Looking past the current restrictions and supply issues, the future could be bright with new opportunities opening up, including the increased use of robotic mowers in commercial settings.
Back to our normal Friday publishing today, following our Thursday appearance last week - which included one suspiciously sheepish story that many of you spotted!
I do hope the Easter period went as well as possible for your dealership. The stocking problems which all are experiencing at the moment to varying degrees, won't have exactly helped. It's a situation which customers should be well aware of by now at least, hopefully meaning they are being understanding with delays. Certainly as the non-essential shops open up from Monday, it will be an issue which will gain more widespread attention. Presumably all stores which sell manufactured goods of any description, will be revealed as facing similar problems?
Our dealer panel, who we've been in regular contact with throughout the pandemic, have been talking to us about this impending situation for many, many months. They could see it was coming, predicting for some time that the beginning of 2021 was going to be fraught.
We're being told by our readers that it's a question of managing customer expectations currently. One dealer who responded to our recent request for feedback, told us, "It's manageable at the moment with most customers being aware of the issues. Very often "do you have one" is the first question rather than "how much" and customers seem to be more willing to order and wait once they have checked to see the online merchants are also out of stock."
Another in a similar vein said, "We are trying to only sell what we have on the shop floor today and avoid mentioning options that we don't stock. We have switched brands in some cases to keep product available, but I can see this year being difficult."
Its a problem which clearly isn't going to disappear overnight. However, as we progress through the months, with factories and logistics coming back up to speed, a slow resolution must come to pass?
Robotic revolution?
Bearing that in mind, it's encouraging to see companies in our sector looking forward and putting investments in place, to a time when society is back to some sort of normality.
A product area which appears to have great potential for huge expansion in the near future, is the use of robotic mowing solutions in commercial settings. We've seen greater acceptance of their use in large, private gardens in recent years - although we're still a way off our Scandinavian and European neighbours in that regard - but their use in professional environments still feels somewhat in its infancy.
It's interesting to read today then, how the GGM Group have staked their claim to this developing sector, by taking on a new distribution agreement with Swiss manufacturer Ronovatec for the autonomous RoviMo for use in sportsgrounds. MD Chris Gibson, describes the deal as " . .forging the path for things to come" - which seems like a pretty astute way to look at it.
It would be Husqvarna who you'd have to say has been really forging this path for commercial mowing robotics in recent years. Their high-profile usage in Edinburgh parks immediately spring to mind for example.
Speaking of which, I attended another of their Living City online events, a week or so ago. As well as including various expert speakers from around the world talking about methods for sustainable turf care, they teased a little more of what they are touting as a potential game-changer for this sector.
Called the Ceora, they still haven't offered a full look at their forthcoming robot, but once again hyped its ability to tackle very large areas - apparently up to 50,000m2. If I'm being honest, not much new was revealed about the machine since the last meeting I attended, except this time they did say that, inspired by their front riders, the Ceora's cutting deck has been purpose-built so it can be easily raised for accessibility and to allow for blade servicing.
One feels that a robot that can handle these sort of large, park-sized spaces, will really open up the market for more commercial end-users to consider their usage. The editor of TurfPro, our sister title for the sector, Laurence Gale says there's "no doubt in my mind that robotic technologies will continue to be developed", leading to ever greater acceptance and use.
All of which should be exciting news for specialist dealers. These machines need experts to sell, install and look after. Progressive dealers around the country are leaning heavier into their promotion, feeling the market will only continue to grow.
So whilst we're undeniably in a bit of a rut right now with all the restrictions and supply problems, it's only useful to look ahead with positivity. These things shall pass. And once they have there will be new technologies available, opening up new opportunities.
In this week's WEB ONLY story, manufacturer says advert aims to drive demand for cordless products by educating end users about the benefits of the platform.
The GGM Group has announced they have signed a new distribution agreement with Swiss manufacturer Ronovatec to promote a new robotic mower for sports grounds maintenance.
The GGM Group has announced they have signed a new distribution agreement with Swiss manufacturer Ronovatec to promote a new robotic mower for sports grounds maintenance throughout the UK.
The company say they plan to arrange the first public demonstration of the RoviMo, as soon as government restrictions allow. They go on to say the new machine's intelligent design allows for the autonomous mowing of professional sports turf.
