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A guide to ESTO

WE CARE ABOUT SYNTHETIC TURF

3 | A guide to ESTO2 | A guide to ESTO

Contents

6 ESTO A-Z Company Guide

50 Membership Information

63 Landscape Classification

64 ESTO Working Groups

65 ESTO Event Calendar 2018

66 Knowledge Centre

67 FAQ - Synthetic Turf

The European Synthetic Turf Organisation has launched a brand new and fully responsive

website. Providing the latest industry news and an in-depth knowledge centre of

synthetic turf related resources, the site is a vital tool for all things synthetic turf.

www.theesto.com

4 | A guide to ESTO 5 | A guide to ESTO

ESTO Members


Albergrass

C/Conquistador 27 AP 78 03450Banyeres de Mariola AlicanteSpainT: +34 966 567 153 E: [email protected] W: www.albergrass.es

Key Contacts

Cristóbal Albero González Manager Director E: [email protected] T: +34 966 567 153

Ricardo Ortiz Commercial Manager E: [email protected] T: +34 966 567 153

About Us

Albergrass is a 100% Spanish-owned company specializing in artificial grass with a track record of innovation and the know-how of three generations of textile sector entrepreneurs.Albergrass is also a proud member of ESTO and the sector’s first company to be awarded the Spanish Certificate of Origin (OEC: Origen Español Certificado). Albergrass is distinguished by the constant launch of new technologies applied to the development of artificial turf. It was the first company in the world to launch a perfume for artificial turf. In addition, it is the only manufacturer offering artificial turf with features like:

• Instant Recovery®, which makes the lawn regain better verticality when being stepped on.

• Natural Look®, our own development that guarantees a more natural appearance of the lawn.

• Feelgood®, Albergrass’s high-tech solution to make artificial turf repel heat and remain cooler.

Basf Schweiz AG

Plastic AdditivesKlybeckstrasse 141CH-4057 Basel T: +41 61 6361111 E: [email protected] W: www.plasticadditives.basf.com

Key Contacts

Daniel Müller Head of Competence Center Film & Tape E: [email protected] T: +41 61 6364805

Sebastien Villeneuve Head of Marketing Plastic Additives Europe E: [email protected] T: +41 61 6362223

About Us

BASF is a leading supplier, manufacturer and innovation partner of plastic additives. Its comprehensive and innovative product portfolio includes stabilizers which provide ease in processing, heat and light resistance to a variety of polymers and applications including molded articles, films, fibers, sheets and extruded profiles.

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. The approximately 114,000 employees in the BASF Group work on contributing to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio is organized into five segments: Chemicals, Performance Products, Functional Materials & Solutions, Agricultural Solutions and Oil & Gas. BASF generated sales of about €58 billion in 2016. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (BAS).


BFS Europe nv (Beaulieu International Group)

Ingelmunstersteenweg 1628780 OostrozebekeBelgië T: +32 56 672211 E: [email protected] W: www.bintg.com

Key Contacts

Marc Verleyen General Manager E: [email protected] T: +32 56 672408 M: +32 47 7599525

Frederic Rasschaert Sales & Marketing Manager Artificial Grass E: [email protected] M: +34 654 622689

About Us

BFS Europe offers a complete range of artificial grass products for almost any leisure or landscape application under the Oryzon and Turfgrass brand. Our complete portfolio is designed, engineered and produced in Europe.

Thanks to our own state-of-the-art yarn extrusion, we control the entire production process from yarn extrusion over tufting, finishing to distribution, allowing us to offer the highest quality products.

Turfgrass, an innovative brand of high quality artificial turf for the professional market, offers a wide range of products for landscaping and sports, as well as Customgrass, a Turfgrass exclusive product that combines colours to create customised pattern designs, logos and decorative motifs.

Oryzon, our brand for the retail market, carries a wide selection of artificial grass with the softest touch, the best resilience and a true-to-nature look and feel. For our event enthusiasts we offer a line of fire retardant grasses in trendy colours.

Condor Grass

Randweg 148061 RW HasseltThe Netherlands T: +31 384 778911 E: [email protected] W: www.condor-group.eu

Key Contacts

Erwin Rutteman Managing Director E: [email protected] T: +31 384 778911 M: +31 633 589122

About Us

Condor Grass - a division of The Condor Group of companies from the Netherlands is one of the largest white-label manufacturers in the world of high-end artificial grass solutions for any application that you can imagine. Landscaping, multi-purpose, football, tennis, hockey, golf, rugby, cricket, play areas can all be covered by product from the Condor Grass portfolio.

With our many years of experience in this ever challenging field, we at Condor Grass are convinced we have a collection that can cover all your artificial grass needs and contribute to your success in this exciting market.


Dywilan SA

Sterlinga 27/2990-212 LodzPoland T: +48 42 6492905 E: [email protected] W: www.wovengrass.eu

Key Contacts

Piotr Jakubiak CEO E: [email protected] T: +48 42 6492905 M: +48 60 6409050

Pawel Sala Sales & Marketing Manager E: [email protected] T: +48 42 6492905 M: +48 60 0875151

About Us

We are the first manufacturer of woven artificial grass for sport. In our range of products you can also find woven mats for hybrid turf and landscaping products.

130 years of weaving tradition combinded with deepened knowledge and experience of carpet weaving, have enabled us to transform into a vibrant, innovative company, specialized in the production of woven grass.

We offer the most advanced technology on the market and take full responsibility for our product, as well as ready-made surfaces based on our technology. The attention to quality of service and flexibility are further features which identify us.

Tens of pitches installed worldwide since 2011 meet the highest quality requirements of international standards and football federations. Thanks to constant R&D activity Dywilan can offer breakthrough products - our patent protected hybrid mat or fully recyclable woven turf that became our standard.

Envirostik Holdings Ltd

Airfield Industrial EstateHixonStaffordshireUKST18 0PF T: +44 1889 271 751 E: [email protected] W: www.envirostik.com

Key Contacts

Brian Spencer Sales Director E: [email protected] T: +44 1889 271 751 M: +44 7815 733 267

Mark Edge Technical Sales Executive E: [email protected] T: +44 1889 271 751 M: +44 7896 588 193

About Us

Part of the Sandmaster UK Group of companies, Envirostik formulate, manufacture and supply high performance one and two part polyurethane adhesives, in a wide variety of pack sizes for synthetic grass installations worldwide.

Envirostik offers best practice installation guidance and technical support with a team led by people with over 25 years experience in the Sport & Leisure surfaces industry.

Office support is available to answer enquiries and to ensure customer orders are on site precisely when required.

Customer satisfaction is at the heart of the business at Envirostik, which underpins their strategy for quality control, research and development, distribution and on site assessment of products in use.

More information about Envirostik’s professional bonding systems are available at www.envirostik.com. The multi lingual site offers product guidance and technical advice suitable for new construction, repair and maintenance projects for sports and landscaping surfaces.


Envos SRO Ltd

Tynska Ulicka 607/5 110 00 Praha T: +420 257 213 551 E: [email protected] W: www.envos.cz

Key Contacts

Vokáč Michal Executive Manager E: [email protected] M: +420 602 201 203

Vávra Jaroslav Project Manager E: [email protected] M: +420 774 855 155

About Us

Envos is active mainly in sport pitch construction, with either natural grass or synthetic turf surface. We offer turnkey projects or partial supplies of sport constructions of various usages from recreational sport or professional level. Including irrigation systems, pitch heating and various drainage constructions. Natural grass is either seeded directly on the pitch or delivered in rolled sods from our plantation. We have all machinery available in house for the sub-base constructions, surface levelling and installation works for natural grass and synthetic turf. We can prepare complete project documentation as well as the construction works or supervising including advisory support. The experience and knowledge within Envos, positions our company among the leaders in this segment on the European market. Another direction of our activities is road construction, where we specialize in reconstruction or new constructions of transportation constructions including underground utilities. We also offer engineering supervising and advice.

Genan Holding A/S

Jegindoevej 16Dk-8800 ViborgDenmark T: +45 87283000 E: [email protected] W: www.genan.eu

Key Contacts

Daniel Schockmann Sales Manager - Central Europe E: [email protected] T: +49 2362 9527-0 M: +49 1511 0832563

Barry Stocker Sales Director - UK & Ireland E: [email protected] T: +44 1328 258 110 M: +44 7884 484 343

About Us

Genan has existed since 1990. Operating 5 fully automated, high-capacity recycling plants in Denmark, Germany and the USA, Genan is global leader in the production of ELT rubber infill for artificial turf.

