Work Higher and Safer at Different Heights with P.Riley Ground Care | Case Study

"I wasn’t able to do the job to the standards that I would set myself.” – Phil Riley

Henchman has spoken with Phil Riley, a professional enthusiast when it comes to gardening and nature. Phil started his business P.Riley Ground Care ten years ago. Prior to starting his company, he worked as a deputy head green keeper at a local golf course. After twenty-two years of looking after the course grounds, he felt that he was ready for a change.

Phil’s enthusiasm for his work is matched by his passion for Henchman's market-leading Tripod Ladders. His story is worth sharing; it highlights just how valuable the right equipment can be for a professional.

Invest in Reliable, Safe, and Professional Tools

Phil explains, "Whilst primarily set up as a grass cutting business, I was soon asked to cut hedges and shrubs etc. I started my company with very limited knowledge and very basic equipment, but with practice I soon started doing more. It was the extra work that kept me busy during the autumn and the winter months". More diversity in jobs means more diversity in equipment. Phil soon realised that the kit he had did not cut it anymore.

"For a good while I managed with standard steps and a platform ladder which served me well, however, people would ask me to cut higher hedges, on uneven ground- and even with long reach hedge trimmers, I couldn’t reach." At this stage in his career, Phil was ready for something more reliable and user-friendly. To secure higher-end projects and support the company's growth, investing in reliable, safe, and professional tools became essential. This is when Henchman came into the picture.

The Ladder has Changed the Way I Work

Phil Riley can’t quite remember where he first came across Henchman- perhaps it was at work, in a magazine, or during a bit of online browsing- but he’s glad he did. "Instantly I knew that a tripod ladder would suit me perfectly. I bought a Fully Adjustable PRO Tripod Ladder (12ft/3.6m) and still have it to this day! The ladder has changed the way I work and has been used extensively ever since."

"I have used it for hedges of all varieties, and it has been so versatile for what I do." Phil shares enthusiastic. "We work with a wide range of clients- from parish councils, where my tripod is used for trimming standard hedges around villages and car parks, to private customers and estates, where it’s ideal for topiary and more detailed, intricate work."

Work Higher and Safer at Different Heights

There are two main reasons why Phil is so happy with his Henchman PRO tripod; "Firstly, because it has enabled me to work higher and safer at different heights and uneven ground. Secondly- the previous is only possible because all the legs are adjustable and due to the adjustability, I have been able to work safer and more efficient which has resulted in us taking on more work."

Phil gives Henchman ladders his highest recommendation; "For years I have wobbled and balanced and done ridiculously unsafe things on steps and platforms, these ladders simply eradicate all the things associated with other types of ladders. I would sum them up as light, safe and secure with versatile use."

Are you looking to upgrade your professional gear? Click here to view our Fully Adjustable PRO Tripod.