SERVICE DEALER CONFERENCE & AWARDS RETURN
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• News • Shows
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January/February 2022
SERVICE DEALER
CONFERENCE &
AWARDS RETURN
Industry comes together to learn how to work smarter
and celebrates success through adversity
SALTEX ’21 REVIEW EIMA ROUND-UP
The show the industry needed What was new at the European show
FUTURE
NATURAL LEADERSHIP PROOFING
GGM’s Chris Gibson on steering Ripon Farm Services on the
creation of a new branch
a path through the pandemic
WELCOME
Trade Partner Programme
40 Volt Series: The new range of ✓Letter from the editorpriced ✓ Guaranteed quality ✓ Right first time
Competitively
Steve Gibbs
battery powered tools for the
domestic user.
7 quality tools - 2.0AH & 4.0AH
- first choice for AGCO Parts
batteries & a charger. steve@servicedealer.co.uk
W
CONTENTS
elcome to the January / coverage of our Awards, starting on
4 News
Latest industry developments
February 2022 edition of page 14 in this issue.
2 + 1 year with product registration Service Dealer – and to Also, in this edition we welcome 14 Service Dealer
our fresh new redesign! a new Diarist for the year, Anthony Awards ‘21
It’s been a few years Deacon of MKM Agriculture. Many
All the winners from our very
since we last had a tidy-up of our pages of you will remember that MKM special awards
and we do like to keep our offering suffered a devastating fire in April of
to you current and modern. Hopefully ’21, but they are now in the process 20 Smart Working
you won’t find it too wildly different of building back stronger. We thank Speakers address timely topic at
56 Volt Series: The battery range for
to what you’re used to. It’s important Anthony for allowing us to join them the Service Dealer Conference
the professional user.
to us that we’re bringing you the best on their journey this year as they
8 quality tools - e-Force batteries
industry content every issue and every create a new dealership from scratch 26 Natural leadership
2.0AH & 4.0AH, a 16.0AH pack & a The award-winning Chris Gibson
TRADE ER 30 OPEI ‘22
Friday with the Weekly Update – plus – one that apparently includes the
charger. from GGM Groundscare
regularly through our social channels, genius idea of an in-house staff pub!
PARTN AMME
of course. So please do get in touch I’m looking forward to the opening
through any avenue if you have day already, Anthony!
U.S show restarts and has big
PROGR
feedback or issues you’d like to raise. I’d also like to take this opportunity
plans for ‘22
It was fabulous to hear from to thank Chris Gibson of GGM for his
readers in person at November’s 32 Future proofing
fascinating, candid, and forthright Diary
Service Dealer Conference & Awards, entries throughout 2021. You can hear Ripon’s Phil Gregg on plans for
regarding just how they have been from Chris one more time this issue, as a new depot
coping these past two years since we he speaks to Laurence Gale following
were last able to get together. The his well-deserved Leadership Award, 34 Saltex ‘21 review
good news is many dealerships have which he collected at Oxford Belfry. The show the industry needed
2 Stroke range: For over 70 years,
ECHO has been designing and building
flourished. You can read some business
and individual success stories in the
Many congratulations to Chris and all
the talented winners.
38 EIMA
high performance, quality products. Report from the European ag show
42 View from across
THE TEAM the pond
With Sara Hey
Publisher: Duncan Murray-Clarke Produced by: The Ad Plain Ltd
Editor: Steve Gibbs Pipe House, Lupton Road, Wallingford, 43 Diary of a season
steve@servicedealer.co.uk Oxfordshire, OX10 9BS, UK With MKM Agriculture
Agricultural Editor: Martin Rickatson
jmr.agriculture@gmail.com
Telephone: 01491 837 117
www.theadplain.com
44 SME digest
Information for small businesses
SME Digest Editor: Adam Bernstein Service Dealer is produced by The Ad Plain
adam@adambernstein.co.uk on behalf of Land Power Publications LLP 47 Business monitor
Contributor: Laurence Gale Advertising sales: Dealers’ view on warranty
X - Series: This means ECHO’s best in payments
laurence.gale@btinternet.com Nikki Harrison
class products. Designed for
professionals who demand the best Redesign Marco Crisari nikki@theadplain.com
Contact your local AGCO Dealer for more 50 New products
details
and highest quality tools. Design & layout: Iain Robinson Telephone: 01491 837 117 Coverage of new equipment
or email: info@agco-tradepartner.com to hit the market
56 In my view
>>> >>>
The acceptance and publication of advertising in Service Dealer magazine implies no
representation or warranty on the part of Service Dealer or The Ad Plain Ltd (TAP) as to the With Chris Biddle
Become a TRADE PARTNER today!57 Events
reputation or standing of advertisers’ products or services. No part of this publication may
be reproduced in any form whatsoever without the written permission of Service Dealer
and TAP. The information contained in this publication is published in good faith and every
(FREE to join – No Subscription Charges)
effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. The publishers can accept no responsibility Shows & industry events update
for any error or misrepresentation. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other
damage caused by reliance on information contained
in this publication or in the event of any bankruptcy or
58 Jim Green
Distributed by: FGM Claymore liquidation or cessation of the trade in any company, His view from the edge
Waterloo Industrial Estate, Every effort has been madeindividual or fithe
to ensure that rm information
mentionedcontained
is hereby excluded.
in this promotion is as accurate and current as possible at the time of going to print.
Bidford-on-avon, Warwickshire B50 4JH However, inaccuracies, errors and omissions may occur and details may be changed at any time without notice. Therefore please confirm with your AGCO
Tel UK: 01789 490177 Tel Ire: (353) 1 8463922
Parts dealer prior to any purchase. All parts are delivered and accepted in accordance with AGCO’s normal terms and conditions which are available on
request. © AGCO 2022. AGCO Parts provide worldwide genuine support to all AGCO machinery brands. Images used are for illustration purposes only. SERVICE DEALER 3
NEWS NEWS
INDUSTRY DEALERS DEALERS
Scamblers Haynes acquires
closure
leads to Oakes Bros
distribution Expands territory across south-east England
changes Maidstone-based Haynes Bros has
bought the trade and assets of
Case IH and JCB franchises.
Established in 1790 in London,
For Grasshopper mowers neighbouring dealer Oakes Bros, Haynes Bros Ltd is now the holding
established in 1825 at Hungerford, company for a group of subsidiary
Berkshire. companies operating throughout the
This acquisition brings together two South East. Moving to Kent in 1832, the
long-established businesses holding company was the first in the county to
key franchises for New Holland and take on the Ford Motor Company
JCB, along with Kuhn Farm Machinery, franchise in 1911 and then sell and
McConnel, Honda, Krone, and Stewart. distribute the complete range of Ford
Haynes acquires three Oakes cars, trucks and agricultural machinery.
