A lot can happen in six years as BAGMA discovers in discussion with Andrew Walker, Dealer Principal at B&B Tractors, with new franchises and a new depot making the dealership bigger and better than ever.
In the March/April edition of the BAGMA Bulletin, an impressive line-up of 10 New Holland T6 tractors was attributed to an incorrect supporting dealer. The fleet for Forth Ports Scotland was indeed supplied by the team at Bryson Tractors. Apologies for any confusion or inconvenience caused.
NEXT CULVERDOCS WEBINAR
Join us for an hour of informative discussion, delving into BAGMA’s ‘Paperless Solution’ with Culverdocs. The next webinar will take place on 10:30 and 11:30am. You can reserve your space by visiting the events section of the BAGMA website – with access instructions provided nearer to the time.
Industry experts take part in BBC Radio show ‘Dough’
BAGMA’s General Manager
Nick Darking joined fellow industry experts Craig Hoare, Sales & Marketing Manager for Toro UK and Yvette Henshall-Bell, President of Husqvarna’s European Business Unit for an episode of the BBC Radio 4 programme ‘Dough’discussing lawnmowers.
Tom Cheesewright, a technology expert and applied futurist, then offers his predictions on what might be coming beyond the current production pipeline.
Covering everything from lawn stripes to robotics, Nick, Craig and Yvette helped the presenters to better understand the often misunderstood world of lawnmowers, while giving some expert insight into the future.
The episode is available to stream on BBC Sounds at: www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/ play/m002909c
HAPPY RETIREMENT PAT!
Broadcast on Thursday 20th March on the ‘Dough’ series on BBC Radio 4 which looks at the business behind profitable, everyday products and considers how they might evolve in the years to come. In each episode, entrepreneur Sam White seeks to find out how these products manage to make a profit and what game-changing - and pointlessinnovations they have seen in their time.
Hamilton Ross Group recently celebrated the retirement of Pat Turner after an outstanding 50 years of service. Pat started at Ross of Lanark in 1975 and was a pivotal part of the team, well liked and appreciated by all of those who worked alongside him over the years. From everyone at Hamilton Ross Group, and all at BAGMA, we wish Pat a very Happy Retirement!
Kew Grasscare joins BAGMA
Established over 20 years ago, familyrun Kew Grasscare are the latest in a long list of companies to discover the benefits of BAGMA membership.
With customer needs the utmost priority, the team of five that make up Kew Grasscare are committed to providing and delivering an exceptional service and a second-to-none finished product for every customer.
Based in Kings Lynn, Norfolk, and operating throughout East Anglia, Kew Grasscare deliver the full range of garden services from fencing, laying patios, decking, grass cutting, tree felling, spraying and much more. Their outstanding customer service means a high percentage of their work is return business from large commercial clients, schools and councils down to small domestic gardens. They also have a showroom for the sale of new and used garden machinery and workshop for the service and repair of lawnmowers, chainsaws and hedge cutters to name but a few.
“We’ve been looking to join BAGMA for a couple of years now but for one reason or another just hadn’t got around to it” explains Groundcare Sales, Service & Repairs Manager Ashley Kew. “I spoke to the BAGMA team at SALTEX 2024 and could then see all of the benefits membership offers including training and exclusive offers from Service Providers. Access to this is a big help to a small family business like ours and we look forward to making the most of all the help and services available.”
p Pictured left to right - Tom Cheesewright (BBC), Sam White (BBC), Yvette Henshall-Bell (Husqvarna) and Craig Hoare (Toro UK).
Trackplot provides peace of mind for lone workers
Outdoor workers are particularly vulnerable to environmental risks including difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions. They are also more likely to undertake high risk tasks such as operating heavy machinery, working with livestock, wild animals or by water.
Tragically, the Health & Safety Executive’s latest statistics show that outdoor industries have the highest fatality rates and highlights the work still to be done to prevent workplace accidents.
Fatalities (2023/2024):
n 138 workers were killed in workrelated accidents
n 36% of fatal injuries were sustained by self-employed people even though they only made up 15% of the workforce
n In the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector there were 23 fatalities and 65% were to selfemployed workers which is higher than any other industry
n 87 members of the public were also killed in work-related accidents
Furthermore, in agriculture, forestry and fishing, an estimated 8,000 workers reported sustaining a non-fatal workplace injury (average 2019-2024). This rate is statistically significantly higher than that for workers across all industries (1.7%).
The total cost of injury and work-related ill health in the sector is £21.5 billion. This includes both financial (in terms of lost output and healthcare costs) and nonfinancial (the monetary valuation of the human cost of injury and illness in terms of loss of quality of life and, for fatalities, loss of life).
Lone workers are exposed to significant risk simply because they are working unsupervised and without colleagues.
If a lone worker does have an accident of any severity, this could potentially be compounded by them being alone.
Trackplot was established in 2009 to protect agricultural lone workers. The system was developed in response to a tragic accident in the Scottish Borders where a young farm worker suffered a broken leg, alone, and later died from the effects of hypothermia.
