With the all uncertainties of the past 14 months, perhaps the notion of expansion within the dealership hasn't exactly been at the top of the agenda?

Certainly at first when all this kicked off, what seemed crucial was to stay up to date with the rules and regulations, making sure the business kept going. Then when circumstances settled somewhat, it was more a case of keeping up with customer demand. Lately of course, many have been preoccupied with the ongoing difficulties surrounding stocking and supply.

So the idea of looking to employ new recruits for the dealership might not have been the number one priority for many. But is this changing?

In conversations over the past few weeks and in preparing material for the next issue of Service Dealer magazine, we've been hearing from dealers who have been doing just that - taking on new people.

Our current diarist, Chris Gibson of GGM Groundscare in Colne, for example has told us his dealership seems to be " . .constantly busy recruiting both parts advisors and engineers." Chris explained, "It’s always good to freshen things up and bring in new people who match our company ethos as they bring with them new ideas and suggestions from their previous experiences. 

"The fact we now have all the team back in the office has certainly helped the induction of these new recruits as well as moral overall."

In assembling the next mag, we've also heard from Battlefield Machinery in Shrewsbury. Director, Richard Evans, talked about recent recruitment activity, saying,  " . .having taken on a groundcare technician, we’re now recruiting a groundcare salesman and a second technician.”

Also for the upcoming edition, Irelands Farm Machinery, based in Carrington, Lincolnshire, tell us about how they've actually expanded their workforce during the lockdowns - with their team growing from 29 to 38. Jonathan Ireland explains however, that the process lately has required a revamp due to necessity, saying, "We take CVs in the normal way and then interview by video call to avoid unnecessary mixing; if the candidate looks like a good fit we move to a face to face interview.”

And finally in the news story today of RW Crawford expanding and soon to open a new depot in Hampshire, managing director Wes Crawford, says, "We will be recruiting new team members, specifically technical support staff."

This anecdotal evidence and more, does appear to build a picture that perhaps dealerships are now in the position where they are wanting to look around for new people to join their companies. Which broadly speaking, is a positive place for a business to find itself in.

The hardest of tasks

As we well know though from past conversations, dealers often cite finding new recruits as one of the most difficult tasks they ever have to face as a company. When Service Dealer last asked our readers specifically about how they had been finding the recruiting process back in 2019 (so what feels like three decades ago!), a clear majority of those who responded described it as 'extremely difficult'.

We'd very much appreciate therefore, hearing from as many of our dealer readers as possible today, to see if anything has changed since then. We're running a short survey which we'd love your input on.

We saw a couple of weeks ago, with the results of the LE-TEC competition looking for the Technicians of 2021, the excellent caliber of young people that are potentially out there for the fortunate dealerships who look in the right places at the right time. 

Keith Christian, director of BAGMA, acknowledged then the challenge faced though, saying, "As an industry, we face a huge crisis in the skills gap if we do not start to look more pragmatically about enticing a new intake of recruits and then genuinely offering them a progressive career path which recognises skills and competence levels within the technicians’ and customer service-related roles."

Those winning young people that the LE-TEC competition highlighted proved that candidates with no prior industry experience, or those that didn't come from a farming or machinery family background, can prove to be wonderful additions to the dealership team. So is it time for recruiters to perhaps cast their net more broadly? Is this something your company has tried with any success?

Or is recruiting something that you are not even considering this year? Perhaps there is still too much uncertainty for you to consider this. Or if you are, how are you getting your message out there and are you interested principally in attitude or skills?

So please do take a couple of moments to answer our survey today if you can. As ever we'll publish the results and a selection of your opinions and ideas in the next edition of Service Dealer magazine. Thanks in advance for your contributions, they are much appreciated. 

TAKE THE SURVEY

Reesink UK has launched a new division dedicated solely to electric utility vehicles.

Named Reesink e-Vehicles, it introduces to the UK Star EV and its range of lithium and sealed battery-powered utility vehicles. The range features 28 units, including golf buggies and small, medium and large capacity electric UTVs for carrying materials, and people carriers for 4–22 people.

David Cole, managing director of Reesink UK, said, "We’re focused on introducing battery-powered machinery options to the UK turfcare market. Such products have been extremely well-received and this is the direction of travel for environmentally friendly technology at the moment, one we recognise will only gain more traction.

"The globe is focussed on reducing fuel consumption and heading towards electric transportation as the next transitional step. There simply has to be the choice to buy electric and we identified a gap in our offering for a comprehensive range of electric utility vehicles to complement the Toro Workman GTXe we have just rolled out here in the UK.”