Grasshopper mowers on display at SALTEX ‘21
agricultural branches, covering parts of “We believe this expansion is a
Berkshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, natural fit for our agricultural
The import of the Grasshopper range Surrey, West Sussex and Wiltshire and business, giving us increased scale
of zero-turn mowers for the UK & NI this will double the size of the Haynes in this key area of our operations,”
has changed. agricultural business. These branches says Andrew Haynes, chairman and
Chandlers (Farm Equipment) Ltd has will be re-branded by Haynes CEO of Haynes Bros. “The Oakes
taken over the import of the machines Agricultural shortly. business is well known to us and we
following the retirement and closing of Oakes had previously operated from have been neighbouring dealers for
Scamblers, who shut their doors on East Ilsley, Micheldever and Horsham, many years following our expansion
December 22nd 2021. but a smaller branch at Coombe into Sussex in 2004. This move will
Gavin Pell, managing director of Bissett near Salisbury will close. provide us with greater economies
Chandlers, said, “We look forward to These branches will be added to the of scale and resources, which we
working with all of Scamblers existing three Haynes branches at Uckfield, believe over time will be of
dealers for the supply and promotion of Wrotham and Ashford holding the New considerable benefit to our mutual
FGM Claymore takes
the excellent range of zero-turn Holland and JCB franchises, plus the customers, staff and manufacturers.
Grasshopper mowers. branch at Birchington, Kent holding
“We recently attended and exhibited
with Grasshopper at SALTEX, which was
on Echo in the UK
a great event where we met with many
of the existing dealer network and were
delighted by the positive response we
had about our appointment. We were
Also distributing the Shindaiwa branded products also pleased with the dealers’ and
end-users’ satisfaction with the
FGM Claymore have announced that to build the Echo and Shindaiwa range of X-Series products with
popularity, quality and durability of the
as of 1st January 2022, they have brands to significant levels through a emission-compliant petrol products
Grasshopper range.”
become the new distributor of the network of independent servicing and its 56V battery, both for use in
Chandlers’ dealer principal, Les
Echo and Shindaiwa brands for the dealers.” Explains Paul Butterly, the professional market.
Butters, will be heading up the
UK market. managing director of FGM Claymore. In addition, the company has
management of the franchise. He can
“We are delighted with this The company says it will be announced that Neil Turner will be
be contacted on 07885 327477.
appointment, which will further launching a new 40V range of joining the team as its new sales
Gavin added, “We will be interested in
strengthen our position in the UK consumer products, including director to focus on their existing
hearing from any dealers who would be
market. We have a long history of lawnmowers and hand-held dealer network and new
interested in adding a zero-turn mower
importing and distributing 2-stroke products, which will be available in appointments in the coming
to their range, where there are gaps in
hand-held products and our aim is Spring 2022. It will also provide the months. The workshop at the Micheldever, Hampshire depot, now owned by Haynes
the current dealer line-up.”
4 SERVICE DEALER SERVICE DEALER 5
NEWS NEWS
DEALERS EXHIBITIONS EXHIBITIONS
Reform Metrac
appoint
SAGE show to
host eco expo Agritechnica cancelled
Hannover show will not take place in 2022
Ben Burgess takes on For groundscare sector
specialist tractor range Metrac Reform As Service Dealer was going to the deteriorating pandemic situation in decision that Agirtechnica 2022
Organisers of the Sports and press the organisers of the recent weeks and the resulting current cannot take place in Hanover under
As an addition to its current range of choice for our business. Ground Expo announced they have Agritechnica ag machinery exhibition official regulations, a situation has these conditions. The health and
over 25 franchises, the Ben Burgess “We already have orders in place for partnered with environmental that was due to take place in arisen which makes the trouble-free safety of visitors, exhibitors, partners,
group has been appointed as Reform two Metrac H75 and two Metrac H60 surface technology specialists, Bio- Hannover, Germany at the end of execution of Agritechnica no longer members and staff have the highest
Metrac dealers for the east of England. models, and look forward to introducing Circle, and will run a Sustainable February 2022, confirmed that the possible. Together with the VDMA priority in this situation.”
Chris Pateman, commercial these machines to customers from April Solutions for Ground Care summit show will not go ahead as planned. Agricultural Machinery Association and The next edition of Agritechnica will
manager for the groundcare sector, 2022 at our branches.” at this year’s SAGE 2022 event. In an official statement the the trade fair’s exhibitor advisory now take place from 12 to 18
said, “We identified a gap in the Simon Richard, UK Agent for the The show will take place at Three organisers said, “Unfortunately, due to board, we have therefore come to the November 2023 in its regular cycle.
market in our region and the high- Reform Werke specialist tractor range, Counties Showground in Malvern on
quality and performance capability of added, “We are delighted to be working July 6-7, 2022 after making its debut
the Reform range made it the ideal with the Ben Burgess group.” last summer. INDUSTRY
For the first time, it will host a
DEALERS
‘Sustainable Solutions for Grounds
Specialists Summit’, which will hold a
live panel event with experts across
STIHL unveil new HQ plans
Another dealer for Mean Green the industry organisers say more
information will be released soon.
Details of new home revealed
SAGE 2022 event manager Vicky STIHL GB has unveiled plans to build Kay Green, managing director of total roof area (1600m2) will be
Overton appoints Sharrocks a new 11,500m2 purpose-designed STIHL GB, commented, “STIHL has covered with photovoltaic solar
Panniers said, “The deadline for
Overton (UK) Ltd have announced “We have had a few demos of the becoming sustainable in the world of headquarters and state-of-the-art enjoyed a sustained period of growth panels to provide power to the new
Sharrocks as their latest dealer for mowers by Overton and were very sports is now looming and our industry warehouse facility near to its current in recent years, and as a consequence facility. In addition, there will be
the Mean Green Mowers. impressed with the build quality and must now start to think of the steps it premises in Camberley, Surrey. we have outgrown our existing provision for 26 EV charging points in
cut – as were our customers. needs to take to become carbon neutral Due for completion in December warehouse and office facilities. Our anticipation of the continued move
Steve Hanlon, sales director at
2022, the site will be home to nearly new purpose-built headquarters towards the use of electric vehicles.
Sharrocks, said, “We have been “We have known Richard and Guy and comply with to the new legislation.
