You may remember a couple of weeks ago I published a blog entitled Trust Issues. In it, I discussed the notion of trust in dealer-supplier relationships, inspired by a comment I had received from a reader who felt they'd had theirs betrayed.

I asked for any follow-up comments you'd care to share with us and received an email from a dealer reader, who said what was written resonated with them - but, quite understandably, requested to remain anonymous. They did say to me though, that they would like me to use what they shared as a follow-up. They felt their story was an important example of why trust can be so fragile in our industry.

They told me how they once invited a member of a large manufacturer’s staff to their premises to help with some diagnostic machinery on loan. "What we didn’t know," they told me, "was that during their visit, they privately approached one of our key engineers and told them about a job opportunity within their company."

They went on to say that not long after the engineer handed in their notice. Most concerning of all though, they allege that a "referral bonus scheme" was in place with the manufacturer - which they believe was designed to encourage this type of behaviour, "even on a dealer’s own premises".

The dealer continued, "When I raised concerns 'high up' about what I saw as a serious breach of trust, the response I got was essentially a threat: stop pursuing the matter or risk losing our dealership. That was the moment I knew I could never trust that manufacturer again."

They concluded, "Partnerships in this business should be built on mutual respect. When a supplier openly undermines a dealer’s team for their own gain, and then shields that behaviour instead of addressing it, the relationship is already beyond repair."

A common practice?

Once one gets past the manufacturer's audacity in this story, the first question that it raises to me, is how common is this? It doesn't appear to be an isolated incident because our first dealer's comment that started this whole discussion a couple of weeks ago, related a similar tale of staff being courted by suppliers. So is it something that's happened to your business?

Now of course, stories like this don’t apply to every manufacturer. Many suppliers work hard to nurture strong, supportive, mutually respectful relationships with their dealers - and we know many of you have positive partnerships that you’re proud of, because you've told us about them. Many of our readers enjoy extensive, happy, friendly and profitable relationships with suppliers - and long may those continue. And please, if you have a positive story you'd like to share where your supplier partner has truly proven the regard in which they hold the relationship with your dealership, do let us know in the comments below.

But I think that’s exactly why stories like this one should be told. In contrast to what we all hope is the norm, they shine a light on the outliers. They illustrate why clear boundaries, open communication and mutual respect are non-negotiable.

It also proves that the notion of trust is utterly intrinsic in the dealer-supplier relationship. Once that's gone, surely the days of an on-going partnership are numbered?

Husqvarna robotic mowers have cut the playing surfaces for a major golf championship in the United Kingdom for the first time in history.

 
The AIG Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club in Wales saw robotic mowers cutting the course’s fairways and practice area. They operated via an Exact Positioning Operating System (EPOS) that enables robotic mowers to operate autonomously within virtual boundaries, via a satellite connection. 

In a first for an R&A championship, a fleet of 15 robotic mowers including Husqvarna’s CEORA and Automower models worked at 1.30am to cut Royal Porthcawl’s fairways, supporting the home greenkeeping team preparing the course for the largest women’s sporting event ever to be played in Wales. The robotic mowers finished at around 5am, before being returned to recharge – clearing the way for the greenkeeping team to commence their vital daily tasks. 

Richard Windows, assistant sirector, sustainable agronomy at The R&A, said, “The R&A’s agronomy team across the globe is focused on delivering high performance surfaces in a sustainable way. At the AIG Women’s Open, the Husqvarna portfolio is helping us deliver this goal through improved resource management, regular lightweight mowing and reduced carbon usage.”  

Three-time major champion, Anna Nordqvist said of the Royal Porthcawl course ahead of taking on the AIG Women’s Open, “I’ve played this course a few times and honestly, I didn’t think it could get much better, but I’ve never seen it looking and playing so well. I’m really excited to get out there and play golf on the biggest stage, in these top conditions.”  

Course manager Ian Kinley has championed the use of robotic technology at Royal Porthcawl since first working with Husqvarna in January. He said,“We know there’s tremendous pressure to produce playing surfaces that are worthy of such a high-profile event. It’s been priceless to be able to lean on the support of the Husqvarna team as we prepared for the championship. 

