BAGMA Bulletin March/April 2019 by British Independent Retailers Assocation

THE MEMBERSHIP MAGAZINE OF THE BRITISH AGRICULTURAL AND GARDEN MACHINERY ASSOCIATION ISSUE 15 | MARCH-APRIL 2019

By Royal Appointment RT Machinery's Richard Taylor talks about being a Royal Warrant holder, the challenges facing his turfcare business, and his hopes for the future INDUSTRY NEWS | RECRUITMENT | INSTALLATIONS

Insurance tailored to you We all have insurance needs that can be difficult to manage alongside the rest of our businesses. BAGMA members have access to Bira Insurance which provides a policy to support their specialist needs, giving them greater peace of mind that their businesses are properly covered.

Looking after your business Wide definition of ‘vehicle’ to include trailers and agricultural implements.

Unaccompanied demonstration cover for up to 72 hours.

Cover protection for vehicles, stock, general machinery, tools and contents both at business premises and elsewhere.

£5k worth of portable hand tools cover for employees.

Loan or hire whilst vehicles are in for service or repair.

Advice and support from specialists in the agricultural and garden machinery industries.

Specialist insurance for a unique industry We have arranged for specific covers such as unaccompanied demonstrations of agricultural vehicles to be included as standard as well as the usual covers you would expect from a machinery dealer’s insurance policy. This means there is something for everyone in the agricultural and garden machinery industries. So, why not give the BAGMA team at Bira Insurance a call today to see how we can help?

Talk to Bira Insurance today on 0333 207 6681 bira@towergate.co.uk

bagma.com/specialist-insurance/

Bira Insurance, Towergate and Towergate Insurance are trading names of Towergate Underwriting Group Limited. Registered Address: Towergate House, Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne Rd, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Registered in England with company number 4043759. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

designed and delivered by Towergate

IN THIS ISSUE

The times they are a-changin’

ISSUE 15 MARCH–APRIL 2019

It’s not just the weather; it’s work practices, technology and recruitment COMMENT

BRIAN SANGSTER PRESIDENT BAGMA

Cover: Ben Roberts, Blooming Photography

THIS IS CERTAINLY not how I remember winters as a boy. The winters then were so cold that the bedroom window would freeze on the inside. Minus 10 degrees was quite commonplace, with snow and sledging lasting for weeks. Oh, how times have changed! Health & Safety wasn’t invented and farmworkers would regularly lift and carry 1 cwt bags of potatoes, being the only way to transport them. No bulk storage, forklifts and mechanical handling and no potato harvesters. Children were given time off school for back-breaking potato picking straight from the ground into baskets and trailers. Farmworkers would work on top of loaded trailers while loading sheaves before transferring them with pitchforks to men on the top of farmyard stacks. No mobile phones to check on the status of friends or even touch base as part of a lone worker’s policy. No vehicle trackers to confirm an exact ETA or to compare different driving styles and economy. No apps to work out application rates. Oh, how times have changed! With the evolution of smart farming, GPS, robotic mowers, driverless tractors, drones, plant and weed detection, how much further can technology, research and design take us? In 50 years’ time will the then president of BAGMA be repeating my words, ‘Oh, how times have changed’? The membership magazine of the British Agricultural & Garden Machinery Association Published 6 times a year by Bira Publishing Editor Chris Boiling 07713 192344 chris.boiling@bira.co.uk Design Alan Bingle 07949 024737 alan@forty6design.com Multimedia sales executive Simone Adams 0121 446 6688 simone.adams@bira.co.uk All advertising and media enquiries please email: editorial@bagma.com

BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

We recently held BAGMA’s annual curling match in Stirling. This was the 31st time and was again well attended by members, sponsors and a few friends from as far away as Poole, Leicester and York. The Regional Meeting held before the curling generated considerable discussion around the continuing divide between the Scottish Modern Apprenticeship vis the new English Trailblazer Apprenticeships and the T’Quals currently being worked on in England vis the Foundation Apprenticeships now in place in Scotland. As has been heavily reported over the last few years, LE-TEC, through David Kirschner and on behalf of our industry, has been instrumental in creating the Trailblazer Apprenticeship for landbased engineering. Now, again on behalf of LE-TEC, David, along with Peter Arrand, is now on a Department of Education working group creating a Technical Qualification pathway for landbased engineering. However, it was disappointing to now discover that the Scottish Foundation Apprenticeship doesn’t have a landbased engineering pathway. With so much talk about recruitment and retention in our industry, this has all come as a bit of a disappointing surprise to our Scottish members who all have places and a need to recruit apprentices. It rather reminds me of the Rudyard Kipling ballad: “Oh east is east, and west is west, and never the twain shall meet”. Oh, some things never change.

BAGMA, 225 Bristol Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B5 7UB Tel 01295 713344 www.bagma.com BAGMA president Brian Sangster BAGMA director Keith Christian BAGMA business development manager Richard Jenkins Tel 07432 290605 Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the material published in BAGMA Bulletin. bira Publishing Limited can accept no responsibility for claims made by manufacturers, advertisers or contributors. Views expressed by advertisers or contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or of bira. Advertisers in BAGMA Bulletin are not agents of bira or any of their associated businesses, including bira bank and bira direct. Also, bira and its associated businesses never act as agents for any advertisers. Printed in the UK by Stephens & George.

NEWS RT Machinery becomes an accredited Living Wage employer; A new training scheme is rolled out across the Scottish Borders to help bring more young people into the rural workforce; CLAAS honours its top UK and Ireland dealers.

SPECIAL REPORT How to get the handover right.

COVER STORY Richard Taylor, managing director of RT Machinery, talks about being a Royal Warrant holder and the challenges faced by his 18-year-old turfcare business.

NEW PRODUCTS Launches from the SIMA show.

OUT & ABOUT BAGMA’s annual curling event plus the latest Connect Group meeting.

Bira, 225 Bristol Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B5 7UB Tel 0121 446 6688 Fax 0121 446 5215 www.bira.co.uk Bira president 2018-19 Surinder Josan CEO Andrew Goodacre Finance director Beverley Long Commercial director Jeff Moody Regional sales managers Joanne Arthur 07572 790337 Lorna Lewis 07814 767925 Gary Mitchell 07814767910 Janine Redford 07870 970856 John Stendall 07376 442841

BAGMA NEWS

BULLETIN BOARD

RESPECTS FOR CLIVE

Clive Pinnock (pictured), Reesink’s training ambassador who worked for the company for 34 years before retiring last year, has sadly passed away following a short battle with cancer. Clive will be remembered for achieving a level 4 in the Landbased Technician Accreditation scheme (LTA) in 2016, one of the highest training accolades there is, and growing and shaping the company’s training department into what it is today. Reesink’s turf equipment aftermarket manager David Jackman said: “Clive played a big part in helping the training department grow to the size it is today and he always got on well with our dealers and customers, helping them achieve the very best from the machinery that he knew so much about.”