Offering clean, uniform products with full traceability and flexibility, Genan is an essential partner for leading manufacturers of artificial turf.Genan rubber granulate is made from end-of-life tyres originally produced from the very best rubber available. Genan granulate thus boasts the same superior properties such as elasticity, weather resistance and good ageing properties.

Genan infill is renowned for being a quality-wise very consistent and virtually dust-free product. All Genan products are thoroughly monitored and tested throughout the production process.

Being a clean and uniform product with low bulk density, Genan infill is the perfect, cost-effective choice for installers aiming for optimum performance of artificial turf installations.


GKB Machines

Augustapolder 132992 SR BarendrechtThe Netherlands T: +31 180 642922 E: [email protected] W: www.gkbmachines.com

Key Contacts

Jan-Willem Kraaijeveld Managing Director E: [email protected] T: +31 180 642922 M: +31 653 384663

Rudolf Molenaar Business Development Manager E: [email protected] T: +31 180 642922 M: +31 657 820253

About Us

GKB Machines is part of the GKB Group. Since 1985 GKB Machines, as a separate division, is engaged with the development of innovative maintenance machines for sports pitches.

At GKB Machines we feel strongly about sustainability, as a family-owned company we aim for a sustainable company with a positive future prospect. That we do not just stick to words is evident from the fact that we are producing our machines energy neutral.

Sustainability is also highly important during the development of the machines. We develop the machines from the experience we have established from our contractor division. Every GKB Machine must satisfy the high-quality requirements that we impose. A sustainable, reliable and robust machine is the foundation for your operation. Since our contractor division is used to receiving these type of machines, you might also expect this from us.

Hatko Dokuma Tekstil Taah.ve Tic. A.Ş

Merkez Mah. Akar Cad I Tower Plaza 9.Floor No66 Sisu Bomonti Istanbul, Turkey T: +90 212 803 0901 E: [email protected] W: www.hatkosport.com

Key Contacts

Gusan Hatko CEO E: [email protected] T: +90 212 803 0901

Berna Akbulut Export Director E: [email protected] T: +90 212 801 8881

About Us

HATKO is licensed by the FIFA, certified by the ITF, FIH and IAAF. As an expert in synthetic sports flooring industry, it aims to provide better quality products for various sports surfaces. Thanks to its experience based on practice and its qualified human resources, HATKO has the opportunity to carry out turn-key projects worldwide from the design to the installation of the athletic tracks, acrylic courts, indoor halls and multi functional outdoor floorings. HATKO is at your service in 77 countries through its representatives. HATKO has professional references in different countries with sports ministries, federations and military institutions. HATKO is also known with it’s landscaping projects such as the AL ORUBA ROAD Cloverleaf in Saudi Arabia which is the world largest landscape project installed with synthetic turf covering a total area of 160,000 m2. In 2015, in Cologne ,Germany, HATKO was awarded “ COMPANY OF THE YEAR” prize from ESTO.


H.B. Fuller

56 rue du Général de GaulleCS 1000867250 SurbourgFrance T: +33 3 88067100 E: [email protected] W: www.hbfuller.com

Key Contacts

Alain Rede Business Manager Construction E: [email protected] T: +33 3 880671 16 M: +33 6 07790913

Damien Chance Area Technical Manager E: [email protected] T: +33 3 880671 17 M: +33 6 08269879

About Us

H.B. Fuller is a leading worldwide manufacturer and marketer of adhesives and other specialty chemicals. 127 years of winning with customers. Direct presence in 42 countries. Customers in more than 100 geographic markets.

TEC™ offers a complete range of adhesives and seaming tapes for the installation of artificial turf: One component adhesives, all seasons 2K adhesives, hot melt, high performance adhesives and adhesives for landscaping.

TEC™ artificial turf installation systems from H.B. Fuller are recommended for football, rugby hockey and more, TEC™ adhesive systems have been certified and proven to meet the most stringent tests and trials by an independent institute for sports facilities.

Juta A.S.

Juta A.S - Jutagrass Production Unit 15Na Borkach 89544 01 Dvur Kralove Nad LabemCzech Republic T: +420 499 314 567 E: [email protected] W: www.jutagrass.com

Key Contacts

Jaroslav Buda Managing Director E: [email protected] T: +420 499 314 569 M: +420 602 704 301

Zuzana Klikova Executive Assistant E: [email protected] T: +420 499 314 580 M: +420 601 359 618

About Us

Jutagrass® is a registered trademark of Juta company engaged in manufacturing and sale of artificial grass. The Jutagrass® was founded in 2008. Since then it has become an important and respected player in the global arena of the artificial grass producers, with activities in 24 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and America.

A long-term experience with the extrusion process in Juta enables the unique and proven “under one roof concept”. Continuous modernization of technologies and research focused on new products are the basis for company development. The optimal use of investments helps to achieve the economic targets with the sales volume reaching 1.800.000 m2 in 2016.

Juta a.s. is a FIFA licensed company and a proud member of ESTO, SAPCA and Fedairsport. The quality of the fibers and the complete grass systems for sport, especially for the football, represent the main objectives and the long-term program for Juta production.


Kiwa ISA Sport

Papendallaan 76816 VD ArnhemThe Netherlands T: +31 264 834637 E: [email protected] W: www.kiwa-isa-sport.nl

Key Contacts

Gert-Jan Kieft Laboratory Manager E: [email protected] T: +31 264 834633 M: +31 653 576434

Natasja Siemes Project Manager E: [email protected] T: +31 264 834627 M: +31 614 463868

About Us

The Netherlands based Institute for Sports Facilities (Instituut voor Sportaccommodaties B.V.), known as Kiwa ISA Sport, is an independent professional body specialised in assessment of top quality, durable and safe sports facilities: Kiwa ISA Sport is a world player in all aspects of testing sports facilities. The head office of Kiwa ISA Sport is at the heart of Dutch sporting excellence: the Papendal Dutch National Sports Centre.

With global presence, our core business is based on carrying out research into various aspects of quality and safety, as well as the inspection of national and international sport facilities all over the world.

Kiwa ISA Sport is recognized by all national and international sports governing bodies (like FIFA, FIH, ITF, World Rugby, IAAF, FIBA) as a high quality field and laboratory test institute.

Labosport International

Technoparc du circuit des 24 HChemin aux Bœufs72100 Le MansFrance T: +33 2 43470840 E: [email protected] W: www.labosport.com

Key Contacts

Aurélien Le Blan CEO E: [email protected] M: +33 6 24451909

Xavier Nicolau Group Head of Sales & Marketing E: [email protected] M: +33 6 95103552

About Us

The Labosport Group is a major international test laboratory and consultancy organisation specialising in sports surfacing.

With a Headquarter based in France, our company has grown since being founded in 1993 and has always been at the forefront of the industry.

We constantly innovate to improve the overall quality, safety and durability of sports surfaces. Over the years we have developed a strong multidisciplinary team with expertise in engineering, chemistry, sport performance, agronomy and material science. With over 100 employees and 15 offices, Labosport can provide sports surfaces testing and advisory internationally.

The company’s expertise and professionalism has been recognised by many sports governing bodies. We are accredited by:

• Fédération Internationale de Football Associations

• International Hockey Association• International Rugby Board• International Association of

Athletics Federations• International Tennis Federation


Lano Sports NV

Venetiëlaan 338530 Harelbeke T: +32 56 654290 E: [email protected] W: www.lanosports.com

Key Contacts

Thibaut Toye Business Unit Manager E: [email protected] T: +32 56 654290

Heidi Debakker Product Manager E: [email protected] T: +32 56 654301

About Us

Originally solely a carpet manufacturer, Lano branched out into the sports & landscaping industry with its range of artificial turf systems. It’s this striving for perfection that has been featuring Lano Sports for over 30 years, not only reflecting in the design and manufacturing of our products, but also in the service we offer to our customers. With a tailor-made approach, we aim for nothing less than the best possible result. With every specific project, Lano Sports aims to achieve nothing less than absolute customer delight.

The best evidence for this approach are our references. Football, hockey, tennis, rugby, golf... The list of clubs and organisations that are convinced by our way of working gets longer by the year. Among them are several prestige projects for top sports teams. Lano Sports is FIFA Licensee & FIH Preferred Supplier

Mapei

Via Cafiero 22 20158 Milan Italy T: +39 023 767 31 E: [email protected] W: www.mapei.com

Key Contacts

Angelo Nobili Resilient and Sport line Corporate Director E: [email protected] T: +3902376731 M: +393357944644

Chris Yperlaan Regional Product Manager Sport Line E: [email protected] T: +310546836040 M: +310613531484

About Us

Mapei Group: 81 subsidiaries with 73 plants in the five continents, is today one of the most important producers of adhesives and complementary products for the installation of all types of floor and wall coverings.