100 employees and the company says represents a significant capital The new headquarters will also be
looking at Mean Green electric Overton for 35 years, which gave us “SAGE is, therefore, delighted to
it will boast dedicated dealer training investment and is a commitment to the connected to Blackwater railway
mowers for the last couple of years, comfort, and we’re looking forward to be partnering with Bio Cycle, who
facilities, an on-site restaurant, flexible future for our dealers and end user station by a dedicated cycle path
and now was the time as customers working with Overton.” have been using a combination of
collaborative workspaces and a customers. We’re looking forward to and will feature landscaped gardens
are asking to go electric. technology, chemistry, biology and
technical workshop. seeing work get underway on the with native shrubs and trees and a
service to optimise their customer
The new 9,000m2 warehouse construction of our new premises early wildflower meadow which forms part
cleaning processes for the past 30
space will utilise what the company in the New Year”. of an integrated flood risk mitigation
years.” describe as state-of-the-art picking The new HQ, which secured zone on the former Thames Water
The show says it will deliver live and storage systems. All logistics will planning permission last year, boasts Utilities site.
workshops to help anyone who is now be consolidated onto one site, environmental credentials including The company say they aim to
looking at how they can become more which the company says will mean a BREEAM Certification, the relocate to the new facility from its
sustainable for the future. speedier and more efficient delivery sustainability assessment method for current premises in Stanhope Road
service to the 700 strong STIHL building projects. in January 2023.
dealer network. It is proposed that two-thirds of the
CGI of the new building
L-R: Richard Overton, MD Overton UK (Ltd); Steve Hanlon sales director, Sharrocks SAGE entrance 2021
6 SERVICE DEALER SERVICE DEALER 7
NEWS NEWS
DEALERS DEALERS
Truro joins McCormick Further expansion
from competitor brand for Lister Wilder
New depot announced
Following local dealer tractor franchise shuffle Artist’s impression of the new Keynsham depot
Lister Wilder has announced the franchises that Lister Wilder represents. the time-scale and bring it forward.
Truro Farm Machinery is the latest dealer to agree some time, but it was the launch of a brand-new
opening of a new branch located in Alongside this, the company has “The Bristol & Bath area is extremely
to sell and support ARGO Tractors’ McCormick range of X7 short wheelbase models due at LAMMA
Keynsham, between Bristol and Bath, announced the launch of its new important to our groundcare business
brand, with the business having taken on the full in January ‘21 that finally convinced us. We feel this is
which will open to the public in Spring South West Hire Division – supplying and we want to make sure that we
franchise for McCormick’s 44-310hp range. a great time for TFM and our loyal customers to join
2022. an extensive range of specialist can fully support the machines that
The change follows a shuffling of tractor brands forces with McCormick.
The Kubota dealer has been making groundcare machinery for its customers are being sold into the two cities. The
amongst dealerships locally. Service Dealer “This hasn’t been a spur of the moment decision
considerable changes to its business based in the West, operating from this branch located at Burnett Business Park
understands that Truro Farm Machinery has switched on our part but has come from close communication
since its full-line status in October 2020 new premises. is an ideal location, and we are looking
to McCormick from Case IH, which has chosen to with McCormick Tractors UK and Ireland. McCormick
– previously announcing a new Kubota Phill Hughes, sales & hire director, to develop our hire business across the
move its franchise to former local John Deere dealer has already been working closely with us, delivering a
Centre in Bibury, Gloucestershire. said: “This is a really exciting region with local support.”
Cornwall Farm Machinery, after the John Deere area tractor from its Doncaster headquarters to send out to
The new Bristol/Bath branch will offer announcement for us. We had planned The company says it will also shortly
the latter held was given to Smallridge Bros in an some of our customers for appraisal. The result was
sales, parts and service support for the to open the branch in 2023 but the be embarking on a recruitment drive for
extension of Smallridge’s territory. excellent feedback and very good reviews.
entire range of Kubota Groundcare increase in the levels of business that this new branch.
A family-run business, Truro Farm Machinery was “That reinforced our conviction that this is the right
machinery - as well as many other we’ve seen this year made us re-think
founded in 1983. In summer 2010, the company franchise for us, and as a committed stocking dealer
outgrew its original premises in the centre of Truro we already have models in our yard ready for
and moved to a purpose-built new site in a more demonstration and sale.”
convenient location just off the A30 at Mitchell, Commenting on the appointment, managing
complete with larger, better-equipped workshops and director of Argo Tractors in the UK and Ireland, Adrian
INDUSTRY
Husqvarna and
parts department complex. Winnett said: “We are delighted to welcome a dealer
“Our aim has always been to deliver a first-class of TFM’s calibre to our rapidly expanding network.
B&S settle dispute
service to all our customers, large or small,” says The McCormick brand is growing constantly, and our
Kevin Andrews, the company’s managing director. focus on dealers who provide exceptional aftersales
“We had been talking with McCormick’s UK team for service is key to our growth.”
Engine supply argument resolved
Husqvarna Group and Briggs & Stratton, LLC (B&S)
have announced that a settlement has been reached
with regards to the supply of engines for ride-on
mowers.
Under the terms of the settlement, B&S will provide
the majority of the engines needed ahead of the 2022
season. Additionally, the parties have agreed to maintain
a modified supply relationship into the 2023 season.
Husqvarna Group previously issued a statement
regarding a potential negative financial impact in 2022
because of a lack of engine supply. The settlement
means that the lawsuit against B&S is withdrawn, and
Husqvarna Group have said they no longer anticipate a
material financial impact from this issue.
“We have achieved a satisfactory outcome that allows
us to secure products for our customers in 2022,” says
Glen Instone, acting president of Husqvarna Division and
Truro McCormick CFO Husqvarna Group.
Husqvarna ride-on mower
8 SERVICE DEALER SERVICE DEALER 9
NEWS NEWS
DEALERS DEALERS DEALERS
CNH enters Arwels are
technology
licensing Krone’s dealer
agreement of the year
Multi-year deal Awarded at company’s dealer conference
with Monarch
Tractor In early November, Krone UK held spanning the Cardiganshire,
their dealer conference in Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire
CNH Industrial Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. areas – even reaching into South
has entered into As part of the event, the Wales as far afield as Cardiff.”
an exclusive, manufacturer staged an awards Arwel added, “It was a dream come
multi-year licensing agreement for ceremony to recognise their dealers true to be awarded the franchise as
electrification technologies with for their hard work and commitment we have always wanted to be a part
Monarch Tractor, a US-based to the brand throughout the year. of the Krone setup. It was a chance of
AgTech company specialising in 38 successfully graduated from John Deere’s apprenticeship programmes, although not all could attend the event
Presented with the title of Krone UK a lifetime for my family and staff who
fully electric autonomous tractors. Dealer Of The Year were Arwel Agri also share passion for the brand.”