Trackplot enables workers to keep in touch wherever they are to prevent fatalities happening. Trackplot’s complete lone worker monitoring service offers satellite and mobile network-based options depending on your location. The Trackplot Portal, our interactive online platform, uses Ordnance Survey mapping, real-time weather warnings and environmental data to help users anticipate risks and prevent problems. It also features a flexible notification system to provide managers with automatic alerts and an SOS Alarm Receiving Centre to handle emergency SOS alerts.
It does not need mobile phone reception to work, therefore providing a critical communication aid for workers and teams in locations with poor mobile connectivity.
As an employer, your duty of care means you must protect your employees, freelancers and others from getting hurt or ill through work. Considering all your different worker types is important. If you have a contractor working for you, then both you and the contractor will have duties under Health and Safety law. This also applies when a contractor employs subcontractors.
Looking after Health and Safety is a primary concern for everyone. Remember prevention and compliance is easier to manage than the consequences if you breach the law.
For more information on Trackplot, visit trackplot.com
by Emma Thomas Director of Trackplot
Sources: HSE reports ‘Work-related fatal injuries in Great Britain, 2024’ and ‘Agriculture, forestry and fishing statistics in Great Britain, 2024’.
Mental Health Awareness Week
Mental Health Awareness Week returns between the 12th and 18th May – an initiative designed to increase public understanding of mental health and how mental health problems can be prevented. After years of being ignored or not being spoken about, Mental Health Awareness Week makes sure that mental health remains at the centre of the public conversation.
BAGMA recognises that the current trading climate poses challenges and stress to those operating at all levels within a business.
Whether you’re a dealer principle or an apprentice taking your first steps in the industry, everyone faces pressures which can consequently take their toll on workplace wellbeing and mental health. If you need support, there are a number of helplines available, with dedicated advice and help for those working in the agricultural and groundcare community. Please do reach out to any of the following, or BAGMA, if you require assistance.
n RABI - the farmers charity rabi.org.uk 0800 188 4444 help@rabi.org.uk
n FCN - The Farming Community Network fcn.org.uk 03000 111 999 help@fcn.org.uk
n Are Ewe Okay - Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs sayfc.org 0131 333 2445 info@sayfc.org
n RSABI - Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution rsabi.org.uk 0808 1234 555 helpline@rsabi.org.uk
n The DPJ Foundation (Wales) thedpjfoundation.co.uk 0800 587 4262 Text line: 07860 048799
n Perennial – Helping People in Horticulture perennial.org.uk 0800 093 8543
n Ben - support for the UK automotive industry ben.org.uk 0808 1311 333 supportservices@ben.org.uk
n The Samaritans samaritans.org 116 123 jo@samaritans.org
Phil Helmn
The
Bernhard Academy
The power of kindness
We all know too well the high levels of stress in our everyday life. We appreciate how it can negatively affect everyone’s well-being and ultimately our performance. The benefits of being able to identify ‘stress signs’ and knowing what to do, to build resilience, can be immeasurable. Phil Helmn of The Bernhard Academy offers some insight and advice.
Defining stress isn’t easy. Professionals who’ve spent most of their lives studying stress still have trouble defining the condition. Indeed, it is much like trying to define happiness - everyone knows what it is, but no one can agree on a single definition!
Is all stress bad?
Historically, stress is usually discussed as a health risk. But not all stress is bad. In fact, there is a point in which stress can produce some of our best work. Sure, we have all experienced some form of ‘nerves’ before an important activity such as a presentation or meeting. We now understand that this is simply our bodies producing a little more adrenaline to help us cope, creating what is known as ‘optimal stress.’ ‘Good stress,’ or what psychologists refer to as ‘eustress’, is the type of stress we feel when we are excited. It is the point at which stress is intense enough to motivate and physically prepare us to perform optimally, yet not intense enough to cause the body harmful effects.
The biology bit
“...not all stress is bad. In fact, there is a point in which stress can produce some of our best work”
Whenever we feel stressed, our bodies produce two hormones - adrenaline and cortisol. When this happens, it is this chemical imbalance within our body which affects our physical and/or our mental state. Essentially, the problems arise when our stress responses, which are supposed to help alert us to danger and help us avoid harm, are not needed for the trigger we face. Adrenaline prepares our bodies to fight or flee, but what about when you’re faced with a problem that physically running away isn’t going to help? This physical action would not help us positively resolve a difficult committee meeting for example.
If you are mentally stressed, you might feel:
n Irritable, angry, impatient or wound up
n Racing thoughts and an inability to switch off
n Like you’ve lost your sense of humour
The hormones that our bodies produce to respond to stressful situations can have many physical effects. These effects might include:
n Sleep problems
n Muscle aches and headaches
n Chest pains and high blood pressure
Monitoring and measuring stress
Self-monitoring is the ability to see and evaluate your own emotions, thoughts and behaviours in different situations. Self-monitoring can help our career, our wellbeing and our relationships with colleagues and can help us enhance our performance at work. Having our own ‘stress meter’ can help us gauge how we are feeling and when we feel action is needed for our own well-being.
