First up today, you may have noticed we are re-running our recruitment survey from last week. We had several messages at the start of this shortened working week, after the survey had closed, from dealers who told us they intended to answer but didn't get round to it over the bank holiday weekend.

So if you did want to share your thoughts on how finding new recruits for your dealership has been over these past 12 months - and it does appear to be an issue that impacts across all machinery disciplines - please do take part today and over this weekend.

I'm not sure if the bank holiday meant our readers were too busy with work to (kindly) complete our survey or if there was a mass exodus to the beach? However, wherever you found yourself this past week I'm sure at some point either you or someone you were with sighed and said "It's hot." Because it truly has been!

I am personally dreadful with it. I bore myself with my internal complaining monologue. I get that it can be A Good Thing if you're on holiday by some cooling water, but when working. . .  nah, not so much! The heat is obviously a phenomenon that everyone experiences, but I understand it will hold some specific consequences for our dealer readers. Potentially, both good and bad.

For those working outdoors, of course, the heat can quickly become more than just an inconvenience. Demonstrating machinery, loading equipment, handling deliveries or carrying out service work in baking temperatures is enough to test even the hardiest of staff. Workshops, in particular, can become challenging environments during hot spells. I suspect many of our dealer readers now enjoy pleasant, modern showrooms with air conditioning, but workshops are another matter entirely. Even with doors open, once machinery starts running, temperatures can clearly soar.

Which ties in with a growing discussion that you probably have seen debated in the media this week around whether the UK should introduce a legal maximum working temperature?

At the moment, there is a minimum workplace temperature recommendation, but no upper limit. Trade unions and campaigners have increasingly argued that this needs to change as summers become hotter and heatwaves more frequent. My guess is that workers would probably welcome clearer rules and protections but business owners may have concerns?

As we're discussing in our survey, dealerships are already juggling staffing pressures, recruitment challenges and rising costs, so therefore the idea of legally enforced maximum temperatures might create headaches. What happens if a workshop becomes too hot to operate? Do working hours need to shift earlier? Are more breaks required? Would businesses need to invest heavily in cooling systems? And for many older dealership buildings, especially rural workshops, retrofitting air conditioning isn’t exactly a simple or cheap exercise.

So there's that on the downside.

On the other more positive hand, perhaps this week’s weather has brought some upticks too?

Sunny days do tend to lift moods and get people out and about. Dealers of domestic machinery especially might hope to see increased footfall when the sun shines. Traditionally, there is nothing more enticing for homeowners to think about buying a new mower quite like a spell of good weather and an overgrown lawn.

And perhaps that’s the bigger question here. Is this simply another short-lived British heatwave we’ll forget about once the rain returns next week? Or are hotter summers becoming something dealerships genuinely need to start planning around?

We’d be interested to hear what our dealer readers think. Is working becoming uncomfortable during these hotter spells? Are your premises equipped to cope? Have you invested in cooling systems? Would you support a maximum workplace temperature rule, or would it create more problems than it solves? And does sunshine help business at your dealership . . or keep customers away?

Please share your thoughts in the comments below, or if you'd prefer, drop me line.

Aptean, the specialist in vertical AI software for industries, has appointed James Buchanan as regional account director for the UK and Ireland.

In his new role, the company says James will focus on driving growth across the agricultural, construction, and heavy machinery dealership sectors. With a strong emphasis on modern dealer management platforms such as Aptean Equipment Dealer Management System, combined with AI-driven services from Aptean’s AppCentral, James will support dealerships in modernising operations, improving efficiency, and unlocking new digital capabilities.

Aptean says James' appointment reflects their continued focus on growth and long-term customer commitment across the UK and Irish markets, building on the foundation established through its integration with JMA A/S, which has maintained a strong presence in the region for several years.

James has brought more than 15 years of commercial leadership experience across the agricultural and construction industries. A significant part of his career was spent at Kramp UK, where he held senior sales leadership roles covering internal sales, account management, business solutions, and retail consultancy. During his time there, he developed customer-focused sales strategies, led operational improvements, and helped dealers drive growth and enhance customer experience.

He also held senior roles at Ibcos and Catalyst within the dealer management software sector, working closely with dealerships across the UK and Ireland. In these roles, he supported digital transformation programs, strategic growth initiatives, and the navigation of evolving operational challenges within the industry.

James Buchanan said, “Joining Aptean is an exciting opportunity and one I’m genuinely excited by. The business has a strong reputation within the industry, and I’m looking forward to working with dealerships across the UK and Ireland to help them get more value through technology, stronger processes, and long-term partnerships.

“The dealer landscape continues to evolve rapidly, and I believe Aptean is well positioned to support customers through that change, particularly through modern platforms such as Aptean Equipment DMS and the AI-driven capabilities of AppCentral, our vertical AI platform."