The company is also specialized in other chemical products for building, from waterproofers to special mortars and admixtures for concrete, products for the restoration of ancient buildings and special wall decorative and protective coating. Since ‘50’s Mapei contributed with its products to realize indoor and outdoor sports facilities all around the world.


M.Cup Sport Surfaces

Postova 3811 06 BratislavaSlovakia T: +421 90 5244984 E: [email protected] W: www.mcup.sk

Key Contacts

Lucia Michalikova Managing Partner E: [email protected] T: +421 26 2410664 M: +421 90 5244984

Jozef Michalik CEO E: [email protected] T: +421 26 2410664 M: +421 90 5244984

About Us

M.Cup Sport Surfaces is a construction and development company based in Slovakia which specializes in performance surfaces for sport facilities and athletic installations all over Europe with more then 25 years of experience. We deliver world class quality certified projects. Our success is measured by our list of notable projects and customer references. M.Cup is the installation partner for the National Tennis Federation, Football and other sport Associations. We participate in events such as the Davis Cup, Fed Cup, tennis exhibitions, sport events and games. We deliver and install surfaces such as: Athletic Tracks (tartan). Tennis Courts (artificial grass, hardcourts, red clay). Football fields (artificial grass or hybrid grass). Multi-purpose Pitches (artificial grass or polyurethane surfaces). Squash Courts (complete squash courts). Golf greens, Adventure Golf (artificial grass). Ice Hockey Arenas, In-line Hockey (ice or artificial ice, acrylic surfaces). Indoor halls (parquet floors, polyurethane and acrylic surfaces). Badminton, Basketball, Volleyball (artificial grass, acrylic or polyurethane surfaces)Children’s Playgrounds. Maintenance services, accessories and cleaning equipment for all types of sporting surfaces.

Melos GmbH

Bismarckstrasse 4 - 1049324 MelleGermany T: +49 5422 9447-0 E: [email protected] W: www.melos.com

Key Contacts

Thomas Kubitza Marketing Manager E: [email protected] T: +49 5422 9447-82 M: +49 1512 7610833

About Us

Melos GmbH from Melle near Osnabrück, Lower Saxony, is one of the leading international manufacturers of coloured EPDM rubber granules. Products made by Melos GmbH are used in particular in processing for running tracks in sports stadia, as fall protection surfaces for children's playgrounds, as infill granules on artificial turf as well as for non-slip surfacing in swimming pools.

200 employees work at our Melle site. Warehouse, production, research laboratory, quality assurance and administration are located here, in premises covering an area of 48,000 sq m. The reference portfolio presents national and international projects. These include, for example, the running track at the Berlin Olympic Stadium and the world's largest racecourse in Dubai.


Mondo Group

Polígono Barbalanca - Avda Campo de Borja, 38-4050540 - Borja (Zaragoza)España T: +34 976 866060 E: [email protected] W: www.mondoworldwide.com

Key Contacts

Rubén Paños R&D and Quality Department E: [email protected] T: +34 976 866060

Yolanda Franco Assistant General Manager E: [email protected] T: +34 976 574303

About Us

Mondo Sport & Flooring develops, designs and manufactures indoor and outdoor sport flooring and equipment. We have supplied the tracks and provided the technical and logistical support for 11 consecutive Olympic Games, from Montreal 1976 to Rio 2016. Every year 150,000 athletes train and compete on Mondo tracks, courts and artificial turf soccer pitches.

Mondo is a turf provider that designs and produces the synthetic turf systems, installs and maintains - from fibres and underlay to rubber granule infills. Using the most advanced manufacturing technology and performing rigorous quality control at every step in the production process allows us to guarantee the quality and performance of our different synthetic sports turf systems. Mondo produces systems for football, tennis, paddle, rugby, hockey and ornamental grass in its plant in Borja (Spain). Over 20 different types of fibre are created within the plant that are exported in about 60 countries.

Murfitts Industries Ltd

Station Road, LakenheathSuffolk1P27 9ADUnited Kingdom T: +44 1842 860 220 E: [email protected] W: www.murfittsindustries.com

Key Contacts

Mark Murfitt Managing Director E: [email protected] T: +44 1842 860 220

Jayne Fosh Commercial Manager E: [email protected] T: +44 7766 160 901

About Us

As the leading manufacturer of premium sports surface infills and rubber mulch, Murfitts Industries is excited to be launching PRO-gran® and PRO-tect, exclusively at FSB. PRO-gran® is the ultimate artificial pitch infill. The granules deliver exceptional performance that exceeds the strictest European toxicology standards – those for toy safety. Not only does PRO-gran® outperform all other artificial sports surface infills, but it also provides the closest experience to a natural pitch. The infill creates an enhanced playing experience through consistency of play, lower surface temperatures, no airborne particulates and no aroma. PRO-gran® is 100% safe. It doesn’t release any heavy metals, PAHs or microplastics into the environment and unlike alternative infills, PRO-gran® won’t degrade and is UV stable. PRO-tect rubber mulch is a cost-effective surface solution for children’s play areas and gardens. The alternative surface is also completely harmless with no heavy metals, PAHs or microplastics released. PRO-tect provides a low-maintenance bark alternative that exceeds the guidelines set for critical fall heights.


Notts Sport Ltd

Innovation HouseMagna ParkLutterworthLeicestershireLE17 4XH T: +44 1455 883 730 E: [email protected] W: www.nottssport.com

Key Contacts

Duncan Bennett Managing Director E: [email protected] T: +44 1455 883 730 M: +44 7966 858 013

Mark Wood Head of Marketing E: [email protected] T: +44 1455 883 751 M: 07966 858 007

About Us

Notts Sport is the leading specialist, with over 30 years’ experience, in designing, advising upon and supplying artificial surfacing systems for cricket, hockey and football as well as children’s play and multi-use games areas Notts Sport enjoys partnerships and affiliations with a number of leading industry bodies, including the ECB. It’s also England Hockey’s only Official Facilities Partner, offering the widest range of International Hockey Federation compliant pitches. The company’s high-quality solutions comprise every component required to create just the right performance, from base construction through to performance layers and synthetic surfacing.

One of the key benefits of choosing a Notts Sport facility is the free Design and Advisory Service, with expert advice and assistance available from the design stage to installation and aftercare.

Committed to providing effective and innovative design solutions, Notts Sport has built up an impressive portfolio, working with local authorities, schools, clubs and national sports bodies.

Polytan GmbH

Gewerbering 386666 BurgheimGermany T: +49 8432 / 87-0 E: [email protected] W: www.polytan.com

About Us

To make the optimal surface for sporting success – that has been the ideal pursued by Polytan since 1969. Polytan continuously refines its synthetic turf systems to reflect the latest findings in the field of sports medicine. That’s why today’s pitches not only feel like real grass, for example, they also have excellent playing qualities.

Introduced ten years ago, an important milestone in the development of synthetic turf is the Liga Turf RS+: the result of numerous innovations, the product set new standards in 2007 and, thanks to continuous improvement, is now the number one synthetic turf in professional football worldwide.

Not only do the professional French clubs FC Lorient and ASNL Nancy play on it, for example, but professional German clubs such as FC Bayern Munich, Bayer 04 Leverkusen, Borussia Mönchengladbach and FC Schalke 04 also count on this synthetic turf system in their centres for junior players and professional training. What’s more, this LigaTurf RS+ football turf was also installed at the venue for the final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015 in the Canadian city of Vancouver.

As well as developing, manufacturing and fitting the synthetic turf systems, the spectrum of services provided by Polytan also includes line markings, repairs, cleaning and maintenance. All products meet current national and international standards and are duly certified by international sports federations such as FIFA, FIH and World Rugby. Polytan has also been a founding member of ESTO.


Polytex Sportbeläge Produktions GmbH

Vinkrather Straße 4347929 GrefrathGermany T: +49 2158 9185-40 E: [email protected] W: www.polytex-gmbh.com

Key Contacts

Stefan Hally Head of project management E: stefan.hally@polytex gmbh.com T: +49 2158 9185-437 M: +49 1511 6782 050

Bernd Jansen Head of QSE E: [email protected] T: +49 2158 9185-431 M: +49 1511 5066 895

About Us

Polytex produces professional sports and recreational flooring for outdoor use. It is the only company in this sector that combines all the production processes under one roof Europe-wide. At the production facility in Grefrath, in the lower Rhine region, finished flooring emerges from the smallest granulate pellets.

