Publishing next week is Service Dealer's Digital Special Report, covering extensively the Equip trade show that took place in Louisville, Kentucky during October.

The world's largest outdoor power machinery industry exhibition, owner of our titles Duncan Murray-Clarke attended with the magazine’s diarist of the season for 2024, dealer Jo Balmer of Balmers GM, plus our video expert David Comiskey.

The team gathered and produced tons of content for the Digital Special Report, the through-line for much, is following Jo as a first-time UK dealer visitor to this incredible show. Her experience of the OPEI's event, illustrates just what a trip to Louisville could offer to other UK dealers. The scale of the show is genuinely something to behold. There's so much to see, interact with and enjoy, it's a lot to take in. With Jo's help, we hope the Report offers a flavour of what other UK dealers could expect should they decide to make a trip in subsequent years.

As well as Jo's experiences representing the network though, another narrative thread becomes apparent across the content of the Report. Through conversations that Jo and Duncan have with manufacturer representatives on their stands, plus as part of an epic five-part roundtable discussion with Bob Clements of BCI alongside our American columnist Sara Hey, the subject of battery-powered tools and robot solutions crops up many times.

To generalise, it appears that at the moment there is quite a distinct difference between our two nations in the uptake of these technologies. From what Duncan and Jo discovered walking the aisles, exploring the vast demo plots, and talking to those in the know, battery and robotic solutions are much more prevalent over here. Prevalent both in their promotion by manufacturers and dealers as well as in their uptake by consumers - homeowners and professionals alike.

It's a subject that's also raised by Duncan as part of his conversation with Kris Kiser, President and CEO, of the show's organisers the OPEI. Friend of our magazine, Kris acknowledges that battery-power take up amongst U.S professionals has been slow but, as evidenced at Equip this year, the manufacturers are very much working in that space, producing large, commercial units.

Kris told Duncan, "I think there is some real-world experience in the battery space from our commercial end-users. We have big lawns here. If it’s cold, if there’s tall, wet grass, or on a slope – it has been a challenge with battery. But the acceptance is growing – certainly in California where a law prevents the sale of gasoline products. It’s taking off there."

Kris goes on explain how the market is progressing for homeowners, though, saying, "But on the consumer side, there’s very distinct movement. It’s transitioning." He concludes, "Quite simply, the use of technology is now extraordinary in the business."

So whilst the market is undeniably coming on, it is interesting that in our country we do appear to be a few years ahead of where our colleagues in the States are with these technologies. Why is this? I'd be interested to hear our dealer readers thoughts on this today in the comments below.

I guess an inescapable truism is that our transatlantic cousins, quite simply really like petrol (or rather gas) power. On top of this, traditional fuel is still relatively inexpensive at American pumps. Other factors could be that yards are larger over there meaning battery has struggled thus far; it could be argued we perhaps have more of a culture of environmental awareness; or maybe there has just been a quicker, stronger push by our manufacturers to get these tools out into the market in the UK?

But what do you, our dealer readers, think? Please leave a message and let us know.

And of course, do check out our Equip Digital Special Report when it's published next week.

At the end of October, Claas UK welcomed this year’s new apprentice intake of 30 students to the Claas Academy at Saxham for their Apprentice induction and the start of their first training block.

Their arrival coincided with the publication of the first full inspection by Ofsted of the programme, in which they highly rate the training that the new apprentices will receive over the next four years of their course.

Claas is the only UK machinery manufacturer as a registered apprenticeship training provider to deliver a specific in-house apprenticeship under one roof. This year’s cohort is made up of students from 15 of their dealerships throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland who, over the next four years, will study for a Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard in Land-Based Service Engineering Technician. Based in their purpose-built facilities that include specialist fabrication, engine workshops and classrooms, their training will be delivered by dedicated Claas trainers, alongside specialist product trainers from the main Academy.

Ofsted praise

In its first full inspection by Ofsted, the Claas Academy and its team of apprentice trainers and coordinators have been recognised for the commendable progress and development of the in-house apprenticeship programme.

In their inaugural report of the training that the students receive, the manufacturer achieved an overall rating of ‘Good’ by Ofsted inspectors, confirming: "Apprentices develop the high-level technical skills they need to service and repair machinery such as tractors and combines. They learn from trainers with extensive land-based engineering experience using the latest industry-standard facilities."

In terms of the structure of the course, the report again recognised this as ‘Good’ and rated the behaviour and attitude of students as ‘Outstanding’.

The report said, "Leaders work successfully with employers across the Claas dealership network. Leaders understand fully employers’ skills development needs and offer appropriate apprenticeships in response."

In conclusion, the report stated that, "Trainers ensure that apprentices have a good understanding of the career opportunities in land-based engineering on completion of their apprenticeship. Apprentices know that they can progress quickly to the recognised status of Master Mechanic before working towards the coveted Master Technician."

Joe Bonito, head of Claas Academy said, “The rating is a direct reflection of the commitment and expertise of our team at Claas UK and the value our in-house approach offers to our new recruits. This hands-on experience not only prepares our apprentices for success in their roles throughout their course with us, but also opens doors to accelerate their career opportunities at Claas.”

