Pellenc Returns to GroundsFest 2025 with New Live Demo Area

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Pellenc is back for GroundsFest 2025 – and this year, they’re taking things up a gear with a brand-new dedicated demonstration area on stand OSA150. Now in its third appearance at the show, Pellenc will once again showcase its market-leading battery-powered equipment, with live demos giving visitors the chance to experience performance and handling first-hand.

Known for its innovation in lithium-ion battery technology, Pellenc continues to lead the way in zero-emission grounds maintenance solutions. The range includes powerful, professional-grade tools that often outperform petrol alternatives – delivering reliability, comfort, and reduced environmental impact.

Visitors can expect to see a wide selection of equipment in action, including:

  • Chainsaws
  • Pole saws
  • Hedge cutters
  • Strimmers and brushcutters
  • Blowers
  • Mowers

See the New Essential Range in Action

Making its GroundsFest debut, the new Pellenc Essential line will also be on display — offering a practical and cost-effective solution for professionals maintaining green and urban spaces. These on-board battery tools are designed to be lightweight, efficient, and accessible, without compromising on performance.

The new line-up includes:

Helion Essential hedge trimmer – lightweight, ergonomic and precise, with three cutting speeds and a runtime of up to 3 hours.
Excelion Essential brush cutters – available with loop or cow horn handles, with powerful brushless motors and up to 460mm cutting width.
Airion Essential blower – quiet, powerful, and comfortable to use, with Cruise Control, Boost mode and adjustable speed settings.
ULiB 200E and 400E batteries – compact, ergonomic and built to deliver long-lasting, reliable power to the entire Essential range.

With its balance of affordability, runtime and professional-grade features, the Essential line is ideal for local authorities, contractors and green space professionals looking for low-maintenance, zero-emission equipment.

Throughout the two-day event, the Pellenc team will be on hand to offer expert advice, talk through technical specifications, and help users find the right tools for their needs.

What truly sets Pellenc apart is its commitment to long-term value. In the pro range every battery comes with a four-year commercial warranty, while all tools are backed by a three-year warranty, offering peace of mind for professionals investing in battery technology. In the Essential range, batteries and tools come with a standard two-year warranty.

Pellenc battery-powered equipment – including the new Essential range – is distributed exclusively in the UK and Ireland by Etesia UK.

Etesia Hydro 100 Proves the Perfect Fit for Golders Green Crematorium

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With12 acres of immaculately kept gardens, Grade I listed grounds, and renowned memorial spaces, Golders Green Crematorium in North London is one of the most historic and revered sites of its kind in the world. Keeping the grounds to a consistently high standard falls to a small but dedicated team—and their latest secret is the Etesia Hydro 100 ride-on mower.

For Head Gardener Ian Harman, investing in the right machinery was a top priority from the start.

“We’re a small team of just four, and we’re constantly busy with everything from maintaining rose beds to managing formal lawns and the large scatter lawn,” said Ian. “Machinery plays a key role in helping us work efficiently, especially with the tight spaces and tree cover we deal with here.”

Ian had previously heard positive things about Etesia mowers and decided to turn to the brand after becoming frustrated following issues using a different manufacturer. “The last mower we had just kept clogging,” he explained. “It slowed us down massively. When I came into the role, I went on a demo day and was really impressed with the Hydro 100—so we decided to go with Etesia.”

Since making the switch, the results speak for themselves.

“We’ve put about 60 hours on the Hydro 100 and had absolutely no clogging. It leaves a clean cut, picks up leaves and grass efficiently—even in wet conditions—and saves us lots of time. It also mulches the leaves as it goes, which helps with our composting.”

For a site like Golders Green, where space is at a premium and storage is limited, the compact design of the Hydro 100 has also been a huge bonus.

“We couldn’t store a large tractor-style machine, and we don’t need one,” Ian added. “This mower is the perfect size. You get the benefits of a large collection box with the manoeuvrability needed for tighter areas. It’s like having a garden vacuum—clean, simple, and effective.”

Ease of maintenance and usability were also deciding factors.

