Precision agriculture and connectivity were hot topics at the Midlands Machinery Show recently, with new technology and efficiencies in the spotlight.

Organisers report that farmers from across the country headed to the Newark showground to see the latest machinery and discuss innovative technologies in the seminar theatre.

Smart farming proved particularly popular, with John Deere and Fendt focussing on how connectivity can improve efficiencies.

John Deere dealers exhibiting at the show included Ripon Farm Services, Sharmans Agri, Doubleday Agriculture and Farols, with Massey and Fendt represented by dealers B & B Tractors and Chandlers.

“Through JDLink we connect machines to the farm office, allowing customers to track their fleet and monitor machine health, as well as transferring agronomic information straight from the field,” says Jack Howard, precision agriculture specialist at John Deere.

“We’re trying to maximise time in the field; we had a good selection of agricultural students and discussion about connectivity from both a customer and dealer point of view.”

Fendt discussed smart farming as another way to improve efficiencies and brought along its FendtONE system which offers integrated connectivity between the office and the machines, merging them into a single operation unit.

With around 300 exhibitors there was plenty for visitors to see, and the new ride and drive feature attracted a lot of attention alongside the live demo area, says event manager Elizabeth Halsall. “Feedback from visitors was very positive with a full range of tractors and machinery in action and a friendly environment in which to do business.”