IAGRE CEO TO RETIRE

The Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE) is seeking a new chief executive, after the current CEO, Alastair Taylor, announced his intention to retire in September. Alastair has been in the post for more than five years. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at IAgrE as CEO and look forward to continuing my association with the Institution as a volunteer after my retirement,” he said.

TRACTOR DRIVER CAUGHT ‘DRAG RACING’

Police who seized a New Holland T6 175 tractor after the driver was caught “drag-racing motorbikes” admitted it was an “unusual” operation. Wiltshire Police impounded the tractor after it was found to be using red diesel and the driver couldn’t prove he was insured.

BUSINESS CLOSURE/OPENING

Cambridgeshire-based dealership Duxford Hire & Supply has closed following Malcolm Evans’ retirement after 50 years in the industry. Eldest son Paul has taken on the servicing side in new premises under the new name Cambridge Garden Machinery.

John O’Conner wins grounds maintenance award REESINK TURFCARE’S ALASTAIR Rowell presented an award to Matt O’Conner of John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance, which scooped the top award – sponsored by Toro and Reesink Turfcare – in the Grounds Maintenance, Limited Public Access category, at the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) National Landscape Awards. Alastair, Reesink accounts manager for grounds, said: “As Toro is renowned for its innovation in groundscare equipment, we have a keen interest in helping to shape the future of the turfcare and landscaping industry. We are thrilled

to have seen John O’Conner win this award and congratulate all those involved with this year’s winning project.” The project involved work at Emergency Planning College (EPC), The Hawkhills. Managing director at John O’Conner, Matt O’Conner – who’s also the BALI chairman – said: “Credit must, of course, go to our onsite staff who have worked so hard to deliver exemplary standards on this prestigious site. It is a great example of the high level of service that we deliver for our customers day in and day out.”

Paralysed farmer develops tractor hoist PART-TIME FARMER MARTIN Murphy, who was paralysed from the waist down after a car accident, has developed a tractor hoist to put him back in the driving seat again. The 37-year-old from Tullyallen, Ireland, designed the hoist so he can work independently on his father’s farm. Operated automatically, using a pulley system with an electric remote and a removable seat, the set-up allows Martin to enter and exit the cab of the tractor in a smooth transition without assistance. “Before the hoist it was quite awkward; I used to be thinking of ways of trying to get into the tractor, so I used to try and lift myself up into the tractor, try climbing across the chicken coop roof and stuff like that,” he said. “I wanted to try and be more independent,

so that’s why we came up with the hoist. It’s great for the head and stuff like that, being able to come down and help out – instead of being helped, for a change. It’s fantastic. It’s great to get back into doing something constructive." The farmer added that it was good to be back working with his father in the yard too, where the duo enjoy “having the banter”. BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

BAGMA NEWS

New scheme aims to combat skills shortage A NEW TRAINING scheme is being rolled out across the Scottish Borders to help bring more young people into the rural workforce. With figures from across Scotland showing that only 25% of the number of trained workers required are coming into agriculture every year, BMR (Borders Machinery Ring) has launched a new pre-apprenticeship programme to help make up the shortfall. The programme developed by Ringlink – another farmer-owned co-operative machinery ring covering Aberdeenshire – will provide an exciting opportunity for five young people (aged 16-21) to experience a meaningful sixmonth introduction into practical working environments and an insight into the range of vocational opportunities offered by farming and the land-based industries. Commenting on the new programme, Hugo Lee of Sandystones, Jedburgh, stated: “BMR is to be applauded for launching this scheme which I believe will bring great benefits to the young people in training and the businesses where they are mentored. “We are seriously considering taking part in the programme here at Sandystones and I would urge other farm and rural business owners and managers to find out more about how they might also benefit from the scheme.”

Michael Bayne, manager of Earlston-based BMR, added: “The BMR team have been delighted to take part in a series of careers fairs at four Borders high schools. We believe that this, and our links with the Developing Young Workforce (DYW) initiative, should help us to identify suitable candidates for our exciting new pre-apprenticeship programme. “What we really need now are mentors to come forward to provide a workplace for these young people. The programme will fund and provide full training for the young person to achieve certificates in everything from forklifts to first-aid, tractor driving and maintenance to health and safety. Mentoring businesses will benefit from the candidates putting these skills into action. Placements are not restricted to farms. In Aberdeenshire, where the programme is well established, estates, agricultural engineers, auction marts, forestry and landscaping businesses have all been involved. “The pre-apprenticeship programme has been successfully run by Ringlink across Aberdeenshire for over five years, attracting 178 young people to consider a land-based career; 59 candidates were selected to take part between 2013 and 2017. The programme has been a great success for the participants and a hugely positive experience for mentors.”

RT Machinery commits to paying Living Wage RT Machinery has become an accredited Living Wage employer. This means the Aylesbury-based dealer has commited to pay all staff the real Living Wage – a rate independently calculated and based on what people actually need to live. This rate is higher than both the government’s minimum wage and national living wage and ensures that employees earn enough to meet the cost of living. Managing director Richard Taylor said: “As a responsible employer and with a consideration to the long-term commitment that we have to both our people and our clients, we just felt it was the right thing to do to support and participate in such a worthwhile movement.”

Tee time for members BAGMA’S ANNUAL GOLF day in Scotland will be held on May 30 at the beautiful Hirsel Golf Course, Coldstream, in the Scottish Borders. The day will include bacon rolls and tea or coffee on arrival, two 18-hole rounds of golf, a soup and sandwich lunch and a two-course meal after the match. There will also be awards and prizes. The fee for the day will be £60. The competition is open to BAGMA members and their guests but anyone who may like to play would be welcome. Interested players should contact Alasdair Straker on 07823 416862 or email alasdair.straker@ bira.co.uk

40,000th Jaguar crawls off production line CLAAS HAS BUILT its 40,000th Jaguar model at the Harsewinkel plant in Germany. Since the start of production of its first Jaguar model series in 1973, the company has developed 12 models of self-propelled forage harvesters in two model series. The 40,000th Jaguar rolled off the production line on Terra Trac crawler tracks with a special design on the side panels. This BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

milestone in production will also be marked by the deployment around the world of demonstration machines bearing the big cat design on the side. The Jaguar 960 Terra Trac, which won a Gold Innovation Award at last month’s SIMA agribusiness show in Paris, joined the line-up in 2018 and is the first forage harvester to feature a factoryintegrated crawler track system.

