How are the increased costs of living, high inflation and soaring energy bills effecting your dealership - and what steps are you taking to mitigate the impact?
Before posing a question to you our dealer readers this week, I wanted to highlight a couple of positive stories featured in today's Update.
First up, there's a great new video you can view that was put together by the talented creatives at TAP, summarising last November's Service Dealer Conference & Awards. It serves as a great reminder of just what a superb day and night was enjoyed by all who attended. As well as this though, it also emphasises just how sorely missed the occasion had been during our enforced absence.
The video recaps the timely presentations given by the expert speakers at the Oxford Belfry - as well as hearing from delegates and sponsors alike regarding just why the date is an essential one in their calendar. Whist there is still of course a long way to go before this year's event, I have been assured by the organisers that there's exciting plans afoot already. The policy is one of continued improvement and of listening to feedback from all attendees, so I'm sure 2022's day will be bigger, better and more relevant than ever!
Also, pleasing today is the welcome return of LE-TEC's search for their Technician of the Year. In fact with this year's competition they are actually looking to crown two individuals, with one prize for someone who is just embarking on their career and another for someone who has made a successful vocation and seen their working life develop.
2021's search highlighted some amazing young people doing great work at dealerships around the country. I feel any campaign such as this, that can shine a positive light on the life available to enthusiastic entrants into land-based engineering, must be applauded and given our encouragement.
Amongst other coverage, last year the winner Laura Bassnet ended up on the cover of our magazine and featured in Chris Biddle's podcast. Hopefully this year the publicity generated can go even further than before, with penetration into the more mainstream media surely being the goal? As well as celebrating individual success, letting the wider world know about the opportunities available in our sector must be one of the principal aims of the competition?
Living costs rising
Moving on, the news this week away from trips back from Tesco with jangling suitcases has concentrated on the increasing costs of living and the highest inflation levels since the early 90s. Add into this the soaring costs of energy and we have what journalists like to term a crisis.
A question today then that it would be interesting to hear your thoughts on in the comments below, is just how all of this is impacting on your dealership and what steps you feel you can take to mitigate the negative effects?
We know it's hard right now for small retail businesses. I read a quote this week from Dr Jackie Mulligan, who is an expert on the government’s High Streets Task Force and founder of the local shopping platform, Shopappy. She said, “After two years of unprecedented disruption, our high streets are now being savaged by the highest inflation in three decades.
"Customers have less to spend, raw materials are costing more, supply chains are being squeezed, interest rates are on the up and the cost to heat their premises is skyrocketing. It's a panoply of pain.
"In the glaring absence of Government support, it's down to us all to support our small local retailers and help them to weather the storm in 2022. More than ever it’s crucial we all love local and shop local.”
Is this something you can relate to in your own business? We know from conversations we've been having over the past 6 months that dealers have been raising their prices to help offset the increased costs they've seen themselves. Is this something you feel you will need to continue this year? Are you worried though, that there's a limit at which your customers won't accept further rises?
Also, as that quote above suggests, are you finding the direct costs of running your business are going up and up? I heard from a dealer this week who told me they had recently fitted LED low-energy bulbs throughout their showroom, both because they add to the eco-aware message they are trying convey throughout their business but also crucially, because they reduce their utility bills.
So if you've got some thoughts on this current squeeze, let us know how it's effecting you and what measures you are taking to combat it in the comments below.
Service Dealer has a produced a great new video of November's special event - plus hear what dealers and manufacturers who attended thought of the day.
Service Dealer has produced a great new video of the special event that was November's Conference & Awards. Click below to watch.
One of the many dealers who attended 2021's event was Phil Gregg, after sales manager at Ripon Farm Services.
Phil said, "Having attended the Service Dealer conference for some years now, it has had to become a mandatory date in my calendar. The invaluable information, interactive topics, networking opportunities along with great hosts ensures I will be there again this year."
Another dealer who enjoyed the day was Chris Gibson, md of GGM Groundscare.
Chris said, "The Service Dealer Conference provided a great opportunity to take a day out of the business to consider some very topical and relevant subjects to our future development, whilst allowing us to reconnect again as an industry after what has been a very challenging period. The speakers and subject matter were excellent and the balance of presentations from the stage and smaller breakout sessions ensured a high level of engagement from all participants. The conference was very well delivered, and the time spent proved both thought provoking and worthwhile."