Stress Meter (Karl
By being aware of our emotions, we can also prevent them from interfering with our decision-making, problem-solving and communication skills. By understanding how we come across to others, we
Rollinson 2018).
Vehicle Inspection and Brake Testing in a single package
In 2021 BAGMA completely revised their tractor and trailer brake testing training with the introduction of the Agricultural Tractor-Trailer Scheme (ATTS). Dr Andy Scarlett - BAGMA ATTS trainer – explains what’s new and the benefits the ATTS can offer both to dealers and their customers.
outdated and don’t accommodate modern tractors and trailers. Tractors can now travel faster on-road and the trailers towed are larger and heavier. On-road usage is also often more intense. The world has moved on, GB vehicle legislation has not, BUT that’s no excuse for an
What is the ATTS?
In a nutshell, it is vehicle roadworthiness inspection and brake testing combined in a single package. Using DVSA heavy goods vehicle (HGV) roadworthiness inspection criteria as a starting point, BAGMA engineers have developed dedicated inspection procedures to suit agricultural vehicles. This is combined with (tractor or trailer/trailed implement) brake testing to provide a complete roadworthiness assessment package.
What vehicles does the ATTS cover?
Mainly tractors, trailers and trailed implements as well as most self-propelled agricultural vehicles (e.g. telehandlers, selfpropelled sprayers and utility vehicles).
The ATTS includes specific inspection and testing activities tailored to suit different vehicle types.
Why bother with ATTS Inspection and Testing?
Agricultural vehicles do not legally require roadworthiness (MOT) inspections, BUT if used on the public highway, they must be maintained in fully roadworthy condition at all times. If stopped by a DVSA or police roadside check, the roadworthiness criteria an agricultural vehicle must satisfy is exactly the same as if it was in an MOT test bay.
Current road regulations may be
Join Dr Andy Scarlett on Tuesday 3rd June from 10:30 to 11:30am for an online webinar exploring the ATTS scheme. Reserve your space via the BAGMA website: www.bagma.com/events
unroadworthy vehicle.
No responsible agricultural vehicle user wants to operate outside of the law. If we want regulatory change, to allow legal
operation of larger/heavier and faster vehicles, then the agricultural sector must demonstrate professionalism. Highlighting the roadworthiness of the larger, heavier and faster vehicles we now sell and operate is an essential step.
How can the ATTS help?
ATTS inspection and testing is intended to complement regular on-farm vehicle maintenance and checks, not be a substitute for them. ATTS inspection and testing will highlight any vehicle roadworthiness or safety issues which need to be addressed, either by the operator or the dealer. Once these are corrected (and the vehicle re-tested), the ATTS can provide documentary evidence that the vehicle has met statutory roadworthiness requirements.
Why is ATTS training a two-day course? We know that dealership technician time is money and it isn’t earned while attending training courses. However, the ATTS training is both complex and in-depth. It includes knowledge of regulations, vehicle inspection procedures and defect categorisation: braking system operation and performance testing. It even includes a written exam for each attendee. ATTS-trained technicians are required to inspect and assess safety-critical vehicle systems. The training has to be thorough... and I’m afraid that takes time.
For more information contact BAGMA at: info@bagma.com q ATTS inspection and testing activities are tailored to suit the vehicle.
by Mark Holroyde Risk Manager, Towergate
Storms, flooding, rain, snow and high winds can wreak havoc for business and leave UK farms vulnerable to climaterelated disruptions. The impacts of severe weather are far-reaching and can have devastating consequences for farmers and their livelihoods.
The big dangers facing agriculture
There are several critical risks that can arise as a result of poor weather:
1. Flooding and Waterlogging: Heavy rainfall can leave fields waterlogged, damaging soil structure and rendering them unworkable. Prolonged water exposure can also lead to crop loss and delayed planting schedules.
2. Erosion and Soil Health Damage: High winds and flooding can strip fertile topsoil, reducing long-term productivity and increasing the risk of runoff into nearby water sources.
3. Livestock Stress and Health Issues: Ice, snow, freezing temperatures and high winds can put livestock at risk of hypothermia, illnesses and stress.
4. Infrastructure Damage: Farm buildings, greenhouses and machinery are vulnerable to storm damage, which can lead to costly repairs and business interruptions.
5. Disrupted Supply Chains: Blocked roads and transportation delays caused by ice, snow and flooding can hinder the movement of feed, crops and goods,
Be vigilant to climate-related disruption
While we may now be well into meteorological spring, Mark Holroyde, Risk Manager for Towergate Insurance Brokers is calling on the agriculture industry to think ahead and be prepared for the ongoing challenges presented by unpredictable winter weather.
impacting farm operations.
Practical solutions for farmers
Farmers can take a number of practical steps to address these challenges and build resilience:
1. Enhanced Drainage Systems: Invest in proper drainage solutions, such as contour ploughing and installing retention ponds, to prevent waterlogging and protect soil structure.