JUNE

6-8 Royal Cornwall Show, Wadebridge

DIARY DATES

14-16 Royal Three Counties Show, Malvern, Worcestershire 20-23 Royal Highland Show, Ingliston, Edinburgh

OCTOBER

30-31 Saltex, NEC, Birmingham

BAGMA NEWS

Nigel and Karon Wilson of Ashfield & Wilson receive the CLAAS Tractor Sales Performance Award from CLAAS UK CEO Trevor Tyrrell

CLAAS honours its top UK dealers THE TOP CLAAS dealers in the UK and Ireland have been honoured at the manufacturer’s factory in Le Mans, France. CLAAS Eastern, which has headquarters in Sleaford, and a total of seven branches covering Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire, was presented with the highest Platinum Dealer Excellence Award. Two dealers, Hamblys and Rickerby, were presented with Gold Dealer Excellence Awards. They have a total of six and eight branches respectively. The CLAAS Tractor Sales Performance Award was won by a dealer from Ireland for the third year running – Ashfield & Wilson, a single branch family dealership based in Dungannon, Co. Tyrone. The Tractor Sales Growth Award went to

Riverlea, a family-run dealership operating from three branches in South Wales. “This year’s CLAAS Dealer Awards again highlight the professionalism within our dealer network throughout the UK and Ireland,” stated Trevor Tyrrell, CLAAS UK CEO. “That three of our largest multi-branch dealerships in the UK should achieve such high appraisal ratings across the whole of their businesses to win their Platinum and Gold Dealer Excellence Awards is evidence of the commitment these dealers have made in their businesses. It is also encouraging to see so many family-run dealerships receiving awards, as it reflects the obvious loyalty that these businesses have within their local farming community, and the success that this has brought them.”

Top: Colin Blow of CLAAS Eastern (right) receives the CLAAS Platinum Dealer Excellence Award from Christian Radons (president Western Europe, CLAAS Service & Sales) Middle: Nicola Jones of Riverlea (right) receives the CLAAS Tractor Sales Growth Award from Alister Lamb (CLAAS Tractor, director sales & marketing) Above: Steve Barrett of Hamblys (right) receives the CLAAS Gold Dealer Excellence Award from Christian Radons

BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

BAGMA NEWS

New Holland names HOW DO YOUR SUPPLIERS TREAT YOU? its best dealers NEW HOLLAND HAS named its top UK dealers for 2018. The award for large tractor and harvester dealer of the year went to Ravenhill of Elgin, while Agricar of Forfar picked up the overall dealer of the year title. Other winners included:

lM edium tractor and harvester dealer of the year – Robert D Webster of Kilham, Yorkshire lS mall tractor and harvester dealer of the year – T Alun Jones of Dryslwyn, Carmarthen lC ombine dealer of the year – Ernest Doe, Ulting branch

l Hay and forage dealer of the year – TH White Agriculture l Tractor dealer of the year – Lloyd lS ervice dealer of the year – Fife Tractors Pat Smith, New Holland business director for the UK and Ireland, said: “2018 was a successful year for New Holland, with the introduction of several new product lines, and strong performance across our entire dealer network. These awards are a demonstration of the achievement of individual dealers but also serve to highlight the high levels of service provided to all our customers.”

NEW POLARIS DEALER

Ollie White of Ollie ATV, a new BAGMA member, was made a Polaris agent at the Royal Northern Spring Show at Thainstone Mart, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire. Photo shows Ollie (left) with Richard Coleby, district sales manager, Polaris Britain.

DID YOU KNOW?

Rachael Groves (above), the new marketing coordinator at Argo Tractors UK and Ireland, has her own herd of cows. “I’ve always enjoyed farming and was bought two pedigree Limousin heifer calves for my 21st birthday,” she says. “I now have nine cows in my own small herd.” The first role in her new post was to organise the tractor manufacturer’s stand at LAMMA. Another new recruit to the Argo Tractors team is Stuart Watson (inset), the new parts sales manager for Ireland, Scotland and the north of England. This enables national parts sales manager Tony Burgess to focus on Wales and the rest of England. BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

Let them know by taking part in our anonymous National Dealer Survey. It will be emailed to you in the coming months COMMENT

KEITH CHRISTIAN DIRECTOR BAGMA THERE IS ALWAYS a lot going on in our industry and much of this is behind the scenes, only rearing its results occasionally. We are encouraging more discussion and action on the recruitment and retention issues faced by the industry and this, at times, overshadows other matters that are an important part of what we do and need. For this edition, I want to remind the tractor franchised dealer network in the UK that they will soon have an opportunity to offer constructive comment about their tractor suppliers’ services through our National Dealer Survey. I n c o nj u n c t i o n w i t h CLIMMAR, the European umbrella group for agricultural machinery dealers, and 10 European countries, BAGMA provides an emailed electronic survey form for UK tractor franchised dealers to complete annually and return, so the overall UK results can be analysed and then combined with the other countries’ results to provide detailed information on the how dealers perceive the services provided by their tractor suppliers. These results are then passed on to manufacturers for them to understand how dealers feel about their services. This is done anonymously. Last year’s DSI (Dealer Service Index) survey was sent out in June and July 2018 and it weighs the quality of the relationship between tractor suppliers and their A-dealers on 14 items. More than 1,000 dealers took part in the 2018 survey from across

Europe. This was a decrease of 19% on the previous year. Anne Fradier, secretary-general of SEDIMA (the French dealers’ trade association) and who’s responsible for the execution of the DSI investigation, believes that this is partly due to the decreasing number of A-dealers (the target group of the DSI) through acquisitions and consolidations and also the date of the survey (early June instead of the previous April). The lower number of participants, however, does not influence the importance and outcome of the DSI by any means. The survey will be sent out

‘IT IS REALLY IMPORTANT THAT ALL TRACTOR FRANCHISED DEALERS RECEIVING THE SURVEY RESPOND TO IT’ earlier in 2019 and will be better publicised to encourage dealers to have their say in how they are treated by their suppliers. This is a positive way of passing information on to suppliers to allow them to understand better what they need to do to help their dealers. The response from suppliers in the UK has always been supportive of the survey and the information that can be learned from it. It is really important that all tractor franchised dealers receiving the survey respond to it and return their electronic survey forms. If in doubt, contact Keith or Kari at BAGMA for any questions and to check we are sending the survey to the correct person and email address in your company. BAGMA did not publish the UK’s 2018 survey results as some responses were too low to provide a fair result for some brands. The overall European results were published and can be found on the CLIMMAR website (www.climmar.com).