“Autonomous machinery aligns closely with our commitment to more sustainable practices at Royal Porthcawl.  We’re invested in using robots on our course long term and we’re incredibly proud to be one of the first venues in the world to use this technology during the hosting of one of golf’s major championships.” 

Glen Instone, president of Husqvarna Forest & Garden Division, added, "Husqvarna has been building robotic mowers for the professional market exclusively in Europe for 30 years and we’re delighted that the technology has advanced to the level where it is being embraced by the golf industry including one of the game’s biggest stages at the AIG Women’s Open. 

“Our journey with Royal Porthcawl began with Course Manager Ian Kinley’s desire to work with more sustainable solutions and his consideration of how the role of a modern golf greenkeeper may be changing. Ian’s faith in our technology, coupled with collaboration from The R&A’s championship agronomy team, is a source of immense pride for everyone at Husqvarna."   

Throughout the AIG Women’s Open a team of Husqvarna experts was on hand to support the championship in the deployment of 15 Husqvarna CEORA 546 EPOS and two Automower 580L EPOS. 

Yamaha ATV UK has announced the appointment of Charlie's Ag & Turf as its newest authorised dealer, effective immediately.

L-R: Ross Holloway, dealer principal, Charlies Ag & Turf and Carl Stuart, ASM, Yamaha UK

Located just outside Welshpool in Mid Wales at their purpose-built depot at Coed y Dinas, this strategic partnership ensures continued service and access to the manufacturer's ATV and Side-by-Side range for customers across Shropshire and Mid Wales. 

"We are incredibly excited to welcome Charlie's Ag & Turf into the Yamaha family," said Dan Palmer, manager RVGC at Yamaha UK. "Their deep roots in the agricultural and turf sectors, combined with their unwavering commitment to customer support and a comprehensive brand portfolio, make them an ideal partner."

The move marks an expansion of Charlie's offering. Matt Lewis, turf sales manager, explained, "There was only really one option for us when it came to filling this gap in our portfolio to give us a full range for our customers, and that was Yamaha. It's one piece of the puzzle we've been missing. In this area, brand loyalty is strong, and customers rely on products that offer zero downtime. The reliability of Yamaha, coupled with the robust backup system we investigated, aligns perfectly with how we operate and what our customers are used to." 

Charlie's say their commitment to customer experience is further highlighted by a significant expansion at their Welshpool site. A new purpose-built showroom, designed to display their  franchises in the best possible manner, is set to open later this year and will feature a dedicated Yamaha space. 

FGM Claymore, the official distributor of Echo tools in the UK, has announced that Lowe Maintenance, a chainsaw and machinery training provider based in North Yorkshire, has become an Echo affiliated training centre. 

As such, Lowe Maintenance will incorporate Echo equipment into their courses, providing students with the opportunity to learn with tools used by professionals worldwide. The manufacturer says Lowe Maintenance’s expertise in delivering professional training in forestry, arboriculture, and land-based machinery aligns perfectly with their commitment to reliability, performance, and user safety.

Paul Butterly, managing director of FGM Claymore, said, “This partnership reflects Echo’s continued investment in the UK market and our commitment to equipping users with top tools throughout their training.” 

Demelza Lowe, of Lowe Maintenance said the move was ". . a fantastic opportunity for us and our students." She continued, "Using ECHO equipment in our courses means our learners get to train with reliable, high-performance  tools that prepare them for real-world challenges.”

Nottinghamshire vegetable grower T Hammond Farms is celebrating 125 years in business and has chosen to update its fleet with a new Fendt 620 Vario from dealer B&B Tractors. 

Co-directors Jon and Andy Hammond are the fourth generation at New Farm, near Nottingham. The family started farming in 1900 and has always specialised in vegetables. 

“We recently bought our 50th Fendt tractor from B&B, having bought our first in 2000. The farm has grown from 1100 acres to 2750 acres in 25 years and we have only added two members of staff, which is testament to how technology is improving farming efficiencies,” says Andy Hammond. 