2. Reinforce Infrastructure: Regularly inspect farm buildings, machinery and fencing to ensure they are secured and capable of withstanding severe weather.
3. Livestock Management: Ensure animals have access to shelter, adequate feed and water during extreme conditions. Stockpile feed and bedding materials to avoid shortages.
4. Diversify Crops: Consider planting weather-resilient crop varieties and staggering planting schedules to reduce the risk of widespread loss.
5. Emergency Preparedness: Develop an emergency response plan that includes clear protocols for evacuating livestock, securing equipment and communicating with suppliers during disruptions.
6. Leverage Technology: Use weather forecasting tools, satellite imaging and farm management software to make datadriven decisions in response to changing conditions.
Proactive risk mitigation
Farmers can also utilise this time to consider these proactive measures to further safeguard their operations:
n Assess and Update Insurance Policies: Ensure your coverage includes key risks such as storm damage, flooding and business interruption.
n Create a Farm Risk Assessment Plan: Identify vulnerabilities across your property, including buildings, machinery and livestock housing.
n Prepare Livestock Housing: Secure shelters and ensure livestock has access to dry bedding and sufficient feed.
n Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates and utilise early warning systems to anticipate and respond to potential disruptions.
n Manage and Maintain: Ensure, before poor weather sets in, ditches and dykes surrounding fields and properties are clear of debris and all drainage systems (including treatment plants) are clean and serviced.
n Service and Maintain: Maintain and service personal and farm vehicles to ensure that, should you need to use them, they will get you to where you need to go and back safely.
n Personal Awareness: Be aware of your own, your family and employees physical and mental health capabilities and resilience. Remember, things can be replaced; people cannot.
The growing importance of resilience
The UK’s agriculture industry is no stranger to the challenges posed by unpredictable weather. However, the intensity and frequency of these events are increasing, making resilience planning more important than ever. By adopting practical measures and ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage, farmers can better weather the storm— both literally and figuratively—and safeguard their operations for the future.
For more details on how to properly insure your business please get in touch with Towergate on 0333 207 6681 and quote your membership number to receive preferential rates.
The impact of workplace wellbeing on mental health
Mental health problems impact workers across all industries, making it crucial for all employers
– regardless of size or sector – to recognise the link between work and wellbeing. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), work can be a protective factor for mental health, but it can also contribute to it worsening.
Modern-day work environments, and modern-day life in general, can exacerbate the challenge facing employers:
n Increased reliance on technology can lead to blurred work-life boundaries
n Remote work arrangements can create feelings of isolation and disconnection
n Global events and economic uncertainty can lead to heightened anxiety
n Constant exposure to social media and ‘information overload’ can overwhelm employees
n Pressures to multitask and maintain high productivity levels can compound stress
n Challenges in balancing personal and professional responsibilities further intensify the issue
Organisations cannot afford to overlook
these challenges, not least because the majority of employees (86%) say they would be more likely to leave a job if it did not support their wellbeing. Thankfully, mental health conditions are preventable.
The conditions within the workplace exert considerable influence over individuals’ mental health, just as an individual’s mental health significantly shapes their ability to perform effectively in their job role. It’s therefore in an employer’s interest to create an environment that promotes rather than hinders psychological wellbeing and resilience.
WorkNest is here to help BAGMA members tackle these challenges with confidence. Our expert team can provide tailored advice on preventing and managing mental health related matters, ensuring you’re supporting your employees and meeting your legal obligations while keeping your business running smoothly.
Whether you have a specific query or need ongoing support, we’re just a phone call away. Get in touch on 01244 667249 or email: bagmahr@worknest.com for Employment Law and HR advice and bagmahs@worknest.com for Health & Safety support.
Would you like to become an
ISEKI dealer?
The unbeatable ISEKI SXG range of mowers enable cutting and collecting in the wet without clogging up, ideal for the homeowner requiring the next step up in garden maintenance machinery. For the homeowners who require a subcompact tractor the TXGS24 is the most versatile and powerful tractor on the market.
ISEKI compact tractors and mowers are designed and manufactured in Japan with over 100 years experience for quality that lasts.
Contact us and apply to be an ISEKI dealer today, visit www.iseki.co.uk or call 01473 599266.
QUALITY DIESEL MOWER OFFERING
Aftersales are no afterthought
Andrew Walker, Dealer Principal of B&B Tractors, recently invited BAGMA to visit their newest depot in Swineshead – fully refurbished and opened to the public in February 2024. Here, we chatted through the changes that have occurred since B&B’s last Bulletin appearance in 2019, and discovered how other factors – such as aftersales –remain very much a priority to operations across the company’s five depots.
Thank you for having us once again. For those that missed your last cover story in 2019, give us a brief overview of the history of the B&B Group.