EXPERTS VIEW

Getting the handover right THE DELIVERY AND handover of new machinery is a very important part of the sales process. How you make the customer feel at the installation of the machinery will set the tone for the rest of your relationship with that customer. So you need to get it right! Pre-delivery inspection It is vital to ensure that that the reality of the machine’s specification is closely matched to the customer’s expectations, to avoid problems down the line. Always check the specification (and get it in writing if you can), before the final order confirmation with the factory. The PDI (pre-delivery inspection) is critical. Everything from tyre pressures, ground pressure and weight transfer systems must be set to suit the customer’s operation. Cutting blades and tines should, of course, be ‘factory sharp’, but the settings and adjustments will need to be checked by the workshop staff, so that when it is delivered, it’s ready to go. The delivery There should be an appointment made for the delivery, and the customer advised that some time will be needed with the main operators of the machine to run through a structured

BAGMA installation BAGMA has an HSE approved installation training course for all dealers and machinery suppliers. This approved code of practice shows what should be covered on a machinery installation. There is a triplicate installation form to be completed too, which provides a record of the installation for the operator, the customer’s business (and their own internal training records) and vitally a copy for your ALWAYS own records.

installation. Select a clear time which will not conflict with break times or any other important events. Your installer will also need to have a carefully planned day, so that each piece of machinery can be properly installed with its operator. If your installer drives an HGV, then his driving hours will need to be taken into consideration. You must ensure that there is enough time between each delivery for the machinery installation to take place.

CHECK THE The installation process There is a legal requirement under SPECIFICATION Additional training section 6 of the Health and Safety BEFORE THE A new or inexperienced operator at Work Act 1974 for all suppli- FINAL ORDER will need additional training to ers of machinery to ensure that CONFIRMATION ensure that they can safely and the customer is given adequate information competently operate a piece of machinery. about the machine. There is also a requireOperator training courses are available, and ment to do what is ‘reasonably practicable’ to you should discuss this with your customer supply equipment that is safe for use. at the time, and if you question their skills or The customer also has a duty to provide experience, then assist them in arranging suitadequate training for their staff, so receiving able additional training. a good quality machinery installation really is their minimum requirement, when an unfal Ian Mitchell runs High Five Training, which miliar piece of equipment arrives. delivers the BAGMA Installation course and Note: this would be required for any certified operator training to customers across machinery delivery, whether it be new, used, the UK. Contact: mitch@highfivetraining.co.uk purchased, hired or borrowed, for use at work. or visit BAGMA.com for more information. BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

EXPERTS VIEW

Recruitment crisis? Get off your backsides! AS AN INDUSTRY, we are facing a recruitDAVID ment and skills challenge KIRSCHNER Independent which shows no signs of consultant and LTA getting any better. It’s not scheme co-ordinator a surprise, it hasn’t just crept up and it’s been staring us in the face for far too long. You have to ask yourselves why more is not being done, what possible excuse can there be? So who is expected to do something about this? BAGMA? The AEA? LE-TEC? The colleges? Or perhaps the manufacturers! Well, if I might be so bold as to suggest it’s high time that employers in our sectors got off their backsides, identified an action plan and started working on the challenges together. The organisations mentioned, I am sure, would welcome this and assist TRAINING

in facilitating a call to action. ensuring that they are trained to positively conExperience has taught me not to generalise, tribute to the bottomline whilst meeting your so I have to say that some dealerships are really customer’s expectations is essential, and in your proactive in addressing the problem. However, hands. How many of you reading this need an what is needed is a concerted industry effort apprentice or qualified technician right now or to raise the profile of both the industry and the know a competitor who does? The truth is that amazing career opportunities availindustry needs more than a few and WHAT IS NEEDED poaching a competitor’s technician able with the push coming from IS A CONCERTED is not the answer. employers! INDUSTRY It staggers me that in all the You might not consider it to be EFFORT TO RAISE your responsibility but believe me things I am involved with where THE PROFILE OF employer involvement is required when I say it is definitely your probOUR INDUSTRY and encouraged, the input is sadly lem and it won’t go away unless you lacking. The dismal response to a recent survey do something about it. regarding industry qualifications is a shocking example. It’s so much easier to moan about the Mail me your thoughts at mrdkirschner@ shortcomings of the present situation instead of btinternet.com. It would be a breath of fresh doing something proactive. air to know that the industry has the appetite Recruiting fresh blood into the industry and to take on the challenge.

Be prepared whatever the weather SAFETY

PAUL MARSH

Office manager SafetyAide

WINTER MAY NOT be over, so be prepared for ‘slip and trip’ accidents. There are effective actions that you can take to reduce the risk. Regardless of the size of your site, always ensure that regularly used walkways are promptly tackled.

Rainwater When fitting external paved areas ensure that the material used will be slip resistant when wet. Discourage people from taking shortcuts over grass or dirt which are likely to become slippery when wet. Consider converting existing shortcuts into proper paths. On new sites, before laying paths, think about how pedestrians are likely to move around the site. Putting the path in the right place from the start may save you money in the long term. Many slip accidents happen at building entrances as people entering the building walk in rainwater. Fitting canopies of a good size over building entrances and in the right position can help to prevent this. If a canopy is not a possibility, consider installing large, absorbent mats or even changing the entrance flooring to one which is non-slip. Ice, frost and snow To reduce the risk of slips on ice, frost or snow, you need to assess the risk and put in a system to manage it. BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

l I dentify the outdoor areas used by pedestrians most likely to be affected by ice, for example: building entrances, car parks, pedestrian walkways, shortcuts, sloped areas and areas constantly in the shade or wet. lM onitor the temperature, as prevention is key. lY ou need to take action whenever freezing temperatures are forecast. Keep up to date by visiting a weather service site such as the Met Office. lP ut a procedure in place to prevent an icy surface forming and/or keep pedestrians off the slippery surface; lU se grit or similar, on areas prone to be slippery in frosty, icy conditions; lC onsider covering walkways, eg. by an arbour high enough for people to walk through, or use an insulating material on smaller areas overnight; lD ivert pedestrians to less slippery walkways and barrier off existing ones. l I f warning cones are used, remember to remove them once the hazard has passed or they will eventually be ignored. Gritting The mo s t c om mon method used to de-ice

floors is gritting as it is relatively cheap, quick to apply and easy to spread. Rock salt (plain and treated) is the most commonly used ‘grit’. It is the substance used on public roads by the highways authority. But remember, salt doesn’t work instantly; it needs sufficient time to dissolve into the moisture on the floor. Lighting Is there enough lighting around your workplace for you and your workers to be able to see and avoid hazards that might be on the ground? The easiest way to find out is to ask your staff. Another way is to walk the main internal and external routes that they use when it’s dark. If you can’t see hazards on the ground, you will need to improve the lighting. Wet and decaying leaves Fallen leaves that become wet or have started to decay can create slip risks in two ways: they hide any hazard that may be on the path or they themselves create a slip risk. Put in place a procedure for removing leaves at regular intervals; you might even consider removing the offending bushes or trees altogether.

