Turf to victory

Abstract: An increasing number of sports venue and facility operators are appraising the strategic decision to install an artificial turf playing surface. Andy Stevens reports.

An increasing number of sports venue and facility operators are appraising the strategic decision install an artificial turf playing surface. These pitches have many commercial benefits compared to natural turf, but there are still concerns about the quality and costs of such installations. Evaluating the options for sports fields is becoming more complex the market continues to grow, and the number of suppliers and range of products increases. In response, sports federations and governing bodies have therefore developed quality standards to assist buyers with decision-making.

Reference: Stevens, Andy (2007) Turf to victory. Sport Business International. July. Issue 125. pp48-49.

Securing the future

Abstract: Andy Stevens, author of a new report published this month by SportBusiness Group, Security and Safety: Evolving Strategies for a Changing World, reveals that venue operators and event organisers do not appear to be learning the lessons from previous disasters that have undermined the sports industry.

A series of incidents at sports events around the world have once again raised concerns about the security and safety of stadia and arenas. Already in the first half of 2007, there have been a number incidents that have resulted in fatalities and casualties, or at which the security and safety programmes have been compromised.

Reference: Stevens, Andy (2007) Securing the future. Sport Business International. July. Issue 125. pp46-47.