38 young apprentices
CNH says the agreement foresees Services of Harford, Carmarthenshire, Georgina continued, “We are
the launch of a scalable, modular West Wales. Representing the extremely grateful and thankful to our
electrification platform focusing on low dealership at the ceremony were loyal and dedicated staff for their
graduate
horsepower tractors. These will be directors Arwel and Georgina Evans work ethic to pull together as one
developed across multiple product – who were also named as one of the team. It has ensured the company’s
families in the coming years. The top three dealers in sales and success and is helping us go from
manufacturer adds that the process will aftersales. strength to strength.
continuously gather farmers’ input to Following the award, Georgina “We would also like to show our
ensure developments are aligned to said: “In the two years of being appreciation and thanks to our
customer needs. Krone representatives we have customers – our most important Achievements recognised at special John Deere event
This agreement also furthers CNH strived to drive their quality and people - as without their valued
Industrial’s commitment to value, and supplied a varied and support we wouldn’t be enjoying The latest group of talented young Apple iPads as their prize by John was then. To see these fantastic
decarbonising agriculture through vast array of grassland machinery this success.” service technicians and parts Deere apprentice centre manager, individuals graduating from their
alternative propulsion systems. personnel have successfully graduated James Haslam. courses and taking the next big step in
CNH says this mutually beneficial from John Deere’s Ag Tech, Turf Tech Farol saw its Ag/Turf Tech their careers is incredibly rewarding.
partnership will enable them to enhance and Parts Tech advanced apprentices Ciahran Quick from the “Helping to give these young
their internal electrification capabilities apprenticeship programmes. company’s Shefford Woodlands people their first step on the career
and develop new electrified platforms The 38-strong cohort passed the dealership in Berkshire, and Henry ladder builds a strong foundation for
faster. In turn, they say Monarch Tractor national scheme – provided by Atkins from Midhurst in West Sussex, their future success, and John Deere
will be able to harness the benefits of ProVQ – and their achievements have pick up the runner-up prizes of a places great importance on supporting
CNH Industrial’s sector expertise in been recognised at a special event certificate and high street vouchers them to reach their full potential.
product, brand, distribution, and supply held for them at the Crowne Plaza in worth £250. “We aim to nurture and mould these
chain strength. Nottingham. John Deere branch training manager enthusiastic apprentices who have the
Scott Wine, chief executive officer of John Deere dealer Ben Burgess Allan Cochran said, “Our apprenticeship skills and desire to work in our
CNH Industrial, said, “We are confident saw success for two of its staff, with programme has been running for business and across the industry.”
that the new pathways provided by James Skipper from Beeston in nearly three decades, and was created The next intake is already being
Monarch will rapidly strengthen our Norfolk winning the Ag/Turf Tech because we saw the trend of fewer enrolled with 61 Ag Tech and Turf
competitive position in sustainable Apprentice of the Year for 2021, while people coming into the industry. We Tech technicians so far signed up for
precision farming. Their talented team, Madeleine Green from the company’s needed to take steps to ensure that their three-year course, in addition to
exceptional engineering acumen and Oakham site in Rutland won the Parts there was new talent to fill our six Parts Tech apprentices who study
Silicon Valley R&D ecosystem will Tech award. business and dealer network. for two years.
greatly enhance our digital capabilities.” Arwel and Georgina Evans (centre) with their Dealer Of The Year award presented by Krone UK
Both were presented with new “That work is as relevant today as it
10 SERVICE DEALER SERVICE DEALER 11
NEWS
INDUSTRY
Ransomes announces
large brand investment
Sets out vision for ’22 and beyond
The manufacturer says its digital network that has sold our products in
investment comes through a new web some cases for half a century or more.
presence, whilst on the turf, they say “Getting that message out is
the target of electric lithium- powered important, but listening is even
commercial mowing has been set for more important. We spent the last
launch in 2022. year engaging with consumers,
Ransomes marketing manager, dealer customers and colleagues to
Adam Underwood, said, “We want understand what Ransomes means to the environment, good for everybody
people to be confident when they them and what great will look like for the and most importantly, gets the work
are sat on a Ransomes mower that next five and ten years for the brand.” done, into our Ransomes products.
they are sitting on the benchmark for Throughout early 2021 Textron “We’re also celebrating the fact
commercial and municipal mowing. focused all mower manufacturing that all of our products are Stage
It’s very important for people to on Ipswich. Ransomes say this year V compliant. We feel those clean,
understand the value of incredibly provided the opportunity for 15 green engines are worth shouting
specialist machinery, and we certainly million test hours of lithium battery about and are important as we
are that. So, the Any Less Costs More technology to be integrated into their look forward to launching electric
campaign is really about the lifetime commercial mower range. lithium technology and implementing
value of our products and how it pays “We’re excited about developing it safely into the municipal and
to invest in us. new technologies, and Ransomes will commercial market in 2022.
“You know exactly where your borrow a lot of the expertise from other “You’ll see at our shows, events
products are coming from, and brands within Textron,” Adam explains. and launches throughout 2022 that
you also know that you’re going to “As a result, we will be able to safely we are going to be expanding our Photograph: Cobra MX51S80V. Which? ‘Best Buy’ May 2021.
get superior support from a dealer put technology that will be good for range into electric lithium technology.”
cobragarden.co.uk
Why Not Become a Cobra Dealer in 2021?
INDUSTRY
Timberwolf bought by Alamo With over 150 products in the Cobra range including the largest range of lawnmowers in the UK, Cobra
is fast becoming a market leading brand in garden machinery. Contact us today to join the growing
New American owners for chipper maker number of Cobra Dealers across the U.K. For information on becoming a Cobra Dealer contact
Andy Marvin: 07771 581 296 or call: 0115 986 6646 today.
(which includes forestry and tree care Alamo Group, they will be able to further
operations). strengthen their brand and market - Increase your business and bottom line profits.
“The completion of the sale provides position by strengthening product - Exclusive special offers on selected products.
enormous opportunity for the business,” innovation to meet future opportunities. - Extensive local & national Cobra marketing support. Expertly Powered By
- An evolving range of over 150 gardening products.
Timberwolf TW 230DHB said Timberwolf managing director,
Chris Perry. “Joining such a prestigious
Jeff Leonard, Alamo Group’s
president and chief executive officer, - No unreasonable Cobra stocking commitment.
COBRA
Timberwolf has been acquired by organisation will allow Timberwolf commented, “Timberwolf builds upon,
the Alamo Group. to accelerate many of the strategic and compliments, our existing range Cordless Mowers Petrol Mowers Blower
Blower Vacs
Vacs Brushcutters Cultivators
Based at Seguin, Texas, the Alamo projects we have already identified. of tree care products and strengthens
From Just £136.02* From Just £111.55* From Just £90.69* From Just £84.93* From Just £109.86*
Group owns many brands in the Alamo Group have a clear approach to our presence in the U.K. and European
agricultural equipment and forestry sustainability, which aligns to our own forestry and tree care markets.
sector. Timberwolf’s position as existing business values so we’re very “We are pleased that Timberwolf’s
a designer and manufacturer of excited about the opportunities that this management team will remain with
woodchippers makes this acquisition acquisition will bring.” the company and we look forward to
a fit for Alamo Group’s newly formed Timberwolf says they now expect, working closely with them to drive the
Vegetation Management Division as a wholly owned business within the company’s future growth.”
12 SERVICE DEALER *Stocking Dealer Price ex VAT
Cobra reserves the right to change models, specifications & prices without prior notice. E & OE. *Warranty period based on domestic use.