All working steps such as extrusion, finishing and tufting as well as the final coating and end inspection are carried out in modern production facilities. Polytex also has its own Research and Development Department to continuously improve its products.

In addition to the production of sports and recreational flooring, Polytex specialises in the marketing of its own masterbatches. Masterbatches are used in nearly every area of the plastics and automotive supply industries.

PU Consulting Associated Ltd

Denmead CottageLong Cross HillArford, Hampshire GU35 8BSUK T: +44 7787 158 686 E: [email protected] W: www.puconsulting.co.uk

Key Contacts

Peter Mackey Managing Director E: [email protected] T: +44 1428 717 502 M: +44 7787 158 686

About Us

PU Consulting Associates was established in January 2011 to specialise in all areas of polyurethane (PU) technology, but with particular reference to the artificial turf, playground and synthetic sports surface industries.

We have worked on a variety of different projects, including:

• The conversion from SBR latex to PU backings for artificial turf

• PU coating of SBR granules to produce coloured infill materials

• Improvements in the quality of moulded playground tiles using PU binders and SBR granules

• Production of prepolymers for use as binders for synthetic surfaces

• Development of various PU systems for rigid foams, footwear and automotive applications

• Development of novel polyester polyols for the PU industry

• Strategy and marketing projects for PU Systems Houses


Re-Match

HI-Park 4157400 HerningDenmark T: +45 77346734 E: [email protected] W: www.re-match.dk

Key Contacts

Dennis Andersen CEO E: [email protected] T: +45 77346734 M: +45 61204641

Nikolaj Magne Larsen CFO E: [email protected] T: +45 77346734 M: +45 52177733

About Us

We set the new global standard in recycling synthetic turf.

Without leaving any waste from the original components Re-Match provides sport arenas and stadiums the opportunity to dispose of their used synthetic turf without negativly effecting the environment. Re-Match will pick up your old synthetic turf for less than what you would pay in disposal fee at the landfill. This means, you will be able to dispose of your old turf in an environmentally friendly way and save money at the same time.

At our efficient, high-tech plant the turf is downsized, dried, separated and cleaned - without using water. The result is four clean materials without creating additional waste products.

Recticel Flexible Foams

Damstraat 2, Industriezone 7B-9230 WetterenBelgium T: +32 93 689211 E: [email protected] W: www.recticelflexiblefoams.com

Key Contacts

Ron Lokhorst E: [email protected]

About Us

Our re-bounce® impact absorbing products help protect indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities, as well as the people who use them. Wherever they’re used, our shock pads and underlays enhance player performance and enjoyment. Absorbing impact, noise and vibration, they lower the risk of injury and create stable, consistent conditions for the ultimate sports experience.

They are also a smart way to protect your business. re-bounce® shock pads for outdoor pitches are easy to install and reduce the need for infill and maintenance, lowering your overall costs. As well as ensuring a consistent surface over the whole pitch, they contribute to better water management and surface cooling. Our underlays for indoor sports facilities protect your investment by increasing the life expectancy of the playing surface.

Made entirely from recycled raw materials, re-bounce® is odourless and non-polluting, helping you to protect the environment as well.


Safina

Travessa da Gandara, 653885-Cortegaca-OVRPortugal T: +351 256 790 120 E: [email protected] W: www.safina.pt

About Us

Established in 1972, safina has along the years been a key player in the textile floor covering in Portugal.

Since then, the company has evolved to produce new products according to the development of the markets and with that the production of artifical grass.

Artificial grass has become the core business of Safina accounting for more than 80% of the overall sales.

In its range of products of artifical grass, the focus goes for the landscaping segment where the softness and durability are key to the success of our products.

Also sports and fungrass are a part of Safina products, being reconized as trusted and reliable partner for many clubs.

Saltex Oy

Sahatie 1FIN-62900 AlajärviFinland T: +358 65 570 700 E: [email protected] W: www.saltex.fi

Key Contacts

Anjo van der Wende Product Manager E: [email protected] M: +31 650 449270

Hannu Salmenautio Export Manager, R&D E: [email protected] T: +358 65 570 700

About Us

Saltex Oy is the northernmost producer of artificial grass in the world, with its modern factory located in Finland. Saltex Oy operates globally and has gained a vast experience operating in areas with challenging weather conditions. Nowadays, Saltex Oy is part of the Nordic Unisport Group.

Saltex Oy also has over 20 years of experience in artificial grass installations and maintenance. The company is committed to each project from start to finish including research & development, field design, manufacturing, installation, field testing, maintenance and after care.

Our artificial grass qualities have been tested according to FIFA and many other international and national standards. Saltex has several FIFA certified fields all over the world and is one of the few FIFA Preferred Producers.


Schmitz Foam Products

Produktieweg 66045 JC RoermondThe Netherlands T: +31 475 370270 E: [email protected] W: www.schmitzfoam.com

Key Contacts

Jens Ulb Sales Director E: [email protected] T: +31 475 370270 M: +49 1522 2961674

Rob Moors Export Manager E: [email protected] T: +31 475 370270 M: +31 613 174891

About Us

Schmitz, a 3rd generation family owned and operated business, is a leading global supplier of high-end shock absorption and drainage products, which are manufactured and distributed on-site under the ProPlay brand. Since its establishment in 1935, Schmitz has has build a reliable worldwide network of selected distribution and installation partners, offering clients long lasting high performance pitches with the lowest total cost of ownership. Today, Schmitz has provided performance foam pads for 1000+ fields in more than 70 countries worldwide.

The first ProPlay pad was produced in 1992. Over the years, ProPlay products are well known for bringing the best possible shock absorbing and drainage solutions. They are applied in various markets globally such as sports (soccer, tennis, hockey, rugby, American football and multi-sports), fall protection for playgrounds and applications for landscaping, cow stables and equestrian sports. Therefore, the reference list is extensive; last year Schmitz installed one sports field every day!

Sekisui Alveo AG

Bahnhofstrasse 7Postfach 2068CH - 6002 Luzern T: +41 41 2289292 E: [email protected] W: www.alveosport.com

Key Contacts

Frenk Stoop Sales Manager E: [email protected] M: +31 655 736035

Klim Geraedts Application Development Manager E: [email protected] M: +31 629 349006

About Us

Sekisui – your global partner

Alveosport is made by the Swiss company Sekisui Alveo AG, a European leader in foams specializing in polyolefin foams since 1971. The company is a subsidiary of Sekisui Chemical Co. Ltd., with a global staff of over 20,000, and a global leader in foams since 1968. Alveosport is distributed worldwide through the Sekisui Group, comprising a global network of 76 companies serving every major country. Contact your nearest representative today. Our engineers are ready to design the playing field you’ve been dreaming of!

Alveosport is the shock pad of choice for artificial turf: Alveosport is an innovative patented technical layer designed specifically for artificial turf systems for all types of field sports. This technical layer makes up roughly 70% of the vertical sports performance of the overall turf system.


Radici Pietro Industries & Brands Spa

Via Cavalier Pietro Radici, 1924026 Cazzano Sant’andrea - BgItaly T: +39 035 724 242 E: [email protected]/[email protected] W: www.sit-insport.it/www.radici.it

Key Contacts

Massimo Seghezzi Division Sales Director E: [email protected] T: +39 035 095 0229

Andrea Petteni Area Manager E: [email protected] T: +39 035 095 0277 M: +39 348 349 9579

About Us

The artificial grass Sit-in SPORT is born from the perfect synergy between the different industrial realities of a big textile group (Miro Radici Family of Companies), since years involved in the textile world. RADICI PIETRO INDUSTRIES & BRANDS follow always a quality policy, environmental awareness, use of alternative energy for the productions, as attested by ISO 9001/ISO 14001 certifications. The high production standards has led to certification of the artificial grass Sit-in SPORT by the most important sport federations, both Italian and foreign according to FIFA, LND, ITF, IRB rules.

Nowadays Sit-in SPORT offers a wide range of high quality products: for each sport the surface is studied and realized to guarantee the best performance. Sit-in SPORT invest significant resources to the research and the development of innovative surfaces for the sport world, both professional and amateur, in order to guarantee high reliability and performance for long-time.

