The word intern, or internship conjures up images of starry eye’d young people, willing to work for nothing at the Houses of Parliament, banks, newspapers or TV studios during which time they will be bored out of their skulls, abused, keeping the staffers plied with coffee and rarely learning anything of value.

In reality, it’s another word for work-experience. Many dealers will have been approached by a careers master (if there is such a thing these days) with a list of pupils to be placed in the ‘big-wide world’. Along they come, you can’t really spare a buckshee supervisor and they drift along for a week or two, auditing paper clips or polishing the parts counter. But don’t worry, you’ve done your duty.

Staff recruitment is the biggest issue being faced by most dealerships (along with the weather). Many do work closely with schools, providing pupils with tasters of the industry.  It’s often like prospecting for gold. Shake the sieve, remove the rubbish and hope a nugget shines out.

Perhaps we ought to reset our sights? Actively seek out the high achievers in schools and colleges and universities, those whom we can see would make management material if nurtured properly.

Forget the industry as it has been, or as we know it now. It’s going to be different, not only in the ag sector where new technology abounds, but also in grasscare where innovation and marketing skills will be required to succeed in an evolving retail environment.

For too long, jobs in our industry have been perceived to be in the lower echelons of careers. “He only mends tractors”. “He’s a mower salesman” - hardly words to stir the ambitions of likely recruits.

It’s a real issue faced by other professions. Take groundsman, who are still perceived as simply wielders of a spade and white-line marker. Tell that to someone like Paul Burgess, who studied at Myerscough College and today is Director of Grounds at Real Madrid C.F, via Blackpool FC and Arsenal.

Yes we need to attract those at the start of their career to be technicians and support staff, but we should also actively promote the stars of our industry, the huge opportunities and the exciting new challenges to attract those with possible managerial potential who may not have ever considered our industry as an option.

Open their eyes. We know how good we are, sometimes we forget to tell others!

I’m stepping in this week as Steve is moving house/office and has yet to relocate the kettle and computer!

An underground water main which burst in Derby yesterday (Thursday August 9th) has damaged roads in the area, affected local water supplies - and flooded out dealers Arb & Grounds.

The flooding made the national news - you can read the BBC's report here. And here's the report on Derby Live's site.

Elliott Davidson, owner of Arb & Grounds who have provided these pictures and the below video links, told Service Dealer, "Yesterday morning when we turned up to work at 8am and we were presented with a slight problem - as the hot weather has made a slow start to the season it seemed as though we had wished too hard for rain!  As you can see from the image (above) our car park was 2ft deep in water.

"As we are located at the lowest level in the local vicinity, all of the water ran down the road through other businesses into our site, where it all collected and flooded. 

"We were told by the police and Severn Trent that we weren't allowed to access the site until the water is pumped out due to health and safety reasons. Due to this I had to send all of our staff home and write the day off from trading. Later on I arrived back on site with the store manager after we got the heads up that the car park had been pumped out. The the car park was covered in mud and debris, plus there was damage to the tarmac.

"Once we were able to get into the building we were confronted with with puddles of water.

"I have to say Severn Trent have been very helpful and have admitted full responsibility for the issues that have been caused.

"We made the decision to still open today as we cant afford not to. The carpet is completely water logged and we are trying to dry out everything, to fully see the extent of the damage.

"We are asking our customers to please bear with us while our premises is damaged.

"The plan now is to empty the whole showrooms and rip the carpet out. In the meantime we’ll just dry the place out.

"We are waiting to hear from the insurance company to find out the next steps for drying our showroom."

You can see videos taken by Arb & Grounds of the flooding here and here.

RW Crawford has relocated to a purpose-built, state-of-the-art depot at Writtle, on the outskirts of Chelmsford, Essex, as the family-run agricultural machinery business says they look to strengthen its commitment to customers and staff.

“We are a very service-oriented business and have built a reputation for delivering excellent customer service and support,” explains managing director Wes Crawford. “And while we have the staff, the skills and the knowledge, our former base at South Woodham Ferrers lacked space and facilities to move our business forward.

