NO FURTHER COMMENT The end of the story? by Service Dealer Editor, Steve Gibbs
A raft of negative comments were posted by dealer readers last week, regarding Honda's statement on the payment of warranty claims.
This week saw the first SALTEX following a new disrupter to the national turf care show scene launching only a few weeks ago.
As such, I was fascinated to discover just how the show would look and feel in its wake. Would there be obvious changes to the event itself in reaction to the young upstart? Would exhibitors be ruing the lack of outdoor exhibition space? And, crucially, would fewer punters walk through the NEC's doors having only recently attended a major show for their sector?
Well as it turned out, certainly one fewer punter made the trip. Namely, me. Unfortunately I began feeling unwell on Monday and on Tuesday I dug out a test from the back of the cupboard to confirm I was very Covid positive.
I don't know if any of our readers have experienced the joys of the latest variant, but it feels worse to me than when I had it back at Christmas 2021. I certainly wouldn't recommend. So the upshot is, I stayed away.
As you can see today though, the Service Dealer and TurfPro teams were out in force around the halls. They told me there was a palpably positive atmosphere, feeling busier than many had perhaps expected. You can see and read some more about it today here.
Honda statement
Thank you to all our dealer readers who contributed their voices to our piece about Honda in the Weekly Update last week. Reflecting the views of our readership is what the magazine prides itself on.
You may remember that we put some concerns to Honda that we had received from dealer reader, Peter Massey of Masseys, about the manufacturer's payment of warranty claims. Honda offered a short statement in return that read:
"We aren't able to comment on individual warranty claim cases, however, dealer satisfaction is extremely important to us and we are constantly reviewing our processes.
"With a view to improve our dealer communications, we have recently implemented a dedicated telephone line for our dealers to raise any queries about outstanding warranty claims. We welcome our networks' feedback and will continue to work with them on a partnership basis going forward."
This brief response, perhaps understandably, elicited plenty of strong feedback from our dealer readers who will have first-hand experience of the manufacturer's policies.
You can go back and read through all the below-the-line comments here, but some brief quotes, amongst many, that particularly stood out for me included:
"The current Power Equipment management have a total disrespect for not only the smaller independent dealer but also their own staff members."
"Rejection of valid claims is so frustrating!"
"Their dealer Extranet is so unnecessarily complex & over complicated that they actually have their own webinar course for it."
"Customer services promise the earth to customers, warranty department reject claims."
"Honda owe us a fortune in unpaid warranty"
"They treated us like idiots with little or no support and antiquated systems."
Also, commenting on the Service Dealer website, Keith Christian, wrote, "Warranty issues with suppliers are the most enduring point of dissatisfaction within the dealer network. Reduced labour rates, short job times and a lack of compensation for delivery and collection, along with increased administration costs, has been a bone of contention for over 100 years.
"It is time the suppliers and manufacturers who do not recognise the cost of warranty to their dealer network did something about it."
Strong words all round. So in the interest of balance, considering there wasn't one single comment defending Honda, I contacted the company again this week (from my home sick desk) pointing out to them the wealth of negative comments that their statement had received - and would they like to say anything in return.
I received the following:
"Thank you for the opportunity to respond however we have no further comment to add at this time."
Now of course, Honda are under absolutely zero obligation to say anything to our publication. However, one might have thought that they would want to address what appears to be some serious ill-feeling amongst people who are supposed be their partners?
And bear in mind, these comments aren't from teenagers throwing shade on TikTok over a One Direction video - these are thoughtful comments made by serious business owners, trying to conduct a professional relationship with a supplying manufacturer.
A fundraising page has been established to offer some financial support for Martin Coates' partner and two young boys following fatal accident.
It is with great sadness that Northallerton based dealership Brian Robinson Machinery Ltd, has reported the death of one its service technicians in a tragic, on-farm accident.
Martin Coates, who was 28, died on October 19th 2023. Another service technician was also involved in the accident, details of which have not been publicly disclosed.
Dealership owner, Brian Robinson, said in a statement, "Martin has been with BRM since he was 16 years old, so for 12 years. Martin was a huge part of the BRM family and became one of our senior technicians who supported our apprentices. He predominately worked with Merlos, but could turn his hand to anything if it was required.
"Martin's character was a big one to say the least and his quirky humour will be one that will never be forgotten. Martin has left behind his devoted partner Leanne, as well as the couple’s two sons, Ryley (aged 12) & Luca (aged 3)."