“It’s a very straightforward machine,” Ian said. “Fuel efficient, easy to service, and intuitive to operate. You’ve got a hydrostatic drive, simple controls, and changing the height of cut is quick—ideal if you hit a patch that’s slightly overgrown.”
Adam Nicholls, a gardener at the crematorium for over 11 years, agrees. “We’ve got a lot of trees here, and the Etesia is the best machine we’ve found for picking up leaves. The open chute design just swallows them—wet or dry—and shoots them straight into the back. No blockages, no messing about.”

Adam also praised its versatility across the crematorium’s varied terrain. “It handles tight corners just as well as big open areas. Even in damp conditions, the finish is clean and professional. It’s the easiest mower I’ve ever used.”

The Hydro 100 is powered by an 18HP Kawasaki engine and features a 500-litre grass collector with hydraulic tipping, which can be emptied from the seat. With a modern hydrostatic transmission and differential lock, it’s designed for durability, comfort, and productivity—especially in demanding, high-collection environments.

For Ian and Adam, the support from Etesia dealer RT Machinery was another big plus. “I’ve known Scott Reynolds from RT Machinery for years,” said Ian. “They really helped us choose the right model for our needs—no upselling, just honest advice. Their service is second to none.”

Compact, reliable, and efficient, the Etesia Hydro 100 has proved the ideal solution for Golders Green Crematorium’s unique needs. As Ian sums it up: “If you’ve got restricted space, need a clean finish, and want a machine you can rely on—this is the mower for you.”

Etesia Hydro 80 Transforms Productivity for Garden Maintenance Business

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James Duke Garden Maintenance, based in Whitstable, Kent, has experienced a significant boost in productivity after investing in an Etesia Hydro 80 ride-on mower.

James explains that the decision to upgrade came from a growing need to handle larger sites more efficiently.

“Some of the grounds we look after can be quite large in size,” says James. “We also care for small residential gardens and commercial sites. Beforehand, we were using pedestrian mowers on the bigger areas, and it was hard work — it took a long time. So, we started looking for a ride-on.”

After exploring various brands, it was Etesia’s Hydro 80 that stood out — particularly following a demonstration arranged after meeting the team at GroundsFest last year.

“We were highly impressed with what they had to say,” James recalls. “Ian from Etesia came down, dropped off some mowers for us to try out on site, and we were blown away. We tried the Hydro 80 and as soon as we did, we ordered one.”

Since making the switch, the difference has been remarkable.

“Compared to using pedestrian mowers, the Hydro 80 is just so much quicker,” he says. “It’s freeing up so much more time for us — we’re finishing jobs earlier or fitting more in. I’d say we’re getting the jobs done in about half the time, which is fantastic.”

The Etesia Hydro 80 is packed with features that make it ideal for both large areas and tricky, confined spaces. With an 80cm cutting width and a tight turning circle, it’s easily manoeuvrable and can pass through small gateways or between parked cars with ease.

“The size is incredible — we can get it through tight spaces, around buildings, and even in between cars,” James explains. “And because it’s so compact, it fits straight into the back of our van at the end of the day.”

The Hydro 80 is powered by a 15hp twin-cylinder Kawasaki engine, delivering reliable performance across varying conditions. Its hydrostatic drive makes operation smooth and user-friendly, and James and his team noticed the ease of use immediately.

“From the get-go, we found the mower so easy to use. The controls are simple, and the machine feels great to operate — it’s a joy, an absolute pleasure.”

One of the key benefits of the Hydro 80 is its ability to cut and collect both long and short grass without clogging, even in wet conditions — a huge improvement for James and his team, who previously battled with constant blockages.

“The collection is fantastic — especially in the wet,” he says. “With our old pedestrian mowers, they were always clogging up and we had to stop to clear out underneath the deck. We don’t have that hassle anymore. It’s saving us so much time.”

The Hydro 80’s 240-litre grassbox can be emptied from the driving seat and features a buzzer to indicate when it’s full.