“We had simply outgrown South Woodham and the location didn’t offer any opportunity to grow,” he says. “So we’ve been looking for 15 years for a chance to redevelop our Essex operation, and ultimately to own our site and premises.”

Built on a three-acre greenfield site at a cost of around £3m, the new depot cements the family business’ long-term commitment to customers and staff. Taking four years from design to completion, the new building boasts a footprint of 1,765 square metres, of which over 800 square metres are allocated to a six-bay workshop.

With workshop space for 12 tractors and being tall enough to house combine harvesters, the workshop also offers room to support neighbouring Writtle University’s engineering department.

“We have a long-standing relationship with Writtle University, and our new premises also provides an opportunity to further the education and development of young engineers,” adds Wes.

A recent open day at Fox Burrows Lane, Writtle, saw just under 1,000 visitors pass through the gates of the new Crawford operation, giving an opportunity to see the larger showroom with extensive product lines, plus a larger stores and spare parts operation that is contained over two floors. With 32 staff at Crawford’s Writtle depot, and 15 mobile technicians, the Essex business is now well-placed to build on what Bob Crawford started almost 40 years ago.

“I like a challenge, I thoroughly enjoy the diversity that agriculture offers, and I enjoy looking after our customers,” explains Wes Crawford. “It’s all down to fantastic team work and a trusted partnership between Crawfords and its customers.”

Prison officer Andy Maxfield’s amazing journey from John O’Groats to Land’s End on an unmodified lawn tractor has been officially recognised as a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® achievement.

Andy Maxfield with his GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS certificate for the fastest journey from John O’Groats to Land’s End on a lawn mower, achieved on 30 July 2017

The story of Andy’s epic journey is featured in a new display at the Land’s End Visitor Centre in Cornwall, and also at the British Lawnmower Museum in Southport.

The 874-mile record attempt in July 2017 took Andy 5 days, 8 hours and 36 minutes, making it the fastest time for the journey on a ride-on lawnmower. Andy embarked on the challenge to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s Society after his father was diagnosed with the disease.

Andy’s initial goal was to raise a modest £1000 for Alzheimer’s Society through the lawnmower challenge in July last year, followed by a charity ball in December. “So far we’ve collected over £9000 and now I’m trying to reach our new target of £10,000 by the end of 2018,” said Andy. “We’re keeping the JustGiving page www.justgiving.com/andrew-maxfield open until then. Donations can also be made by texting MAXF80 £3 to 70070.

“I’m very proud my record attempt was successful but I couldn’t have done it without the encouragement of my family and support team, and having a great lawn tractor certainly helped.”

Andy Maxfield’s story on display at the Land’s End Visitor Centre in Cornwall

To supply proof for the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS attempt, the lawnmower was fitted with a tracking system routinely used by much larger agricultural machinery for guidance and monitoring. John Deere’s Operations Centre was able to track Andy’s entire journey via JDLink software. The resulting data was the proof needed to verify Andy’s route and travelling time as a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS success.

Sadly, Andy’s father, the inspiration behind the John O’Groats to Land’s End challenge, lost his own battle with dementia in January 2018, unaware that his son’s magnificent achievement was indeed a record.

Alzheimer’s Society is available for anyone affected by dementia and there are lots of ways the charity can help – for details call the National Dementia Helpline on 0300 222 1122 or visit www.alzheimers.org.uk.

The Directors of Ernest Doe & Sons Limited have announced the appointment of Greg Forrest as chief financial officer.

Greg is a chartered accountant who joined the company five years ago as financial controller. Previously, Greg worked for 25 years for Baker Tilly, now RSM UK, initially in the audit team before specialising in corporate finance.

Commenting on the appointment, Colin Doe, managing director, said, “Since joining the company, Greg has produced the management and statutory accounts. He has gained the trust of senior managers and his colleagues in the department. He was an obvious choice for CFO and has already made a positive impact."

Massey Ferguson recently accepted the prize of ‘Red Dot: Best of the Best’ in the commercial vehicles category of the Red Dot Design Award: Product Design 2018 at a ceremony at Essen’s Aalto Theatre in Germany.