SMG GmbH

Robert-Bosch-Straße 3DE-89269VÖhringenGermany T: +49 7306 / 9665-0 E: [email protected]: www.smg-gmbh.de

Key Contacts

Tobias Owegeser Owner E: [email protected] T: +49 7306 / 966515 M: +49 173 / 3414736

Alex Bobeica Sales Director E: [email protected] T: +49 171 / 4638409

About Us

Since 1975 SMG has been dealing with the development of modern machinery for the installation of synthetic surfaces in the sports industry. Also for the maintenance of artificial turf or carpets with granule infilling SMG has already presented the world‘s first innovations since the 80s. For about 40 years SMG has been offering a unique range of machinery. As a pioneer in the special sector „synthetic sports surfaces and artificial turf“ SMG disposes of recognized competence and experience since decades. Ask us - we know what is possible.


Sport Nitra SRO

Prazska 2949 11 NitraSlovak Republic T: +421 376 559 611 E: [email protected] W: www.sportnitra.sk

Key Contacts

Roman Moravcik Director E: [email protected]

Lukas Hnilica Manager E: [email protected]

About Us

Our company focuses on realization of indoor and outdoor sports facilities. The main field of activity is the Slovak Republic.

Sport-Technik Bohemia SRO

Sokolovská 126/40186 00 Praha 8Czech republic T: +420 222 317 885 E: [email protected]: www.sporttechnik.cz

Key Contacts

Milan Vopička Director E: [email protected] T: +420 222 317 885 M: +420 602 202 020

Michal Bohdanecký Project Manager E: [email protected] T: +420 222 317 885 M: +420 602 286 214

About Us

I am pleased to introduce you the specialized company Sport-technikBohemia, which during 30 years of its activities has become a respected notion in the area of sports structures and which during this time has implemented more than 1,600 sports grounds and centres on the whole territory of the Czech Republic. The technical amd professional backgrounds is created by an experienced team of our own workers, especially in the persons of company director Milan Vopička and chief designer Pavel Křtěn, both of them active sportsman with 50 years of practice in the branch closely cooperating with domestic and foreign subcontractors. The scope and equipment of the design and production sectors enables the implementation of almost all kinds of sports structures including reconstructions for private clients, school sports grounds, hotels, and sports centres.And the best confirmation of professionalism is to receive the first prize for the best sports construction in the world in 2015 in Cologne.


Sportech CZ S.E.

Ujezd 450/40118 00 Praha - Malá StranaCzech republic T: +420 222 260 750 E: [email protected] W: www.polytansport.cz

Key Contacts

Ivan Kašpar Managing Director E: [email protected] T: +420 222 260 751 M: + 420 602 714 792

Zuzana Štefkova Executive Assistant E: [email protected] T: +420 222 260 750 M: +420 797 990 646

About Us

Our company has been building sports facilities in Czech republic and Slovakia in cooperation with Polytan for 25 years.

Swietelsky Stavební SRO

U Panelárny 881/IIICZ-377 01, Jindřichův Hradec Česká Republika T: +420 384 378 032 E: [email protected] W: www.sport-povrchy.czW: www.swietelsky.cz

Key Contacts

Jiri Berka Managing Director E: [email protected] T: +420 384 378 032

About Us

Swietelsky Stavební SRO., Sports construction plant is specialized in artificial sports surfaces focuses mainly on the designing, construction and reconstruction of sports buildings and facilities.


FieldTurf Tarkett SAS

Tour Initiale1 Terrasse Bellini92919 Paris La DefenseFrance T: +33 1 41204040 E: [email protected] W: www.fieldturf.com

Key Contacts

Paul Fraser Marketing Director EMEA E: [email protected] M: +44 7860 403 277

Darren Gill Vice-President – Marketing, Innovation, Customer E: [email protected] M: +15 143 752 584

About Us

FieldTurf is the inventor and global leader in 3G artificial turf with over 11,000 installations worldwide FieldTurf is part of Tarkett Sports, the sports division of the Tarkett Group. FieldTurf established its range of synthetic turf products designed for football, rugby and hockey at all levels of the game, and has a complete range for tennis, golf and landscaping

In addition to being a founding member of ESTO, FieldTurf is a preferred partner of FIFA, World Rugby, FIH and ITF & FFF.

Over 340 FieldTurf football pitches are certified by FIFA. World-leading clubs and training centres have selected FieldTurf, including PSG FC, Olympique de Marseille FC, Olympique Lyonnais, FC Barcelona, FC Groningen, AFC Ajax, US Oyonnax, Cardiff Blues and Clairefontaine - the French national training centre.

Technical Surfaces Ltd

Standards House Meridian East Meridian Business Park Leicester LE8 9AD United Kingdom T: +44 8702 400 700 E: [email protected] W: www.technicalsurfaces.co.uk

Key Contacts

Jonathan Gunn Technical Director E: [email protected] T: +44 8702 400 700

Mandy Hutchinson Company Secretary E: [email protected] T: +44 8702 400 700

About Us

Technical Surfaces is the UK’s market leader in maintaining synthetic sports surfaces, working alongside leading manufacturers and installation companies and operating nationwide from our Leicestershire headquarters.Our services include MatchFit® maintenance contracts, a unique Online Technical Information System (OTIS) to record pitch maintenance and usage, repairs, intensive decompactions (PowerGrade®), granular top-up / removal, deep-cleaning (Revite® & Rejeneration®), line marking, Sanitech® sanitisation, Hydrotech® cleaning of water-based pitches and running tracks, supply & training of maintenance machinery and supply of pitch equipment (AstroTech®).We are currently working in partnership with Loughborough University to deliver a Knowledge Transfer Partnership to further enhance industry understanding and awareness of the efficacy of current sports pitch maintenance techniques. Technical Surfaces is proud to be the sole UK distributor of SMG machinery and tools designed specifically for use on synthetic surfaces, and we work closely with their research team to develop new and improved machinery and equipment.


TenCate Grass

G. van der Muelenweg 27443 RE NijverdalNetherlands T: + 31 548 633944 E: [email protected]: tencategrass.com

Key Contacts

Frans Harmeling Sr Project Manager Components and Systems E: [email protected] M: +31 612 634613

Amii Attard Marketing Communications Manager - Components E: [email protected] T: +31 622 951970

About Us

TenCate Grass is a world leading producer of quality synthetic grass fibres and components. We develop, manufacture, and supply innovative synthetic turf fibre and primary backing solutions that enhance the overall performance of our partners' artificial grass systems.

As a global market leader in synthetic turf components, TenCate Grass and its group-owned companies are perfectly positioned to design, produce, supply and install the ideal artificial grass solution for any sports, recreation or landscape project.

The research and development department of TenCate Grass plays a vital role in the success of our organisation and our experienced team of engineers and scientists recognise that their contributions reach far beyond the laboratory and production areas. They are also involved with monitoring the performance of individual fields for many years after installation, and their observations are used as a basis for further developments in quality and performance.

Tessiture Pietro Radici SPA

Via Ugo Foscolo ,15224024 Gandino (BG)ITALYT: +39035715911 E: [email protected] W: www.radicigroup.com

Key Contacts

Enrico Buriani CEO Tessiture Pietro Radici E: [email protected] T: +39035715911

Mauro Cattaneo Sales Director Tessiture Pietro Radici E: [email protected] T: +39035715911

About Us

Tessiture Pietro Radici was founded in 1941 as a manufacturing company engaged in the production of textiles. Today it is a market leader in two different production and sales business segments: polypropylene spunbond nonwovens (Dylar®) – used in industrial applications, such as construction insulation, automotive, agriculture, furnishings and single-use tablecloths for the hospitality industry – and polyethylene and polypropylene artificial grass yarn (Radigreen®) – used for the manufacture of synthetic turf for sport venues (football, hockey, tennis, golf, etc.) and for decorative applications (gardens and children’s playgrounds). Available in a number of different colours and technical characteristics, also customizable, Radigreen®) yarns make the ideal solution for the manufacture of long lasting turf with excellent performance and appearance.


TigerTurf UK Ltd

229 IkonDroitwich RdHartleburyWorcestershireDY10 4EU T: +44 1299 253 966 E: [email protected] W: www.tigerturf.com

Key Contacts

David Hook Export Sales Manager E: [email protected] T: +44 1299 253 966 M: +44 7917626930

Paul Langford Managing Director E: [email protected] T: +44 1299 253 966 M: +44 7581 162 241

Thanks to an unrivalled investment in product development, TigerTurf utilises innovative manufacturing processes to develop a comprehensive range of artificial turf which meets a variety of sports and leisure performance standards.

TigerTurf selects the most advanced yarns from parent company TenCate – market leader in yarn extrusion – to create a full range of artificial turf for a wealth of sports, education, and leisure facilities. This commitment to quality is supported by a network of testing houses and the manufacturer’s very own laboratory, which is equipped with the latest in testing equipment.

