SERVICE STAFFING Any improvements? by Service Dealer Editor, Steve Gibbs
When we ran a Winter Servicing survey this time last year, issues were raised by dealers surrounding recruitment difficulties - has anything changed in the past 12 months?
We've run similar surveys around this time for the past couple of years, so it's interesting to keep track of these things, to see if much has changed.
One message which came out of last year's survey from dealers who responded, loud and clear, was that one, if not the, biggest challenge facing workshops is the difficulties in attracting qualified staff. Or not even qualified staff - simply just interested candidates with an aptitude to learn!
76% who responded last year said they hadn’t employed any new people during the previous year. And not a single respondent described the process of finding staff as easy. In fact, an overwhelming majority of 85% described it as difficult
One comment we received from a dealer last year which typified responses read:
"Finding good service technicians is desperately difficult. For too long our education system has side-lined the STEM subjects and there are very few school leavers with any mechanical interest. What few there are, are attracted by the higher wages other industries can offer. For several years we have felt that we are relying on the experience of our older staff but they are now struggling with modern technology and the younger generation don’t seem interested."
Does this sound familiar to you?
It's certainly a sentiment I tend to hear whenever there's more than one dealer in a room together. It was a subject discussed at length at November's Service Dealer Conference, with talk that it is a problem faced by independent specialists on both sides of the Atlantic.
It's a subject which hasn't been far from discussion from all areas of the industry recently. Again today the subject crops up in one of our video interviews conducted at LAMMA last week. Richard Miller of Fendt cites it as one of the major challenges which he believes dealers will be facing in 2020.
And coming up in the next issue of Service Dealer magazine we have an interview with Keith Christain, director of BAGMA, who addresses the subject in some depth. Keith of course, is very much involved in looking for solutions to the recruitment issues the industry faces with his work with BAGMA and LE-TEC. He spoke knowledgeably on the subject at last autumn's SALTEX and addressed it as part of a panel debate at the Service Dealer Conference.
Keith tells us in the next mag that failing to encourage enough young people to choose a career in landbased engineering is an issue that the whole of the industry needs to address together.
"We have a fantastic industry, across all sectors, with some fabulous career opportunities which deals in some very advanced technologies," says Keith. "We just do not seem to do enough to tell people about it - and this is stifling recruitment.
"We need to shout about the landbased engineering sector and its cutting edge technology and opportunities - but we have to do it as a whole, with one voice and one recruitment plan. Not the fragmented way we have been up until now. We need to challenge ourselves to make the LBE sector better known to young people and those looking for careers."
You can read the whole interview with Keith in the March / April 2020 edition of the magazine. He raises some very interesting points.
In the meantime please take our survey today where you can let us know how your winter servicing has been faring this season - and indeed whether issues surrounding staffing have affected your processes.
As ever we'll include the results of the survey in the next issue, alongside a selection of your comments.
Thanks for your help.
p.sBy the way, don't miss next week's edition of the Weekly Update - we will have a very exciting announcement which for one lucky reader and their guest, will mean an EXPO-sive October!
WINTER SERVICING SURVEY 2020 How is your department faring?
Please take our short survey to let us know how your Winter Servicing has been faring this season.
We have more exclusive interviews from last week's LAMMA exhibition to watch today, with industry figures telling us where they believe opportunities can be found this year for dealers - as well as what difficulties might lie ahead.
Courtesy of Service Dealer's YouTube channel, we have more exclusive interviews for you to watch today, conducted at last week's LAMMA exhibition.
We hear from several companies who tell us where they believe opportunities may lay for dealers this year - as well as what difficulties might potentially be in store.
First up, Service Dealer's Kate Godber spoke to AGCO business support manager, Richard Miller about how Fendt sees confidence in the market growing.
Next we have, Harvey Day, Suzuki ATV area sales manager, who talks about how legislation will affect the ATV market in 2020.
Ibcos sales director, James Buchanan speaks about how with some more clarity for the country, people can make decisions going forwards with confidence.
It's Mike Cameron, Catalyst Computer Systems sales manager next, who tells Kate how important business processes are for independent dealers.
Finally today, LAMMA show event manager, Kate Walsh describes how a trend for many of this year's exhibitors was a focus on technology and innovation.
You can catch up with our entire archive of clips at the Service Dealer YouTube channel. Do subscribe to be kept up to date with all our forthcoming video content.
This week's WEB ONLY story is that the board of directors of Husqvarna AB has appointed Henric Andersson to succeed Kai Wärn as the President & CEO of the Husqvarna Group effective as of April 2, 2020.