“The grass box is huge — we can just keep going and going,” says James. “With the pedestrian mowers, we were stopping every five minutes. Now we can mow huge areas before we need to empty. And when we do, it’s so easy — just lift the handle and tip the grass out from the comfort of the seat.”

The versatility of the Hydro 80 has also impressed James.

“It collects, it mulches, it side discharges — it ticks all the boxes for what we need. We’ve used the mulch plug and it leaves a great finish. It just does everything we ask of it. We haven’t found a single issue with it. It’s solid, dependable, and just brilliant to use.”

Reflecting on the buying process, James also praised the support and communication from the Etesia team.

“They were absolutely brilliant to work with from the start. They talked us through everything, gave us the chance to try out the mowers, and let us see how good they really are.”

Asked whether he would recommend the Hydro 80 to others, James doesn’t hesitate: “Absolutely. If you’re in the market for a ride-on that can collect, mulch, or side discharge — this mower ticks all the boxes. It’s small, nimble, and a total game changer for our business.”

Etesia UK Announces Unprecedented Savings of Over £8,000 on Hydro 124 Range

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Etesia UK is thrilled to announce substantial savings of over £8,000 on its renowned Hydro 124 range of ride-on mowers.

This limited-time offer presents an exceptional opportunity for customer to purchase the best-in-class cut and collect machines at an unrivalled value.

As well as saving over £8000 on the purchase of any of the Etesia Hydro124 models, they are also available from just £89.00 per week via contract hire options from Etesia UK, making the popular ride-on models even more affordable to a range of customers.

The Etesia Hydro 124 series has long been celebrated for its robust performance, exceptional reliability, and ability to deliver a perfect finish in any weather conditions. These machines are engineered to tackle the most demanding tasks, ensuring efficiency and productivity for landscape contractors, groundskeepers, estate managers and gardeners. Now, with savings of over to £8,000, investing in the industry’s finest has never been more accessible.

The Hydro 124 range comprises three distinct models, each designed to meet specific professional needs: Hydro 124 DL, Hydro 124 DN and Hydro 124 DX.

All three models share the same characteristics:

  • 124cm cutting width
  • 25HP diesel engine
  • High lift 600l grass box
  • Front linkage with optional attachments
  • Two year commercial warranty
  • 2WD and 4WD (DX model only) options available

Etesia Hydro 124 models and prices:

Model Old RRP New RRP Saving
H124 DL £29,995 £21,995 £8000
H124 DN £32,995 £24,595 £8400
H124 DX £34,995 £26,595 £8400

Etesia’s Hydro 124 models are renowned for their ability to cut and collect effectively in any weather, a crucial advantage for professionals who cannot afford to be sidelined by rain or damp conditions. Their powerful engines, combined with the direct ejection system, ensure a clean and efficient collection of grass clippings, leaving a pristine finish every time.

“This is an exceptional opportunity for professionals to invest in the very best machinery available on the market,” says Les Malin, Etesia UK Managing Director. “The Etesia Hydro 124 range has a proven track record of delivering outstanding performance and reliability, and with these significant savings of over £8,000, it represents unbeatable value. Don’t miss out on the chance to enhance your fleet with machines that truly excel in cut and collect, regardless of the weather.”

This special offer is available for a limited time only. Customers are encouraged to contact their local Etesia dealer to learn more about the specific savings available on each Hydro 124 model and to arrange a demonstration. Experience first-hand why Etesia is the preferred choice for those who demand the ultimate in performance and durability.

Pellenc Launches the Essential Line

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Pellenc has announced the launch of the Essential Line – a range of on-board battery tools which offer a practical and cost-effective solution for maintaining green and urban spaces.

Pellenc is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Etesia UK.

Known for its expertise in lithium-ion battery technology, Pellenc continues to develop lightweight, powerful tools that make life easier for professionals. The new range includes the Helion Essential hedge trimmer, two Excelion Essential brush cutters, Airion Essential blower, and the ULiB 200E and 400E batteries—providing a complete package for professionals seeking reliable and efficient tools.