To support its expansive product range, TigerTurf has a network of highly-skilled construction and design partners, each of whom is able to extend the organisation’s industry-leading attention to detail to the installation and maintenance of its artificial turf products.

TigerTurf maintains close affiliations with the FA, World Rugby, RFU, RFL, GAA, and ITF, whilst also having relevant products approved by FIFA and FIH.

About Us

Founded in 2000, the UK division of TigerTurf designs and manufactures artificial turf for sport, landscape and leisure applications, and is a major supplier to the European, African and Middle East markets.

Total Refining & Chemicals

Rue de l’Industrie 52B-1040 BrusselsBelgium T: +32 22 889136 E: polymers.total.com/contact-us W: polymers.total.com

Key Contacts

Guido Stein Key Account Manager E: [email protected] M: +49 1727 238718

Pieter Geeurickx Sr. Technical Service & Development Engineer E: [email protected] T: +32 64 514111 M: +32 47 5900674

About Us

Total Polymers is part of the Refining & Chemicals division of the Total Group, a global integrated energy producer and provider, leading international oil and gas company, and major player in solar energy through SunPower and Total Solar. In the field of polymers, our expert teams combine state of the art technologies and assets with flexible commercial services to provide high performance and durable solutions for our customers.

For the artificial turf market, we developed proprietary metallocene polyethylene resins that provide grass yarn with unrivaled durability, resilience and temperature resistance for longer lasting pitches in all climates.

Contact our experts to find out how we can help you with your specific challenges using our diversified portfolio of PE, PP, and PS resins. polymers.total.com/contact-us

TigerTurf maintains close affiliations with the FA, World Rugby, RFU, RFL, GAA, and ITF, whilst also having relevant products approved by FIFA and FIH.


Trocellen GmbH

Trocellen GmbHMülheimer Straße 2653840 TroisdorfT: +49 2241 2549000 E: [email protected] W: www.progame-shockpads.com

Key Contacts

Luca Girelli BU Manager ProGame E: [email protected] T: +39 029 596 2223 M: +39 335 726 5242

Philip Ong ProGame Malaysia E: [email protected] T: +60 3 31221213 M: +60 1 76822801

About Us

ProGame is one of the most used shockpads, manufactured by Trocellen GmbH (Germany) and since 2015 by Trocellen S.E.A. in Malaysia. Over the years ProGame shockpads have been installed in hundreds of installations worldwide to complete prestigious or community projects for soccer, American football, GAA, korfball, hockey, rugby or multi-purpose fields. In more recent times the ProGame shockpad has branched into playgrounds, landscaping and golf. ProGame shockpads provide long-lasting and high quality solutions for installations to meet the highest standards.

Together with our costumers we aim to supply the best shockpad solutions to the end users and clubs. We listen to the needs and understand what is important for our partners all over the world.

Vita Cellular Foams

Soudan StMiddletonManchesterUnited KingdomM24 2DBT: +44 1616 552 674 E: [email protected] W: www.revoshockpad.com

Key Contacts

Mark Hart Business Development Manager E: [email protected] T: +44 1616 431 133 ext 278 M: +44 7919 627 282

Claire Garvey Office Manager E: [email protected] T: +44 1616 431 133 ext 370

UK, Europe and also in the USA making Vita a true Pan European manufacturer of polyurethane foam products with over 2,500 employees. It is these sites that will also allow us to hold stock and also manufacture the product for delivery across Europe and farther.Vita Cellular Foams are true innovators of foam and became the first UK based company to provide commercially available quantities of their new innovation “Combustion Modified Foam (CM)”, which provided far safer, more flame retardant materials than had previously been available to the market. These flammability standards remain in place in the UK to the present day.The new RevoSport shock pad is another innovation and has been developed in a range of differing densities and thicknesses to encompass all sporting activities.RevoSport can be supplied in pre-manufactured and brand packaged rolls to suit the width of the pitch.Vita have a range of delivery vehicles with moffats on (Fork Lift Trucks) which will allow us to easily off load the rolls and help put them in situ on the field, ready to be laid. RevoSport is a true fully recyclable product as it is manufactured using waste PU foam and can then be brought back to us after its life cycle and then recycled to create a new roll of RevoSport.

About Us

Our new Shock Pad is the latest invention from Vita Cellular Foams UK who has been manufacturing and supplying foam products for over 65 years, and is an exceptional foundation for artificial turf systems. It is manufactured at our site in Middleton, Greater Manchester and is a UK manufactured product.Vita have multiple manufacturing and conversion sites across the


Wiedenmann GmbH

Am BahnhofDE- 89192 RammingenT: +49 7345 9530 E: [email protected] W: www.wiedenmann.com

Key Contacts

Volker Zippel Product Manager E: [email protected] T: +49 7345 953276 M: +49 1717 708693

Karl Wiedenmann Sales Manager E: [email protected] T: +49 7345 9530

About Us

True to our guiding principle “Only the best for the customer”, our versatile accessory equipment programme for compact tractors and light commercial vehicles offers optimal, demand-driven solutions for both commercial as well as municipal customers. The emphasis of the product line is on machines for turf regeneration, for taking up and removing grass and leaves, mowing machines and turf sweepers as well as artificial turf maintenance equipement, snow and dirt sweepers and snow rake blades .

What is ESTO?

As a membership organisation where the entire chain of the synthetic turf industry is represented, ESTO is uniquely positioned to bring together the diverse group of end-users to discuss, debate, research and develop the future of synthetic turf.ESTO is a non-profit organisation that offers neutral and unbiased information for the promotion of synthetic turf, enhancing its numerous advantages and benefits. ESTO is a forum for all parties to meet and to facilitate communication throughout the business chain, from manufacturers to architects, installers, contractors, test institutes and particularly to end-users and those making more informed purchase decisions.

As a member of ESTO we want you and your organisation to support our role in changing and increasing the knowledge base and general education regarding the use and benefits of synthetic turf, whilst, together, working to grow the synthetic turf business.

Find out more at www.theESTO.com

The European Synthetic Turf Organisation (ESTO) was formed to educate and promote the use of synthetic turf and to help clients and end-users find the most appropriate solutions in synthetic turf systems.


What is ESTO?

What we do

Researchers, clubs, leagues, sports governing bodies, local and national government offices and councils, all of whom represent the diverse group of end-users, are increasingly seeking ESTO’s help and advice to learn and understand more about the installation of synthetic turf.

ESTO is positioning itself at the heart of technical development in synthetic turf – facilitating and coordinating not just within ESTO membership itself, but with CEN, national sports’ governing bodies and the international sports federations.

Why join• Have your say on the future of

synthetic turf

• Influence the industry; be at the centre of the debate and on the ESTO committees

• Increase your network and contacts

• Access industry leading research

• Significant marketing, communication and promotional benefits

• Showcase your company’s credentials and commitment to the industry

• Join Europe’s only trade body dedicated to the education and promotion of synthetic turf

ESTO Working Groups

In 2011 it became clear there were more and more synthetic grass installations based on systems with shockpads. Due to this growing market the number of shockpads increased.

The ESTO Shockpads Working group saw the need for:

• Education of the market on shockpads and generating awareness of the advantages of using a shockpad.

• Discussion on technical aspects (how to measure, what to measure, criteria) and studies on the advantages of using a shockpad (to feed the communication with scientific data)

In the last few years the working group created the basis for a draft of a new European norm within the CEN Technical Committee 217 for sport surfaces. The working group has completed a study concerning heat build up in synthetic turf systems and was in close contact with FIFA for the shockpad study.

In the next year the working group will look into the splash effect and micro plastics, all in relation to shockpads.

Shockpad Working Group


ESTO Working Groups

ESTO recently combined the Recycling and Sustainability Working Group as the two groups overlapped to such an extent that they would work better as a single new body known as the Environmental Working Group.

This working group also acts as the first input for REACH issues that affect ESTO, which are then handled by a specialist team.

Subjects to be handled in 2017 include:

• A new ESTO end of life statement for synthetic turf

• Advice on how to manage “topping up” of infill during the lifetime of the turf and the importance of using the same material as that originally installed

• Advice on how to test end of life turf prior to recycling in order to correctly recycle it

• An overview of waste regulations in Europe to assist recycling

Environmental Working Group

ESTO Working Groups

The Infill Working Group is comprised of representatives of infill manufacturers, turf manufacturers, sport federations, test institutes, equipment manufacturers and experts of the industry.

The aim of the working group is to provide synthetic turf market stakeholders with more information related to infill material used in synthetic turf.

2016 has been dedicated to the definition of a nomenclature of infills and a list of the main parameters to evaluate their qualities.