B&B originated in 1991, founded by brothers David and Chris Bowring – the two B’s of B&B! With a depot in Worsop, they quickly sourced another depot in Tideswell to cover the North Derbyshire area. In 2007, we obtained the AGCO franchise for more of Derbyshire and Staffordshire leading to the construction of a purpose-built depot in Fauld. I joined the business in 2011 and shortly after, in 2013, David’s son James Bowring took over as Dealer Principal. As employee numbers continued to grow and the B&B Group diversified, we took on the newest depot here in Swineshead, Lincolnshire.
This depot is branded as B&B Machinery, stocking Manitou, Brian James Trailers and Husqvarna from our groundcare portfolio. Our other four
depots are all under the B&B Tractors name, stocking products across our agricultural, construction, plant and groundcare range.
A lot has happened in the six years since we last sat down! How did you fare over the pandemic period and did you learn any lessons that are still influencing operations today?
The pandemic really brought home that no matter what happens with sales, aftersales support for customers is always key. Everything changed in terms of machinery supply and lead times, but the service and parts business was consistent and highlighted the value of that side of the business. In a time when people couldn’t necessarily get a new machine, it was crucial their existing equipment was up and running. It almost pushed us into a ‘back to basics’ approach. The team had to be creative and work together and
this interaction with colleagues and customers really helped us to keep positive through the tough times. Internally, we understand there’s been changes too, both in personnel and premises?
That’s right. I joined initially as Group Service Manager moving onto Group Aftersales Manager where I became more involved on the parts side. Since that time and with further changes we have added new Group roles for each department with a great team now in place. The company headcount has grown significantly to over 100 today and it is still growing. James, now the Managing Director for the Bowring Group of companies, approached me about the Dealer Principal position, which was a huge honour and massively exciting. There has been a lot to learn and it is a big challenge but I’ve loved getting to know about all sides of the business,
as well as working more closely with the manufacturers and having to make big and, importantly, the right financial decisions.
James remains very active within B&B, and the business as a whole remains family-run. It feels like we have the right people in the right places of the company to make sure we’re running efficiently. It’s great to see the investment in this new premises. What are the major benefits this has brought to the group?
When the opportunity came for us to represent the Manitou brand in this area it was an easy decision as it is a great product that we were already experienced with, we just needed the right location to suitably cover the new territory. We found this premises on the side of the A17 in Swineshead, which was well connected and, vitally, had capacity and space for us to accommodate sales, service and parts. Known locally as ‘The Blue Shed’ it was pretty run down and overgrown but it had huge potential.
It was great to have the backing and investment from the Bowring family to be able to grow the B&B Group but it meant a tight renovation and turnaround to get it up and running as quickly as possible. From purchasing the premises in mid2023, we opened in February 2024, with a new internal layout, new infrastructure and major landscaping of the land around the building. This depot has great potential to extend to accommodate new opportunities should something come along.
Has there been any changes in your product portfolio?
As we’ve already mentioned, we extended our area for Manitou which, alongside Husqvarna on the groundcare side, continues to grow. This location in particular, with factories and warehouses, offers great potential for forklifts and equipment at the more industrial end of our range. We are a ProPartner for Husqvarna which gives us access to the Ceora robotics which, again, offers great scope with golf clubs and sports facilities within Lincolnshire and the East Midlands area we cover. To support demand, we now have a dedicated groundcare sales team covering all areas.
Mid last year we took on the Brian James Trailers franchise for the same footprint as Manitou. These trailers, transporters and box trailers are suitable for cars, plant, implements and Groundcare. It also couples well to the vehicle side of B&B’s business with Isuzu Pickups that are sold from our Fauld depot.
SANY is another new and growing franchise for us for the central B&B depot areas giving us access to a huge range of quality construction equipment to sell and support. I think, as a group, we have fantastic diversity within our portfolio which helps us to weather the ups and downs of the various sectors in which we operate.
AGCO has been fundamental to B&B’s growth and success. Having originally been Massey Ferguson dealers, we now
support all three brands with Fendt and VALTRA at four out of five of our depots. AGCO are a great brand to deal with, not just in terms of product range and support but they also work closely with dealers, being open to feedback and suggestions through different panels. It’s good to know, as a dealer, that your views are important and you are encouraged to share them.
You must also be seeing changes in customer requirements, with the growing role of technology. How are you finding and accommodating this?
The technological side of all sectors is changing rapidly. Some features, such as telemetry, are now taken for granted providing greater efficiencies to working practices and peace of mind when something goes wrong. We can use this data to proactively make customers aware of an issue, and also better schedule and plan routine servicing work to suit both workshop and customer availability.
The improvement in robotic equipment
“Personally, I think apprentices and apprenticeships are critical to securing future service levels of our industry.”
ranges and features is another area that B&B are trying to capitalise on, and with Ceora from Husqvarna we’re well placed to do that. Venues such as golf courses, schools and local authorities are recognising the value of utilising technology for some of the routine maintenance tasks, allowing them to better allocate skilled labour.
You’ve talked a lot about the importance of a good aftersales service. How do you ensure that the back-up support keeps pace with other areas of the business?