David explained why the company chose to partner with Star EV, who they first encountered at BTME 2020. He said, "We were looking for an electric range with rapid charge, a good mileage per charge, an extensive warranty - up to six years on batteries - along with the usual no more emissions and no more pollution stance. It’s no surprise that Star EV is an award-winning company in the USA and we’re excited to partner with them.”
 
Jane Zhang, CEO and owner of Star EV Corporation, added, “Star EV Corporation is delighted to be partnering with Reesink, under their new EV division, with an exclusive agreement for the UK and Ireland.

"Star looks forward to Reesink delivering to its customer base a fantastic range of ever evolving, and world-renowned electrical vehicles, growing both our brands.”

Claas has acquired a minority shareholding in the Dutch manufacturer AgXeed with the aim of cooperating in the development and commercialisation of their AgBot autonomous field robot.

In a statement, Claas said collaborating with and investing in AgXeed " . . marks a logical step towards future-proof technologies."

AgXeed are described by Claas as one of Europe’s leading manufacturers in this sector. Due to be launched in 2022, the AgBot has a diesel-electric drive via either wheels or tracks, with power outputs up to 156hp and is fitted with a standard 8.0 tonne capacity three-point linkage and load sensing hydraulics.

Thomas Böck, CEO of the Claas Group said, "Our involvement provides Claas with access to innovative technologies in a familiar market segment and complements our own expertise in autonomy and robotics.

"In turn, AgXeed benefits from our extensive expertise and networks in many areas such as data transfer, interfaces and drivetrain solutions. It's a win-win situation in our view, and one reason why we decided to invest in this start-up company, as well as the fact that the targeted AgXeed technologies are in an advanced state of development. This solution offers farmers and contractors concrete economic added value, and what’s more, it will soon be available."

Joris Hiddema co-founder of AgXeed B.V, added, "This type of cooperation reflects exactly what we stand for at AgXeed. And this means setting up future-orientated alliances between innovative companies striving for sustainable agriculture where farmers are able to optimise productivity, while preserving the soil and the environment. In CLAAS we have a partner on board that believes in and shares our ideas on the future of agriculture and will accelerate bringing our solutions to the fields of farmers”. 

AgBots will be launched in various sizes and performance classes. Further solutions are said to be currently under development.

The annual Vapormatic Stockist of the Year awards have name the overall winner of ‘Stockist of the Year’ as dealers Robertsons Orkney Ltd.

Stockist of the Year, Robertsons Orkney (L-R: Hylton Stevenson and Gary Flett)

Based in Kirkwall, Scotland, Robertsons provide agricultural machinery and aftermarket services to Orkney, Caithness and Shetland. They have been a Vapormatic Stockist since 1998 and this year have seen significant growth, achieving the milestone of Premiere Stockist.

They also have a new team in the parts store, with Gary Flett in the role of parts manager and Hylton Stevenson as assistant
store person.

Commenting on the awards, UK sales manager James Ashby said, “Despite the challenges of the last year, the Vapormatic Stockists have continued to excel in the market, achieving significant growth and outstanding commitment to Vapormatic and their end users. The Vapormatic Stockist Awards are a celebration of their efforts and I congratulate all of our winners for their well-deserved success.”

As well as the ‘Stockist of the Year’ award, Vapormatic has also recognised stockists who have shown outstanding success in growth, engagement and commitment to Vapormatic during the last year. These stockists receive Category Awards to mark their achievements.

This year’s category winners are Fry & Son located in Devon, C J Spares Ltd near Norwich, Gwynedd Farm Machinery Ltd in Caernarfon, North Wales and Peter Noble Ltd based in Ringwood, Hampshire.

Turney Group have been appointed dealers for the Mean Green Machine in Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire, and Buckinghamshire.

The Turney Group team

The Mean Green Mowers, which are powered by Lithium-ion batteries, have been imported by Overton for the last 6 years who are based in Lincoln.

Richard Overton said, “It is great to have Turney Group on board to help promote the Mean Green Mowers”. There are currently two mowers in the range which is due to see more added later this year.  

Robert Millar commercial sales manager for Turney Group commented, “We are excited to take on the Mean Green Machines, with so many of our customers looking to go green it was a no brainer.

"We have councils and contractors in our area who are looking to be greener, and we are excited to be able to show them these machines and know we can assist our existing customer base going forward.”  

Lister Wilder has announced the addition of the Yamaha ATV franchise to be sold throughout its agricultural branches. 

The dealership says this addition will enable them to sell products including Kodiak quad bikes and Viking utility vehicles. 