Also, representing the manufacturers' side of the industry, Kubtoa UK md, David Hart, had some positive words.
He said, "Kubota has been a sponsor for a few years now and it was my first visit which I hugely enjoyed. We as manufacturers are only as good as our dealer channel and it's a great event to network with dealers generally across the Agricultural and Groundcare industries. It's always good to hear some topical and relevant seminars that help us and dealers develop our businesses in these very fast moving times that we find ourselves in these days."
Finally for today, also praising the both the conference and the awards, is Jason Webb, manager, national aftersales commercial, UK & Ireland for AGCO UK Ltd.
Jason said, "The Service Dealer Conference is a great event providing the ideal opportunity to network and support colleagues throughout the industry. Keynote speakers provide thought provoking insights and trends evolving today and tomorrow for us to embrace! The awards ceremony is the perfect platform to recognize employees and their respective businesses for achievements throughout the year in supporting the industry: This is truly a great event, which we at AGCO fully support!"
The AEA has announced the market share data for 2020 tractor registrations - which features a new leader.
The AEA has announced the market share data for 2020 tractor registrations.
The total number of tractors registered in 2020 was 11,935, including both agricultural tractors (over 50hp) and compact tractors (50hp and below).
The information below shows the number of machines and market share recorded during that year by brand. As always, data are released after a one year delay due to competition law restrictions. Figures for 2021 are due to be published in early 2023.
The leading brand in 2020 changed after many years from John Deere leading the pack to CNH, comprising New Holland and CASE IH. They moved up from second place, increasing their share to 27.1% from 26.0%.
Deere dipped into second position with its market share contracting from 28.1% to 26.5%.
All the other companies listed on the leaderboard maintained the same position they held in 2019 - except for Same Deutz Fahr jumping up a place over JCB.
The market share data for 2019 was:
27.1% (3229 units) CNH (inc Case IH and New Holland)
26.5% (3157 units) JOHN DEERE
26.3% (3133 units) AGCO (inc MF, Fendt, and Valtra)
6.6%(784 units)KUBOTA
3.8% (449 units) CLAAS
1.7% (208 units) SAME DEUTZ FAHR
1.6%(187 units)JCB
1.3% (154 units AGRI-ARGO (inc McCormick, Landini)
LE-TEC have launched their annual competition, which this year features two categories for technicians to enter.
LE-TEC have launched their annual Land-based Technician Of The Year competition.
Last year's winner, Laura Bassnet
This year they have two categories to enter, one for someone who is just embarking on their career and one for someone who has a successful career and seen their vocation develop. A host of prizes are on offer for the winners.
LE-TEC say, "Whether you’re an apprentice technician just starting out, or a master technician with years of experience under your belt, we’re looking to hear from you."
To enter, candidates must record a short video telling the organisers:
who you are and what you do,
how you got into this industry,
what makes it so rewarding,
and why others should consider it as a career.
LE-TEC say it doesn't matter if it’s a selfie-style video, or a blockbuster production, its the story they want to hear and it's that which could win you the prize.
The acquired company also produces a range of side-by-side utility vehicles.
The Toro Company in the U.S has announced that it has acquired the privately-held Intimidator Group, based in Batesville, Arkansas, who designs and manufactures Spartan Mowers, a professional line of zero-turn mowers.
Sold through an established dealer network, the manufacturer says Spartan Mowers has strong brand recognition in southern regions of the United States, appealing to rural markets and large acreage customers. Intimidator Group also designs and manufactures a side-by-side utility vehicles.
“The addition of Spartan Mowers to our portfolio strategically positions us to be an even stronger player in the large and rapidly growing zero-turn mower market,” said Richard M. Olson, chairman and chief executive officer of The Toro Company.
“Spartan’s product lineup complements our Exmark and Toro branded equipment and provides unique opportunities to further leverage technology and design, procurement and manufacturing efficiencies. We are confident the combined efforts of our teams will help advance our strategic priorities while providing unparalleled products, technologies and service to our customers.
Robert and Becky Foster, owners of Intimidator Group, said “Our success and growth is the result of our dedicated team of employees, dealers and supply partners for which we are truly thankful and excited to be taking this next step in our journey together. The Toro Company has a rich history and proven track record of growing brands with the resources to fuel our future growth. With a shared commitment to furthering innovation, serving customers and supporting our people and communities, we look forward to joining The Toro Company and continuing to provide best-in-class products and service to our customers.”
