It's our job today to feature some unfortunate news regarding dealerships RVT and Teme Valley Tractors, whose owners have released a statement that gives notice of intention to appoint an administrator - due to "challenges currently facing the group."

Whilst undeniably concerning, we should bare in mind of course that the official statement says that as things stand, they are not currently in administration. 

The move this week, they say, is to help find the "best route forward for the future of the business." I'm sure all reading this today would wish them success with that and hope that whatever the outcome, talented dealership staff are not lost to the industry.

Our lead news this week does feel somewhat in contrast to last Friday, when we talking about the number of dealerships who were looking at the growth potential of signing up with new machinery franchises. Speaking of which, I received an insightful reply to my Summer Signing Frenzy blog, by our friend, former diarist of the season, Pete McArthur of Strathbogie Forest & Garden. He offered an important perspective on what we were discussing. 

Pete said -

"Interesting Steve, great to take on another brand / franchise but quite often with this brings an even bigger headache . . . staffing up!

I think we could all agree that staff is a key factor in being able to sell & service another brand / franchise and one of the biggest challenges we face is recruitment.

The internet is a great place to sell multiple brands but bricks & mortar will always be the specialist until AI catches up . . . and that's closer than you think! (Possibly another topic 'How will AI help or hinder our businesses?')"

Thanks Pete. This is indeed a fair and timely reminder from the front lines, that staffing remains a genuine concern for dealers around the country. It is absolutely encouraging to see so many dealerships announcing fresh partnerships but it is never as simple as merely placing another badge above the door. The resourcing of people looms large and, as Pete points out, is the "key factor".

We have spoken about recruitment in our pages and at our Conference many times over the years. I'm sure everyone reading this today would agree that both skilled technicians or enthusiastic candidates willing to learn, are in short supply. Salespeople with product knowledge are also increasingly hard to find we are told, and many businesses are facing the double-whammy of an aging workforce and hardships in attracting younger talent. Bringing on a new franchise isn’t just about stocking machines - it’s 100% about ensuring you have the expertise on hand to sell, service and support them.

I suppose the ideal scenario for a dealership is to balance investment in products with equal investment in staff. However, saying this and achieving it - I'm absolutely willing to concede - are two very different things. 

There clearly are some young people out there who want to join our industry and find success in their roles - as evidenced today by the news from WeAreLandbased about the winning technicians. The LE-TEC organised scheme is doing all they can to promote and explain what a career in this sector can offer to youngsters starting out. Our dealer readers who are looking to fill roles in their businesses, must be hoping they are lucky enough to find someone like the three motivated winners highlighted today.

Finally, Pete mentioned the use of AI in dealerships and how there's more for us to talk about on that subject. Well, Pete, look out for the upcoming issue of Service Dealer magazine, that has an exciting announcement about a new session planned for December's Conference!