“At Lister Wilder we are working hard to ensure our offering has something for all our agricultural customers, and this latest addition allows us to offer the fantastic Yamaha range of ATV’s and side by sides. We are looking forward to being able to sell and support these from all of agricultural branches and we’re excited to start rolling out our demonstration vehicles to both new and existing customers.” explained sales director, Phill Hughes.

Lister Wilder say they will be taking delivery of the products over the coming months, across their agricultural depots.

Kuhn Farm Machinery has appointed Graham Monteith as Parts & Amenity pro sales specialist covering the south of England & Wales.

He takes responsibility for the promotion, supply and delivery of Kuhn genuine parts alongside sales and technical support for the company's Amenity Pro range of amenity, horticultural and landscape maintenance equipment.
 
Growing up on a family farm in Gloucestershire, Graham has deep-rooted agricultural connections and developed his interest in machinery by working as a mechanic for a local dealership. These early acquired skills proved a useful way to finance his studies as he gained an engineering-related degree at Coventry University.
 
After a period away from the industry, Graham has pursued a wide-ranging career in agricultural engineering, working in a variety of roles with Case New Holland in Russia and north Africa, and in parts and servicing for John Deere in Africa and the Middle East. Most recently, he has worked with his brother in the family’s beef fattening and livestock haulage business.
 
Graham said, “This is an exciting time to be involved in agricultural and amenity machinery, such is the rate of change in technology and the progression towards a solutions-based approach. I’m relishing the challenge of being a part of a dynamic and progressive team at Kuhn UK.”

Registration is now open for GIE+EXPO 2021 with the organisers saying plans are underway for the Louisville, Kentucky show to bring the industry back together in person this October 20-22 at the Kentucky Exposition Center. 

 
Recent figures from the show organisers say 675 companies have already signed on to exhibit this year, an 18% increase over the same time in 2019. More than 70 are new exhibitors.

GIE-EXPO say the exhibition centre has undergone renovations recently to the demo area, meaning exhibitors are looking forward to showcasing their latest developments outdoors where attendees can test drive equipment.
 
Warren Sellers, show manager, said attendees are also keen to get back together in person. According to a recent survey of past attendees, 91% of landscape professionals and 84% of dealers are likely to attend this year.
 
On offer this year is an expanded education schedule on topics such as drones, robotics and connectivity, as well as activities including:

• Hands-on Drone Zone where attendees can fly drones with expert trainers
• Technology Summit presented by the National Association of Landscape Professionals
• UTV Test Track
• Remote Pilot Certification Course presented by the Indiana State University Aviation and Unmanned Systems Program
• Expanded In-Tree Arborist Demos and Classroom Courses, including CEU opportunities
• Opening keynote, “Leadership and a New World Order: The Need for Resilience,” featuring Retired U.S. Navy 4-star Admiral James Stavridis
• Free dealer workshops by Bob Clements International, including a discussion on Bulletproofing Your Business

“Despite the pandemic, business never stopped for those who design, install, and maintain living landscapes. While this year’s show will look different, we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Louisville,” said Kris Kiser, managing partner of GIE+EXPO and OPEI President.

“We understand how important GIE+EXPO is to our industry, and we are committed to providing the education, resources and networking businesses need to thrive.”

Hyve Group have announced that Glee will return to the NEC Birmingham from 14th – 16th September 2021.

Following their Time To Grow manifesto, organisers say the show will be designed to “..support the industry, helping garden retailers and brands to build on the momentum the industry has gathered over the past year”. 

Working in line with Hyve Group’s Safe and Secure guidelines, organisers say the event will provide a space for Covid-safe trading, networking and inspiration, enabling the garden industry to gather once again.

Matthew Mein, event director for Glee commented, “We are delighted to be returning to the NEC Birmingham, doing what we do best; bringing the garden industry together at the UK's leading garden and outdoor living trade show, facilitating trade, collaboration and creativity. We’re working hard to make our in-person shows Covid-safe, in line with our Safe & Secure guidelines.

"On behalf of the whole Glee team, we can’t wait to welcome the industry back to Glee after such a long time apart.”

Sarah Dixon, UK and International marketing manager for Hozelock who will be exhibiting at the show added, “After a turbulent year of unprecedented circumstances, it will be exciting to return to the NEC for some long overdue face to face meetings with our customers and new contacts alike. The gardening industry has been extremely resilient over this challenging period and we look forward to celebrating this at Glee.”

Established for over 100 years, EP Barrus has a reputation for supplying quality products and services to the marine, garden, industrial and vehicle markets. Due to the retirement of a long-serving and highly successful Area Sales Manager we have an opportunity for an experienced sales professional to join our Lawn & Garden division. 