BAGMA BULLETIN MARCHâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;APRIL 2019

COVER STORY

By Royal Appointment Richard Taylor, managing director of RT Machinery, talks about being a Royal Warrant holder, the challenges faced by his 18-year-old turfcare business, and his hopes for the future BAGMA MEMBER RT Machinery holds a Royal Warrant in recognition of the company’s services to The Royal Household. The family business has been serving The Royal Household for some years and The Royal Warrant means the Aylesbury-based turfcare business can display the term ‘By Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen’ on its promotional materials. Richard began his career at WJ Coopers, a Ford and Claas dealer, where his father Robin was general manager. From there, Richard followed a passion and hobby of his and went into the motorcycle industry for several years before returning to grasscare machinery at Risborough Turf. When this company was sold in 2000, Richard ventured out on his own, starting RT Machinery in a summerhouse at the bottom of his garden, with Stephen Palmer heading up the workshop. Starting with products such as Etesia, Danarm and selling good used equipment, Richard used his experience and knowledge of the industry to grow the business over the past 18 years. Today’s suppliers include Ransomes, Iseki, Etesia, Scag, Husqvarna, Kersten, Spider and Ventrac. Here, Richard talks to BAGMA Bulletin about the business he created. How did a new business manage to secure such a prestigious customer as The Royal Household? We were initially introduced through demonstration and support of our quality range of products and this has developed through establishing a relationship based on support and service over the years. We are very fortunate at RTM in that we have these quality brands that BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

introduce us to many special customers, customers that have been a privilege to serve since we started. We have a reputation for being professional at what we do and there are many loyal local clients that we have cultivated or been recommended to from the most revered of sports and private estates to the smaller sports clubs and contractors. All of them are treated like royalty, really – there’s no special package. It’s in our nature to want to do our very best for all and to be reliable at all times, it runs through RT Machinery and all who work here. Has the Royal Warrant helped your business? It has given us recognition for our high standards for sure, but it’s more a case of how we can evolve our business through the privilege of being part of the Royal Warrant Holders Association and how we get involved; they do wonderful things and we are proud to be part of that. The Association is very focused on encouraging and supporting worthwhile projects and encouraging our business to look at how we trade as well as the factors associated with choices made in our operations. It's made us consider our impact on the world and just what we can do as a business to assist and encourage others and to drive change.

‘Our service and repair department is on full steam and continues to bring in new customers’

Can you believe how much the business has grown since you started it? No, not really. Aspirations are always there but it’s been a case of taking it a slice at a time and believing in our being able to step up and innovate as we go. It has always been about sustaining growth and looking to the next generations. What have been the biggest surprises? The biggest surprise was just how much goodwill and helpful advice I received from an early stage. The support and loyalty of staff, clients and suppliers alike through thick and thin, I really didn’t appreciate the amount of respect, goodwill and help that we would receive in those early days. It’s a great industry with some fantastic businesses and amazing people, who are both inspirational and passionate about their business, it never ceases to amaze as to the constant improvement and product development we see year on year. What have been the biggest challenges? The biggest challenges have been outside our control really, more national or governmental considerations, recession, market and seasonal dips and the educational system blocking or not facilitating the needs of aspiring and gifted practical youngsters. We have a great and diverse workforce with skills and knowledge that’s so valuable to pass on. No matter how we innovate or adapt, the need to cultivate the interest and skills of trainees and apprentices is crucial to the future of our business. It’s about facilitating growth whilst managing the training and development of our team. Local support and help from government, education and councils is required. 

COVER STORY

One other challenge has been the shameful state of access to rural broadband. It frustrates me enormously. 

Any regrets in starting on your own? No. I'm independent and very proud of it. What are your hopes for the business going forward? To see the fruition of our efforts and investment in the premises and new initiatives coming together with growth and development into additional markets. Which areas of the business are performing best and what department is struggling most? Our service and repair department is on full steam and continues to bring in new customers, our reputation ensures the service department is always busy and sales through parts and machinery have increased to new highs through the winter. It’s how we trade through our area that’s changing, the logistical challenges that our congested roads and byways present, as well as the costs associated with travel and loss of time are meaning improved communications, better planning and new methods. Did you always want to run your own family business? Yes, we always have really, or it’s felt like it. All through my career I have worked as if it’s my own and early days taught me to handle money and trust respectfully. It’s coming from a farming background, I guess, and from being handson in the field from an early age. What other careers did you consider? I tried roofing for a year or two to earn a decent crust whilst my daughters were young, but it’s

not good for a lanky legs like me. Bumping tiles and slates all day wasn’t challenging the old grey matter, but we had a mighty fine time. I then set up a motorcycle breakers business which was great as it’s my other passion. I sold it on in a year or two and got back to my roots in agriculture and groundcare. That nest-egg set me up a year or two later. What do you like about this industry? The fresh air, beautiful landscapes and the satisfaction that comes with seeing some of the most amazing lawns, gardens and sports surfaces in the world with our machines and logos working hard. What do you dislike? Nothing really, I’m a glass half-full person. What’s not to like about working with family, friends and a great bunch of people? What are the advantages and disadvantages of working with your family? Trust, respect, proud moments, having deep pockets but overall just sharing time with my loved ones and friends despite some challenging moments.

How has BAGMA helped the business? Tremendously, right from the start with the support and structure that was there for a one-man business in 2001, but more so in BAGMA previously offering me the opportunity to learn and grow into the confident manager I am today. The BAGMA diploma I completed over a two-year period in the 90s gave me the grounding and confidence to do more than just set up a business, there was a plan and a dream to go with it rather than the other way round. BAGMA and its parent company Bira have been most supportive and provided support services through our business from insurance to training and asset and vehicle finance. What’s been the biggest adventure in your personal life? Life’s been one big adventure, really. I am really lucky that I have never grown up. Work is my life, so setting up RT Machinery and RTM Landscapes are my greatest adventures, well apart from my bike club life, motorcycling and competing in the International ‘Great Race’ Harleys V Indians on two occasions in Australia with my buddies and getting my name up on the top three home. And your proudest personal achievement? Father of two amazing daughters and seeing them grow with such confidence and principles to be wonderful mums – even though dad’s a workaholic and motorcycle nut – must be my biggest. How did that happen? And I now have three fantastic grandchildren to relate to and start all over again. Is there anything else we should know? It’s about the team at RT Machinery. I may have started on my own but I am surrounded by some of the finest and smartest people I know. Steve Palmer, my co-director, has been a rock and I couldn’t have done it without him. My father Robin too, who joined us on his retirement from Etesia UK – ever reliable and supportive. We have some very special staff and people who have supported me from the start and worked so many hours to see the business grow. It’s an all-round team effort from all. BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

SPECIAL REPORT

PREVENTING AGRICULTURAL VEHICLE THEFT

Cars, 4x4s, quad bikes, horseboxes and tractors are all targets for thieves operating in rural locations Here’s an outline of the major security threats to the various agricultural vehicles you and your customers might have – and solutions for theft prevention. Such solutions offer opportunities for dealers to sell add-on products and to help their customers.

