GKB Machines has announced the expansion of its sales team both in the UK and at their headquarters in The Netherlands in response to a period of rapid growth for the turf maintenance product company.
A familiar face in the form of Dougie Archibald joins as the new UK & Ireland National Sales Manager, while Anne van Engelen takes on the position of Sales Director from GKB HQ in Barendrecht.
Working alongside UK Operations Manager Tom Shinkins, Archibald brings over 30 years of experience to the newly created sales role. Starting his career in a hands-on grounds position with the Scottish Rugby Union, Dougie then moved into machinery sales, working in both manufacturer and dealership environments. Over this time, he’s built up a thorough understanding of the needs of modern turf management which he looks forward to sharing with GKB customers old and new.
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining GKB Machines at a time when the product range and brand as a whole is going from strength to strength” Archibald commented. “Having had the pleasure of distributing GKB equipment for the last seven years, I understand exactly what makes these machines so popular with the end users – namely their robust build quality and reliable in-field performance. Between Tom and I, we look forward to supporting our dealers and customers nationwide, providing more localised service and representing the brand at events around the country.”
Meanwhile, van Engelen’s passion for agricultural machinery started at an early age, growing up within his parents New Holland dealership. His upbringing, surrounded by tractors and other equipment, went on to shape not only his career but a heartfelt enthusiasm for the industry. Over the past 11 years, he has gained extensive experience in the international sales and export of overseeders for fine turf and agriculture, alongside specialist mowing solutions for fruit growing and farming.
Commenting on his new position, van Engelen said, “I am truly excited to return to the fine turf industry; an environment where a shared passion for the perfect grass surface brings people together. Working closely with the GKB team, I look forward to combining my experience in sales and export, brand development and dealer management to further strengthen the brand around the world. Together, we will continue to grow, focussing on the right products and right support to deliver long-term success for both our partners and end users.”