BRM's operations and marketing manager, Hannah Robinson, has established a Just Giving page to help offer some financial support to Martin's young family.
Hannah said, "Martin's character was larger than life and he loved his family even more, they were his world.
"Following hundreds of messages from the farming community, people who knew Martin annd Leanne, and strangers who have been deeply touched by this situation, I’ve put a Just Giving page together to help give Leanne some financial support so she can provide the best care and life to the boys that Martin would have wanted."
Hannah continued, "Sadly, whilst we all love the way of life which the agricultural industry provides, it also remains one of the UK’s most dangerous professions. With agriculture only second behind the construction industry, accounting for 18% of all work-related fatalities."
Martin's funeral is to take place this coming Monday 6th November, 11am at St Mary's Church, Leake, YO7 4BN.
You can donate to the Just Giving page by clicking this link or by scanning the QR code below.
Following last week's news about AriensCo ceasing all UK production, word has now emerged regarding the future of the Countax and Westwood brand names.
Following last week's news about AriensCo ceasing all UK production, word has now emerged regarding the future of the Countax and Westwood brand names.
A statement from the company read, "We are aware of the outstanding history and role that the Countax and Westwood brands have played, particularly for the British market.
"Nevertheless, there are currently no plans to apply these brands to Ariens and AS-Motor products."
The confirmation was made to Service Dealer founder, Chris Biddle, for his Inside AgriTurf podcast. Chris has published an episode this week called, 'Countax: The beginning and end of a brand' where he traces the 30+ year history of Countax and includes extracts from an interview he recorded in October 2021 with the founder, Harry Handkammer.
A 39-strong group of apprentices are starting the next stage of their careers having qualified as service and parts technicians working in dealerships across the UK.
A 39-strong group of John Deere apprentices are starting the next stage of their careers having qualified as service and parts technicians working in dealerships across the UK.
2023 Apprentice Graduates:
Ben Burgess: Benjamin Cox, Honor Miles, Callum Clarke, Ethan Langley.
Cornthwaite Group: Benjamin Glover, Kyle Wells, Graeme Riddick, Alfie Thompson, Thomas Howard.
Farol: William Duggins, Daniel O’Donohue, Makayla Wench, Andrew Gray, Luke Hand, Joseph Scott.
Wirtgen Group: Thomas Holt, Jack Anderson, Stan Smith.
The talented cohort’s achievements were recognised at a graduation ceremony in Nottingham on 20th October at a dinner attended by their friends, family and mentors who have been at their side throughout the course.
It was also an evening of celebration for 17 Master Technicians - individuals who have achieved the top-tier service technician qualification - who received their prizes at the event.
John Deere branch training manager Allan Cochran said, “Our industry-leading apprenticeship programme has been running for more than 30 years and has trained well over 1,100 talented individuals who have gone on to have exciting careers across the John Deere dealership network.
“Graduation ceremonies are always special, and this was no exception. To be able to celebrate the fantastic achievements of those in the room was hugely rewarding for John Deere as a company, as well for the dealers who have helped nurture this talented group to reach its potential.
“We wish the graduates all the best as they embark on the next stage of their careers within the John Deere family, and look forward to working alongside them long into the future.”
It was an extra special night for two technicians who won overall awards. Samuel Crichton from Tuckwell’s Framfield depot in Sussex was named Technician Apprentice of the Year, while Kael Horton from Thomas Sherriff’s Hexham depot in Northumberland was presented with the Parts Apprentice of the Year award.
Oliver Coupland from the Retford Ripon Farm Services depot in South Yorkshire, and James Hancock from Smallridge Bros’ Barnstaple depot were both named as runners-up.
Among the Master Technician graduates, Craig Braithwaite was singled out for his outstanding effort in becoming the first person to complete an apprenticeship and Master Technician assessment in just four years.
The individual prizes were presented to the winners by Will Young - best known as Farmer Will on TikTok - who addressed the room on life as an influencer creating content on a farm.
2023 Master Technician Graduates:
Ben Burgess: Cameron Smith, Lewis Jaggard, Callum Luker, Jonathan Smith.
Cornthwaite Group: Craig Braithwaite, James Sudell, Ed Crocker, Matthew Higgins.
Farol: Iain MacKinnon, James O’Neill, Jamie Speir, Lawrence Thompson, Matthew Welbourne, Alistair Donaldson.
Ripon Farm Services: Andrew Smith.
Tuckwells: Oscar Mayhew, Oliver Rumsey.