The transaction has already received customary regulatory approvals. The purchase price was $400 million, which was paid with a combination of cash on hand and short-term borrowings under the company’s existing revolving credit facility.
For calendar year 2021, Intimidator Group net sales were approximately $200 million.
Company says 2021 saw their sales rocketing up and market share increasing.
Iseki UK & Ireland have announced further investments in the business to support the record sales levels achieved in 2021.
Commenting on what the company describe as continuous year on year achievement, David Withers, managing director added, “2021 was a strange year with Covid and the global supply chain issues but despite some of the challenges Iseki UK & Ireland had an amazing year with sales rocketing up and market share increasing as more and more people see the significant benefits of investing in Iseki products.
“To support the on-going growth we have also purchased a second lorry and hired Simon Grove to support higher levels of deliveries and an increased demand for demonstrations across the UK. As the business continues to expand we need to ensure we are supporting our dealers and customers to the same if not higher standard than what we have before, making sure we offer the best product, pre purchase and aftersales support.”
David also added, “As we look to the future we see opportunities to continue this growth trajectory and are optimistic that in 2022 we can get close to our original target of having doubled Iseki sales over a 5 year period.
“People are responding positively to our ‘can-do’ attitude, increased dealer network and the excellence of the Iseki product range. It is great fun to be part of a team that is winning in the marketplace and growing strongly, these new investments will help us maintain our winning ways!”
The GMA has released results of their post-show visitor survey.
The results of the post-show SALTEX 2021 visitor survey have been released by organisers the GMA.
According to the survey, 83% of attendees rated SALTEX 2021 overall as excellent, very good or good, 67% attended specifically to purchase new products or services, and 84% either had full purchasing responsibility or contributed to the process.
Furthermore, a third of visitors held a management position and 34% had the ability to sign-off on amounts of up to £50,000.
When it came to the type of grounds that the visitors were responsible for maintaining, the top three categories were sports turf (31%); arboriculture, horticulture and forestry (29%) and lawn care (26%), with broader visitor profiles covering areas such as landscaping, parks and playgrounds.
Regarding visitor interests, 72% rated the variety of products and services on show as excellent and knew exactly what they were looking for. 70% attended to see machinery, power and hand tools, and nearly half of the visitors were interested in seed, turf and aggregates. More than 33% visited exhibitors representing both landscaping materials and arboriculture, horticulture and forestry. Other areas of interest included sports surfaces and facilities (32%); commercial vehicles, tyres and trailers (29%); education, training and development (20%); synthetic turf (18%); security, health and safety, personal protection (17%) and play equipment (12%).
72% of survey respondents confirmed that they will be returning to SALTEX 2022, which takes place at the NEC, Birmingham on 2 and 3 November.
Emak UK Ltd are looking to recruit a crucial role for our organization: a Commercial Sales Office Manager who will directly report to the UK General Manager.
Job purpose
Emak Group is one of the leading players at the world level, offering innovative solutions for gardening, agriculture, forestry, and industry.
We manufacture and distribute machines, components, and accessories of high technological value, designed to render the activity of our customers easier and more efficient.
Within the organization of Emak UK Ltd. based in Birmingham, part of Emak Group, We are looking to recruit a crucial role for our organization: a Commercial Sales Office Manager who will directly report to the UK General Manager.
Duties and responsibilities
Manage the ordering process of Spare parts and Machinery accordingly to the sales planning and manufacturing plant to guarantee a proper level of stock.
Organizing shipments inbound with manufacturers and suppliers.
Liaising with customers managing telephone calls, order processing, and technical advice.
Managing Price Lists – Producing and updating regularly also on SAP portal
Supporting dealer network by providing a best in class customer service.
Managing machine stock’ level in the warehouse.
Preparing weekly commercial report by using excel formulas and functions
Support the Dealers with product technical information in connection with the Service team
Requirements
Excellent communication, organizational and time management skills. Ability to work well in a team-based environment. Proactive approach, verbal and written communication skills. Availability to move within UK territory for short business trips. Must be self-motivated and able to work autonomously.
Interested candidates can forward CV and cover letter to recruiting@emak.co.uk within 10th February, 2022.