Hauke Lamb, European director at Aptean, added, “James brings extensive industry knowledge, proven commercial leadership, and a genuine understanding of how dealerships operate. His experience across agricultural, construction and heavy equipment sectors, combined with our established regional presence and long-term customer partnerships, means we are well placed to support dealers as they modernise and grow.”

To learn more, contact James Buchanan directly - or if you´re visiting the Royal Highland Show you can secure a meeting with James while you’re there.

A North London contractor has become the first customer to buy a JCB mini excavator using the manufacturer's new FlexiBuy finance solution.

L-R: Greenshields JCB Compact manager (East) Sam Percival and 365 Building Solutions Ltd director, Gavin Byrne

365 Building Solutions Ltd has added a JCB 16C-1 mini excavator to support its latest residential project, using the brand new funding facility from JCB Finance.

The compact machine has initially been chosen to meet the specific demands of a live site with restricted access. In the future it will be used on the company’s residential construction work including restoration projects, basement conversions and new build extensions.

365 Building Solutions Ltd Director Gavin Byrne said: “The project we’re currently delivering requires additional compact machinery due to restricted access via a narrow site entrance and this model is well suited to our needs. We have previously operated JCB equipment and value its reputation for reliability and performance.

“The JCB FlexiBuy option made the transaction much easier than traditional finance deals. Everything was very smooth with efficient communication throughout the purchase process and this new finance route is a great added extra.”

Launched in April, JCB FlexiBuy is designed to make owning a mini excavator more accessible by offering low initial outlay, affordable monthly payments and flexible end-of-term options - including ownership or hand back the machine and not pay the optional final payment.

Kress UK has appointed Stuart Wharam as its new commercial business manager for the North, which they say strengthens their commitment to the golf and sports turf sectors across the region.

With around 15 years of industry experience, Stuart brings extensive knowledge of the professional groundscare and machinery market to the role. He began his career at a machinery dealership in East Yorkshire before spending eight and a half years with STIHL, prior to joining Kress UK.

In his new role, Stuart will focus on supporting golf courses, sports venues and commercial customers throughout a large territory stretching from Lincolnshire across North Wales, throughout the North of England and the entirety of Scotland. Working closely with Kress dealers, he will help introduce customers to the company’s growing range of battery-powered and robotic equipment.

Speaking about his decision to join Kress, Stuart said the brand’s technology and innovation were major factors. “The robotics and the technology from Kress are ridiculously good,” he said. “They are really pushing the boundaries when it comes to robotic mowing and battery technology. That’s what drew me to Kress.”

Stuart also believes Kress stands out because of its long-term commitment to battery power.

“From day one they’ve been battery-focused,” he explained. “Everything is moving towards battery technology, and Kress is already there.”

As part of his role, Stuart will work closely with both dealers and end users, particularly within the golf and sports sectors.

“My role is all about introducing customers to Kress and helping them understand the benefits of the technology,” he said. “At the same time, I’ll be working alongside the dealer network across the region.”

Cobra has announced a major expansion into the estate and commercial lawncare sector with the launch of its first-ever zero-turn and stand-on mowers.

The company says the development represents a key step for their brand, taking the expertise gained over decades in the garden machinery industry and applying it to a new customer base maintaining larger lawns, estates, and commercial grounds. 

This launch marks Cobra’s first foray into zero-turn and stand-on mowing technology, offering what they describe as contractor-grade performance, durability, and manoeuvrability to professional landscapers and estate owners. 

Peter Chaloner, managing director of Cobra, said, “The Cobra range is continually expanding with new products launching year round but it’s particularly exciting to be expanding with new zero-turn and stand-on mowers for the first time. We are excited to be bringing the same precision, reliability, and innovation that has made Cobra a trusted brand for homeowners and semi-professional users to commercial and estate customers."

The models launching are the ZTR42L, and ZTR50L zero-turn mowers and ZTS32L and ZTS36L stand-on mowers.

The company continued in an official statement saying, "The ZTR and ZTS models not only enhance Cobra’s product offering but also strengthen its position in the professional dealer network, supporting contractors with reliable equipment, parts availability, and expert service. This expansion ensures Cobra continues to provide dealer-backed confidence for commercial customers, reinforcing the brand as a credible, professional lawncare solution. "

Amazone has announced a strategic partnership with Czech agri-tech company CultiWise aimed at making smart farming technology simpler and more practical for farmers.

The collaboration will see the integration of CultiWise’s AI-supported satellite and drone-based application mapping technology with Amazone’s digital farming systems, including the AmaConnect cloud platform and AmaTron 4 terminal. The companies say the partnership will help streamline processes such as variable-rate sowing, fertiliser application and crop protection, while improving machine efficiency and reducing preparation time for operators.

Amazone highlighted the potential benefits for precision spraying through its AmaSelect nozzle control system, AmaXact nozzle technology and DirectInject system, which can be combined with automated spot application maps generated through CultiWise. The partnership will also support simpler use of variable-rate maize sowing maps and automated tramline systems on Amazone Precea precision seeders.