The RoviMo is described as "the world's first intelligent electric vehicle capable of mowing patterns autonomously according to the guidelines of national football associations, UEFA, or FIFA, precisely and over the shortest distance, horizontally, vertically and with chessboard pattern, at the touch of a button". Supervision of the mowing process by an employee is not necessary say GGM.
Operated remotely via an app, RoviMo can also be used for mowing other large green areas, such as company premises or parks, and will be developed to be utilised by golf courses. The unit is a multifunctional equipment carrier, which will be able to carry out other work processes such as maintenance of artificial turf, line marking and various other labour-intensive tasks.
RoviMo is currently in it’s final stages of development and field testing with the first machine installations in July 2021. GGM say they are planning to arrange several demonstration events over the coming months, restrictions permitting.
GGM Group managing director, Chris Gibson, said, “RoviMo is something completely different, and it’s extremely exciting to be working with Ronovatec on what we believe will be a game changer in professional turfcare. RoviMo adds state of art technology to our portfolio allowing us to offer customers the next generation of intelligent mowers. We are thrilled to have been involved from the early stages of development of these new, innovative machines; they are the perfect addition to our product range as we continue to grow in the sports ground sectors”.
Chris continued,“Over recent years there has been a trend for turfcare professionals to increase their green credentials and RoviMo not only offers this but achieves reduced cost and increased efficiency simultaneously. A fully charged RoviMo will mow circa 16,000 m2 in 5-6 hours depending on pattern and terrain, all without employee supervision of the mowing process, saving many man hours and employment costs. In addition, RoviMo is fully electric, CO2-free, and autonomous with low noise pollution and is therefore ecologically sustainable and economically unbeatable. It’s a win-win for the customer.”
Chris concluded, “It’s fantastic to be involved with this innovation at its development stage. While final machinery specifications are yet to be confirmed, we are very much looking forward to arranging the first public showing just as soon as we are allowed. Signing this deal is just the start, forging the path for things to come - the future of sports turf maintenance looks exciting”.
According to figures released by the AEA, March saw 2,085 agricultural tractor registrations (over 50hp).
According to figures released by the AEA, the upturn in agricultural tractor registrations (over 50hp) seen in recent months continued into March, normally the peak month for registrations each year.
The monthly total of 2,085 machines was 15% higher than in March 2020.
Stephen Howarth, agricultural economist at the AEA said, "Indeed, it was the highest monthly total for any month since March 2012 (and the first time over 2,000 machines have been registered in a single month in that time).
"That brings the total for the year to date to 3,259 registrations, 13% more than in the opening quarter of 2020."
Organisers, the DLG, have announced they are postponing the Agritechnica trade fair which was due to take place in November this year.
Organisers, the DLG, have announced they are postponing the Agritechnica trade fair which was due to take place in November this year.
The new dates are from 27 February to 5 March 2022, in Hanover.
In a statement, the organisers said, "Because of the continuing Corona pandemic as well as the progress of vaccination programs, both in Germany and abroad, the DLG, VDMA Agricultural Machinery Association and Agritechnica’s exhibitor advisory board have concluded that insufficient certainty for planning currently exists for the world-leading exhibition in November.
"With the four-month postponement of the trade fair, the DLG, as organiser, as well as the members of the VDMA Agricultural Machinery Association, believe that the participating companies have the necessary certainty required for planning."
Tim Farrow joins having worked in agriculture all his life including as a service manager and later branch manager, for a machinery dealer.
Stocks have appointed Tim Farrow as UK field sales manager for the Stocks range of wheels, tyres and applicators.
Tim Farrow
A classic tractor enthusiast, Tim has worked in agriculture his whole life. He began his career as a machine operator and service engineer, then ran his own business for 14 years importing and distributing livestock equipment before becoming service manager, and later branch manager, for a machinery dealer. In addition, he also runs his own sheep and beef farm with his wife.
James Woolway, managing director, Stocks Ag Limited said, "Tim’s appointment bolsters the existing office-based sales team at Wisbech. He has worked on farms and in technical, service and management roles in the agricultural machinery industry for the past 25 years, bringing with him a wealth of experience, enthusiasm and practical technical knowledge."
On his new appointment Tim said, "Stocks has always been a name I have known. I have a good understanding of the UK machinery industry and joining Stocks was an opportunity too good to miss. I am excited to be part of this British engineering company, especially now that Stocks is under new ownership, and am getting to grips with the full range of applicators and specialist wheels. However, I am most looking forward to getting out and meeting customers and dealers when conditions allow."