HONDA ENGINES Application & Service Engineer – European Engine Centre UK
Honda Engines are looking to recruit an Application & Service Engineer for the UK to join their small but successful European Engine Centre team.
Job Title: Application & Service Engineer – European Engine Centre UK
Honda Engines are one of the world’s leading suppliers of small general-purpose engines used in a diverse range of Original Equipment Manufacturers’ (OEM) products such as generators, construction, lawn and garden equipment.
We are looking to recruit an Application & Service Engineer for the UK to join our small but successful European Engine Centre team. A field-based role with some time spent in the satellite office in Swindon, you will have responsibility for day-to-day engineering issues together with long term projects.
Key Responsibilities
Work alongside the UK Area Sales Managers in building a solution for OEM requirements.
Conduct and complete Matching of engines to all new critical applications.
Organise after sales service for OEM, Dealers, and other end users.
Detect, analyse, define solutions and report on technical problems in the market.
Check and authorise warranties for OEM’s and Honda Engine Distributors.
Provide technical support and training to OEM’s and Honda Engine Distributors.
Providing any necessary support to OEM’s during pre and post sales phase.
Support organisation and execution of service campaigns in co-ordination with Gent office.
Required Skills, Experience and Attributes
Good quality mechanical engineering experience and awareness of modern electronic engine control systems is essential.
As the industry moves toward selling battery powered electric motors, base knowledge of electronics (diagnostics, wiring diagrams, controls units etc) is highly desirable.
Full UK driving licence.
Experience in the ground care machinery and/or construction equipment industry would be preferred.
Excellent benefits including a competitive salary, Company car and Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions.
If you are interested in applying for this exciting opportunity, please forward your CV and covering letter to tracey.middleton@honda-eu.com.
Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 28th January 2022.
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BOOST MOWING POWER With the ‘Award Winning’ 80V Lawnmower range from Cobra
The new 80V cordless range of lawnmowers from Cobra packs double the punch, with twin 40V Lithium-ion batteries delivering 80 volts of pure cutting power.
The new 80V cordless range of lawnmowers from Cobra packs double the punch, with twin 40V Lithium-ion batteries delivering 80 volts of pure cutting power.
Cobra has the UK’s largest range of powered lawnmowers and is constantly expanding its range and developing its products to further its position as the expert in the lawncare market. The 80V range is the latest extension of this, with its three models being packed with innovative features and technology.
The three mowers in the range offer 17”, 20” and 21” cutting widths, generous run times and even rear rollers on the 17 and 20” models for a traditional, striped finish. Each machine is powered by two 5Ah 40V Lithium-ion batteries that drive the 80V brushless motors. The Cobra 40V Lithium-ion technology means the mowers are always ready to use, will hold charge capacity and have no memory effect.
The RM43SP80V is the most compact of the three, with a 17” cutting width, and it is a great all-rounder, with a 50 minute run time. It is self-propelled, so it’s ideal for sloping gardens and has seven different cutting heights ranging from 17mm for a super low finish, up to 75mm for tackling longer grass. The mower also benefits from a 50 litre grass bag to hold more cutting for a longer time between bag emptying. Its rear roller means that a professional, striped finish can be created too.
The RM51SP80V keeps all of the impressive features of the RM43SP80V, including a steel rear roller, but increases the width to 20” and the grass bag to 70 litres. With the ability to run for up to 45 minutes between charges, the mower can complete medium to large sized lawns in one run.
The final, and largest, mower in the range is the Which? Best Buy MX51S80V. Again, the mower features a self-propelled drive system to allow for ease of use, and has a 20” cutting width and a running time of 55 minutes. This model benefits from a mulching function, allowing the grass to be recycled by finely cutting and re-cutting the clippings. As the clippings decompose, nutrients and fertilisers are returned to the soil meaning grass can be cut and fertilised at the same time – creating a healthy, green lawn.
Peter Chaloner, managing director of Cobra, said, “The 80V range sets a new standard for battery powered garden machinery, providing more power and convenience than ever before. Cobra prides itself on being at the forefront of innovation to help people maintain their gardens with the minimum of effort, and this range is the epitome of that.”
Each of the models comes complete with two 40V 5Ah Lithium-ion batteries and two Fast Chargers. The 40v batteries are compatible with Cobra grass trimmers, chainsaws, hedge cutters and garden vacs.
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