CONFERENCE & AWARDS ‘21
Best new
initiative
Conference & Awards ‘21 Sponsored by AGCO
Presenting Award: Jason Webb,
by Steve Gibbs Parts Sales Manager
Winner:
Service Dealer
Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd
Doe Show With A Difference,
19 branches across south-east
England
Award winners
Ernest Doe were forced to change The Ernest Doe team, comprising of Neal Heather, Joe Matthews, Graham Parker, Hayley Hill, Andy
up a long-established in-person Turbin and Ken Smyth with Jason Webb plus Service Dealer owner Duncan Murray-Clarke (r) and
event to fit in with the circumstances comedian host, Charlie Baker (l)
at the start of 2021. A brand-new
honoured
online home for the 61st Doe
Show With A Difference had to be team became part of the endeavour,
designed, built and populated in just with each business sector – ag, Finalists:
ten weeks. groundcare, construction & parts – all Lister Wilder
Quantifiably successful in terms presenting their own introductions Barrow Valley Spares
of sales, the dealership’s whole and product videos. Hayes Machinery
Accolades reflecting the past two years, presented at ceremony following on
from 2021’s Service Dealer Conference
F
Extra mile
award
ollowing the Service Dealer The awards categories were judged
Conference, the winners of by an expert panel, who carefully
2021’s very special Service considered nominations that, as ever,
Dealer Awards were revealed were submitted by dealer principals,
Sponsored by Toro UK
at a glittering awards dealership staff and supplying
ceremony held at the Double Tree by manufacturers. Dealerships large or
Presenting Award: Craig Hoare,
Hilton Oxford Belfry. small, multi-branch or single premises Sales and Marketing Manager
Hosted once again by comedian were able to enter, and all entries
and actor Charlie Baker, the Awards, judged on their own merits. Winner:
organised by the team behind Service Steve Gibbs, editor of Service Dealer Sam Turner & Sons
Dealer magazine, were in their 17th magazine, said, “Through close contact Northallerton, North Yorkshire
edition and recognised the achievements with our readership, we know only too
of independent dealers in the garden well the ingenuity, resourcefulness and During lockdown, Sam Turner & Sons
machinery, professional turfcare determination of the dealer network took the difficult decision to close
machinery, farm machinery, forestry during a normal year. Faced with the their store to regular customers to
equipment and ATV/quad industry. pressures and complexities of the focus purely on keeping their farming
Rather than focusing on sales and pandemic though, that resolve was and professional customers going –
service excellence this year, to best pushed to the limits. Through our ensuring these essential workers were
reflect the extraordinary circumstances awards judging process we have heard supported. They massively increased
that dealers have coped with during remarkable stories of businesses and their local deliveries, with staff even Keith Norman and Charlie Turner with Craig Hoare plus Service Dealer owner Duncan Murray-Clarke
these past two years, the 2021 award individuals going above and beyond to using their own transport to serve locals (r) and comedian host, Charlie Baker (l)
categories were modified to reflect not simply stay afloat, but to flourish - all they knew couldn’t leave their homes.
the hard work of dealerships and their the time making sure their customers For the entire team this meant taking
employees during this time - both of farmers, turf professionals and on extra duties and longer hours. On Finalists:
within their businesses but also in their homeowners could rely on them when top of this they also ran a PPE campaign Buxtons
Comedian and host - Charlie Baker
communities. they needed their support most.” for a local maternity unit. Alton Garden Machinery
14 SERVICE DEALER SERVICE DEALER 15
CONFERENCE & AWARDS ‘21
Leadership award Most creative OUTPOWERS PETROL
Sponsored by Kubota UK
Presenting Award: David Hart, Managing Director
communications
Sponsored by Husqvarna UK
POWERED BLOWERS. CREATING A CLEANER,
QUIETER, SAFER FUTURE
Presenting Award: Jonathan Snowball,
UK Business Development Manager
56V
1568Wh
1014m /h
AIR VOLUME
3
Chris Gibson with
David Hart
Winner: Chris Gibson James Hayes with Jonathan
GGM Groundscare, Colne, Lancashire Snowball plus Service Dealer owner AI R SP E E D: 21 2k m /h
Duncan Murray-Clarke
When the pandemic hit, Chris’s priority was ensuring the
safety of his staff. He acknowledged that normal working
methods needed to quickly adapt, and he never shied away Winner: Hayes Machinery
from making difficult decisions in everyone’s best interest. South Moulton, Devon
Not only have there been no jobs lost, GGM are now a
Hayes Machinery have embraced the use of YouTube as
bigger team than before and have achieved business growth
a primary dealership marketing tool like no one else. They
during the past two years.
have the views and the stats to prove that their creativity has
VIBRATION
On top of this, Chris has found time to spearhead
found mass audience appeal. 1.67m/s 2
environmental policies at the dealership, maintain charity
Their videos are varied, full of personality and have a FO R C E : 1 9.2N
fundraising and share his knowledge with the wider industry,
NOISE
uniqueness that keeps viewers and customers coming back LpA 80dB(A)
contributing to the Dealer Digital Toolkit, writing Service
for more. Their investment of time, money and effort in their
Dealer’s Diary of A Season, joining industry panel calls and LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 BOOST
channel is paying off.
speaking on sector podcasts. 350mins 210mins 140mins 100mins 70mins
Finalists: Finalists:
Jonathan Ireland, Ireland’s Farm Machinery Peacock & Binnington,
Chris Wood, Mowpower / Mowtastic B&B Tractors Times have changed. So have tools. And our new Professional-X range is all the proof you need.
Take the EGO Power+ blower. It’s powered by the most technologically advanced, petrol-matching,
Lithium-ion battery system out there. It’s built tough to withstand all-day use in any weather.
Apprentice of the year
Its impressive airflow beats every other handheld blower on the market, and while it packs all the
power of petrol, it’s significantly quieter, vibrates less and gives off zero emissions.
