As pressure to maximise the use of facilities grows, more attention is paid to surfaces which combine durability with ideal performance characteristics. We focus on the evolving business of turf systems.
Third generation artificial turf pitches have become the preferred surface for many football clubs and NFL teams, but do not as yet offer the same versatility as natural turf surfaces. Although a number of rugby clubs have installed 3G pitches, most of these have been at training venues. Water-based pitches have become the preferred surface for hockey, while clay and acrylic remain the most popular materials for tennis. However, extensive research and development is being conducted into the creation of genuinely multi-use synthetic playing surface, with further tests being conducted in sports such as athletics and cricket.
Reference: Stevens, Andy (2008) Turf issues. Sport Business International. Issue 136, July, pp 59-60. London: SportBusiness Group.