General advice lW here possible, vehicles should be housed in a lockable garage or building, ideally with security lighting installed to the perimeter. lV ehicles should always be locked when not in use, with the keys kept hidden and locked away in a secure location. lK eep recordings or photographs of serial numbers and vehicles as these can be crucial in recovery, should the worst happen.

Could medieval solutions be the answer to combat modern rural crime?

Getting inspiration from the past as prevention is the best strategy for you and your customers TWO HIGH-VALUE TRACTORS criminals off their land, an increasing stolen from a farm near Kirkcaldy. Ten number of farmers are bolstering tractor batteries stolen from a farm near modern security measures w ith Bridgnorth. Just two of the most recent medieval methods seen centuries ago. cases of rural crime. When used in conjunction with the Ever y year rural crime costs latest technology, traditional security can millions of pounds and causes untold be extremely effective, particularly for anxiety across the UK for you and your keeping away thieves who no longer fear customers. being caught on CCTV, Based on insurance ANIMALS SUCH AS or who have the skills claims data, NFU Mutual GEESE AND DOGS to overcome electronic estimates rural crime cost STILL PROVIDE A security systems. the UK £44.5m in 2017. USEFUL LOW-TECH Examples of Medieval With an increase of 13.4% ALARM SYSTEM, measures being adopted: on the previous year, rural JUST AS THEY DID E a r t h b a n k s a nd crime is rising at its fastest HUNDREDS OF ditches. Last used to YEARS AGO. rate since 2010. protect medieval manors, Cars, 4x4s, quad bikes, horseboxes earth works are being installed along and tractors are all targets for thieves field boundaries to stop criminals operating in rural locations. It’s a big driving 4x4s onto farmland. business for organised gangs, both Reinforced gates. To protect domestically and internationally. entrances to farmyards from ram raids. So, what can be done? Could Protective animals. Animals such medieval solutions be used to combat as geese and dogs still provide a useful modern crime? low-tech alarm system, just as they did To protect their crops and keep hundreds of years ago. BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

Quad bikes and ATVs Quads and All-Terrain Vehicles are the top target for thieves in the UK as they are easier to steal and sell-on than larger farm vehicles. As well as being simple to jump on and drive off when they’re left standing, thieves also take them from workshops and barns. l I nvest in a quality padlock and chain, such as those approved by Secured By Design – a police approved product scheme. Securing to a fixed point on the ground or something that takes time to remove will also act as a deterrent. lN ever leave your keys in the ignition, even if you only briefly leave the ATV unattended. lK eep gates to yards closed as open gates can be an open invitation to thieves.

Tractors Thieves are targeting smaller and older models, which are less conspicuous to move around. The kit inside tractors, such as satellite navigation equipment, is also a major target for theft. lM achinery should be security marked with DNA marking devices and SmartWater tools, enabling tractors and their parts to be traced back to their rightful owners. lS ign up to CESAR, an agricultural equipment registration scheme, which increases the chance of recovering stolen goods by helping police identify stolen machinery. lH ave the Vehicle Identification Number etched on windows. This makes the vehicle more detectable and less appealing to thieves because they have to grind out the numbers. l I nstall immobilisers, chip keys and trackers as these are a simple way to deter criminals or track vehicles.

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Rural Security ACCORDING TO THE most recent NFU Mutual survey, rural crime cost the UK nearly £45million in 2017, an increase of some 13% over the previous year’s figures. One of the main reasons rural crime is at its highest level for 5 years is that security in urban areas has increased markedly during that time. This has helped push thieves out into rural areas, where the larger properties and reduced numbers of overlooking neighbours provides them with the opportunity to stake out targets and operate without being disturbed. The survey reports that some farmers are even resorting to medieval tactics by erecting earth banks and digging ditches. Whilst prevention is certainly better than cure, Burg-Wächter offers some less drastic but effective security tips to help rural dwellers protect their property. Security from the outside in Burg-Wächter believes that good security is all about building in layers. Starting with the perimeter, make sure that entering the property is going to be an obvious hurdle by locking gates – this helps keep unwanted visitors out and valuable livestock in. The inconvenience of keeping multiple keys to hand often stops owners from locking every gate on a property. The simple solution is to use either a combination or keyed alike padlock & chain (or locking cable) on frequently used gates. It’s also worth considering installing a post box at the end of the drive, as this limits the number of people who need to enter the grounds. Survielling all you see The sheer size and remote location of rural properties can make it difficult for rural landowners to monitor all their assets. Correctly positioned and installed CCTV cameras provide both a good view of the property along with a strong visual deterrent. Wi-Fi based systems are easy to install and are ideal for the farmyard and smaller properties, whilst larger estates are better served by professional wired IP or coax based systems. The latest WiFi video surveillance systems such as BURGcam offer clear high resolution images, along with memory card backup for added peace of mind. BURGcam can also be programmed to trigger alerts and provide remote access via a mobile phone. It’s also worth considering standalone alarms and additional lighting, as these are a great way to bring unwanted attention to burglars.

Lock it or lose it The NFU Mutual survey reports that the most frequently targeted items in rural areas continue to be ATV/quad bikes, tools, garden equipment, 4x4s and machinery. As these items are usually kept in outbuildings or even outside, it is important that buildings and belongings are safe and secure. Whilst visible security measures are certainly effective, experienced thieves know the difference between good quality security measures and those that are mainly for show. Outbuildings are best secured with a good quality padlock hasp and staple. Alternatively, use a combination locking bolt if a number of people require access and don’t wish to carry keys. Over £2m worth of ATV/quad bikes were stolen in 2017, whilst the total value of agricultural vehicle theft was a staggering £5.9m. A padlock, ground anchor and chain/cable is a suitable security solution for most ATV/ quad bikes as well as expensive tools such as mowers, chainsaws and trailers. Padlocks should have hardened shackles, and should be attached to ground/wall anchors that have been set into a solid surface. Security cables are stronger if they have a thick braided steel core, whilst hardened steel chains are tougher and more resistant to cutting. Padlocks and chains rated as “Sold Secure” provide higher levels of security. Security cables can also be used to link smaller and lighter items together - the extra time it takes to unbundle them may be enough to put the thief off. Mind your own business Cash and laptops are much more portable and easier to move on than the larger and more standout equipment discussed above. Thieves know that rural businesses deal with relatively high volumes of cash, whether it’s takings from the farm shop or financing casual labour. This is often kept in the farm office or study, alongside most of the IT equipment, making it an easy target for thieves. A safe acts as a last line of defence for cash, valuables (including phones and laptops) as well as important documents. Make sure the safe is both independently certified and properly installed so its cash, valuables and fire ratings are recognised by insurance companies in event of claim.