Horsch machinery will be available from the six Carrs Billington machinery depots at Annan, Barnard Castle, Carlisle, Hexham, Morpeth and Penrith, with service and support from each depot.
Horsch will be partnering with Carrs Billington Agriculture to provide its full range of cultivators, drills and sprayers to customers in Northern England and South Western Scotland.
Machinery sales director Ian Gate said, "This is a great franchise for Carrs Billington. It is a great fit with our tractor and grassland franchises, and we look forward to a long and successful partnership with them."
Horsch machinery will be available from the six Carrs Billington machinery depots at Annan, Barnard Castle, Carlisle, Hexham, Morpeth and Penrith, with service and support from each depot.
Horsch Joker 6 RT
Stephen Burcham, General Manager at Horsch UK said, “Carrs Billington has a reputation for excellent customer service and we’re delighted to be partnering with them. Our latest range of machinery, including the Hybrid Farming system, enables our customers to meet farming challenges and be more productive. Partnering with Carrs Billington will allow us to effectively deliver those benefits to customers.”
The AEA has released analysis data of 2019 UK agricultural tractor registrations by power and region.
The AEA has released analysis data of 2019 UK agricultural tractor registrations by power and region.
As previously reported, overall 2019 registrations of agricultural tractors (over 50hp) were up 2%, compared with 2018. However, there were mixed trends for different power bands.
Stephen Howarth, agricultural economist at the AEA said, "In contrast to most recent years, the number of registrations of high-powered machines, over 240hp, was lower than the previous years. There was also declines in the middle of the power range (120-150hp) and among machines between 80 and 110hp. Most other power bands saw modest increases."
The total power of machines registered in 2019 topped 2 million horsepower for the second year in a row. However, the average power dropped slightly in 2019, to 164.8hp (166.6hp in 2018) due to the reduced registrations of the highest-powered machines.
Stephen Howart said, "At regional level, the number of tractors registered in the Midlands and North of England in 2019 was lower than in 2018, most notably in the East Midlands which had experienced a big increase during the previous year. However, most southern English regions saw increases as did Scotland and Northern Ireland, while the total for Wales was little changed."
Following the largest GIE+EXPO ever, the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) has announced that it will move into 100 percent ownership of the Louisville, USA based trade show.
Following the largest GIE+EXPO ever, the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) has announced that in 2022 it will move into 100 percent ownership of the Louisville, USA based trade show.
“GIE+EXPO has had an extraordinarily strong run since 2010 - posting records in attendance and booth space. Last year’s show was the biggest ever, setting record attendance levels,” says Kris Kiser, President of OPEI and managing director of GIE+EXPO. “With this change in ownership structure of the show, OPEI will own the show in its entirety.
"We’ll continue to work with our landscape industry partners to provide attendees with training and other programmatic elements at the Kentucky Exposition Center. We look forward to the continued evolution and dynamic growth of GIE+EXPO in Louisville in the future.”
2019 was the sixth record-breaking year in a row for GIE+EXPO. The show hosted more than 1,000 exhibitors and more than 20 acres of outdoor demonstration area for attendees to ride, drive, dig, and cut with the industry’s latest equipment. More than 26,500 contractors, dealers, and exhibitors attended from all 50 states and more than 40 countries.
New features at the 2019 GIE+EXPO included in-tree training from the Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop, whose team of climbers demonstrated arbor safety and climbing skills in a 60-foot sugar maple erected in Freedom Hall for the purpose, as well as the second-annual Lucky’s Mutt Madness rescue dog adoption event held in partnership with the Kentucky Humane Society.
GIE+EXPO will continue to offer education, training, and certification in all segments of the Outdoor Power Equipment industry, including landscape, hardscape, lighting, snow and ice management, tree care, and irrigation for dealers, landscapers, hardscapers, distributors, and contractors.
GIE+EXPO 2020 is set for October 21-23. Attendees can expect hands-on drone training, expanded tree care demonstrations, a UTV test track, as well as continued co-location with Hardscape North America.
“OPEI has signed an extension agreement for the show from 2022-2024 with the Kentucky Exposition Center and area hotels in Louisville for the future. GIE+EXPO has always been the industry’s family reunion, and the place to be if you’re in this business,” Kris Kiser said. “We’re looking forward to continuing to work with our partners to provide the best training, education, and hands-on learning for the entire industry.”
BIGGA's BTME exhibition takes place at the Harrogate Convention Centre next week from Tuesday 21st - Thursday 23rd.
BIGGA's BTME exhibition takes place at the Harrogate Convention Centre next week from Tuesday 21st - Thursday 23rd.
Organisers say the show will feature more than 150 exhibiting companies spread across four zones in the Convention Centre and will showcase the latest innovations and technology in the golf and sports surface maintenance industry.