Helion Essential: Trim with Ease
The Helion Essential hedge trimmer delivers exceptional performance for trimming and finishing tasks. Its 64 cm (24.8 in) blade with double-edged teeth ensures precise, clean cuts. The trimmer’s balanced design improves manoeuvrability, while its ergonomic swivel handle and protective guard enhance user safety and comfort.

The tool features an advanced HMI (Human-Machine Interface) that displays the remaining battery charge and allows the user to select from three cutting speeds. Compatible with the ULiB 200E integrated battery with up to 3 hours runtime and Pellenc’s ULiB backpack battery range, the Helion Essential provides extended operating time—ideal for professionals who need dependable performance.

Excelion Essential: Power Through Large Areas
The Excelion Essential brush cutter combines high performance with ergonomic design, making it perfect for noise-sensitive areas. Powered by a brushless motor, it boasts a cutting diameter of up to 460 mm (18.1 in) with the Tap Cut 3 cutting head, allowing professionals to cover large areas quickly and efficiently.

Available with a choice of double (cow horn) or loop handle models, the Excelion Essential adapts to different work environments. Its LED screen displays battery levels and allows users to select from three speed settings, adjusting performance based on the task. As with other Essential tools, it is compatible with the ULiB 200E and 400E (recommended) batteries with run times up to 2 hrs and the Pellenc ULiB backpack battery range, that offers significant increases in run time.

Airion Essential: Blow with Power and Comfort
The Airion Essential leaf blower combines power, comfort, and efficiency in a lightweight, ambidextrous design that reduces wrist fatigue. With its angled air intake, the blower limits strain on the user, enabling comfortable operation over long periods.
The blower’s LED screen provides real-time battery information and offers control options such as Boost mode for a powerful 23N thrust, Cruise Control, and three adjustable working speeds to suit different tasks. Quiet and lightweight, the Airion Essential is ideal for work in urban settings and noise-sensitive environments. It’s compatible with the ULiB 200E and 400E (recommended) batteries, with up to 2 hrs runtime for demanding tasks.

ULiB 200E & 400E Batteries: Compact, Reliable Power
The ULiB 200E and 400E batteries offer a reliable power source for all Essential tools. Compact and ergonomic, these batteries feature an easy-to-use clipping system and a clear battery level display.

ULiB 200E: Weighing only 1.4 kg (3.08 lbs), it provides 189 W/h of power, making it ideal for tasks where a balance between weight and power is essential.

ULiB 400E: At 2.4 kg (5.29 lbs), it delivers 389 W/h of power, perfect for longer, more demanding tasks.

Both models come equipped with RFID diagnostics to ensure consistent, reliable performance.

With the launch of the Essential range, Pellenc continues its tradition of delivering innovative, high-performance solutions for green space professionals. These practical and affordable tools combine power, comfort, and durability—ensuring that top-tier performance is accessible to all.

Pellenc battery-powered equipment is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Etesia UK.

Etesia UK to Exhibit at The Commercial Vehicle Show 2025

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Etesia UK is excited to announce that it will be exhibiting at the Commercial Vehicle Show (CV Show) 2025, taking place from 29 April to 1 May at the NEC, Birmingham. The company will be showcasing its innovative ET Lander, a fully electric utility vehicle that blends cutting-edge technology with sustainable solutions—an ideal fit for modern transport, logistics, and distribution needs.

The CV Show is widely regarded as the UK’s leading event for the road freight, transport, and logistics sectors. Since its launch in 2000, it has become the largest and most influential gathering for commercial vehicle manufacturers, dealers, distributors, and suppliers. The show attracts senior decision-makers, directors, managers, and engineers eager to explore the latest advancements in vehicles, trailers, equipment, and industry technology.

At the forefront of Etesia’s display will be the ET Lander, a 100% electric utility vehicle designed to meet the evolving demands of professionals seeking sustainable, versatile equipment. Whether navigating urban environments or tackling rural terrain, the ET Lander offers a unique combination of performance, durability, and eco-conscious design.

