TigerTurf only UK turf manufacturer member of ESTO

TigerTurf, the UK’s leading manufacturer of synthetic turf for the sports and leisure industry, is a founder member of ESTO (European Synthetic Turf Organisation); an independent organisation launched yesterday [17th September 2007] committed to regulating excellence in the synthetic turf industry.

ESTO has been created in response to the increasing demand for synthetic turf across Europe.  Water shortages, hose pipe bans and the environmental impact of heavy duty machinery and health concerns over pesticides have strengthened the demand for a ‘low maintenance’ surface for sport and landscape.  As a result, manufacturers of synthetic surfaces have enjoyed an increase in demand over the past 12 months with market growth set to continue.

To date each country has been responsible for setting their own standards for synthetic surfaces.  ESTO will ensure that for the first time a European set of standards are agreed.  As one of only two UK members of the organisation, TigerTurf will see its position as a leading manufacturer of quality synthetic surfaces reinforced Europe wide.  Bonar Yarns, a supplier to TigerTurf is the other UK company.

TigerTurf has celebrated considerable success under its new Commercial Director Steve Hewitt in recent months, fuelled by its policy of pairing international sports stars with its R&D teams to develop a product that meets the modern needs of sport. This includes the new TigerTurf WETT hockey surface developed with England international Jennie Bimson providing a true consistent surface without the usual need for water.

TigerTurf is part of the 15 European turf manufacturers which account for over 85% of the industry, who have together launched ESTO for the purposes of maintaining the highest standards in production and installation of synthetic turf. In addition to providing unbiased advice to sports clubs, governing bodies and local authorities on suitable products for their needs, ESTO is also dedicated to creating a network between manufacturers, architects and installers.

Bryn Lee CEO of TigerTurf UK says: “The creation of ESTO will deliver considerable benefits for our customers.  For the first time it will provide a way of benchmarking products across Europe.  With teams increasingly travelling to overseas fixtures there are advantages of having synthetic surfaces delivered in a consistent way.
“We are thrilled to be a member of ESTO.  We have worked really hard to ensure that we give our customers what they need in terms of performance but they can now also be sure that we are providing them with a quality product that will stand the test of time.”