Both companies will continue to operate independently while developing their own technologies, with the partnership focused on improving compatibility and ease of use for farmers adopting digital and site-specific farming practices.

Amazone said the solutions will be brought to market through its international dealer network.

GGM Group has successfully reached its fundraising target of £10,000 in support of the North West Air Ambulance Charity, following a series of dedicated team initiatives.

Members of the GGM Group team present North West Air Ambulance representative Chris Andrews with a cheque for £10,856

The fundraising campaign brought together colleagues across the business, who took part in a range of activities including 50-mile cycle rides, 10K runs, and collection drives at key industry exhibitions.

Chris Gibson, managing director GGM Group said, "We are incredibly proud to have reached our £10,000 target for the North West Air Ambulance Charity. This was truly a team effort, with colleagues across the business stepping up to take part in a variety of challenges and events. The support we’ve received from our customers and partners has been fantastic, and we’re grateful to everyone who contributed.

“The work carried out by the North West Air Ambulance Charity is vital, providing life-saving pre-hospital care across the region. Knowing that our efforts will help support such an essential service makes this achievement even more meaningful."

Chris Andrews, corporate partnership officer for the North West Air Ambulance Charity added, "We are extremely grateful to GGM Group for their incredible fundraising efforts. Reaching £10,000 is a fantastic achievement and will make a real difference in helping us continue to deliver critical care to patients when they need it most. It’s inspiring to see such a strong team commitment behind this campaign, and we thank everyone involved for their support."

The North West Air Ambulance Charity relies entirely on public and corporate donations to operate its fleet of helicopters and critical care cars, bringing advanced medical care directly to patients across the region.

AL-KO Gardentech is proud to announce the launch of its new entry level EASY tractor range, complimenting the trusted high-performance COMFORT and PREMIUM ranges to offer a tailored solution for every customer, at every price point. All models are currently in stock and available for same day dispatch on orders placed before 3pm. 

Stewart Anderson, Managing Director of AL-KO Gardentech UK commented -

“The new EASY tractor range is something we have been missing over recent years. As part of our growth strategy, we can now offer a quality garden tractor platform at every pricepoint."

The EASY range includes four new models with rear collect and side discharge variants. The price opening AL-KO models feature manual and CVT transmissions while the Solo by AL-KO models feature hydrostatic transmissions with foot pedal drive. All models include LED headlights, high back seat, heavy duty bumper, tow hitch and mulch plug as standard, and all models are powered by premium AL-KO engines.

As with all AL-KO tractors, the EASY models feature a comprehensive 5 year warranty (subject to annual service) and full spare parts support with the majority of parts available for next day delivery.

AL-KO EASY T13-86.6 M-A
Art. No. AK114115
RRP £2,159.00

Type - Rear Collect
Cutting Width - 86cm / 34”
Engine - AL-KO PRO 400 (352cc)
Transmission - Manual (5F/1R)
Cutting Height - 7 stage 30-90mm
Collector - 250 Litre
Mulching - Yes

Solo by AL-KO EASY T14-86.6 HD-A
Art. No. AK127818
RRP £2,699.00

Type - Rear Collect
Cutting Width - 86cm / 34”
Engine - AL-KO PRO 450 (452cc)
Transmission - Hydrostatic (Foot Pedal)
Cutting Height - 7 stage 30-90mm
Collector - 250 Litre
Mulching - Yes

AL-KO EASY T13-92.6 CS-A
Art. No. AK114116
RRP £1,949.00

Type - Side Discharge
Cutting Width - 92cm / 36”
Engine - AL-KO PRO 400 (352cc)
Transmission - CVT
Cutting Height - 7 stage 30-90mm
Side Discharge - Yes
Mulching - Yes

Solo by AL-KO EASY T14-92.6 HDS-A
Art. No. AK127819
RRP £2,399.00

Type - Side Discharge
Cutting Width - 92cm / 36”
Engine - AL-KO PRO 450 (452cc)
Transmission - Hydrostatic (Foot Pedal)
Cutting Height - 7 stage 30-90mm
Side Discharge - Yes
Mulching - Yes

The introduction of the new EASY tractor platform, alongside additional new products in petrol lawnmower, robotic lawnmower and battery categories, highlights AL-KO’s strong commitment to innovation, dealer success, and customer satisfaction. These developments position the brand for sustained growth in 2026 and beyond.

For more information visit the AL-KO consumer site at www.alko-garden.uk, or the dealer portal at www.gardentech-dealer.co.uk. To become an AL-KO stockist call us on 01963 828006 or speak to your local area sales manager.

South West - Bonnie Rallison - 07970 494982
West Midlands & Wales - Alexandra Winters - 07710 442751
South East - Ben Gold - 07725 816565
Northern England & Scotland - James Hill - 07970 174051

AL-KO Gardentech UK, Wincanton Business Park, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RS

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