Following last week's announcement by Platts Harris of their intention to sell to the Russell's Group, some more details of the deal have been made by public by New Holland Agriculture and Russell's.

Heads of Terms are now agreed, and it's been said that both parties will work towards a completion by the end of October 2020.

Russell’s are based in Malton in North Yorkshire with seven current New Holland Agriculture depots in Yorkshire, Derbyshire and Northamptonshire, Russell's say they plan to integrate Platts Harris into their business with the retention of the Tuxford depot near Newark.

The Platts Harris territory covers the area of North Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire and will complement the current Russell’s territories around these areas.

Confirming what was announced by Platts Harris last week, the Platts Harris Darley Dale site will close with the territory to be covered from Russell’s recently opened Cubley depot near Ashbourne.

All Russell’s depots will now trade under Russell’s name from the end of October, including the Hallmark depots in Derbyshire and Northamptonshire, acquired by Russell’s in 2016.

Paul Russell, managing director at Russell’s, said, “We are looking forward to the challenge and opportunities the new territory provides whilst maintaining an excellent level of service to the existing customer base. With our dedicated team of over 150 people throughout Yorkshire, Derbyshire and Northants we look forward to growing our business in the new area together with New Holland.”

Pat Smith, business director UK & ROI at New Holland, added, “We congratulate Paul and all of his team on this announcement which demonstrates the continued growth and strength of our dealer network to meet the challenges of the future in our buiness. We look forward to supporting Russell’s in growing our business in the area and continuing to support all New Holland customers in the Tuxford and Darley Dale areas.

"We would also extend our thanks to all the staff, present and past, who have represented New Holland and Platts Harris over many years. Your fine heritage will be in good hands with Russell’s in the future.”