I think it’s about having adequate resources. We’ve grown our service team, including dedicated service advisors at each depot who specifically monitor and take action based on the data from the telemetry systems. This hopefully means our aftersales support is now more proactive and is able to respond to issues sooner.
We have also invested in more systems and technology for our service and parts
What do you consider to be the biggest challenges you currently face?
Us and every dealer are having to adjust to the new ‘normal’ with higher interest rates and increased overheads. Having a yard full of stock is not going to be financially viable in the longer term with the costs involved and, with lead times reducing, is not as critical as it once was when equipment was in short supply. Sales before would suffer if you didn’t have the machine available, but with better planning customers are prepared to wait 2-3 months for something, especially if they can tailor the machine to the exact specification rather than buying an ‘off the shelf’ model from stock.
Equally, what are some potential opportunities you’re looking to capatilise on for the future?
Personally, I think apprentices and apprenticeships are critical to securing future service levels of our industry. We need to showcase the opportunities
departments. This allows the service to work remotely with ease and our parts departments can actively monitor and replenish stock to retain supply for our customers. Even with the recent extension of our Manitou territory, we’re confident we have the parts available on the shelf to resolve any issues quickly on the first visit.
We prioritise aftersales as a way of securing repeat business and it seems to be working well.
The market and general trading conditions are perhaps more volatile than they’ve been in a long while.
available in the sector and be able to bring new people into the business.
The apprenticeship model has worked brilliantly for us, with around twenty apprentices working throughout our depots. I myself, along with a number of the team, began as an apprentice and it’s safe to say the standard of training, education and support available to young people now is better than it has ever been. It’s very easy to get a computer in front of a young person – it’s less easy to get them in front of a tractor! But we’ve found by doing a number of career fairs and students get close to machinery, they’re instantly more engaged and interested.
p Members of the B&B team pictured at the recent Open Day at the Swineshead depot.
We want to be able to show that the agricultural industry is as advanced as aerospace and automotive and can offer hundreds of career paths. It is immensely satisfying for me to see so many former apprentices progressing well through their careers with B&B and beyond and, had we not embraced this route early on, we would be in a much worse place today.
Thank you for being BAGMA members. What is the significance of this for you?
I was introduced to BAGMA through one of my previous bosses who was on the BAGMA council. I then had the opportunity to become a BAGMA council member which is when I really discovered the full scope of their services, the support they can offer and how useful it can be to a dealership of any size. I have thoroughly enjoyed playing my part in assisting with that.
For a dealership, being BAGMA members gives you access to a wealth of knowledge. Whether it’s changes in legislation or regulation, or simply being able to speak to one another for help –it’s an incredibly informative resource. You can spend a lot of time looking for assistance, but with BAGMA, there’s a whole team and another raft of Service Providers all there with help and advice tailored to our industry.
Also, the work BAGMA have done alongside the AEA, LETEC and We Are Landbased for apprenticeships is commendable. I firmly believe the apprenticeships we offer now are the best in any industry.
With this I’m sure that if we all continue
p Replacement parts levels are monitored at
to bring new people into our industry the future will look much more positive.
www.bandbmachinery.co.uk www.bandbtractors.co.uk
B&B Machinery to maintain supply.
Behind the scenes at Scotland’s biggest show: What it takes to deliver the Royal Highland Show
Months of meticulous planning, countless hours of preparation and a dedicated team working year-round come together to deliver the Royal Highland Show –Scotland’s largest outdoor event and the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland’s (RHASS) biggest annual fundraiser.
Each June, the site at Ingliston transforms into a bustling hub of agriculture, rural lifestyle, music, food and drink, family fun, shopping and innovation – offering something for everyone across its vibrant four-day programme. With over 220,000 visitors last year, the site temporarily becomes Scotland’s sixth largest “city” – larger than Dunfermline. It’s an enormous logistical undertaking that requires careful planning and precision. From traffic management and animal welfare to event safety and sustainability, every detail is carefully orchestrated by a core team of around twenty permanent staff, which expands into the hundreds during show month with the arrival of volunteers, contractors and temporary crew.
This year, the Royal Highland Show is collaborating with exhibitors and stakeholders from across the Show to showcase the diverse range of careers available within the agricultural industry, with a focus on skills, knowledge and innovation. From agricultural apprenticeships to public engagement on food and farming, education is woven into every element of the Show. It also shines a spotlight on careers across the rural economy, particularly in the agritech and machinery sectors, where roles range from mechanics and engineers to vets and data specialists. The Show remains a rare opportunity to meet major manufacturers face-to-face, with many choosing it as their only UK show attendance.
The refreshed RHASS Innovation Awards are a key feature, now offering dedicated
A big thank you to everyone who attended our recent BAGMA Connect event at AGCO. Don’t worry if you missed out, there’s another two dates throughout 2025 for you to gain valuable insights from a range of industry experts and network with likeminded BAGMA members. Tickets for BAGMA Connect are free and available now via the events section of the BAGMA website.
categories to spotlight pioneering progress across rural sectors, from digital solutions and mechanical engineering to crop and feed advancements. This year has seen over twenty companies apply, with three putting themselves forward for the prestigious gold award.