Karl Hansell, communications executive at BIGGA said, "Building on the success of last year’s restructured exhibition, we’ll be returning to the Harrogate Convention Centre and filling four exhibition halls with the latest products and innovation. The exhibition centre’s Main Auditorium, a one-time host of the Eurovision Song Contest, will again see tears of joy and lavish celebrations as we reveal the winners of the BIGGA Awards 2020 at the BIGGA Welcome Celebration on Tuesday evening, sponsored by Campey Turf Care Systems.
"Other major events taking place throughout the show include the Green Room Podcast Live hosted by former Ryder Cup superintendent Curtis Tyrrell CGCS MG and the Golf Course Architecture and Management Forum, with speakers discussing some of the largest construction and renovation projects in golf.
"Other events to look out for include the Golf Environment Awards, recognising those who are at the forefront of one of most seismic changes in the golf industry in recent times – the shift towards sustainability and environmental awareness."
RT 500 and Harrow combination scooped the Gold medal in the LAMMA 2020 Arable Innovation Awards Category plus the Founders award for best overall innovation at the show.
At last week's LAMMA exhibition, British manufacturer Razorback's RT 500 and Harrow combination scooped the Gold medal in the Arable Innovation Awards Category as well as the Founders award for best overall innovation at the show.
Razorback's Martin Lole with the award at LAMMA '20
Recognised for its benefits in slug control and stale seedbed preparation, the combination impressed the judges for its innovative, environmental applications.
Designed by farmer and engineer, Martin Lole, the company says the Razorback machinery is built on over 100 years of combined industry knowledge shared by its experienced engineering, sales and service teams.
Martin Lole said, "This heritage has stood the company in good stead to tackle today's problems, including the increasing importance of good stubble management and field hygiene and the demand for high output, high reliability machines.
"As the company looks to the future, Razorback is passionate about maintaining its high standard of quality and unrivalled customer support that sees its professional users get the backup they need."
RHET (Royal Highland Education Trust) are hosting a Gala Dinner in February to celebrate their 21st Birthday.
The Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) are hosting a Gala Dinner in February to celebrate their 21st Birthday.
Alasdair Straker, BAGMA's business development manager says, "RHET do a super job in educating kids about all aspects of agriculture including machinery. BAGMA's Brian Sangster, who of course won November's Service Dealer Outstanding Contribution award, works closely with them promoting the agricultural industry via Schools TV amongst other things.
"Exhibitors at the Royal Highland Show are also well aware of the job RHET do, with some loaning the Trust equipment such a Tractor Simulator for school kids to try out and enjoy at the show."
The Gala Dinner takes place on 21st February 2020, in the Lowland Hall, Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston and will celebrate the milestone and raise funds for RHET's 21st birthday.
The black tie evening will treat guests to a three course meal of Scottish produce, much of which will have been produced by RHET volunteer farmers and will be prepared by the chef from Saltire Hospitality. Entertainment will come from farmer, comedian and compere Jim Smith, plus music and pipers will also be on hand. Also on the night live and silent auctions will take place with dozens of unique prizes and experiences.
For more information including booking details click here.
Due to continuing growth, a unique opportunity has arisen to join the STIGA team who are looking to recruit a Sales & Marketing Director.
STIGA Ltd is a leading distributor of lawnmowers and garden products within the UK and Irish market. The STIGA group was founded in 2000 and today has the following established brands that share 99 years of history and expertise in the garden machinery industry: STIGA, Mountfield, ATCO, Castelgarden and Alpina.
Due to continuing growth, a unique opportunity has arisen to join the STIGA team and we are looking to recruit a Sales & Marketing Director.
The Sales and Marketing Director will lead the growth and development of all the brands within the UK and Ireland, providing expertise and resources to shape STIGA’s position in the Garden machinery market and lead business development; reporting directly to the Managing Director.
Primary Responsibilities:
Analyzing, reporting and monitoring the local market scenario (competitors, products, consumers insights, trends) in order to identify and to enable more effective marketing opportunities and initiatives;
Develop effective strategies to increase product awareness on existing brands as well as to introduce new products to the market
Preparation and management of the assigned annual sales budget and monitoring of the forecast ’effectiveness during the season in order to ensure the achievement of sales targets and goals
Leading development and evaluation of quantitative plans for marketing programs, services and amenities
Collaboration with the Group Sales & Marketing department to develop projects and activities that effectively present the brand and products to the customer and in line with the different channels and brands
Maintain and develop business activities relating to the identification, analysis, planning and development for existing key clients, partners and prospective clients.
