Rain Bird’s 50 Years in Europe anniversary celebrations began last November with an exclusive two-day Distributors Council held in Marseille, France. It brought together key European distributors in the fields of landscaping, sports turf, and golf irrigation.
Opening the event, Christophe Lamoine, General Manager Rain Bird Europe welcomed representatives from some 50 distributors from all over Europe. Rain Bird President Mike Donoghue and Vice Presidents Paul Lierheimer and JR Bergantino were also in attendance.
In a convivial atmosphere, including some informal workshops, delegates shared experiences from their markets, held discussions about the challenges faced by the irrigation industry, and looked at future market trends. The programme also included a visit to the Rain Bird offices in Aix en Provence and a gala dinner.
Jimmy Sandison, Golf Regional Sales Manager, Scandinavia, UK, and Ireland, commented: “The two days were very successful; a relaxed environment, mixing fun with business, with many familiar faces and success stories being talked about. My biggest takeaway from the event was to witness the ongoing dedication, commitment, and enthusiasm our partners give to Rain Bird; they are all a credit to our continued success.”
Held at the Golden Tulip Euromed Marseille, at the heart of the rapidly-expanding Euroméditerranée business district, the hotel was designed by Italian starchitect Massimiliano Fuksas and resembles a sleek white ocean liner moored in the bay.