MF IDEAL

Over 6,300 products from 59 countries were entered into this year’s Red Dot competition. All the products were assessed individually by an international panel of 39 independent design industry professionals. Only 1.1% of entries gained the highest distinction in the competition - the ‘Red Dot: Best of the Best’ seal of quality.

As one of the ‘Best of the Best’, the MF IDEAL joins other 2018 winners in this exclusive group including the Ferrari Portofino and the McLaren 720S sports cars.

“With its sophisticated design, this high-performance combine harvester is ground-breaking and optimally geared to future requirements," stated the jury. Commending the machine for its elegant design, highly-developed cab ergonomics and excellent all-round visibility, the judges said, “The IDEAL combine is extremely comfortable in use, efficient and very powerful.”

The Red Dot Award was received by Eric Hansotia and Barry O’Shea

Eric Hansotia, Senior Vice President Global Crop Cycle and Fuse Connected Services, and Barry O’Shea, Vice President & Product Line Leader Global Gold Harvesting, from Massey Ferguson’s parent company, AGCO accepted the award on behalf of its international design and development team.

"The IDEAL combine harvester is the result of many years’ research and development, dedicated cross-functional teamwork and leading industry expertise," said Mr Hansotia. "We are always looking for new, innovative and sustainable ways to help farmers who want the best from us. The IDEAL combine is a perfect example of AGCO’s mission to provide high-tech solutions to farmers feeding the world."

OPICO Ltd has announced the appointment of G Richardson Agri Engineering to their Strautmann dealer network.

L-R: Geoff Richardson, md of G Richardson Agri Engineering, Nick Rider, OPICO territory manager and Ed Richardson of G Richardson Agri Engineering

G Richardson Agri Engineering is a family run business specialising in the supply of new and used agricultural machinery. Based in Sandbach, Cheshire and originally an agricultural engineering and servicing outfit, the company began selling agricultural machinery in 1998. They are ideally located to grow the Strautmann forage and feeding franchise in the Cheshire and surrounding area.

Commenting, Charles Bedforth, OPICO’s Sales Manager said, “Geoff Richardson and his team have a wealth of knowledge and experience and the dealership enjoys strong relationships, particularly in the dairy sector, so it was a natural fit to partner with Geoff and his son Ed. We are delighted to have them on board.”

G Richardson Agri Engineering’s Managing Director, Geoff Richardson added, “These are exciting times and the Strautmann range of forage wagons and diet feeders is a valuable addition to our machinery portfolio. Strautmann is a respected brand that our customers know and want to learn more about. We pride ourselves on our engineering background and understand that supplying our customers with a dedicated after-sales service is essential in this market. We are really looking forward to growing our business with Strautmann.”

STIHL has launched a new generation of PRO 36V batteries that offer higher battery capacity and also feature a new look orange front design for increased visibility.

Designed as a direct replacement of the current versions, the company says the new AP 100 and AP 200 allow for up to 25% more run time when used in conjunction with their PRO Cordless tools.

Both the new batteries remain the same weight as the current versions (AP 100 0.8kg and AP 200 1.2kg).

The AP 300 will remain at the same capacity and weight, but will feature the new design. Enhanced STIHL AP 300 batteries are expected in 2019.

As per STIHL’s existing battery range, the company says the new generation of AP batteries can be used in the rain due to its integrated humidity cell protection and has charging level indication with four green LEDs.

Bobcat has announced the launch of its new ‘Bobcat Institute’.

Formerly called the Training Centre and located at the Doosan Bobcat EMEA Campus (Dobris, Czech Republic), the company says the Institute has grown and developed the training it provides to the regional Bobcat dealer network over the last 10 years. In fact, they say, it has had an impact that has gone beyond technical/product training to cover personal development of trainees. Both in tribute to and in recognition of this, it has now been relaunched as the Bobcat Institute.