Industry-leading professional warranties*
Sponsored by Kramp UK
Presenting Award: Neil Benbow, UK Field Sales Manager
3 YEAR 3 YEAR THE NEW EGO 56V PROFESSIONAL-X RANGE.
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Winner: Iwan Ellis Hughes Bros, Oswestry #powerreimagined
Iwan Ellis with
Iwan Ellis received a ringing endorsement well on his way to becoming a qualified Neil Benbow
from the team at Hughes Bros, who are agricultural engineer.
thoroughly impressed with the speed of Iwan embraces the ever-evolving
his improvement, now describing him future of agricultural technologies and Finalists:
as an integral member of their service has gained a good understanding of Robbie Gray,
team. Currently in his third year of the the telematics systems seen in new Hamilton Ross Group
Kubota UK Apprentice scheme, he is machinery. egopowerplus.co.uk
Harry Peck, Crawfords challenge2025.eu PROFESSIONAL
16 SERVICE DEALER
*See website for full terms & conditions egopowerplus.co.uk/terms-conditions
SERVICE DEALER 17
CONFERENCE & AWARDS ‘21 CONFERENCE & AWARDS ‘21
Star of the dealership Outstanding contribution awards
Sponsored by Ibcos/Catalyst Sponsored by Service Dealer
Presenting Award: James Buchanan, Sales Director Presenting Awards: Duncan Murray-Clarke, Service Dealer owner & Pete McArthur,
Strathbogie Forest & Garden (via video link)
Winner: Kelly Burges Buxtons, Teddesley, Staffordshire
Kelly Burgess has not only excelled Covid-19, created and donated 100s
in her existing role as key accounts of care packages for the homeless, Kelly Burgess with
manager, but also helped others inside as well as supporting countless other James Buchanan
and outside Buxtons. charities.
Trying her hand at shopfitting, project Kelly’s employers say she has
management, and graphic design to always shown selflessness and drive, Finalists:
help take stress off other members but during the pandemic she’s truly Diane Cowell,
of staff, she has also personally demonstrated how far she will go to GGM Groundscare
volunteered to help mistreated animals, help others, no matter the cost.
assist people self-isolating with
Hannah Kelsey,
R W Crawfords
Robin Lennie with
Overall dealer of the year
Service Dealer owner
Duncan Murray-Clarke
Sponsored by Kramp UK Winner: Robin Lennie Winner: Kevin Ashmore
Presenting Award: Neil Benbow, Retired STIHL UK Retired Husqvarna UK
UK Field Sales Manager Robin Lennie joined STIHL GB in 1990 as finance director Kevin Ashmore can claim 38 years working in our
and company secretary, being promoted to managing industry. After school he studied at Nottingham College
Winner: director in 2008. Having studied accountancy, law & of Agriculture and Rycotewood College of Engineering,
Hayes Machinery economics at The University of Glasgow, Robin qualified before moving into the dealer sector. He worked at
South Moulton, Devon as a chartered accountant in 1978 and as an IOD Beeley Grass Machinery in Mansfield for several years
chartered director in 2006. before joining Husqvarna as an Area Business manager
Hayes Machinery have got Robin left the company at the start of 2021 in rude in 1995.
themselves noticed these past financial health. During his tenure as managing director, Staying with the Newton Aycliffe-based manufacturer
two years. Following the bold the company increased turnover from £57m in 2008 to for a total of 26 years, he was first promoted to Regional
step of closing one branch to fully over £109m in 2019. Sales Manager for the North before becoming UK
concentrate on their South Moulton Very much a people person, Robin attributes this success Sales Manager in 2009, managing the whole UK sales
HQ, the company has gone from to the teamwork he enjoyed with his Camberley colleagues organisation.
strength to strength. Raising their – and of course to the STIHL Approved Dealers who he In 2013 Kevin moved across to take on the challenge
profile via countless well-viewed holds dear to his heart. of UK Commercial Landscape & Groundcare Manager
YouTube videos, live launches, Memorable moments for Robin include in 2016, ten years until his retirement. During Kevin’s time in this role, he
Dealer Toolkit appearances and after taking over the reigns as MD, sales hitting the magic was involved with the launch of many new ventures for
magazine covers, Hayes have £100m for the first time on the last working day of the year. Husqvarna, including
evolved the dealership to meet the And in October 2018 the celebrations around STIHL Great Automower robotics,
changing needs and habits of their Britain’s 40th anniversary in Liverpool. A special event where Autotune chainsaws,
consumers. Robin was delighted to welcome most of their dealers, the Battery products and
Driven by James Hayes, dynamic STIHL Board and also Dr Nikolas STIHL to a conference, Fleet Services.
leadership, the team has embraced dinner and awards ceremony. A popular member
new products and technologies Recent circumstances dictated that Robin’s retirement of the team, and held
– recently diversifying into new didn’t go exactly as planned. He had intended to spend in real affection by all
machinery sectors. his last year travelling the country, visiting many of his loyal, his dealers, Service
experienced dealers with whom he has developed a strong, Dealer thanks Kevin
trusting relationship over the years. Service Dealer hopes for his contribution to Kevin Ashmore was unable to attend,
James Hayes with Neil Benbow this award goes some way to expressing the high regard the the industry. pictured: Jonathan Snowball accepted
the award on his behalf
industry holds him in.
18 SERVICE DEALER SERVICE DEALER 19SERVICE DEALER CONFERENCE
world: What does the future look like for your business?’, bring more meaning and purpose to the heart of employee
pointed out that, just like coronavirus, many issues that may care.
affect ag, turf and outdoor power dealer businesses are “Stratification of jobs isn’t helping here, with fewer
unpredictable and difficult to prepare for opportunities to progress, particularly as industries change.
Service Dealer Conference ‘21
“On average, a new infectious disease emerges in As an example, an Uber driver is unlikely to become an
humans every four months, but while the world can Uber computer coder. These issues go some way to explain
manage issues like coronavirus with self-isolation and why the job quit rate is at an all-time high, and why the cost
inoculation, solutions to issues like population growth of recruitment is 122% of an average annual salary.
by Martin Rickatson
and climate change are much more complex – not one “We can’t predict how the move to working from home
thing, but potentially an era. Diversion of investment, plus where possible may pan out, but the pandemic has jolted
innovation and fair treatment will be needed to challenge us into the awareness that, while it may not work for
these. Industries and businesses must recognise the need things like mechanically fixing machines, different models
Smart
#ServiceDealer19 for environmental efficiency and real corporate social of working are possible in many cases. The power of
working
A 60ft tree was installed for climbing demos
After coronavirus caused its cancellation in 2020,
the easing of restrictions coupled with careful
respect for covid protocols meant the Service
Dealer conference returned to the calendar in
November. With the virus having changed much
of how businesses operate, the ‘Smart Working’ Ed Gillespie presenting
on stage ‘Smart working
Service Dealer owner Duncan Murray-Clarke theme underpinned some fascinating talks and in a changing world
opens the 2021 Conference
seminars, reports MARTIN RICKATSON
F
responsibility, and how it can benefit the bottom line, technology has enabled us to find new ways of working,
rom external parts back in November, and underpinned normal. And in the trade publishing perhaps by working together more in these areas. both independently and together.
collection points to one- its subtitle, ‘Smart Working’. Duncan industry we set out to bring together “Some suggest the driver is not population growth as “In a similar vein, people are losing interest in formerly
way showrooms to Zoom Murray-Clarke, owner of Service ideas and approaches, co-ordinating such, but the consumption rise this causes, especially as trusted institutions to provide reassurance with things like
meetings, the farm, turf, Dealer and its publisher, The Ad Plain, dealer group calls to share ideas, and living standards continue to rise. The poorest 50% of the product testing, and turning to the opinions of others via
outdoor power and garden opened proceedings by welcoming launching two digital toolkits to help global population are thought to be responsible for only 10% things like online review sites and putting more faith in the
machinery trades have adapted to attendees and the conference handle industry changes, with a third of CO2 emissions. And doing more online is not necessarily opinions that others have of goods.”
whole new ways of working over sponsors, including Kramp, Ibcos and imminent.” the answer – the online world requires vast amounts of
the past two years. But whether Catalyst, AGCO, Husqvarna, Kubota, energy, and could represent 20% of global electricity The power of tech – and of people, too
it’s an online sales conference Toro and Hayter, BAGMA and PSD What does the future look consumption by 2030.