Compact yet powerful, the ET Lander measures just 3.72 meters in length and features a short turning radius of 4.40 meters, making it highly manoeuvrable in confined spaces. It boasts 360° visibility, power steering, and all-terrain tires, ensuring smooth operation across a variety of environments. Equipped with a spacious two-seater cab and a versatile three-way tipper bed, the ET Lander can carry loads of up to 940kg and tow an additional 750kg. Its road-legal design makes it equally suitable for urban transport and off-road applications.

The ET Lander is also designed to maximise efficiency and versatility. Integrated loading ramps, which double as side panels for the tipper bed, facilitate the easy transport of materials and maintenance equipment between sites. Additionally, the vehicle can power portable battery-operated tools and run 230v electrical devices, making it an essential asset for professionals who require reliable, multi-functional equipment.

Etesia UK can be found at stand 5A16 at the CV Show 2025 and visitors are invited to discover exactly how the ET Lander can revolutionise their approach to sustainable transport and logistics.

Etesia UK Hosts Successful Dealer Day

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Etesia UK recently welcomed dealers from across the UK and Ireland to an insightful and engaging dealer day at Primrose Hill Farm in Oxfordshire. Attendees gathered to explore Etesia’s latest product innovations, gain industry insights, and connect with key figures in the sector.

A major highlight of the day was the official UK launch of the Pellenc Essential range, which generated significant interest among dealers looking to expand their battery-powered offerings. In addition, four new models were unveiled in the ET Lander range, further strengthening Etesia’s commitment to delivering high-performance, eco-friendly solutions.

Attendees were also treated to an exclusive preview of new battery and flail products, which are set to be officially launched at GroundsFest this September. These innovations signal Etesia’s continued investment in battery technology, reflecting the growing shift within the industry towards sustainable equipment.

The dealer day featured an impressive line-up of speakers, offering valuable insights across a range of topics:

  • Thomas Meyher, President of Etesia SAS – Highlighted the company’s global vision and ongoing commitment to innovation.
  • Leo Copping, Kramp – Discussed Etesia’s partnership with Kramp and the importance of efficient parts stocking.
  • Matt Fasham, AEA – Delivered an informative session on the safe handling and storage of batteries.
  • Nick Darking, BAGMA – Outlined the benefits of BAGMA membership and its relevance to dealers.
  • Andy Stafferton – Spoke about working capital finance and stocking plans, helping dealers navigate financial considerations.

Attendees were split into three groups and rotated between three stations, allowing them to experience a variety of interactive sessions. This approach ensured that dealers had ample opportunity to engage with the new products and deepen their understanding of Etesia’s latest offerings.

The event left a lasting impression on attendees, with many praising the opportunity to see new equipment up close, as well as the balance between practical demonstrations and informative presentations.

Nathan Lewis, Lewis Gardening Services, appreciated the opportunity to learn about new battery technology:

“It has been a great day; good to come and see kit that I know and have used, but it has also been nice to see the new and upcoming kit from Etesia. The speakers have enlightened me on some battery equipment that I wasn’t aware of regarding safety, so it has been a good and insightful event.”

Scott Reynolds, RT Machinery, emphasised the value of staying informed about evolving technologies:

“The new products that we’ve seen today have been an eye-opener. A huge amount of our customers are talking about battery products every single day and are introducing them into their businesses. It has been a really good event – a great balance between indoor presentations and hands-on demonstrations.”

With the growing emphasis on battery technology and the unveiling of exciting new products, Etesia UK continues to strengthen its position as a leader in providing sustainable, high-performance equipment for the landscaping and groundscare sectors.

Two New Etesia Dealers Appointed in the West of Scotland

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Etesia UK is proud to announce the appointment of two new dealers, Luxury Carts Group and Agri-Services Ltd, to cover the West of Scotland, the Highlands, and the central belt.

These appointments ensure continued access to Etesia’s high-performance grass-cutting and green-maintenance equipment following the retirement of Alex McDougall Mowers, who provided loyal service to the Etesia brand for over 30 years.

Les Malin, Managing Director of Etesia UK, expressed his gratitude and optimism for the future: “We thank Alex McDougall Mowers for their decades of dedicated service to Etesia. As they retire, we welcome two new dealers into the network to continue serving these key areas: Luxury Carts and Agri-Services. Both dealers share our commitment to providing exceptional customer service and high-quality machinery, and we are excited about the opportunities this brings.”