Tim will be based at his home, near Leeds, in West Yorkshire and he can be reached at tim.farrow@stocks-ag.co.uk, or on his mobile 07498 027418.
Founded in 1993 by David Evans, DEAL Wales has amassed a strong reputation with farmers and agricultural contractors across South Wales.
“DEAL Wales is 100% focussed on delivering the best for their customer in terms of products, sales and support, which resonates with everything we do at Major,” says James Cox of Major Equipment UK. “I look forward to working with David and his team to grow their brand and reputation across the region.”
DEAL Wales will offer the total line-up of Major Agricultural and Amenity equipment.
Karl Savill will be covering the South East and East Midlands for the UK distributor of AS Motor, Eliet, Koppl and TS Industrie.
PSD Groundscare, the exclusive UK distributor for AS Motor, Eliet, Koppl and TS Industrie professional groundscare machinery, have announced the recent appointment of Karl Savill as business development manager covering the South East and East Midlands.
Karl Savill
Stuart Mercer, sales director of PSD Groundscare said, “Karl brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience including over 12 years working in the agricultural and groundscare industry along with a great amount of enthusiasm and is a fantastic addition to our team. His experience not only covers sales but also parts and service which I’m sure will see him thrive in his new role.”
Karl says of his new role, “My passion has always been groundscare machinery, and I’m really excited and looking forward to working with dealers and getting out and meeting customers and demonstrating the fantastic capabilities and benefits of our machinery”.
Merlo UK have introduced for the first time in the UK a Recommended Retail Price (RRP) list for its complete range of Merlo Genuine spare parts
Merlo UK have introduced for the first time in the UK a Recommended Retail Price (RRP) list for its complete range of Merlo Genuine spare parts.
National parts manager, Robin Cooch
The company say that from listening to customer feedback it was apparent that from time to time inconsistencies could occur with the re-sale pricing of Merlo spare parts. As a result they launched a year-long project headed by national parts manager, Robin Cooch to analyse and develop a structured and competitive RRP spare parts system.
Manufacturing around 95% of all Merlo machine components in house at their factory in Cuneo, Italy, the company says it is able to retain control of the quality, supply and pricing of all Merlo Genuine spare parts.
After analysing all possible competitive sources of Merlo spare parts Robin and his team developed a RRP list structure that they say is designed to offer competitive prices with genuine quality assured.
“Standardising the re-sale price of our genuine spare parts ensures consistency in pricing and service for Merlo user’s right across the UK," said Robin.
“I am very proud to have been given the opportunity to lead this project. Together with our nationwide Merlo dealer network, backed up by the fully stocked UK parts warehouse, the Merlo UK team is ready to deliver on our pledge to ensure we keep our customers’ operational", he concluded.
Last year entries came in from all around the world and was won by a tribute to the NHS.
Allett have officially launched the '2021 Allett Creative Lawn Stripes Competition'.
Last year saw photos submitted from over 10 different countries with the top 6 entries coming from; UK, America, Australia and Sweden.
Judged by Edgbaston head groundsman Gary Barwell, last year's competition was won by Andrew Wain of Euridge Manor with his tribute to the NHS.
Allett are asking people to not rush sending entries in, they want photos to keep being taken all summer, with the best ones to be submitted in August. A spokesperson said, "Keep an eye on our social media channels for hints and tips throughout the summer. Good luck!"
Ariens Company Ltd is looking for a Technical Support Technician to join our busy support team within the RapidCare division of the company.
Vacancy - Technical Support Technician
Ariens Company Ltd is a UK subsidiary of AriensCo, a family-owned manufacturer of outdoor power equipment located in Wisconsin, U.S.A. Our Oxford plant manufactures a leading range of ride-on lawnmowers and accessories for the U.K. and European markets.
We are looking for a Technical Support Technician to join our busy support team within the RapidCare division of the company. Reporting directly to the Technical Support Leader, this role will provide telephone and online support to dealers and international distributors alike, as well as developing and delivering online and in-person training programmes. Other technical administrative duties fall under this role, such as supporting the warranty administrators and Knowledgebase, our online technical support forum. The role is expected to be 90% office and 10% workshop based.
