Ipswich, Suffolk, UK - July 30, 2010 - Representatives from local authorities, grounds care contractors, groundsmen and grounds care professionals from across the UK are invited to an Open House event at Ransomes Jacobsen’s European head office and manufacturing facility in Ipswich on Thursday September 23. Ransomes Jacobsen is a Textron Inc (NYSE: TXT) company.

The aim of the Open House is to provide end users in these sectors with the opportunity to witness the Ransomes Jacobsen operation at first hand. There will be factory tours at regular intervals to see how modern commercial mowers are manufactured and a display of ancient and modern grass cutting machinery from the first Budding lawnmower of 1832 through to the latest Ransomes Highway 3, light commercial triplex mower.

Greg Spray, marketing manager at Ransomes Jacobsen commented, “We want this to be an informative and fun day for customers using our equipment and also for those who might be considering using it. As well as the guided Factory tours, we’ll also be holding product demonstrations and there’ll be the opportunity to meet and network with other industry professionals.

“The tented village will house our industry partners including the AEA, CMAE, IOG, BIGGA, FEGGA, STRI, GEO, Scotts, Syngenta, Bernhard, Rain Bird, Ryan, Turfco and Smithco together with our own Parts, Customer Care, Retail and Cutting Edge Training stands.

“We will be providing a BBQ lunch and there’s a ‘Nearest the Pin’ competition on the 1st hole of our golf course with a prize for the first Hole-in-One on the course. An eclectic mix of bands will provide music throughout the day and there will be some fun stands that will test accuracy, hand-eye co-ordinations and dexterity!

All turf professionals are invited, so if you are interested in coming along please contact Lucy Davis, marketing co-ordinator on 01473 276287 or email: ldavis@tip.textron.com.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. For more information visit: www.textron.com.