Many bosses believe their businesses will not survive in
rather than a get-together of multi- Groundscare. like for your business? “A lot of businesses talk about sustainability, but this
their current forms if they do not adapt to the rapid pace of
branch sales staff, or a novel way “The changes the pandemic brought is only really a sticking plaster along the road to the real
But challenges will, of course, always digitalisation, Ed suggested.
of communicating to customers were soon accepted and adapted to future of regenerative business. Choices we make now can
be a part of the dealership trade, “Digitalisation and data science provides the power to
who have moved to getting more of by the dealer network, with some often affect seven generations older and younger than us, and
just as they are of life generally. challenge old established habits, through the speed of the
their information online during the unique practical problem solving,” businesses need to recognise this when making decisions.
Foreseeing them is far from simple, analysis they enable, allowing decisions to be made faster,
pandemic, the benefits provided by pointed out Duncan. “This is why employee engagement is so important.
explained the first speaker of the among other benefits. But digital transformation can also
new methods of smart working mean “People focused more on homes Studies show 80% of employees are not engaged – or are
day, Ed Gillespie, a ‘future analyst’ fail if goals are unclear, expertise is lacking, there is internal
they look like they’re set to stay. and gardens, and while it took some actively disengaged – at work. They’re not interested in
who specialises in researching and resistance, the focus is solely on the technology, and if the
It was this that set the scene for time for the turfcare sector to re- what they are doing. Businesses need to address that. Many
advising on trends. His presentation, old pre-digital culture is retained. According to the journal
the 2021 Service Dealer conference open, agriculture carried on almost as organisations talk about mental health, but perhaps need to
titled ‘Smart working in a changing Psychology Today, it takes an average 66 days for a new
20 SERVICE DEALER SERVICE DEALER 21SERVICE DEALER CONFERENCE
behaviour to become a habit. That’s of companies: the brave and the dead.” communication. People now complain
what’s required to change behaviours. and fix things by going onto social
The barrier is often the heart and the Make your social media media. People don’t trust social media,
mindset. The coronavirus pandemic, mean something but you have to consistently show
though, has forced businesses to ‘How to have social media success up to change that. Ultimately they
quickly adapt to multiple changes. and use it to find your next customer’ want engagement and interaction,
“At the same time, it has brought summarised the break-out session as people want to buy from people.
about consumer changes too. talk of social media expert Teresa Spend as much time on engagement
With more working from home, the Heath-Wareing, who opened by as on posting – for example, asking
pandemic could well change the role suggesting that, although social media questions that invite replies. Multiple
of men in the family, for example, with is computer/smartphone based in its responses will maintain a post’s profile.
associated consequences for things delivery, the essence of how it’s used “Video has a big role to play. It
like buying decisions. “ to say and do things is about building needn’t be long or overly professional.
But returning to his point about relationships. Try something different. You need to
engagement with employees and “Social media has moved on from have the courage to stand-out. Don’t
customers, Ed suggested technology ‘this is who we are, what we offer, buy fear looking like an idiot.
will not be the answer to all of from us, goodbye’,” she suggested. “From a business product point of
tomorrow’s problems. “It’s moved beyond gathering view, such as a dealership, a similar
“Take electric cars. While they ‘likes’ to become much more about approach might be to say, ‘What
may play a part in problems do potential
“You don’t need to be on
reducing our impact customers have that
on the environment, we can fix?’ And by
2021
they won’t alter
issues such as road
every platform. Analyse who that I don’t just mean
the obvious machine
congestion. You’re
never ‘stuck in’ traffic
your target audience is, and issues, but also other
things your customers
– you ‘are’ traffic. plan accordingly.” may be struggling with.
“Beyond technology, “Be hard on
one of the big drivers of tomorrow will yourself and ask ‘who cares?’ about
be closer co-operation, an idea that, what you post. The day you plant the
ERNEST DOE & SONS SAM TURNER & SONS
when it comes to business, is much seed is not the day you pick the fruit, BEST NEW INITIATIVE EXTRA MILE AWARD
older than the competition principle and what you put up in any one post
that underlies conventional capitalism. should be part of a plan to take your
By encouraging employees and relationship with existing and potential
others involved to take an interest customers to where you want it to be.” CHRIS GIBSON, KELLY BURGESS
and involvement in a business’s Achieving good customer interaction GGM GROUNDSCARE BUXTONS
management, companies have with your social media is one thing, but LEADERSHIP AWARD STAR OF THE DEALERSHIP
much greater potential – studies the media platforms themselves will
show businesses who engage their also give your posts more prominence
employees this way grow on average if their algorithms show they are getting
28 times faster than others. To do this good engagement, pointed out Teresa.
Social media expert Teresa Heath-Wareing
requires bravery, but there are two kinds “Algorithms work by identifying Toro U.K. Limited - Proud to work with award winning dealers.
Over the past 75 years, we at Toro U.K. Limited (formally Hayter Limited) have had the honour
to work with our award-winning Dealers for many generations.
Through an expanding network of Dealers, we proudly offer a wide range of products
across our two growing brands, Hayter® and Toro®. Together, these brands are trusted by
golf courses, landscape and construction professionals, groundskeepers, councils and
homewowners - in addition to many sports venues and historic sites around the world, such
as the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
If you’re interesting in partnering with us at Toro U.K. Limited then please email
sales.uk@toro.com
Full house - Teresa Heath-Wareing’s workshop
22 SERVICE DEALERSERVICE DEALER CONFERENCE SERVICE DEALER CONFERENCE
a post that worked really well, and “This has been the background to our set to potentially overhaul the machinery analysis and per-plant action is already every plant in the field – crop and
then heightening the profile of other Small Robot machine development. It’s market in the long term. Pointing to data possible, and is more cost-effective as non-crop. We already have Toms
following posts because of that. What wasteful and expensive to target whole which suggests 85% of UK farms are it strips out waste. on three farms in Hants generating
you need to do for a post to work well fields, so we’ve focused on per-plant not profitable without support, and that “Our Tom robot weighs just 200kg, per-plant data, and currently put this
is educate, entertain and make an offer. application, and on also giving farmers there has been a 150% increase in farm with an impact of a third of a human foot. into spot-spray maps. On one estate
When you post, in essence you’re not the confidence to not take action where costs over the past 20 years, plus an It’s electrically powered, and its biggest it’s helped reduce herbicide use by
up against another dealer, but the next it’s not required. 84% increase in resistant weeds and energy consumer is its processing 60%. A Tom can easily fit into a Transit
thing on social media, the next thing “We know technology is useless unless £1bn lost earnings from soil compaction, power. Our second robot, Dick, takes van, and can operate up to the critical
the viewer can do with their time. That’s it can be put in the hands of people who he suggests that per-plant farming will the info that Tom has provided and acts growth stage 31 in cereals.