The Bobcat Institute itself is based at the heart of the Doosan Bobcat Campus. It is surrounded by the Bobcat factory and the Innovation Center. It consists of a large main building with four training rooms, each capable of holding up to 30 individuals. In addition to the classrooms, the facility also includes offices, four workshops for service training and a total of 15,000 m2 of outdoor area which is devoted to hands-on try outs of Bobcat machines and for hosting events such as the Demo Days.

The new Bobcat Institute is dedicated to helping Bobcat dealers in improving knowledge, in all possible ways, convinced that personal development is the foundation of further dealer performance growth.

“The Bobcat Institute enhances Bobcat dealer performance with the right training, support and tools for enhanced customer experience. To achieve this, the Institute has developed a 3-step approach building on our strong training foundations to also focus on the competition’s equipment with proactive sales materials, complemented by supporting dealers further with equipment demonstrations and other positive action,” explained Jürgen Gremez, Training Director, Bobcat Institute.

At the Bobcat Institute, the company says training and development are not one-off activities but a continuous, lifelong process necessary for the success of the organisation and the individual. The Institute helps develop the skills, performance and knowledge that dealers and Bobcat staff need to improve confidence, efficiency, product familiarity and the service Bobcat offers customers.

Key facts about the Bobcat Institute:

• Over 2500 trainees per year
• 50% of training delivered in Dobris and 50% locally for greater flexibility
• Over 1300 visitors per year during Demo Day events, ‘test drives’ and factory tours
• Over 50 nationalities participate in the training sessions
  • On average, Trainers have 20-30 years of industry experience

Allett Mowers have introduced a new 27” cylinder mower to their professional mower range.

Designed to meet requests from groundsmen in Europe and the USA, Allett say the C27 offers the ‘Quick Cartridge’ options that effectively make these mowers eight machines in one. Powered by the Honda GX200 engine, the company says the 27” cylinder cutting system, with substantial front and rear rollers, ensures the user gets a superior cut, levelness of finish and longer lasting, more crisply defined stripes.

The six bladed cylinder produces 111 cuts per metre (101 cuts/yard) while the eight blade will give 148 cuts per metre (135cuts/yard) irrespective of forward speed. Effortless mowing is equally assured, say Allett, with handle-mounted levers for drive and cartridge engagement and the adjustable handlebars have anti-vibration mountings.

Together with the 6 and 8 bladed cylinders the optional accessories include a scarifier cartridge with Tungsten tipped blades, a Sorrel Roller, Turf Rake, Verticut and Brush. There is also the option of a trailing seat to turn the C27 into a ride-behind for faster cutting over large areas and it benefits from a 3.1 litre fuel tank. A cut height of 8mm to 55mm (0.32”- 2.17”) is featured.

With the front and rear rollers of a cylinder mower close to the point at which the grass is cut, the user can achieve very low heights of cut without scalping. The rear roller on the C27 is a rubber covered 3-piece steel roller with steel spur end differential. The front roller is grooved aluminium with scraper and sealed end bearings, though there is an option of a plain roller.

The working width of the mower is 686mm/27”, the overall width 900mm/38” and it weighs 135kg (297lb). The grassbox is moulded plastic with a steel reinforcing strip.

Experienced sales representatives required for leading distributor of outdoor power equipment with well established network of specialist dealers.

The successful applicant should be enthusiastic and self-motivated, and will have a proven track record in the Outdoor Power Equipment Industry.

Remuneration and benefits package will be commensurate with the position and experience of the successful candidate.

Please write in confidence with CV to:

Paul Butterly FGM Claymore Waterloo Ind. Estate Waterloo Road Bidford on Avon Warks B50 4JH Tel: 01789 490177 email info@fgmclaymore.co.uk

Groundscare Sales Professional

Department: Sales
Reports To: Group Sales Manager
Supervises: None

Job Function:

We require an experienced Groundscare Sales Professional to join our busy dealership in Ripon. You will be primarily based from our Groundscare Showroom responsible for selling new and used machinery from major brands including John Deere, Stihl, Kuhn, Mountfield, Kramer and Ifor Williams. You will also assist the Ag sales team when a deeper subject matter knowledge is required in order to build convincing sales arguments for specific products or solutions. Analyses the market and monitors competitive activity.