Behind the scenes, it’s a hive of activity year-round. Judges for livestock competitions are selected up to two years in advance. Of course, challenges persist. Health crises such as avian flu and bluetongue have led to restrictions, prompting the team to implement strict contingency policies to protect animal and public welfare. But through it all, the Royal Highland Show remains more than an event; it’s a platform for progress. A celebration of tradition and a vision for the future, all delivered with Scottish pride, determination and a remarkable team effort.
The Royal Highland Show will take place at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh, from 19th - 22nd June 2025. For tickets to the Show and full event details, visit: www.royalhighlandshow.org
Wednesday 2nd July
Get ready – registration for GroundsFest opens mid-May. This is your chance to attend the industry’s most exciting event, completely free – with free parking too! Held at Stoneleigh Park on the 9th and 10th September, GroundsFest is packed with live machinery demonstrations, hands-on experiences and the adrenaline-fuelled Machinery Nation Live.
Explore The Landscape Zone, dive into free education sessions led by expert speakers and stay for the live music festival, featuring an incredible Oasis tribute band, bumper cars and delicious street food.
Whether you’re in landscaping, sports turf, grounds management or simply love powerful kit and a great atmosphere –GroundsFest is the place to be.
Sign up to the newsletter on the GroundsFest website and be the first to know when free registration opens via: www.groundsfest.com
LAMMA wins Best Tradeshow of the Year at Exhibition News EN Awards
Agriconnect’s flagship event, LAMMA, has been crowned Best Tradeshow of the Year (over 10,000m2) at the prestigious Exhibition News EN Awards 2025. The awards, which celebrated their 30th anniversary in a spectacular Nineties and Noughties-themed event, recognised LAMMA for its outstanding impact, innovation and growth in the exhibition industry.
Winning this award cements LAMMA’s position as the premier event for agricultural machinery and technology, bringing together farmers, manufacturers and industry leaders to explore the latest advancements shaping the future of agriculture.
Samantha Sharp, Group Marketing Director at Agriconnect, commented, “We are absolutely thrilled to receive this recognition. LAMMA is more than just an exhibition; it’s a vital hub for the agricultural sector and this award is testament to the incredible work of our team, exhibitors and attendees who make the show what it is.”
Sarah Whittaker-Smith, Group Portfolio Director at Agriconnect, added, “To be
Industry backs new GMA regional events
The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is excited to announce the support of leading industry brands for its new regional event series, GMA Connect.
These one-day events bring grounds professionals together at a regional level, providing hands-on insights through seminars, live demonstrations and practical workshops under the theme of “Turf Management in the Current Climate.”
GMA Connect is backed by headline sponsor Cramer, alongside ISEKI UK & Ireland, Campey Turf Care Systems, Fleet Line Markers, GKB Machines, Abundigro, Turfix and The Aquatrols Company, with more to be announced.
Confirmed dates are as follows:
• Tuesday 13th May 2025 – Ashton Gate Stadium, Bristol
• Wednesday 18th June 2025 – Durham County Cricket Club, Durham GMA Connect is free for GMA members, while non-members can attend for £15. For more information or to register, visit: thegma.org.uk/events
named Best Tradeshow of the Year at the EN Awards – especially against such esteemed competition – is a proud moment for the entire team. LAMMA continues to grow and evolve, and this accolade reinforces its status as the must-attend event for agricultural professionals.”
LAMMA returns to the NEC, Birmingham on the 14th and 15th January 2026. For more information, visit: www.lammashow.com
Kubota expands dealership areas
Kubota (UK) Ltd has implemented a series of changes to three of its dealer sales areas following recent appointments that have taken place within the dealer network covering Warwickshire, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
The first involves south Wales-based Hopkins Machinery, which gains access to Kubota groundcare and M-series tractor ranges through its Kilcot depot located near Newent, Gloucestershire, creating opportunities for the family-run dealership around Ross-on-Wye, Gloucester and the
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western side of Cheltenham.
“We’re extremely pleased to be able to provide sales, service and support for all the existing Kubota products we handle, but now through our Kilcot depot in addition to our St Brides Wentloog, South Wales headquarters, and our Brecon, Powys locations,” said Evan Hopkins, a director of the company.
The second change sees Pallisers of Hereford gain area to the east of its former territory, taking in Upton-upon-Severn and the western side of Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, while also extending north and east toward Pershore, Hanbury and Bromsgrove, in Worcestershire.
“We’re pleased to be expanding our Kubota tractor business within these additional areas,” said Camilla Palliser, Dealer Principal at Pallisers of Hereford. “We’re looking forward to supporting new Pallisers customers throughout these areas.”