During the evening, presenters acknowledged that many of the class of 2023 had taken on apprenticeships during one of the most challenging times in the programme’s history.
For many, the covid lockdown took effect just six months into their studies, meaning distanced learning replaced what had been intended as classroom sessions.
“The apprentices coped admirably with the challenge laid down to them,” Allan said. “Being able to adapt to new and changing surroundings and issues is part of being a technician, but this group of young people did themselves proud in the face of adversity.”
It was also the first graduation for apprentices from the Wirtgen Group; a construction machinery manufacturer which was purchased by John Deere in 2017.
Due for completion in August 2024, the site will be home to the company’s UK operations and will boast dedicated dealer training facilities.
Construction has commenced on the new multimillion pound headquarters for Avant Tecno UK at Suffolk Business Park in Bury St Edmunds.
The development of the 32,200sq ft facility is being led by Churchmanor Estates and built by SEH French.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held on October 19 to mark the start of works with representatives from Avant Tecno UK, SEH French, Churchmanor Estates, Robinson Arnold, Holmes Plant & Construction, LSI Architects, Conisbee, Richard Utting Associates and members of West Suffolk District Council.
Due for completion in August 2024, the company says the site will be home to their UK operations. It will boast dedicated dealer training facilities, flexible collaborative workspaces, automated warehouse technology, and a technical workshop.
The new development will see the company move from its rural base near Thetford, where it has been located since it began operating the in the UK in 1994.
Raimo Ala-Korpi, managing director of Avant Tecno UK, commented, “This ceremony marks the start of an exciting era for Avant Tecno UK.
“Avant has enjoyed a sustained period of growth in recent years and, as a consequence, we have outgrown our existing warehouse and office facilities. Our new purpose-built UK headquarters represents a significant investment and is a commitment to the future for our dealers and end user customers.
“We're looking forward to seeing work get underway on the construction of our new premises.”
Organisers say fund has been designed to provide support to help students at land-based colleges overcome specific barriers to participation so they can remain in education.
Organisers of GroundsFest have announced that event profits are being reinvested back into the industry to form The GroundsFest Education Fund.
They say the Fund has been designed to provide support to help students at land-based colleges overcome specific barriers to participation so they can remain in education. The aim, they say, is to not only support and enhance a student’s education experience but to encourage more people into the industry by making education more accessible.
Through profits generated from GroundsFest, organisers say that students will be able to obtain funding for a wide range of items such as course literature, stationary, tools, laptops, computers and other electrical goods, driving lessons, and accredited training courses on subjects including machinery, weed management, sports turf maintenance, lawn care and arboriculture.
Event director Christopher Bassett said, “Unfortunately, the number of young people embarking on a career in grounds management is in decline and collectively, we should be doing all we can to change this. Education is the first step into the industry but the numbers coming through and qualifying are worryingly low.
"After several conversations, we were shocked to hear that students are being forced out of education or are being prevented from entering education due to not having the money to purchase necessary items. Our aim was to always give back to the industry through the event and therefore we are extremely proud to be launching The GroundsFest Education Fund.”
The scheme will be trialled for the first year at Wiltshire College & University Centre before being rolled out nationwide. Victoria Fiander, assessor in horticulture, and Bradley Tennant, sports turf lecturer, both from Wiltshire College, were instrumental in the development of the Fund.
Commenting on the new scheme, Bradley said, “Working with students, I know they often can't find work due to travel arrangements. We are located in a very rural area, and having access to The GroundsFest Education Fund has the potential to bring more young people into our industry. Something as simple as driving lessons could pave the way for their future to become an industry leader.
“Land-based colleges are the point of entry for the vast majority of horticulture, from sports turf stadiums to the local garden centre. It's vital we support our colleges. There are currently only 12 land-based colleges within the UK, which is a worrying number considering you can't turn your head without seeing something that's been involved with horticulture in some form.
"The industry is struggling from top to bottom and education is the way forward.”
Five Case IH products have been nominated for the Farm Machine 2024 award at a major upcoming event.
Five Case IH products, namely Quadtrac 715, Optum 340 CVXDrive, Puma 260 CVXDrive, Farmall 75C Electric, and Axial-Flow 160 series, have been nominated for the Farm Machine 2024 award at Agritechnica.
Case IH Puma 260 CVXDrive
The Farm Machine 2024 award spotlights products from across the industry shining a light on those that bring the most potential productivity advantages to prospective owners. Case IH products, each a finalist in the XL, high horsepower, mid-range, compact tractors as well as combines category, represent five Case IH entries in a field of just 35 shortlisted entries across the 12 machine categories. The winners will be announced on November 14 at Agritechnica 2023 in Hanover, Germany.