For more information about the products available from Burg-Wachter contact the sales line on 01274 377 383.

BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

PRODUCT NEWS

John Deere open to external software THE CONNECTION OF machine and field data is becoming increasingly important in modern agriculture. Contractors and farmers are demanding interfaces that allow easier use by different parties, such as agricultural machinery manufacturers, software developers, crop care suppliers, advisors and so on. To enable increased open access, John Deere has activated a new function called More Tools in the web-based MyJohnDeere.com Operations Centre. This new addition to the system now enables users to process data from external software companies and import their information via this central platform. Users can adjust the Operations Centre

to suit their individual daily business needs through customisation and by adding more functions. At the same time, any data exchanges between the Operations Centre and connected software companies are fully controlled by the data owner, either manually or by agreeing to the establishment of a system for automatic data synchronisation. The aim is to make life easier for customers when entering and transferring details such as field and application maps, weather data etc. Following the success of its first ‘Develop with Deere’ conference, John Deere plans to turn it into an annual event to develop and offer more software tools to its customers.

KUHN EXTENDS RANGE KUHN Farm Machinery has extended its VENTA pneumatic seed drill range with the addition of the 1010 series machines. In combination with KUHN’s HR power range, the drills are suited to working at varying seeding depths in a wide range of soil conditions. Available in 3m, 3.5m and 4m working widths, this new series of drills has seeding units equipped with Suffolk coulters, which allow the optimum seeding depth to be maintained via an adjustable depth stop. Each seeding unit operates with 35kg of pressure.

Bedknives made to last NOW IS THE perfect time of year, before the growing season starts, to check for worn bedknives and switching out any that are old and worn. For Toro’s Greensmaster and Reelmaster ranges on models fitted with DPA (Dual Precision Adjustment) cutting units, EdgeMax bedknives bring a 9.5mm and above height of cut to fairways and a 1.59mm and above height of cut to greens. Brought to the UK by Reesink Turfcare, Toro’s bedknives are made of solid, hardened BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

steel, and provide up to three times longer edge retention than a standard fairway bedknife and twice as long for greens, according to Toro. Michael Hampton, parts manager at Reesink, says: “With Toro EdgeMax bedknives you know you’re getting the genuine, original part for a reasonable cost.”

l New Holland’s methanepowered concept tractor, which produces at least 10% lower CO2 emissions and reduces overall emissions by 80% compared to a standard diesel tractor, has won a design award. It has been awarded a Good Design Award on behalf of the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies. New Holland brand president Carlo Lambro commented: “The methanepowered concept tractor pushes the boundaries of alternative fuel and agriculture technologies to deliver a cutting-edge solution for sustainable and efficient farming.” New Holland has launched a new version of its high-horsepower Genesis T8 Series tractor – in North America for now. It has customisable controls, a “re-imagined cab design” and comes with the “complete integration” of the brand’s PLM platform. l Case IH has unveiled its Magnum tractor, powered by the company’s Advanced Farming Systems (AFS) precision technology. A new display, operating system, and receiver improve the technology package, and the tractor features a completely redesigned cab. “The AFS Connect Magnum offers new levels of connectivity and comfort,” marketing manager Jay Barth said at the US launch. l Massey Ferguson plans to launch 14 new tractor ranges by 2023 and increase production to 18,000 tractors a year. The recent opening of its new 8ha Beauvais 3 logistics centre in France, with a 30,000sq m building that houses the new logistics centre, is the first stage of a five-year plan.

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BAGMA BULLETIN MARCHâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;APRIL 2019

SHOW REVIEW

JCB unveils mini excavator A TRACKED EXCAVATOR that can be deployed quickly and easily anywhere on the farm to tackle burst pipes or blocked drains, install water supply pipes or prepare ground for building works was one of the stars at the SIMA show in Paris in February. The 1.7 tonne JCB 18Z-1 is a new addition to the comprehensive range of mini excavators manufactured by JCB. Like its counterparts, the machine is small enough to work in and around traditional as well as modern farm buildings and light enough to be transported on a trailer by a pick-up truck or any 4x4 vehicle with at least 3.5 tonne towing capability.

New tractor brand

‘Mancel’ is the new European-built tractor brand from YTO of China. Launched at last month’s SIMA machinery show in Paris, the new range of tractors is being built at YTO’s facility in Saint Dizier, France, previously used for the production of transmissions and gearboxes. Using components mainly sourced in Europe, the four-model line-up offers power from 110 to 145hp. The firm is currently looking for dealers.

A new correction signal from CLAAS CLAAS UNVEILED A new satellite-aided correction signal under the SATCOR name at SIMA 2019. The SATCOR correction signal is transmitted by geostationary satellites and is available worldwide. The signal supports both GPS and GLONASS and is compatible with the European Galileo system. No additional receiver hardware is required. A CLAAS steering system with S10 supplied from April 2017 or S7 terminal supplied from October 2018 onwards is all that is needed to receive the signal. SATCOR has an accuracy of better than 15 cm and is suitable for grassland, cultivating, fertilising, drilling cereals, and crop protection as well as for combine and forage harvesting operations. The signal becomes available for steering correction as soon as the licence number is entered in the S10 or S7 terminal. BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

EASY on-board app on show SELECTED FUNCTIONS ON CLA AS machines can now be controlled by iPad via ISOBUS with the manufacturer’s EASY onboard app. The app turns an iPad into an ISOBUS terminal. All that’s needed is the tablet with the app, a mount in the cab to hold the tablet and the CLAAS Wireless Interface (CWI). The CWI wirelessly connects the iPad to ISOBUS, allowing the driver to control selected functions directly from the machine using the iPad. The ISOBUS function buttons in the tractor or on the joystick can also be configured using the ISOBUS auxiliary function in the cab. A connection kit for easy ISOBUS wiring is available for older tractors. The ISOBUS Task Controller basic documentation function is also now available in the app. And with 365FarmNet it’s easy to connect to job management and documentation online.