Based in Denny, Falkirk, Luxury Carts Group has built its reputation on providing luxury golf cart sales alongside a growing portfolio of turf maintenance equipment. This family-run business is expanding its offerings with the addition of Etesia’s renowned products.

Luxury Carts will offer a variety of Etesia’s leading products including walk-behind and ride-on mowers, as well as brushcutters, which are known for their durability, wet-weather performance, and precise grass collection.

Agri-Services Ltd, based in Kilmarnock, is a well-established family business that has served customers in agriculture, horticulture, and grounds care since the 1970s. Now in its third generation, the company continues to grow under the leadership of Director Chris Moir.

Chris shared his excitement about the partnership: “I’ve known about Etesia for a long time and have always admired their machines. When the opportunity arose to take on the dealership after the previous dealer retired, it was a natural fit for us. These machines are exactly what our customers need—reliable, robust, and capable of collecting even in the wettest conditions.”

Agri-Services caters to a wide range of clients, including farmers, golf courses, private estates, and councils. With several demonstrations already planned, Chris is confident the Etesia range will resonate strongly with their predominantly commercial customer base.
“We’re excited to push the Etesia brand forward through our company and ensure its legacy continues with the next generation,” Chris added.

Since 1989, Etesia has been at the forefront of grass-cutting technology. Their lineup includes pedestrian and ride-on mowers, the popular Attila range of brushcutters, and the award-winning ET Lander—a fully electric utility vehicle. Renowned for exceptional performance in all weather conditions, Etesia machines are trusted by landscapers, local authorities, and private estate managers alike.

With the addition of Luxury Carts Group and Agri-Services to the Etesia dealer network, customers from the West of Scotland can expect unparalleled service, expert advice, and access to Etesia’s cutting-edge products.

TFM Farm and Country Superstore Appointed as New Etesia Dealer

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Etesia UK is pleased to announce TFM Farm and Country Superstore as its newest dealer, bringing the high-performance Etesia range to the rural communities of Shropshire and beyond. This partnership is set to offer local customers a robust selection of commercial-grade grass-cutting machinery, including pedestrian mowers, ride-on mowers, and brushcutters.

TFM Farm and Country Superstore, a family-run business with a deep-rooted history in serving the rural workforce, is well-known for its vast range of agricultural, construction, and country living products. Group Buyer Hayley Cole explained the importance of introducing the Etesia brand to their customers:

“Where we are based, a lot of customers start with domestic ride-ons, but they often find they’re not up to the job when tackling larger gardens or paddocks. We needed something at a more commercial level, and Etesia was the perfect fit,” said Hayley.

Etesia, a leader in grass-cutting innovation since 1989, is renowned for its reliability, durability, and performance across diverse conditions. With a product lineup that includes pedestrian and ride-on mowers, brushcutters, and the award-winning ET Lander electric utility vehicle, Etesia machines are designed to meet the demands of both domestic and commercial users.

TFM discovered Etesia at GroundsFest 2024, where the brand’s impressive display left a lasting impression. “We had a good look at their machines at the event and later visited their UK head office in Banbury to learn more. The capabilities of the machines really stood out, especially the design where the chute into the collector box is right next to the cutting deck—it’s ideal for preventing blockages,” Hayley added.

Etesia’s ability to cut and collect even in wet conditions, along with their solid construction, also caught the TFM team’s attention. “Our customers often cut grass at knee height, and domestic ride-ons just can’t handle that. These machines are built to perform,” Hayley noted.
TFM is excited to offer Etesia products to a diverse customer base, from councils and housing associations to domestic users with larger land areas. “I think there will be some crossover between domestic and commercial customers—those with land needing a more robust mower and councils requiring reliable machines,” said Hayley.

