We go beyond the brochures with real-world case studies and hard data from landscapers and grounds teams already making the transition work.
Expect straight-talking insights on the human side—managing team resistance, retraining staff, and selling the "silent mower" to sceptical clients—alongside the logistical realities of charging infrastructure, battery rotation, and unexpected downtime.
You will also hear practical advice on maintenance, repairs, and the growing reliance on manufacturer support.
Whether your priority is cutting fuel costs, reducing noise and emissions, or future-proofing your workforce with tech-savvy kit, you will leave this session with honest, practical insights to help you decide whether—and how—to make the switch work for your business.
Meet the Panelists
Jim Kirkwood, director of product management for Kress
In his role he guides the rollout of commercial zero-emission outdoor equipment and advanced robotic mowing technology.
Kress is a pioneering manufacturer of professional, battery-powered outdoor power equipment and autonomous turf maintenance systems.
Founded in 1928 in Germany, the company has nearly a century of history dedicated exclusively to electric motor technology, setting it apart from brands that traditionally focused on fossil fuels.
Operating under the parent company Positec Group since 2017, Kress has become a leading force in the commercial landscaping industry, known for its commitment to powerful, innovative, and zero-emission technology.
Mike Day, owner of Mike Day Garden Maintenance
Mike Day Garden Maintenance is a professional gardening service operating across Hertfordshire and North London.
The business is built on a foundation of reliability and professionalism. The company is well-regarded by its clientele, with reviews consistently highlighting the team's work ethic and quality of work.
Paul Larsen, turf consultant
Paul Larsen is a highly respected turf consultant and a prominent figure in the golf industry, known for his expertise in sustainable course management and his distinctive personal style. He brings more than 25 years of experience to his consultancy, Paul Larsen Consultancy, which he established after a distinguished career as a course manager.
He is perhaps best known for his decade-long tenure as head greenkeeper at Royal St George's Golf Club in Kent, where he led the course preparation for the 149th Open Championship in 2021. Prior to this, he gained valuable international experience managing a course in Holland for four years and held positions at other clubs, including Sene Valley Golf Club.
Since 2022, Paul has focused on consultancy, working primarily from Lydd Golf Course in Kent, where he is based three days a week.