2017 will focus on two specific subjects identified as priorities by the working group: resistance to wear and behaviour under high temperature.

These results will be communicated to CEN TC 217 and international sport federations to promote the development of standards related to infill.

Infill Working Group


ESTO Working Groups

The Yarn Working Group was established in 2014 and consists of members from the polymer, additive and yarn industry. The aim of this group is to support the synthetic turf industry with regard to yarn-technical-related issues.

The working group has developed a proposal for UV testing, which has already been included as a standard by various sports bodies. In addition, the proposal was submitted and presented by group members to the CEN TC 217 WG 11 committee to apply for an official European standard.

The working group also published a position paper on static electricity of synthetic turf.

In 2017, further steps will be taken to harmonize UV testing for synthetic turf yarn towards ONE European standard as per ESTO’s Yarn Working Group proposal. To keep the momentum it is suggested to visit sports governing bodies, who are still not convinced that the proposed UVA testing @ 5000 hours is a robust test method and close to real outdoor exposure.

In addition, but still depending on the outcome of FIFA Preferred Producers meetings, topics like fibre wear on the Lisport-XL machine versus real life and how to test and assess the colour of yarns will be put on the agenda.

Yarn Working Group

ESTO Working Groups

Landscaping (synthetic) Turf is turf used to enhance landscapes by providing a durable, all weather alternative to natural turf.

The primary reason for using Landscaping Turf is normally visual, comfort is secondary and wear-resistance is often of less importance. Other reasons for installing landscape synthetic turf include saving water or reduced maintenance costs.

Landscaping Turf is becoming an increasingly important part of the synthetic turf industry. Currently totally unregulated, the potential for low quality products to disrupt the market and harm consumer confidence in the product is real.

Therefore, the ESTO Landscaping Group has been established to provide guidance and industry agreed quality standards to help promote high quality products. Initially focusing on quality standard for environmental, toxicological and durability characteristics the ESTO Landscaping Group also plans to consider guidance on installation, maintenance and a classification system for the various levels of use.

The group comprises yarn manufacturers, landscaping turf manufacturers, suppliers and installers and companies offering maintenance services.

Landscaping Working Group


ESTO Working Groups

Maintenance of a synthetic turf pitch is essential for longevity and performance.

The ESTO Maintenance group consisting of traditional companies in the maintenance sector and the wider industry are constantly working together to ensure maintenance is at the top of the agenda when an organisation looks to purchase a synthetic turf.

Maintenance Working Group

Achievements

ESTO’s relationship with the European bodies, especially from a technical perspective, continues to be strong.

ESTO’s role is that of facilitator to ensure all technical expertise is being channelled to the European bodies.

Ensuring the industry’s viewpoint is being taken into consideration is an important role as many regulations derive from the European Commission at the differing bodies.

ESTO acts as conduit for all its technical working groups to the international sports governing bodies, mainly FIFA, FIH and World Rugby. This approach ensures specific subject matters and the details are already filtered when having discussions on specific themes.

ESTO produces a range of white papers, technical statements and a range of case studies on an ongoing basis. These help the industry and end-users (clubs, sports governing bodies, architects) in making decisions.

European Commission/REACH

International Sports Governing Bodies

Technical Knowledge Centre

1

2

3

ESTO has very active technical working groups and these are open to all members to join. This is an important aspect of the membership.

An experienced Technical Committee also meets twice a year to discuss strategic items and to discuss technical proposals. The existing working groups are as follows:

Shockpads, Maintenance, Infill, Landscape, Environmental & Yarn Working Group.

Technical Working Groups & Technical Committee

4


Achievements

consumer products, defence and security, energy, the environment, food and feed, health and safety, healthcare, ICT, machinery, materials, pressure equipment, services, smart living, transport and packaging.

CEN is an important stakeholder in the ongoing development of synthetic turf standards. ESTO has played a key role in suggesting topics for discussion which have helped move the quality criteria forward.

CEN / ENNorms

5

ESTO has observer status at CEN level. CEN, the European Committee for Standardization, is an association that brings together the National Standardization Bodies of 34 European countries.

CEN is one of three European Standardization Organizations (together with CENELEC and ETSI) that have been officially recognized by the European Union and by the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) as being responsible for developing and defining voluntary standards at European level.

CEN provides a platform for the development of European Standards and other technical documents in relation to various kinds of products, materials, services and processes.

CEN supports standardization activities in relation to a wide range of fields and sectors including: air and space, chemicals, construction,

ESTO have identified a void in this sector of the synthetic turf market. We believe that with a quality standard in the marketplace quality manufacturers and installers will benefit, but mainly the consumer and buyer will be content with what they have purchased. ESTO has made significant developments in this regard and a quality guide was launched in 2017.

ESTO Landscape Quality Guide

6

What is VISION 20:20?

VISION 20:20 is a business and strategic plan mapping out the future direction of the European Synthetic Turf Organisation in years 2017 – 2020. ESTO Vision 2020 is to bring the entire European Synthetic Turf Industry together at all levels.

Execution of 10-Point-Plan

2017 / 2018 / 2019Annual

assessments

ESTO VISION 2020

Passion

ESTO Vision 2020

implemented


What is VISION 20:20?

PassionPassionate members and council are engaged members. We all believe in ESTO and where we are going (VISION 2020), and we all have a vested interest in the success of ESTO.

Bottom line, passionate members and council lead the innovative and strategic development of ESTO and consequently set a shining example for the industry to follow - VISION 2020.

The 10-Point PlanThe 10-Point-Plan ensures and covers the development and activation of the core areas of ESTO’s functioning, namely:

Budget and FinanceKnowledge Centre - Technical

Act Local / NationalMore Value / Opportunities Working Groups

Retentiom of Members / New Members Digital

More Focus. Fewer Meetings Landscape

Strategic Focus Congress

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2 7

3 8

4 9

5 10

Landscape Classification

The European Synthetic Turf Organisation Quality Guide for Landscaping Turf has been prepared with the principal objective of defining the minimum quality levels ESTO considers appropriate for synthetic turf products used for landscaping applications. By doing so, it allows specifiers, purchasers and end users to compare the quality levels of different products in an objective way by ensuring that a common set of data is available to allow a direct comparison to be made.

Landscaping (synthetic) Turf is turf used to enhance landscapes by providing a durable, all weather alternative to natural turf. The primary reason for using Landscaping Turf is normally visual, comfort is secondary and wear-resistance is often of less importance. Other reasons for installing landscape synthetic turf include saving water or reduced maintenance costs

Quality Guide For Landscaping Turf

Download the guide from the ESTO website www.theesto.com/landscaping-turf-quality-guide


ESTO Working Groups

Shockpad Working Group Chairman Frenk Stoop (Sekisui Alveo)

Environmental Working Group Chairman Peter Mackey (PU Consulting)

Infill Working Group Chairman Pascal Haxaire (Labosport)

Yarn Working Group Chairman Frans Harmeling (Ten Cate)

Landscaping Working Group Chairman Erwin Rutteman (Condor)

Maintenance Working Group Chairman Alex Bobeica (SMG)

Members of the Council

Executive Chairman Nigel Fletcher

Vice President and Treasurer Friedemann Söll (Polytan)

Vice President Hein Heerink (Ten Cate)

Frenk Stoop (Sekisui Alveo)

Luca Girelli (Trocellen)

Aurélien Leblan (Labosport)

Marc Verleyen (BFS Europe)

Massimo Seghezzi (Radici P Industries)

Gert-Jan Kieft (Kiwa ISA Sport)

Paul Fraser (Tarkett Sports)

Technical Committee

Chairman Enrico Buriani (Tessiture Pietro Radici)

Vice Chairman Bart Wijers (Ten Cate)

Vice Chairman Paul Fraser (Tarkett Sports)

ESTO Event Calendar 2018

February 1st London, England Working Group Meetings

February 2nd London, England Council Meeting (Council Only)

March 7th Zurich, Switzerland Technical Committee (Committee Members Only)

September 4th Murcia, Spain ESTO Congress

November 6th Brussels, Belgium Council Meeting (Council Only)

Date TBC Location TBC ESTO Marketing and Communications Working Group


Knowledge Centre

The ESTO Knowledge Centre contains valuable information and resources that cover most areas within the synthetic turf industry, from choosing a synthetic surface right through to care and maintenance, as well as advice and information from some of the leading manufactures from within the industry.

