We have a bonus offering for you, our valued dealer readers, today - with the launch of the latest installment of our free Dealer Toolkit series.
 
This time our focus is on the topical area of AI. The Toolkit specifically concentrates on how the easily available technologies - which are often cheap or even costless - may be utilised within a dealership setting.
 
I suspect that much like whenever any new technology bursts onto the scene, there will be a degree of both scepticism and trepidation around its usage. That's certainly the way I feel about anything new! My default position on anything modern is, well, I've got along fine without it so far, why do I need to change?! However, even I'll admit that The Internet has turned out to be quite handy!
 
I think the problem that I often have, and perhaps others do too, isn't so much with the actual reality of whatever the new development is - but in my perception of it. With AI specifically, there could be a sense that it's here to take over or replace - and that simply isn't the case.
 
Our Toolkit will hopefully dispel any of those myths. It's designed to take dealers through AI's capabilities, step-by-step, with practical, helpful tips and advice - all geared towards its use in a real-world dealership.

This guide has stemmed from a session that some of you will have attended last November at the Service Dealer Conference. Neil Wilkins, marketing consultant and senior tutor at Cambridge Marketing College, ran one the popular breakout seminar sessions, perhaps introducing for the first time to many, the concept of how AI can assist in day-to-day operations.

Neil said of AI at the time, "It can automate repetitive, low value business activities, releasing time for other value-added tasks. It can also help with confident evidence-based decision-making, spotting trends and impacts that humans cannot." He went on to state, "AI isn’t a distant tech, but a present, practical, hybrid asset that’s not about eliminating human connection, but building upon it to develop greater loyalty.”

Our guide is intended to act as an inspiration for dealers to take a look at the tools available and see how they might fit into their working lives. One dealer who we know took on board what Neil had to say last November and went away to try it at his own dealership, was Steve Law of Cutting Edge.

When Duncan and I visited Steve and Sara's premises earlier this year, Steve told us how following the Conference he had found usage of AI for certain tasks quite the game-changer. Catching up with him for the publication of this Toolkit, Steve told us, "As someone with dyslexia, AI tools like ChatGPT have completely leveled the playing field. I no longer stress over writing emails, reading technical info, or producing clear documentation."

Steve continued, "It's like having a personal assistant who's always there to help me get my thoughts across properly. It's made me faster, more confident and able to focus on the job instead of the admin." - Which is quite the testimonial!

So don't take my word, take other Steve's and do please have a look at the Toolkit. Perhaps dip in and out of it, returning when you're ready to tackle the next part (it's split into five helpful chapters). I think you'll find that the perception that it's just for big corporations or the super tech-savvy, simply isn't the case. AI can be easy to use and helpful for all.

Bear in mind it isn't The Terminator and the traditional dealer isn't Sarah Connor. Dealers have always adapted as new ideas have cropped up. AI is just the latest development that can assist in your delivery of outstanding customer service.

Check out the Toolkit here.

Service Dealer has launched the latest installment of our free Dealer Toolkit series, this time offering the network advice on the best use of AI in the dealership.

Service Dealer owner, Duncan Murray-Clarke explained, "Following on from our Conference last year, we teamed up with AI specialist Neil Wilkins, who ran a popular workshop on AI.

"We are totally committed at Service Dealer to helping the dealer network in the UK & Ireland navigate through the rapid changes that are taking place within our industry. This toolkit is designed specifically for servicing dealers and is a completely free resource for our readers."

AI specialist, Neil Watkins, addressing dealer delegates at the last Service Dealer Conference

The AI toolkit is split into five chapters, each taking dealers through the world of AI step-by-step, explaining how to make the most of the available technologies - with a targeted focus on their use in a dealership environment. 

If you are not already registered for the Toolkits, new users will be asked for your name and email address in order to register. Once done, you'll have instant access to the AI Toolkit page and the previous Toolkits that are still all available for free.

Check it out here.

This week’s Cereals, the annual showcase for the arable farming industry, held at former Service Dealer Conference speaker Andrew Ward’s farm in Lincolnshire, drew some strong visitor numbers throughout the first day, and – always the measure of a multi-day show – some healthy crowds on the second day too.

While there were some notable absences from among last year’s exhibitors - primarily some big implement manufacturers - the remainder of the regular attendee list looks to have settled now into a regular pattern of committed names. Many visitors and exhibitors were waiting with bated breath to hear what the Chancellor was going to say in her Spending Review speech, which was given on the first day of the show. But with relatively little in it to negatively impact agriculture, a collective sigh of relief was almost perceptible as phones were checked and put back into pockets.

Most manufacturers, importers and dealers present reported a difficult but not disastrous first half of the year, and there was cautious optimism that the depths of the downturn may have been reached. With harvest prospects looking reasonably decent thanks to some recent rain, there was reason for both visitors and exhibitors to smile a little, particularly with Farm and Equipment Technology Fund grants having been opened up, and better news about the next application process for the Sustainable Farm Incentive.

In 2026, the event moves west for the first time in many years, to the farm of a well-known Oxon landowner. While the process of selling stand space for the next event usually begins during the current show, it’s not yet clear what this might mean for stand costs, ticket prices and other details to be decided…   

Jason Nettle, director of Winchester Garden Machinery, is this year undertaking the challenge of 12 marathons in 12 months for good causes. Here he tells us how he's preparing for a very special Father's Day this weekend!

Hi everyone,

Fresh (or perhaps, not so fresh!) from conquering the Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge, my focus now shifts to the next monumental task: the 2025 Hampshire Hoppit Marathon! This one comes with a solid 650m of elevation gain, promising another challenging day out on the trails.