Essential Duties:

1. Sells new and used homeowner, turf & industrial equipment and utility vehicles to new and existing customers.
2. Provides leadership and support to Ag Salesmen and Parts Staff across the whole dealership organisation for the sale of dedicated products, customer qualification and solution configuration.
3. Works with the Sales Managers to develop, maintain and manage the execution of a sales and marketing plan concerning responsible products or solutions across the organisation.
4. Conducts new equipment demonstrations, at the dealership, customer premises or shows
5. Monitors competitor activity and products and communicates to the Sales Management accordingly.
6. Ensures and maintains subject matter expert relations on the dedicated product area, with key stakeholders and key customer prospects.
7. Manages on-going relationships with key John Deere and other manufacturers personnel
8. Ensures correct stocking profile for all machinery, including winter stock orders and keeps accurate inventory records
9. Values used machinery, and ensures it is stored, tagged and re-sold.
10. Carry’s out monthly or quarterly stock checks when requested.
11. Ensure all machinery sold by them is invoiced before delivery and outstanding debt is sought when overdue.
12. Charges for any machinery on hire weekly or monthly as agreed and keeps accurate hire agreements.
13. Prepares new wholegoods machinery where possible, and builds some of the new walk behind machines / hand held ground care equipment.
14. Liaises with all departments to ensure adequate cover when leaving the dealership.
15. Maintains a clean customer facing environment, office space and ensures their company vehicle is in a clean and tidy condition.
16. Ensures compliance for dealer standards for each manufacturer.
17. Maintains up to date sales brochures and material and manages showroom display setting.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Enthusiasm, engagement and a willingness to take on challenges.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• 4+ years’ equipment sales experience
• Excellent knowledge of groundcare equipment and operational practices
• Ability to use standard computer applications and internet functions
• Familiar with competitive products
• Ability to analyze and interpret internal reports
• Excellent customer relationship skills
• Ability to work extended hours
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Excellent attitude with integrity and honesty

Please apply in writing to Richard Halsall, Group Sales Manager: richard.halsall@riponfarmservices.com

We are currently looking for a Parts Advisor to join our lively Reading depot.

The Parts Department plays a pivotal role within a dealership, sourcing items for our workshop team and customers alike. The role would suit a bright, enthusiastic individual, who has excellent communication skills, works well with IT systems and possess a very good eye for detail.

Systems can be learnt, but a good mechanical mind that allows you to correctly identify the parts in question, would be a huge advantage, as would, a sound working knowledge of Groundcare and Agricultural machinery.

If you are interested in this position, then please apply to Karen Martin: karen@listerwilder.co.uk

At Stens our commitment to customers is helping business run better. With this at the heart of everything we do, our priority is to provide customers with the best range of replacement parts for the outdoor power equipment industry.

We believe the key to success is to focus on our customers’ requirements!

Therefore, we pride ourselves on ensuring that all our parts are of the best quality and specification, giving customers peace of mind when purchasing for future sales.

Let us ask you a question:

“What if we could offer a replacement part for the most common air filter, which meets the same specification as Original Equipment - for a fraction of the price? Would you be interested?"

This matched with free next day delivery and a one-year parts and labour warranty certainly sounds great?

Why not see for yourself as we are offering all readers the opportunity to sample one of our products for free.

Simply call us and choose one of 4 options and order your free sample today.

Our customers’ requirements are changing!

We’ve been talking to our dealers and the heat wave has increased sales in hand held power parts.

With limited lawns to mow, hedges are taking over.

At Stens we offer a very comprehensive range of aftermarket parts for all handheld equipment, including trimmer lines, hedge trimmer blades, 2 stroke carburetors, brush-cutter blades and many more.

Why not check out pages 513-598 of our Stens Big Blue Book of Parts - or alternatively, if you don’t have a catalogue, order one today or visit our website at www.hilevel1.co.uk.

For any help identifying which parts are right for your business please look at pages 559 to 583 where you will find our application and quick reference charts.

Alternatively give either Jordan or Mark a call today on the numbers below and they will be more than happy to assist.

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