The partnership with Etesia extends beyond product sales. “The Etesia team is great to deal with,” Hayley shared. “They’re coming to deliver training on all the machines, and we know we can always pick up the phone if needed. Their support has been excellent.”
This collaboration marks a significant step for both TFM and Etesia in meeting the needs of rural communities with high-quality, dependable machinery. TFM customers can look forward to seeing the Etesia range ahead of the cutting season, with demonstrations and hiring options available.

Etesia Hydro 100 is the Perfect Solution for The Retreats Group

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The Retreats Group, which encompasses three of the leading luxury hotels in Wales—Twr y Felin Hotel, Roch Castle, and Penrhiw Priory—has always been dedicated to maintaining immaculate grounds that reflect the beauty of its locations.

For Ollie Davies, the groundskeeper and supervisor for The Retreats Group, maintaining these stunning landscapes has become significantly easier since the purchase of a Etesia Hydro 100 ride-on mower.

“The properties are undulating and steep in places,” says Ollie. “My brother used to help me look after the grounds, and when he left, we decided that instead of employing someone else full-time, we would invest in one of these machines and see how it would benefit me.”

Before the Hydro 100, Ollie managed the extensive lawns using pedestrian mowers—a task that was both time-consuming and physically demanding. “Prior to the Etesia machine, I would cut them all with a pedestrian mower. It was a lot of hard work. This Etesia saves so much time and money. It is a great bit of kit.”

The Etesia Hydro 100 III ride-on mower is designed for professional users who require top-quality mowing and collection performance in all weather conditions. Powered by an 18 HP twin-cylinder Kawasaki engine, it features a modern hydraulic drive transmission with differential lock, a large 500-litre grass box, and a cutting deck with rear central ejection for efficient grass collection.

Ollie initially considered the Etesia Buffalo ride-on mower, having seen impressive footage of its performance on social media. However, after careful evaluation, he realised that the Buffalo was too large for the more intricate formal gardens within the properties. “We wanted to get a demo of a Buffalo because it looks great, but we figured out it was a bit too big for the formal gardens. We wouldn’t have got it around some of the benches and flower beds.”

Given the uneven terrain of the properties, Ollie decided on the Hydro 100, known for its differential lock and sturdy design. “With the grounds being so uneven, we went for the Hydro 100 because it has a diff lock and it seemed very sturdy.”

Ollie’s decision was reinforced during a particularly wet demo session. “We got one on demo to start with—it was really wet—but these pick up the grass in wet conditions, even when it is long. It worked a treat on our demo; it picked up the grass and didn’t leave a mess, so we were really impressed with it, and we just went from there.”

The Hydro 100’s differential lock has proven invaluable on the steep, slippery slopes of the properties. “It is quite undulating and steep, and especially when it is wet, the diff lock comes in handy. As soon as you start feeling it slip a bit, you just engage the diff lock and it doesn’t leave a mess or wheel spin.”

During the peak growing season, Ollie faces the challenge of keeping up with rapidly growing grass. The Hydro 100 has made this task much more manageable. “If I was on my own and I only had my walk-behind mower, I would be completely swamped with grass and I would just be chasing my tail all the time. So having the Hydro 100 means I can stay on top of things. I’m no longer physically tired all the time from having to use my little walk-behind mower when I can use this instead.”

Ollie also appreciates the Hydro 100’s ability to cut and collect grass on formal lawns, ensuring that the grounds remain pristine for guests. “We cut and collect on the formal lawns because we don’t want guests to get their shoes clogged with grass and walk it into the castle—it wouldn’t be very popular with the housekeeping staff.”

The ease of adjusting the cutting height is another feature Ollie values. “To change the height of cut, you have something that looks like a handbrake. You just push the thumb button in and set the height using the lever. I tend to use a medium setting because we want to take the top third off the grass to keep it green.”

Ollie has also been impressed by the mower’s reliability, even in less-than-ideal conditions. “Considering how wet it has been over the past year I have never experienced any form of blocking, even if the grass is long and wet.”

For Ollie Davies and The Retreats Group, the Hydro 100 has proven to be an essential tool in maintaining the high standards of their luxury properties, ensuring that the grounds are always perfectly presented, no matter the conditions.