BAGMA Bulletin September-October 2020

THE MEMBERSHIP MAGAZINE OF THE BRITISH AGRICULTURAL AND GARDEN MACHINERY ASSOCIATION ISSUE 23 | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

Lawnmower man Gordon Tyler of Flitwick Mowers tells us why his family-run business is stronger than ever

INDUSTRY NEWS | READY FOR A COVID SPOT-CHECK? | TRAINING UPDATE

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IN THIS ISSUE

Light at the end of the tunnel..? Yes, there is!

ISSUE 22 SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

Countrywide flooding and a global pandemic has equalled a tough few months, but there are reasons to now be positive COMMENT

PETER ARRAND PRESIDENT BAGMA

Cover photographed by Ben Roberts

IS THERE LIGHT at the end of the tunnel? A question I keep hearing due to the stories that continue to our industry, livelihoods and the environment.

I cast my mind back to my Presidents Pen at the end of last year when I reflected on the devastating floods impacting various parts of the country. Following on from that, the coronavirus pandemic has swept through the country and will remain a challenge for many months to come. The country is officially in recession and unemployment numbers have risen sharply.

News is coming through on the impact on the UK cereal harvest being considerably down this year, and the knock-on effect this will have on producers and consumers.

A recent BAGMA e-briefing outlined the shows and conferences that have been cancelled and we have seen a very wet end to August.

So, when will we see light at the end of the tunnel? From the discussions I have had over the last few months it appears that it has always been there. Why do I say this?

Throughout this year I have witnessed the amazing resilience of our industry. Whilst some organisations have obviously struggled, many companies have seen an increased volume of business particularly in the aftersales area of the business. Organisations and

The membership magazine of the British Agricultural & Garden Machinery Association Published 6 times a year by Bira Publishing Editor Emily Bridgewater 07875 678855 emily.bridgewater@bira.co.uk Design Alan Bingle 07949 024737 alan@forty6design.com Multimedia sales executive Lisa Ebdy 07799886115 lisaebdymedia@outlook.com All advertising and media enquiries please email: editorial@bagma.com

employees have adapted to new ways of working, utilising technology which has led to people challenging the way that they may work in the future. The institutions and training providers have done a fantastic job ensuring that training for apprentices, developing people and skills for the future, has continued so not to leave this group of important individuals behind. Manufacturers, although not delivering classroom training, have developed online training and utilised distance learning more than ever before. ‘T’ Level qualification development continues and has undergone public and industry consultation.

Although conventional training has not been possible, BAGMA is now seeing an encouraging increase in the level of enquiries and a return to onsite training which proves that businesses are still looking to invest for the future and develop employees further.

I mentioned earlier the BAGMA briefing which is emailed out every month and is a great way to keep up-to-date with the latest industry information. If you are not receiving this then please email your request for it to the BAGMA office on info@bagma.com. If you are receiving this, then you may have noticed that there is a ‘forward to’ button near the bottom. Please take advantage of this to include anyone else you know or within your organisation that may benefit from it. Thank you.

BAGMA, 225 Bristol Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B5 7UB 01295 713344 www.bagma.com BAGMA president Peter Arrand BAGMA director Keith Christian BAGMA business development manager Richard Jenkins 07432 290605

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NEWS All the latest news from the sector

CHANGING FACES AGCO Chief Executive is to retire at the end of the year

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COVER STORY How Flitwick Mowers built its sterling reputation

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LEGAL LATEST Are you ready? What to expect from a Covid spot-check

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SHOW NEWS Covid-19 puts pay to the end-of- year events

Bira, 225 Bristol Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B5 7UB Tel 0121 446 6688 Fax 0121 446 5215 www.Bira.co.uk Bira president 2019-20 Howard Pullen CEO Andrew Goodacre Finance director Beverley Long Commercial director Jeff Moody Marketing director John Halliday

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.

BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

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BAGMA NEWS

BULLETIN BOARD

NEW BATTERY PACK GIVES EXTENDED RUN TIME

INFINICUT® has launched a new 60Ah battery module.

The new power unit joins the lineup, alongside the industry-leading 30Ah option, to offer extended run-time and more power for increased overall flexibility.