Synthetic Turf FAQs

What is synthetic turf? In its simplest form synthetic turf is a carpet that is designed to look like natural grass. Primarily used for sporting and landscaping applications synthetic turf is actually specially engineered to not only look like natural grass but to also provide the user and durability characteristics required to deliver safe long lasting surfaces. When used as a sports surface it needs to offer the playing characteristics the sport requires, provide a safe and comfortable playing environment and be able to withstand high use often for 10 years or more. As a landscaping solution, synthetic turf provides a low maintenance surface that does not need to be watered or fertilized, whilst maintaining the visual appearance of a well-manicured lawn.

Are all types of synthetic turf the same? No, as synthetic turf technology evolves the range of products grows. The first synthetic turf products were actually developed in the 1960s with the first major installation at the Houston Astrodome in 19966 meaning synthetic turf has been in use for 50 years.

The first generation of surfaces were short pile (12 -15mm) dense non-filled surfaces, manufactured using a knitting technique from nylon yarn. This type of surface has evolved and is now used for sports such as hockey, cricket and lawn bowls.

In the 1970s the second generation of surfaces were developed. The piles of these surfaces were more open and longer (20 -25mm) and relied on a sand infill to support the pile and keep it standing upright. Used extensively for a range of sports these surfaces pioneered the growth of community use synthetic sports fields throughout Europe.

The third generation of surfaces were developed in the late 1990s. With even longer pile lengths (50 – 70mm) and even more open constructions, the surfaces incorporate a blend of infills that provide the desired cushioning and sports performance properties. It is this form of surfacing that has seen the acceptance of synthetic turf by sports such as football and rugby and created the growth in synthetic turf that now allows high quality, high intensity use sports fields to be provided in locations and climates that previously could


not consider playing on anything that was vaguely like a natural grass field.

Is there a fourth generation synthetic turf surface yet? There are numerous claims about new innovations creating the next generation in synthetic turf technology, but there is no overall consensus that a significant step forward has occurred that moves the use of synthetic turf into new applications or greatly improves the quality or play. Many manufacturers are trying to develop synthetic turf surfaces that can fully replicate the playing qualities of natural turf without the need for infill; these may become the fourth generation.

How is synthetic turf made? Synthetic turf surfaces are manufactured using technologies developed by the carpet industry. Today most synthetic turf surfaces are manufactured using tufting techniques, where the pile is looped through a backing cloth, cut to length and anchored in place. Other carpet manufacturing techniques used include weaving and knitting.

The pile of the synthetic turf, forming the blades on longer

pile surfaces, are manufactured from a range of plastics including polyethylene, polypropylene and nylon. The yarns manufactured from the plastics are becoming increasingly complex in profile as manufacturers strive to produce ever more durable and natural looking surfaces.

Why has synthetic turf become so popular over the past few years? Increasing demands to play sport seven days, many hours a day and the desire to play or provide green landscaping in climates where natural grass cannot be grown, have seen synthetic turf becoming the surface of choice for many. Demand has grown to the point where more than 10,000 synthetic turf sports fields and courts are now used throughout Europe in schools, colleges, parks and professional sports grounds.

How popular is synthetic grass for landscape and recreation use? Synthetic grass for landscape, and other recreation applications is the fastest growing segment of the synthetic turf market. Over 4 million square metres of synthetic turf for landscape and recreation use was installed in 2012.

Synthetic Turf FAQs

How is synthetic turf being used in the landscape and recreation market? Thousands of homes, businesses, golf courses, municipalities, parks and tourist attractions now use synthetic turf to provide a lush, attractive landscape that requires minimal maintenance and saves millions of litres of water each year.

Synthetic turf also promotes greater use of land, as you can accommodate far more use on an area than with natural grass. A common (but conservative) guide often used by planning authorities is one synthetic turf sports field can be considered the equivalent of three natural grass fields.

How do you assess the quality of the different types of synthetic turf products? As the range of synthetic turf products entering the market becomes ever greater it becomes ever more confusing to the consumer and the risk of selecting a poor quality product increases. Recognising the need to give guidance and protection to consumers a number of sports federations including FIFA (football), FIH (hockey) and World Rugby have developed

comprehensive standards that define the playing, safety and durability qualities they consider necessary for their sports. The European Standards Committee (CEN) has also developed European Standard EN 15330-1 that describes the performance and durability properties multi-sports synthetic turf surfaces should have.

To promote high quality synthetic turf landscaping surfaces ESTO has developed a Landscape Quality Classification that sets criteria for the quality, durability, environmental compatibility and appearance of landscaping surfaces.

Is synthetic turf safe? Like many new innovations synthetic turf has been subjected too much scrutiny about how safe it is. For sports applications, players have wanted to be confident that the risk of injury when playing on a synthetic turf field is no greater than when playing on natural grass. For sports and landscaping applications there is a need to ensure synthetic turf surfaces do not create environmental or toxicological risks.

Numerous studies by various

Synthetic Turf FAQs


international sports federations (FIFA, UEFA, World Rugby, etc) have all shown that the risk of injury when playing on a synthetic turf field that is constructed and maintained to the appropriate standards are no greater than playing on a well-constructed natural grass field. When synthetic turf fields are compared to poorly maintained grass fields the injury risk is considered to be lower on a synthetic turf field.

Potential concerns about the environmental and toxicological risks of installing and using synthetic turf surfaces have led to numerous robust scientific and academic studies from Europe and the USA that have concluded that synthetic turf surfaces manufactured from high quality materials from reputable sources provide surfaces that cause no public health concerns. Studies include those by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

How long will a synthetic turf surface last? Like any product the life of synthetic turf will be dependent on a number of factors including quality, levels of use and maintenance. Providing the correct type of synthetic turf is selected for a particular application and it is installed and maintained correctly it is not unreasonable to expect it to perform adequately for at least eight years, although it must be appreciated that over this period there will be some deterioration in performance and appearance. When it comes to landscape applications, synthetic turf can last much longer than sports fields.

Do synthetic turf surfaces need maintaining? Yes, all synthetic turf surfaces require some form of maintenance. On a simple ornamental landscaping turf this may be just a periodic brush and tidy-up. On a high use sports area the maintenance demands will be much more demanding and complex. It is important that when considering synthetic turf you appreciate there is no such thing as a maintenance free synthetic turf and you make adequate allowance for the necessary maintenance.

Synthetic Turf FAQs

Can a synthetic turf surface be recycled at the end of their usual life? Increasing concerns about the environment mean that manufacturers of synthetic turf are looking at ways of easing the recycling of the products at the end of their service live. Repositioning of old synthetic turf is now commonly done and as new technologies come on stream full recycling will become the norm.

How do I know I am buying synthetic turf from a reputable manufacturer? As the market for synthetic turf expands so do the number of companies entering the supply chain. Many of these are new with little track record. To become an ESTO member a manufacturer has to be a well-established and reputable manufacturer. In addition a number of international sports federations also have licensing schemes that help identify and promote quality manufacturers with proven sports products.

Can synthetic turf have a positive impact on the environment? Synthetic turf can have a measurable, positive impact on the environment. Depending on its location a typical grass sports field can require up to a 4.5 million litres of water each year in drier climates. This water use can be saved when synthetic turf is installed. Additionally synthetic turf eliminates the need for harmful pesticides and fertilisers, which has significant health and environmental implications. When used for landscaping synthetic turf helps reduce noxious emissions from lawn movers and reduces grass clippings, which are reported as the third largest component of municipal solid waste in landfills.

What impact does synthetic turf have on playing time? Synthetic turf playing fields exponentially increase playing and practice time because they can be used daily and in all types of weather, without worry of damage. Playability is enhanced since the fields remain uniform and consistent, season after season providing they are maintained correctly. High quality natural grass sports fields can only

Synthetic Turf FAQs


accommodate 6 to 10 years use per week but require extensive maintenance and renovation works to achieve this level of use through a playing season. Lower quality grass fields are often not capable of accommodating even this limited amount of use, but are actually expected to be available for community play through a season; often meaning games have to be cancelled.

How does the cost of a synthetic turf field compare to a natural turf field? A top quality natural turf field installed in a stadium environment can cost in excess of €1,000,000, which is at least double the cost of the highest quality synthetic turf constructions. Lower quality natural turf fields will cost much less than a synthetic turf field but in reality are only able to accommodate a fraction of the usage. Whilst both types of surface require maintenance the cost of maintaining a synthetic turf field is normally equal to or less than maintaining a natural grass field. Synthetic turf fields do have the disadvantage of needing resurfacing periodically but nevertheless when comparing

capital, maintenance and replacements costs and calculating the cost per playing hour synthetic turf is the clear winner.climates that previously could not consider playing on anything that was vaguely like a natural grass field.

Synthetic Turf FAQs

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