The new intake of 30 students come from 15 dealerships throughout the UK and Ireland:

England

BW Mack (Downham Market)
Claas Eastern (Sleaford, Sinderby & Markham Moor)
Claas Western (Cirencester & Evesham)
Hamblys (Launceston & Bishops Lydeard)
Manns (Essex, Kent, Market Harborough & Halesworth)
Morris Corfield (Broseley)
Olivers (Reading & Winchester)
Rickerby (Carlisle, Penrith & Cornhill)

Wales

Riverlea (Cowbridge)

Scotland

Gordons (Dumfries)
Sellars (Oldmeldrum, Cupar, Letham)

Ireland

Breens (Cashel)
Erwins (Crumlin)
Kellys (Borris)
Leinster Farm Machines (Duleek)

According to data released by the AEA, for only the second time this year, the number of agricultural tractors registered in the UK in October was slightly above the five-year average for the time of year.

The monthly figure of 818 machines was still 19% lower than in the same month last year, though. That meant the total for the year to date reached 9,042, 16% fewer than in January to October 2023 and the lowest by this point in the year for four years. That is also 12% below average for the opening ten months of the year

Agricultural economist at the Association, Stephen Howarth, explained, "The market is being affected by the low level of confidence among farmers, due to a combination of lower prices, high input costs, poor weather and political uncertainty."

Service Dealer's agricultural machinery editor, Martin Rickatson, has thanked sponsors for helping him and his wife Rebecca raise a considerable sum for charity, by completing a half marathon.

Martin and Rebecca Rickatson

Martin said, "I want to thank everyone who kindly sponsored Rebecca and me for our recent 20th wedding anniversary Maidstone Half Marathon run in aid of the Stroke Association. Despite some wet and windy conditions out on the North Downs/Pilgrims' Way, we had a great day, and made it round in 2hrs 7min and 2hrs 10min (and yes, I was the slower one!).

"More importantly, your generosity has helped us raise almost £3,000 (£2,343.71, plus £469.25 Gift Aid) for the Stroke Association. Once put forward by JustGiving, this will go towards stroke research and the care of patients who have suffered a stroke."

For anyone who would still like to donate, the page remains open for a few days yet here.

Kubota marked a significant milestone of 50 years in Europe, by hosting an exclusive event themed “It’s All About People” at PortAventura in Spain recently.

Attendees outside PortAventura convention centre

The event welcomed over 900 attendees, including dealers, distributors, partners, international media and employees.
 
The event offered a chance for celebration, networking and insights into Kubota's future. Attendees were introduced to new additions to the manufacturer's portfolio, including the launch of the M7004 tractor and a limited-edition anniversary model, of which only 50 units will be produced. A unique "1 of 1" edition was also unveiled signed by Jean Alesi, the special guest of the evening.

Conference session

From a groundcare perspective, also unveiled was an upcoming 44hp front centre collect machine. Additionally, building on the success of the EK1 series across Europe, a hydrostatic version is set to increase the entry-level compact tractor range.

The event also highlighted the company's commitment to future technologies, such as automation and connectivity. Attendees witnessed live demonstrations of the KFAST, a self-propelled sprayer developed for autonomous spraying solutions in orchards and vineyards alongside a M7 and a L1 Series tractor, equipped with an autonomous kit from AGC (Agreenculture), designed to address industry challenges such as labour shortages.

The evening concluded with entertainment at the PortAventura Park, featuring light shows, live music.

Merlo UK have announced that Norfolk-based Chris Coleman Agricultural Engineering (CC Agri) has officially taken on their franchise, effective 1st October.

L-R: Craig Footman, regional sales manager, Merlo UK Ltd; Karl Arndt, sales manager and Chris Coleman, managing director, CC Agri Ltd

“This strategic appointment underscores Merlo UK’s commitment to providing our agricultural sector customers with strong and comprehensive coverage across North and West Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and South Lincolnshire”, said Owen Buttle, national sales manager, Merlo UK.

Founded in 2021, CC Agri has been delivering engineering support to their customers on a wide range of machinery. Initially servicing sugar beet harvesters, the company has since grown to include four engineers and a full time salesman. 

Chris Coleman, managing director of CC Agri said, “Joining the Merlo dealer network and adding a telehandler franchise to our product range enables us to enhance our existing product offerings and provide our customers with even greater value and service. We look forward to a successful collaboration.”

STIGA have announced that they have donated a ride-on mower to Mountfield Rovers Junior Football Club through their We Care That You Care campaign.

The club is the oldest junior football club in Bramhall, founded in 1969. They are an FA Charter Standard, community-run club, providing both football training and league matches for children of all ages and genders.

P&H Lawnmowers Ltd in Hyde, the local STIGA and Mountfield dealership, delivered a Mountfield MTF 84M ride-on mower to the team.

Tom Buxton-Cope, chairman of the club, stated "Mountfield Rovers Junior Football Club are a community-led, grassroots club for all ages and genders, but the grass pitches at our historical home are often overgrown and unplayable. It seemed like a match made in heaven when Mountfield lawnmowers kindly offered us the chance to be part of their amazing project to support community groups (we even share the same traditional red and black colours!). The amazing tractor they have so generously donated will help us ensure our grass pitches are fit for training and matches for all of our players and local community to enjoy.”

Amanda Kincaid, marketing manager of STIGA UK said, "We relished the opportunity to offer help to this superb grass-roots football club. It is great to see the players of all ages and genders enjoying the benefits that playing sports can yield in terms of physical and mental wellbeing. Our mower should help the club get their pitch in tip-top condition in no time!"

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