The new, larger 60Ah battery offers a run-time of up to 390 minutes, dependant on machine, set-up and conditions.

BAGMA BULLETIN’S GREEN PARTNER

Stephens and George – the printers behind the BAGMA Bulletin – has been recertified with its ISO14001 environmental accreditations.

The FSC and PEFC certifications are valid until 2022. The accreditation means that the Merthyr Tydfil-based firm makes a conscious effort to offer clients the opportunity to take advantage of eco-friendly solutions within their publications.

STAFFORDSHIRE FIRM MARKS NEW PARTNERSHIP

Horsch has partnered with Johnsons of Cheadle to provide its full range of cultivators, drills and sprayers to customers in Staffordshire.

Johnsons has two branches, one at Cheadle and one at Eccleshall, and, as a Case IH main dealer, has huge experience supporting large arable farms through to smaller dairy farms.

The two branches comprise a staff 17 with five service engineers. The Cheadle branch covers a dairy area whilst further south, the Eccleshall branch serves a large arable customer base.

LONG-RUNNING FIRM CLOSES RETAIL OPERATION

BAGMA member Handys Garden Machinery of Swindon is to close the retail side of its operation, it has been announced.

The 82-year-old firm is said to be focussing – and expanding – the wholesale side of its business.

CALL FOR REORGANISATION AT BRIGGS & STRATTON

The largest unsecured creditors of Briggs & Stratton, believe a business reorganisation rather than an assets auction could result in a better financial outcome for the company’s trade creditors, retiree health plan and pensioners, according to a report in Service Dealer Magazine.

The report quotes the Milwaukee Business Journal, which says these creditors wish to delay the manufacturer’s fast-track plan to sell its assets at auction.

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New John Deere franchise deal for BAGMA member BAGMA MEMBER SMALLRIDGE Bros Ltd will be expanding its agricultural sales area of John Deere machinery into mid and west Cornwall.

The family-owned business, which already has three outlets in Barnstaple and Holsworthy in Devon and at Callington in east Cornwall, will be replacing Cornwall Farm Machinery, who have decided to relinquish the John Deere franchise from November 1, 2020.

Smallridge Bros plans to open a new outlet to serve customers in the region, and details will be released soon.

Smallridge Brothers was established at East Collabear near Barnstaple in Devon in 1977, when brothers David and Michael Smallridge started an agricultural engineering partnership, and John Deere signed the business as an official franchise dealership in 1990.

In 2011 the company moved into Cornwall for the first time with a second outlet at Callington, and in 2014 a third outlet was acquired

US giant brings all turf production to Ipswich factory A US MULTINATIONAL is relocating all its professional mower manufacturing to Ipswich.

Textron has announced it will be bringing all its Jacobsen production to its UK facility at Ransomes Jacobsen, which is based in Ransomes Europark and employs more than 240 people, according to the Ipswich Star.

The town has a strong mower manufacturing heritage through Ransomes, and the move will be seen as a big boost for the town.

It will mean that the Ipswich factory – which currently builds Jacobsen and Ransomes mowers – will make mowers for all the multinational’s sales regions, including North America.

Meanwhile Jacobsen will maintain its sales and customer care teams in North America, and its network of North American distributors, which serve customers in the United States and Canada.

The move – aimed at making operations more efficient and expand on the historic legacy of the Ipswich site – is set to begin this autumn and be completed in stages over several months.

at Holsworthy in Devon when the dealership took over the John Deere business previously managed by Robert Cole Agricultural Engineers Ltd. Smallridge Bros currently employs more than 70 staff and has established a successful new technology department specialising in John Deere’s Precision Ag and Connected Support systems. The dealership also operates a number of other franchises including Kramer telehandlers and loaders, in addition to John Deere’s full line of agricultural products and services. John Deere’s professional turf dealership managed by Masons Kings at St Columb in Cornwall is unaffected by these changes.

Simon Smallridge, dealer principal, said: “We are very pleased that Smallridge Bros has been awarded the John Deere agricultural franchise for mid and west Cornwall.