Who we're looking for (Skills, qualification and experience)
Qualifications:
University degree in Business Administration/Marketing/Economics
A Master and/or any other further qualification related to S&M is highly appreciated
Experience:
At least 5-7 years of experience in sales B2B field and/or within consumer goods industry is needed
3-5 years of Managerial experience in Sales or Marketing Dept. of well-structured multinational companies operating in consumer sector, with specific focus on different brands and channel distribution is required
A proven track record developing and implementing Sales, Marketing and product strategies.
A previous experience in gardening sector is appreciated
Knowledge:
A structured knowledge of trade sales and marketing activities is needed.
Strong planning and analytic skills
Knowledge of most important ICT tools is needed (the knowledge of SAP is a plus)
Knowledge of gardening products/outdoor power equipment is appreciated
Languages:
Fluent in English
Knowledge of a second language is highly appreciated
Offering an excellent remuneration package for the right candidate, dependent on experience, qualifications and sills.
Applications: Interested candidates should email their CV along with a covering letter to cristina.bettin@stiga.com
Stiga Ltd are looking to recruit a Merchandiser / Product Demonstrator to support area sales teams and dealerships as well as the Key accounts manager.
STIGA Ltd is a leading distributor of lawnmowers and garden products within the UK and Irish market. The STIGA group was founded in 2000 and today has the following established brands that share 99 years of history and expertise in the garden machinery industry: STIGA, Mountfield, ATCO, Castelgarden and Alpina.
We are looking to recruit a Merchandiser/Product Demonstrator to support area sales teams and dealerships as well as the Key accounts manager. This is a national role, so the ideal candidate will be required to travel extensively within the UK and occasionally to the EU.
Working in a small team, the position requires a person who is highly motivated, energetic with good communication skills and the ability to work on their own initiative. Generate sales through product demonstration, increase brand visibility as well as assisting with product development and product training, reporting directly to the Sales and Marketing Director.
Primary Responsibilities:
Support the Director of Sales & Marketing in executing yearly Trade Marketing Plans for Traditional Trade and Mass Market Channels.
Provide product information, using lectures, films, charts, and/or slide shows provided.
Manage relevant operational requests in terms of in-store visibility (POS), making sure corporate guidelines are respected and activities are aligned with the Marketing Calendar.
Collaborates with the Marketing Manager to maximize return and guarantee consistency of POS materials across platforms and touchpoints.
Support Area Sales Managers in the execution of their regional activities while ensuring product benefits and brand values/equity are properly communicated.
Set up and arrange creative displays and demonstration areas within designated dealer and retailer showrooms for prospective customers or staff product training.
Attend trade shows, stores, exhibitions and other venues to demonstrate products or services.
Learn about competitors' products and receive feedback from both end consumers and trade customers ' providing feedback to R&D/Product managers of interests and concerns.
Record and report demonstrations, competitor and market related information
Who we're looking for (Skills, qualification and experience)
Experience: 3+ years of practical sales, workshop or operational experience within the outdoor power equipment or landscaping industry.
The new Functional Chainsaw Leather Boots from Husqvarna complete a range of chainsaw boots, filling the gap between the existing Classic and Technical chainsaw boots.
The new Functional Chainsaw Leather Boots from Husqvarna complete a range of chainsaw boots, filling the gap between our existing Classic and Technical chainsaw boots.
Water repellent, lightweight leather boots with good stability, fit for tough use. Reinforced front and back for increased support and padded front tongue and top for comfort. TE-POR membrane keeps the feet dry whereas the Vibram sole provides a good grip. Easy roller closure for easy adjustment. Fitted with toe protection overlap for increased safety. Fulfils EN ISO 17249:2013 class 2 24 m/s.
“We are really pleased with the new boots and excited for them to be released into the wild, I have tried these and found they are a very comfortable and practical chainsaw boot” Jonathan Snowball - UK Product Category Manager -Handheld & Accessories.
Garden Trader continues to show high numbers of targeted traffic and is designed to specifically identify and catch customers when they are researching a product online and helping them locate their local dealer. Because of the site promotional criteria, we know the majority are actively looking to make a purchase (product or service). All subscribed dealers can easily check their listing's analytics just by logging in to see for themselves just how Garden Trader is helping their business. If you do wish to re-subscribe or indeed register it is easy and takes just a few minutes.
Garden Trader is helping send quality leads to specialist garden machinery dealers in the UK. It has been designed to support and promote our dealer industry to consumers who are specifically searching for garden machinery products and services.
It is easy and quick to register and costs just £96 + VAT per year to be listed and all revenues in 2020 will be reinvested into promoting the site online.
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