16.07.2026

As the World Cup captures the attention of billions of fans around the world, the focus is naturally on the players, coaches and atmosphere. But beneath the spectacle is a wider story of specialist manufacturers whose products help make elite sport possible.

Among them is Make UK member Howardson Group, a Derbyshire-based family manufacturer whose Dennis professional turf equipment has helped prepare pitches for FIFA World Cups since 2010.

That same expertise is relied on by Premier League football clubs from Nottingham Forest to Arsenal, as well as iconic British venues such as Lord’s Cricket Ground, Murrayfield and Twickenham.

Together, it reflects a business built on decades of quality, precision-engineering and reliability, with a global reputation for exporting British manufacturing expertise to professional sports venues around the world.

The company's success is also a reminder of the important role family-owned manufacturers play in the UK's industrial base. Businesses like Howardson Group combine long-term investment with deep local roots, ; 80% of their suppliers are within a 50-mile radius.  Reinvesting in skills, innovation and manufacturing capability over generations while competing successfully in international markets.

As Government develops its Industrial Strategy, recognising the unique strengths of family-owned manufacturers will be essential. Their ability to invest with a long-term perspective, create high-quality jobs, support local supply chain growth and build internationally competitive businesses is a significant asset for the UK economy.

Howardson Group is one of thousands of manufacturers across the UK whose products quietly support industries and events around the world, demonstrating that British manufacturing excellence reaches far beyond the factory gate.

Image credit: Scott Kavanagh, Groundskeeper at Mercedes-Benz Stadium