In addition, all machines are nominated for the Audience Choice Award. Voting for this award is possible on www.farmmachine.eu/en/ and will start from October 9th until November 11th, 2023. Everyone can vote for their favourite product once per day within this period.
“We’re incredibly proud to wear the Case IH logo on our chests, and even more proud to show off our products in this forum,” said Mirco Romagnoli, Vice President Case IH & STEYR, Europe. “The nominations for this award across categories and product lines shows just how versatile and valuable the Case IH brand is for farmers not only in Europe, but around the globe. We are here to give farmers the tools to optimise their operations at every level, and these product innovations are part of that ongoing commitment.”
“I’m excited to see how everyone shows their passion for Case IH by voting for these awards,” continued Romagnoli. “Our products are proof of the commitment we have to the farmers we serve – and these products in particular not only deserve the spotlight they’re in right now, but are just another example of what Case IH stands for.”
Manufacturer approves HVO in all its self-propelled machines with engines that meet the latest Stage V emissions standards.
Claas has approved the use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oils (HVO) in all its self-propelled machines with engines that meet the latest Stage V emissions standards.
The company has also announced that going forward all tractors and harvesting machines will be filled with this sustainable biofuel before they leave the factory, so saving, they say, 2,500 tonnes of CO2 a year.
HVO consists mainly of used cooking oil and animal fats, along with vegetable oils, and has several advantages in that it does not require any engine upgrades, and can even be used in conjunction with conventional diesel fuel, so does not require any special storage facilities. Performance in terms of power, wear, durability or engine lifetime say Claas, is similar but over the entire life cycle of the engine, CO2 emissions can be reduced by up to 90%.
The manufacturer says that currently, for a high horsepower engine there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. While battery-power offers advantages for low power engines, for a machine such as a Jaguar forage harvester, to drive it using battery power, yet achieve the same level of performance and range currently possible using fossil fuel, would result in a machine that is twice the size and weight to the current model.
Designed to elevate mowing experiences for a diverse range of customers, the Proline H600 is a compact, high-capacity out-front centre collect rotary mower that is set to revolutionise the way clippings are managed.
Toro, a global leader in innovative outdoor solutions, is thrilled to unveil its latest breakthrough in lawn care technology - the Toro Proline H600. Designed to elevate mowing experiences for a diverse range of customers, the Proline H600 is a compact, high-capacity out-front centre collect rotary mower that is set to revolutionise the way clippings are managed.
‘The Toro ProLine H600 redefines the standards of lawn care equipment, focusing on two crucial elements that enhance both user experience and performance. Its compact design, marked by a shorter length when compared to mid-mount collector tractors guarantees effortless manoeuvrability, while the emphasis on reduced weight ensures portability without compromising functionality’ states Chris Cooper, Senior Product Marketing Manager. Noteworthy for its hopper capacity, the ProLine H600 accommodates more clippings, minimising downtime for emptying. Superior service access, particularly to the cutter deck, streamlines maintenance procedures, contributing to long-term reliability.
Effortless mounting and dismounting provides exceptional comfort for operators of all heights, while centralised controls offer easy access and enhance the overall experience. With an adjustable steering column for optimal ergonomics and a Grammer seat for heightened comfort and support, the ProLine H600 caters to individual preferences.
‘The Toro ProLine H600 addresses the challenges of machinery downtime and maintenance that often hinder project timelines and profitability in the realm of professional landscaping’ continues Cooper. Engineered with advanced durability and technology, this machine offers a range of features to enhance operational efficiency and minimise downtime. The ability to access the hopper for maintenance without starting the engine showcases its practical design. Deck access is a breeze – a platform adjustment positions the deck for service, eliminating the need for tools or workshop assistance.
The PLH 600 features Toro’s SmartCool™ system, an innovative automatic reversing fan, that mitigates overheating by clearing debris from the air intake screen, reducing downtime and enhancing reliability.
Elevating Lawn Care and Efficiency.
The Toro Proline H600 reimagines lawn care equipment, addressing the unique needs of various customer segments while delivering unprecedented innovation. With its out-front collection design and an array of benefits, this mower is set to become an indispensable tool for professional landscapers, facility managers, and homeowners alike.
For more information about the Toro Proline H600 and its features, please visit Toro's website.
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