Area Sales Manager
East Anglia, East Midlands, Yorkshire
£attractive plus substantial bonus opportunity, vehicle and company benefits

The job holder will inherit a well-established territory and a dealer network that is committed to the sale of our brands, including Cub Cadet, Lawnflite, Agri-Fab, Mantis and GTM.   We are looking for an experienced and skilled individual who can continue sales growth in this territory by supporting our existing dealers, identifying new dealers and promoting exciting new products that we will bring to the range. Specific responsibilities will include:

• Working from home, organizing your time to maximise contact time with customers
• Maximise sales and customer satisfaction
• Provide demonstrations and technical support to dealers
• Attend national and regional trade shows
• Provide market feedback to the Sales Manager
• Comprehensive activity and sales reporting 

Candidate Profile:

We are looking for a skilled sales professional with at least 5 years of experience in garden machinery. Living in East Anglia, the East Midlands or in Yorkshire your additional qualities will be:

• A high level of knowledge and technical ability within the garden machinery trade
• Highly self-motivated with proven ability in a sales role
• A strong team player with a flexible, can-do, attitude
• Advanced planning, organising and prioritising skills
• Excellent communication, presentation and demonstrating skills
• Computer literate

For more information and to apply please contact Nick Hester at Cavendish Maine search & selection.

Contact:

Name: Nick Hester    
Telephone: 01275 813030
Email: nick@cavendishmaine.com 

Following last week’s launch of the Q Garden QG39-130 petrol rotary lawnmower we are pleased to launch yet another new product for Handy Distribution for 2021 with an all new Greenworks 199mph variable speed 48V (2x24V) Blower & Vacuum that is in stock now.

The Greenworks GD24X2BV is a powerful yet lightweight leaf blower and vacuum for small to medium sized lawns. Powered by an advanced double battery system the machine offers 48V performance using 2 x 24V batteries. As part of the 24V family, the battery can be used in any of the other Greenworks tools available, for total flexibility and convenience.

With a tool-less 2 in 1 function, you can effortlessly switch between blowing and vacuuming to keep your garden looking its best all year round.

The advanced brushless motor ensures maximum efficiency, giving longer runtimes and increased performance as well as more durability than brushed motor equivalents.

The dual functions allow for blowing of leaves into piles, with the added benefit of being able to vacuum them up into the large 40L collection bag. Additionally, the vacuum function mulches the collected material reducing its volume by 10:1, leaving a great mulch for use around the garden or compost pile.

The latest innovation from Greenworks allows two 24V batteries to combine in series to power a 48V motor. The benefits include additional power when blowing or vacuuming, while utilising compact 24V batteries which can be used in any of the 24V family of Greenworks tools, from lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, chainsaws and even power tools

As with all Greenworks products the GWGD24X2BV offers exceptional value for money, with SSP of just £139.99 including VAT (tool only), with the GWGD24X2BVK4X kit available at just £289.99 including two 24V 4Ah batteries and a twin charger. Furthermore the model features full spare parts backup, a 3 year warranty, and competitive dealer terms ensuring your profitability.

As well as our 2021 National advertising campaign in leading newspapers and magazines we have also invested heavily in our brand content, with new product videos, photography and online information. Visit our YouTube channel to see the latest product videos.

For more information on any of the new Greenworks products contact Handy Distribution on 01793 333220 or speak to your local sales representative. Alternatively, all products can be easily ordered online at www.handyonline.co.uk

Billy Goat 4WD Outback® Brushcutters are made for cutting through overgrown brush, fields, clearing meadows or hiking trials. It doesn't matter how much area you have to mow, Billy Goat ride-on Brushcutters offer a suitable solution.

Billy Goat Outback® Ride-On Brushcutters have set the highest standard for professional brush cutting equipment on the market. The Outback® 4WD Rider offers unique features and benefits to combat the most demanding conditions. When rough and overgrown areas limit the use of conventional mowers, this robust machine delivers the ultimate performance for these conditions.

The two models in the range have been designed with a low center of gravity in combination with a four wheel drive system that enables them to tackle those hard-to reach places that wouldn't have been accessible to traditional machines. The spacious platform provides sufficient space and comfort for the operator. The heavy duty mower deck is equipped with swing-back cutter blades that swing away when accidental contact is made with a solid object. 

These features help to protect the mower deck and cutter blades from accidental damage. Look no further than the Billy Goat Outback® when you are looking for the ultimate brush cutting machine.

For more information on Billy Goat products visit: www.billygoat.co.uk or to become a Billy Goat dealer please contact Andy Marvin on: 07771 581 296 or call our sales team: 0115 986 6646 today.

Our Summer research shows 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 2021 will be reinvested into promoting the site online.

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.

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