The business grows potatoes, parsnips, carrots, beetroot, brassicas, rhubarb and squash along with cereal, maize and oil seed rape crops. 10 Fendt tractors make up the fleet that cultivates, plants and harvests the crops.

“B&B has helped us as we have grown, and Fendt makes the type of tractors we need with a high power to weight ratio, tight turning circles, good fuel economy and excellent residual values,” says Andy. 

Reflecting on a 25-year relationship, Colin Blood from B&B Tractors said, “T Hammond is a thriving business and a valued customer which wants to use technology to improve its farming efficiency. We have always looked to offer the best fit of tractor for their needs, and today the farm runs Fendt 300, 600, 700 and 900 models which have all been supplied and serviced by us.”

The first 620 has been put through its paces and the business is looking to the model to succeed the outgoing 720s.

“We run a mix of leased and owned tractors and B&B has always been responsive at keeping us moving. The leased tractors are run for 6000 hours and it’s not uncommon for the ones we own to surpass 11,000, which is testament to the quality of the machinery and the backup we receive. The 620 is likely to be a mainstay in our fleet as we strive to produce the best crops in the most efficient and sustainable way,” concludes Andy. 

2025 marks a milestone year for Martin Lishman Ltd as the company celebrates 50 years in the agricultural sector. 

The family-run business says that since 1975 they have developed cutting-edge solutions for crop storage, quality control, and precision farming, helping farmers worldwide improve efficiency and sustainability.

Joel Capper, managing director, said, "At the heart of Martin Lishman’s success lies its people - the team whose dedication and expertise have driven the company forward, and industry professionals who have trusted and shaped its innovations. Their feedback and collaboration have been instrumental in every product the company has developed."

Joel continued, "The company’s expertise in manufacturing agricultural sprayers has also played a pivotal role in its expansion into the amenity industry. Leveraging years of experience, Martin Lishman Ltd has developed a series of sprayers that are now favoured by many leading sports clubs and facilities."

As the company celebrates 50 years, they say they remain "dedicated to pushing the boundaries of agricultural technology." In 2023, they embarked on a new chapter under new ownership. They say they extend their gratitude to their customers, partners, dealers, and dedicated team members who have been part of their journey. 

GroundsFest returns to Stoneleigh Park on 9-10 September 2025, and it’s set to be bigger, bolder, and more action-packed than ever. Registration is open - and it’s completely free.

Now in its third year, GroundsFest has quickly established itself as one of the most exciting and innovative events in the groundscare and landscaping calendar. It’s not just a trade show - it’s a hands-on, high-energy experience that blends live demonstrations, cutting-edge product showcases, CPD-accredited learning, and after-hours entertainment.

See and try the latest machinery in real conditions

One of GroundsFest’s biggest draws is its unrivalled outdoor demonstration areas. Here, visitors can test drive, trial, and compare a wide range of machinery and equipment in the conditions they were built for - from mowing and mulching to digging, lifting, and building.

Indoor halls packed with innovation

Inside, the exhibition halls are home to leading brands unveiling their latest products, technologies, and solutions. From exclusive launches to expert-led advice, it’s the perfect place to find new ideas and connect with industry suppliers.

Live action and entertainment

Back by popular demand, Machinery Nation LIVE brings a thrilling mix of brand battles and high-octane challenges, running three times a day. This year also sees the debut of Lawn Mower Racing – The GroundsFest Cup, in partnership with Kramp UK, where professional racers will battle it out on custom-built machines.

Learn from the experts

GroundsFest’s free CPD-accredited seminar programme covers the industry’s most pressing topics, offering practical takeaways for everyone from apprentices to managers. The dedicated Landscape Zone, in partnership with BALI, is a hub for green innovation, featuring the latest in outdoor design, sustainable solutions, and technology.

A festival vibe like no other

When the show floor closes on day one, the GroundsFest Live Music Festival kicks in. Enjoy street food, live performances from Definitely Mightbe (the world’s best Oasis tribute band), Elevate, and a live DJ - plus free bumper cars.

GroundsFest is more than an event - it’s a celebration of the people, products, and passion that drive this industry forward.

Don’t miss it - register FREE today at www.groundsfest.com

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