Seven other star products from SIMA

SIMA LAUNCHES

l Pessl Instruments of Austria launched a new class of solar-powered weather station. The iMETOS LoRAIN, with real time measurement in-situ for rain, temperature and relative humidity, is said to be “affordable, compact and easy to use”. The founder and CEO of Pessl Instruments, Gottfried Pessl, says: “We can say that iMETOS LoRAIN is the easiest way to get familiar with smartfarming. It will help farmers to overcome the scepticism and let the technology support them in optimising all the activities they do on daily basis.” l Delair, a French supplier of commercial drones, showed Delair Ag, a comprehensive drone solution designed for agriculture and forestry. Built around the Delair UX11 Ag, a new fixed-wing drone optimised for the agriculture industry, and Delair Aerial Intelligence (delair.ai), Delair Ag provides a complete, integrated and easy-to-use workflow to collect, manage, analyse and share agriculture data. l Finnish company PEL-Tuote launched its widest and most powerful stone picker – the 7m-wide Kivi-Pekka 7, which can pick stones 40% more effectively than the smaller Kivi-Pekka 5. “Agriculture is becoming more efficient all the time, and our customers have expressed a wish for even more powerful stone pickers. The Kivi-Pekka 7 is ideal for larger fields and contractors,” said Mikko Lappalainen, CEO of PEL-Tuote Oy. l Case IH launched the Versum tractor series – high-spec compact machines offering the technology of the larger Maxxum in the compact package of Case IH’s Luxxum range. Four models will be available: the 100, 110, 120 and 130. l Massey Ferguson launched a new model in its 7700S range of tractors. The 7719S tops the range in its short wheelbase guise. l Kioti introduced its new DK 6010 tractor. Available with or without cab, the 60hp tractor can either be equipped with a threerange, twin pedal-controlled hydrostatic transmission, or a 16 by 16-speed mechanical gearbox with shuttle. l Bobcat unveiled its new farm-spec telehandler. The TL43.80HF Agri is capable of lifting 4,300kg to 7.5 metres.

OUT AND ABOUT

RECRUITMENT AND EMPLOYMENT

OUT AND ABOUT WITH BAGMA

A problem affecting all countries AT THE SIMA show in Paris, the countries have similar training proFrench trade association SEDIMA grammes with similar outcomes organised a ‘dealer morning’ to set at a high standard that involves highlight the issues faced by all both public and manufacturer countries in recruiting and retain- training. These generally amount to ing technicians. This was an exten- apprenticeship programmes that are sion of the campaign being organ- provided through training providers ised by CLIMMAR, the European that may be private companies, coldealers’ trade organisation, of which leges or even academies owned by BAGMA has been a member since the industry itself, or in close part1956. This campaign aims to high- nership with industry. light the issues of an ageing workTraining is not really the probforce and the difficulties of recruit- lem; it is the lack of reasonable numing new technicians. bers of new entrants coming into the The problem is the same industry that mean, in many cases, throughout the world and is high- there are not enough numbers to juslighted by countries such as Canada tify expensive training programmes and Australia ‘poaching’ qualified or investment from training providtechnicians and entic- ‘THE UK IS ers. This means lecturers ing them to emigrate to TAKING IN may not be up to date fill their own shortfalls AROUND 350 with technology, trainwithin the landbased APPRENTICES ing venues may not have industries sector. A YEAR WHEN up-to-date equipment Much is being writ- WE NEED to work with, providers ten about this problem AROUND 1,000’ may not be able to justify (see David Kirschner’s an investment that brings column on page 7), but it is very dif- little or no return and governments ficult to come to a conclusion on how may not see the industry being in to resolve the problem with so many need of stronger support despite the factors involved and so many differ- fact that farmers feed the world and ent organisations taking part in the machinery dealers help them do it. process. Back to David Kirschner’s piece. At the SIMA dealer conference, The problem of recruitment and five CLIMMAR members, includ- retention exists for the whole of ing the UK, offered facts and figures the industry. The employers, dealfrom their countries with informa- ers, need to take a more pro-active tion about what they were doing interest to ensure that there will be about the recruitment issues, num- technicians for the future. It is an bers in the industry, how training industry issue not just a local one. and education is developed in their Similar to the Netherlands, the UK respective countries. is taking in around 350 apprentices Erik Hogervorst, the CLIM- a year when we need around 1,000. MAR president, provided an over- Much can be done by dealers to help view of the problem and outlined improve this situation by being in CLIMMAR activities in developing touch with local schools and colleges, a position paper to address the issues by taking part in surveys and providand to present as a European paper ing information when asked and by to other organisations and govern- being aware of the issues and helping ments within Europe. industry do something about it. One thing becomes very clear after sitting through two hours of If you have any comment, ideas presentations: the problems are the or questions please direct them same everywhere and only the pos- to Keith Christian, Director sible solutions vary in the way train- of BAGMA at keithchristian@ ing is being addressed but most bagma.com

Curling in Stirling BAGMA’S ANNUAL CURLING event at The Peak in Stirling saw an excellent turnout of dealers and industry representatives. An enthusiastic mixture of experienced and novice curlers took to the ice following a wellattended BAGMA members meeting which took place at Stirling Albion Football Club, which also forms part of the Sports Village in Stirling. Following two hours of good humoured and competitive play, which also crucially saw no accidents, the curlers gathered in the bar afterwards to reflect on an enjoyable afternoon. Dealer Fraser Robb, of Fraser C Robb, said a few words, explaining that this was his and BAGMA’s 31st year of holding

the curling in Stirling event. “And I have every intention to be here next year for the 32nd,” said Fraser. Fraser went on to thank BAGMA’s Alasdair Straker for working so hard to organise the event, filling four sheets of ice with curlers. A brief presentation ceremony followed. The winning team, skipped by Fraser Robb and comprising Marc Nolan and Sally Cameron of Catalyst Computer Systems plus Service Dealer editor Steve Gibbs, accepted their prizes from sponsor Safety Aide. Service Dealer founder Chris Biddle sponsored an award for the best performing first-time novice which went to Annabel Baker of LANTRA (Scotland).

At TH White

At Stihl House

RICHARD JENKINS, BAGMA’S business development manager, spent a day watching six attendees on a BAGMA training course at TH Whites’ impressive branch at Toddington, Gloucestershire. The course was run by Ian ‘Mitch’ Mitchell in a relaxed, friendly and clear manner. As part of the course, all participants had to perform an installation, their product knowledge being put to the test. All passed and are now better placed to provide this service for their employee, TH White. Adrian Weaver described it as “a very good course with plenty of interaction” while Will Farr commented that “Mitch was fantastic and had excellent industry knowledge”.

A BIG THANK you to Stihl for hosting the recent BAGMA Connect meeting at their UK headquarters in Camberley. Members received a tour around the premises and were able to see first-hand how quickly the company process and ship orders. A talk from Stihl’s UK managing director Robin Lennie on the history and future for Stihl was most appreciated by all those attending. Other key speakers during the day were David Kirschner with a discussion on training and education and Dean Lowe from Safety Aide. It was great to see new faces at the meeting, and the amazing lunch provided by Stihl’s in-house chef provided all an excellent opportunity to discuss and network.

BAGMA BULLETIN MARCH–APRIL 2019

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