What makes this marathon particularly significant is that it takes place this Sunday, June 15th - Father's Day! It's a slightly unconventional way to celebrate, but a memorable one for sure. This marathon also marks the halfway point of this epic, year-long challenge. Can you believe it? Six marathons down, six more to go! It's a surreal feeling, especially when I look back at how this time last year I struggled with just 5k.

I'm incredibly pleased to announce that this month's marathon has been kindly supported by ISEKI UK & Ireland. David Withers reached out to me some time ago and expressed his willingness to support me on this challenge, and I'm very grateful for their generous donation to the causes.

I'll admit, there are moments, especially after a brutal run like the Jurassic Coast, when I seriously question why I challenged myself to this crazy, possibly stupid, undertaking. The pain is real, the training is relentless (when I can fit it in!), and the demands on my time are immense.

However, then I look at the good causes we're supporting – Cancer Research UK, Prostate Cancer UK, Naomi House Children’s Hospice and St. Michael's Hospice – and I see the fundraising total gradually ticking upwards. That's when all the pain and exhaustion become incredibly worthwhile.

Mentally, I have to constantly remind myself that my pain is self-inflicted and, crucially, short-lived. I was talking to a group of people recently about this very point. My discomfort, while intense at the time, will ease over the coming days and weeks. This is a stark contrast to so many individuals who are suffering through treatments, battling illness, or facing immense mental health struggles on a daily basis. For them, there's no "finish line" in a few hours or days. It's an ongoing fight. Just as I break down each marathon into achievable steps – getting to the next marker, making it up the next hill - many people facing mental health battles have to do the same, just taking one step at a time, one day at a time. It’s a powerful reminder of perspective.

So, as I gear up for the Hampshire Hoppit this Sunday, my determination is unwavering. It's not just about running; it's about pushing boundaries, raising awareness for vital health issues, and contributing to causes that make a real difference to people's lives.

How can you help?

• Sponsor me: Please continue your incredible support by donating to my fundraising page. Every penny truly counts and directly impacts these amazing charities.
• Cheer me on: Your messages and encouragement are a powerful motivator. Send me your virtual high-fives as I hit the halfway mark!
• Get inspired: Consider how you might tackle your own personal challenges, whether physical or mental, by taking them one step at a time. And please, prioritise your health and well-being.

Stay tuned for the update after the Hampshire Hoppit - hopefully, it will be another successful one!

Toro U.K. Limited say they will unveil a brand-new Dealer Hub at GroundsFest 2025, taking place 10th - 11th September at Stoneleigh Park.

Described by Toro as purpose-built for its dealer network, they say the hub will serve as a central meeting point for strategic updates, early product previews, and conversations about the season ahead.

Positioned within the company's significantly expanded stand, Toro say the Dealer Hub underscores their commitment to supporting its nationwide dealer base.

“GroundsFest is the ideal opportunity to reconnect with our dealers in person,” said Craig Hoare, sales and marketing manager, Toro U.K. Limited. “This year, we’re putting our dealers front and centre. Offering early access to new-season materials and a dedicated space to talk opportunities, challenges, and everything in between. The Dealer Hub is our way of saying: we’re here, and we’re listening.”

Toro say invitations are on their way to existing dealers. 

The AEA have said that the "slow start" to the year for agricultural tractor registrations continued for another month in May, with 803 machines logged during the month, 17% fewer than in the same month last year.

Stephen Howarth, agricultural economist at the Association commented on the figures, saying, "That is only about 80% of the average number recorded at this time of year over the previous five years, although it is higher than during the pandemic-affected month of May 2020."

The year-on-year decline was similar to that seen in the previous four months, with this year's total of 4,017 machines being just under 1,000 fewer than in January to May 2024 (-20%).

Stephen added, "That figure is only around three-quarters of the seasonal average."

Dieci Telehandlers Ltd has announced a new partnership with Gordons Agricultural Equipment. 

Henry Nash and Roger Doherty

With seven strategically located depots stretching from Castle Douglas to Ayrshire, Gordons offers an extensive range of agricultural and construction machinery. Dieci say this new partnership ensures Scottish farmers and contractors can now benefit from their material handling equipment, supported by a dealer network renowned for reliability and customer care.

Henry Nash, managing director of Dieci Telehandlers Ltd, said, “We’re delighted to welcome Gordons Agricultural Equipment to the Dieci dealer network in Scotland. With their wide customer base and strong reputation for aftersales support, Gordons are a perfect partner. This appointment demonstrates our continued commitment to the Scottish agricultural market."

Roger Doherty, Dieci sales manager at Gordons, said of the move, “This strengthens our machinery portfolio and reflects our ongoing commitment to providing reliable, high-performance solutions to Scottish farmers. Dieci’s reputation for durability, performance, and operator comfort makes their telehandlers an ideal addition to our lineup.”

Our 2020 Summer research showed that on average, each Garden Trader dealer will be sent 114 new customers (or people with a buying intention walking through your door) per year.  This works out at 83p for each new customer. A subscription rate designed to be all inclusive delivering unrivalled online results.  

This site was purpose-built just for skilled servicing ground care dealers by the team that bring you Service Dealer Magazine. It is easy and quick to register and costs just £96 + VAT per year for a full listing.  As this dealer site is designed to promote the UK dealer network, all revenues in 2022 will continue to be reinvested into promoting the site online and so supporting the dealer network.

Join the country’s only independent specialist website, created by the team that bring you Service Dealer. Join our subscribed Garden Trader dealers now by clicking on “Register Dealership” and let's fight back against the zero value retailers.

Map of dealerships registered with Garden Trader

FIND OUT MORE