what gets engagement. need it, and they are supported in its use. be dominant in the next two decades. on it via technologies such as electrical “We are ready with this technology
“To educate, you need to display your It’s not the machine that matters in itself – “Autonomous fieldwork using a destruction of weeds. By gathering data – we simply need to determine how to
content – blogs, videos, podcasts, other it’s the customer happiness.” robot-powered system of per-plant on a two-weekly basis, we determine support it on a wide scale.”
people’s content, tips, stats and facts, The firm already has its robots, Tom,
awards, accolades and FAQs. Try and be Dick and Harry, which are programmed
unbiased. To entertain, create content to identify and later treat field issue
that’s perhaps humorous, but also social Ben Scott-Robinson, the Small Robot Company areas, at work on UK farms. As it
(as in events and happenings), seasonal, expands, it is seeking to identify how it
“Twitter content is easier to create,
personal – talking about your team – will sell, service and support these on a
being shorter, and it’s very interactive
and share your story, offering a glimpse full commercial basis.
– as with Instagram you can talk to
behind the scenes. Dealers in the audience suggested
anyone on the platform. It’s also easy
“Only then make the offer. Focus the firm would need to break down
to share, with strong use of hashtags.
on USPs, products and services, barriers, such as suspicion of driverless
But again there are lots of fake/spam
competitions, sales and offers, lead technology, and the issue of what key
accounts, plus a character limit, and it’s
magnets, newsletter sign-ups, new franchise manufacturers may think and
very fast-moving.”
products. Remember that you don’t whether they would perceive robot sales
“Pinterest is more of an image-led
own the social media platform you’re as a threat, plus questions over parts,
search engine, and is perfect for driving
using, and can easily go against their service and support. One suggested
website traffic. It’s easy to find things, and
rules if not careful, for example, with dealers would need as many touch
posts have a very long lifespan. You don’t
some competitions, so ensure you also points as possible in order to make a
have to do much engagement, if any.
gather email addresses to avoid losing profit from supporting such machines,
the chance to gather contacts. And while another suggested that alternative The Conference discussion panel on stage (L) Duncan Murray-Clarke, Geoff Thompson, Teresa Heath-Wareing, Graham Parker and Ed Gillespie
don’t be afraid to tell people what you
New technology will sales and support methods may be
want them to do, such as ‘head to our
empower and not replace necessary, particularly as residual
website and grab one today’.” you – dealers’ place in the values have yet to be established. It was Where do we go now? but also isolation and motivation, and looking for lawn equipment service.”
some prefer the office. We now have a He echoed Graham Parker’s
Teresa also gave a ‘social media robot revolution suggested that a ‘power by the hour’ The day’s concluding panel discussion broader approach to people’s situations comments that some staff who could
masterclass’, in which she urged Ben Scott-Robinson, business partner of rental agreement may be preferable, saw the conference speakers joined by and are more sympathetic. If the job work from home wanted to return to
audience members not to spread their Sam Watson-Jones at the autonomous particularly as farmers generally do not a couple of additional contributors from gets done it doesn’t matter where the office.
marketing efforts too thinly. start-up the Small Robot Company, want to worry about service issues, the audience. To kick off, Ed Gillespie people are. But physical premises will “It’s important to listen to staff and
“You don’t need to be on every was the second break-out session instead usually sourcing full warranties asked what those present had learned always be important in this business – work with them. And we shouldn’t forget
platform. Analyse who your target speaker, and began by suggesting that for the lifespan of a machine. Another from the new ways of working they had we’ve recently opened a new branch. how much can be done face-to-face
audience is, and plan accordingly. agriculture may be coming to the point audience member pointed out that adapted to over the past two years, and “The pandemic has driven us to – email, for example, can be used too
Facebook is the largest platform, but is many other sectors already have, where lighter and more agile machines were how much of what had changed was become better with technology than much, and sometimes a call or meeting
all about communication, community, chasing economies of scale has begun likely to result in less service and parts likely to stay that way, or be part of a perhaps we were. But being a large may be preferable. But longer-term it
engagement, interaction. ‘Here’s my to result in diminishing returns. revenue – not a problem for the farmer, new hybrid way of working. business meant we had marketing will be interesting to see what changes
product’ posts don’t work very well. It’s “Developments in computing but perhaps difficult to base a service “We now run sales meetings more people in place to help.” might affect issues such as rates for
great for community and groups, but has power and digital tech are completely model and profitable service income regularly on line, holding more of them, Geoff Thompson, part of the sales those working from home.”
a low organic reach. And only about 1-3% changing the structure of how many around. Revenue from sales/leasing/hire but with the result they are shorter, team at Oxon John Deere dealer Geoff and Graham also agreed that,
of the people who follow your page read industries work,” he pointed out. would have to be higher to replace this, faster and more effective – and, of Farol, suggested that having a supplier with people being creatures of habit,
your stuff. Shares and comments are “The gains made from achieving it was suggested. course, cheaper,” explained Graham already very progressive in remote there is a danger some businesses may
what you need – likes aren’t worth much. greater yields via more inputs and Parker, sales director at Ernest Doe. working and remote customer support revert to old habits post-pandemic and
“Instagram is owned by Facebook, and “But I think meeting personally
is all about images, and therefore good
machinery all but ceased around the The fourth agricultural had helped his firm’s business. slip away from the best of the changed
year 2000, and more recently there’s remains important, and we’ll probably practices that have been adopted.
for product businesses. But you cannot been a gradual decline. This is coupled
revolution – sooner than work on a 4:1 ratio of on:offline
“But initiatives of our own, such
as an established online shop, also Ed also raised the issue of some
share others’ posts and there are lots of with a support transition towards you think meetings. Care is needed, though, with organisations’ distrust of employee
helped – sales via that went through
fake/spam accounts, and people can buy more environmentally sustainable and Ben Scott-Robinson also gave a later the working from home idea – it’s not the roof when the pandemic struck, autonomy. All in all, there was plenty of
fake followings and engagements. regenerative farming methods. talk on the robotic revolution that looks just about trust to get the job done, as did sales of service kits to people food for thought.
24 SERVICE DEALER SERVICE DEALER 25You can also read