Responsibilities;
Provide first-line technical support to International distributors and UK dealers for Ariens, Countax and Westwood lawn and garden products (tractors and zero-turn mowers), snow throwers, and ECHO handheld tools (via telephone and online portals)
Maintain and distribute technical support materials via Knowledgebase
Responsible for supporting AriensCo EMEAA warranty policies and warranty processing and ensuring timely resolution of warranty claims
Assist with the development and delivery of technical training to the AriensCo EMEAA customer base (UK and International customers)
Be an active participant in improving finished product quality by executing finished goods audits, providing product training, and timely feedback of any quality problems
Education / Qualifications / Experience:
The following qualifications and experience are essential:
Experience in a technical support role with a proven ability to communicate at different levels and to manage customer expectations effectively
Strong technical knowledge of outdoor power equipment, preferably from the lawn and garden sector, and including IC engines (four stroke and two stroke)
GGM Groundscare are in an exciting stage of expansion and are now looking at recruiting for Groundscare Sales Managers in North West (Full-time) and also Yorkshire (Full-time).
GGM Groundscare, specialise in supplying tractors, professional groundscare machinery and after-sales support including Kubota, Baroness, Roberine, Dennis, Major, Amazone & Husqvarna to customers throughout the North-West of England and Yorkshire.
We are in and exciting stage of expansion and we are now looking at recruiting for the following positions:
Groundscare Sales Manager – North West (Full-time)
Groundscare Sales Manager – Yorkshire (Full-time)
We’re looking for enthusiastic individuals to manage Groundscare Sales across the regions and develop relationships with both new and existing customers.
Each role will involve but won’t be limited to:
Develop and manage the sales of new and used Groundscare equipment across our product portfolio
Feedback relevant market data, including competitor activity, market trends, and business opportunities
Support the sales team at regional and local shows and exhibitions
An ideal Groundscare Sales Manager will hold the following skills and experiences:
Experience from within the Groundscare market
Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to establish effective business relationships with internal and external partners
Self-starter with a professional attitude
Full clean driving license covering categories B+E
Excellent PC and ‘Microsoft Office’ literacy
Each role offers a competitive salary plus a commission-based bonus, company vehicle and Pension.
To apply
Interested applicants can apply in confidence with a CV and covering letter (quoting ASM04) to:- Diane Cowell, GGM Groundscare, Regent House, Regent Street, Whitewalls Ind Est, Colne, Lancashire, BB8 8LJ, Email diane@ggmgroundscare.co.uk
Closing Date for applications: 19th April 2021
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We are pleased to launch yet another new product from the Webb brand for 2021 with an all new 3 in 1 Petrol Wheeled Blower/Vacuum.
We are pleased to launch yet another new product from the Webb brand for 2021 with an all new 3 in 1 Petrol Wheeled Blower/Vacuum.
The WEWBVAC boasts a powerful 140cc Briggs & Stratton 500E engine and a generous working width of 58cm / 23”, perfect for clearing large areas of grass or hardstanding.
The machine offers multiple functions, with blower function, vacuum function, and a 10:1 mulching function where material is reduced and collected into the 150L bag. Another benefit of the WEWBVAC is self drive, making it even easier to cover large or sloped areas quickly.
Other features of the WEWBVAC include a heavy duty steel housing, 5 stage central height adjustment, guide wheels for working near walls, and large ball bearing wheels for easy manoeuvrability over any terrain.
As with all Webb products the WEWBVAC offers exceptional value for money, with an SSP of just £529.99 including VAT.
The machine has the added benefit of a range of optional accessories including a blower/vac hose kit with telescopic handle (SSP £89.99), a scarifier cassette (SSP £39.99), and a brush cassette (SSP £39.99) giving true versatility.
As well as the WEWBVAC Blower/Vacuum, other new products for 2021 from Webb include an electric silent shredder, 40cm electric chainsaw, 20V cordless tiller, 20V cordless lawnmower kit, 36cm electric scarifier/lawn rake, 40cm petrol scarfier/lawn rake, and 19 and 21” aluminium deck lawnmowers. The full range of 2021 products are available in our Trade Terms catalogue which can be viewed online at handyonline.co.uk or you can request a printed copy using the details below.
For more information on any of the new Webb 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
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 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.
In Garden Trader user research conducted over the Spring/Summer (February to July) of 2020, 79% of the 67,000 users found the site helpful or extremely helpful. But even more encouraging was that 77.4% of site users were likely or extremely likely to visit the dealership they were looking at on Garden Trader. This is the best proof yet that people want to buy from people and this highly targeted website is delivering quality leads to subscribed dealers for just 26p per day.
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.