The third dealer to benefit is Lister Wilder, which gains additional area in the north of its territory, extending eastwards from Cheltenham to encompass Northleach and Hazleton, and stretching north into the Cotswolds towards Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, adjoining the area recently taken over by Hunts Engineering at Halford, Warwickshire.
“Any extension to our sales area is always going to be a positive step forward for Lister Wilder and the Kubota brand,” says Lister Wilder Sales Director Phill Hughes. “It’s an opportunity to work with and support many new customers.”
www.kubota-eu.com
GGM Group strengthens Yorkshire Service Centre with key appointment
GGM Group is continuing to expand its aftersales support team at its forthcoming Yorkshire Service Centre with the appointment of a new engineer and an ongoing recruitment drive for additional staff.
GGM announced plans to open a new service centre in Knottingley this spring, reinforcing its commitment to service excellence and strengthening support for its customers and supplier partners. The focus here will be on providing dedicated after-sales support to customers across the county in Groundscare, Agriculture and Arboriculture. This includes mobile engineers and a comprehensive spare parts supply, ensuring customers have access to expert assistance whenever needed.
Jonathan Weldon, who has a long career in the groundcare industry, brings extensive technical expertise and handson experience to his new role. He will be instrumental in ensuring high-quality after-sales support at the Yorkshire Service Centre, helping customers maintain and optimise their machinery with expert guidance and service.
Jonathan’s appointment is part of GGM’s
broader recruitment efforts. The company is actively seeking additional engineers to enhance service capabilities at the new centre, as well as a parts/customer service advisor to strengthen customer support.
Mark Lewin, After-Sales Manager of GGM Group, commented, “We’re delighted to welcome Jonathan to the team and excited to offer more employment opportunities in the area. We are looking for passionate
p Jonathan Weldon
individuals to join our after-sales team people who are committed to delivering excellent customer support and driving success in our service operations.”
Interested applicants can explore career opportunities at GGM by visiting: www. ggmgroup.com/about-us/job-vacancies/
Siân Pritchard of KUHN Farm Machinery UK
Discusses her deep roots in agriculture and her recent appointment as President of the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA).
Firstly, please introduce yourself.
I’m Siân Pritchard, Managing Director of KUHN Farm Machinery UK, based at Telford, Shropshire.
Farming, engineering and machinery are in my blood and my family still farms on the Welsh Borders today.
Where did it all start for you, what are the major changes you’ve witnessed during your time in the industry?
My connection to agriculture runs deep – I was quite literally born into it. When I arrived into the world, my father - a machinery salesman - was not at the hospital… he was finalising a deal for a tractor!
As a child, Saturdays were spent at the dealership. By the age of seven, I was answering phones and taking messages from farmers – recognising their voices even when they did not say their names.
During my career, the advances in technology have been the biggest change, improving the efficiency for modern agriculture. GPS guided machines, for example, are now considered the norm. We are introducing cultivators that monitor soil health and adjust working depths based on this data and sprayers that differentiate between two green plants and only apply products to the ones that require it. The pace of change is huge and, at KUHN, we have to lead from the front.
Prior to your role as MD of KUHN (UK), you worked for KUHN at its global HQ in France. How did the agricultural picture differ across Europe and do you still see these differences/ challenges?
In the 1990s, I embraced the opportunities of the Single Market and built a career in Europe. Living and working in France gave me a strong foundation in international trade and a deep understanding of the European machinery manufacturing industry.
Now the UK is outside the EU, we have come full circle. Many of us are navigating new challenges in trade, movement, standards and regulation, but this industry adapts to new challenges well which is good as there are plenty of those at the moment.
Together with challenges, what do you
think are the biggest opportunities in the industry at present?
I see one of our biggest challenges, and our greatest opportunity, is inspiring the next generation of agricultural workers, engineers, operators and anyone else who wants to work in this industry.
It is no secret that agriculture’s workforce is an ageing one and that experience and knowledge needs to be passed down to the next generation. That said, automation, AI and data capture means we need young, tech-savvy minds that can, not only, drive machinery but maximise the efficiency of each operation.
Congratulations on your appointment as AEA President. How does your experience help with this role and what do you hope to achieve during your tenure?
It is a real privilege to represent the AEA in its 150th year. I’ve been involved in agriculture machinery manufacturing and distribution for several decades, and led the KUHN UK business for 16 years, which gives me a full appreciation of the challenges we have now, and how we overcame similar ones in the past.
I hope to inspire new blood into the industry and using social media is essential for this. This is how our next engineers or machinery operators are getting their information, so we need to adapt to use this in the right way and encourage them to choose agriculture as a profession. As a community, we must raise our voices, extend our reach and champion the value of land-based engineering to every audience.
Lastly, what is the importance of the AEA, BAGMA and other associations in supporting you and the wider industry?
I believe they are essential industry associations to support and bring the wider network together, united in shared goals that benefit all members. They support innovation, resilience and contribute to British farming, food production, land management and the wider economy. They also develop excellent resources – websites, digital content, social media profiles – all designed to help promote what our industry has to offer.
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