“We look forward to opening a new depot to extend our existing high levels of service support and sales expertise."

AEA release tractor registration data The Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) has released its tractor registration figures for July, 2020.

UK agricultural tractor registrations were once again well below last year’s level in July, according to the AEA. At 868 machines, the total was 44% lower than in July 2019.

However, the total a year ago was somewhat inflated by pre-registrations ahead of regulatory changes. Compared with the previous five-year average, July’s total was down by less than in April and May, although more than in June.

The total for the year-to-date has now reached 6,063 tractors, 28% down on the same period last year.

UK AGRICULTURAL TRACTOR REGISTRATIONS – JULY 2020 MONTH

868 Units

YEAR TO DATE

6,063 Units

-43.9% -28.2% (vs July 2019)

(vs January-July 2019)

BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

BAGMA NEWS

Stocks Ag is on track at start of new era STOCKS AG LIMITED, one of the UK’s leading manufacturer of agricultural wheels and applicators, has been purchased by James Woolway.

Stocks Ag has built a solid reputation around the world for technical innovation and quality in its specialist area. The company is now entering a new era, having supplied wheels, tyres, and applicators to farmers worldwide for more than 40 years.

Mea nwhile, Ja mes Woolway was brought up on his family’s farm and has worked in the agricultural machinery industry since completing an agricultural engineering degree in 1994. However, whilst his experience lies in sales, marketing and management, he has always been driven to get involved in the manufacture of British agricultural machinery.

In 2005 James took over as managing director and subsequently owner of OPICO Limited, now the UK’s largest independent agricultural machinery importer.

Whilst his intention is to run Stocks Ag and OPICO as two separate companies, with different products, sales teams and their own distribution channels, there are clear benefits from the economies of scale.

“Stocks Ag is a wellknown and respected UK brand. This acquisition provides more security for both businesses,” said James.

“OPICO gains from having a sister company in a different market area, with a manufacturing facility and export markets. Stocks gains from the size and structure of its sister company, having access to inhouse IT, marketing and financial systems.”

Finance deal could steer you to upgrade your tech LH AGRO HAS extended its 0% finance scheme on its range of Topcon automatic steering and precision guidance systems.

The deal is available on a selection of Topcon equipment including the X-series range of implement control consoles, the AES-35 electronic steering wheel and AGI-4 receiver.

First launched 18 months ago, the scheme was initiated to make it easier for current users and new adopters of precision farming equipment to upgrade to the very latest auto-steer and crop scanning technologies.

Richard Reed, managing director of LH Agro, said: “The 0% scheme not only makes the latest precision farming equipment affordable for farmers who are kitting out new machinery, but also for those who have an existing machine they want to retro-fit to make it auto-steer compatible, or a sprayer or spreader which they want to upgrade to include section control and variable rate application.”

Details from LH Agro on 01480 496367

Toro’s new mower fits golf club’s needs to a tee BAGMA MEMBER CHESHIRE Turf Machinery has made Newcastle-under-Lyme Golf Club the first to own Toro’s new all-electric eTriFlex 3370.

Course manager Ian Beech says it was six years ago that he first heard about the battery technology in development during a visit to Toro’s headquarters and R&D centre in Minneapolis.

Iain said: “Seeing the prototype and hearing all about this game-changing technology really captured my interest and I’ve been waiting for the day we could get our hands on one of these machines ever since.”

That day arrived in late spring and Iain says the new mower has exceeded expectations for him and the six-strong team. “One of the main selling points was that the battery could mow up to 20 aver-

age sized greens on a single charge.

Incredibly we’ve been getting up to 56 greens done! Even with accessories such as the grooming brushes on the cutting units we’re still getting 38-40 greens done!

“We racked up 90 hours in the first five weeks, we charge it overnight and as yet haven’t noticed an increase on our electric bill. We’re looking into installing solar panels on the shed roof, so perhaps in time there will be no reliance on the main electric supply at all to power the machine.”

Iain says when he started in the greenkeeping industry, there was a limited shed of equipment: two tractors, some Flymos and a couple of triple mowers, and with each passing year as Ian noticed how the demands on the course were getting greater, he soon struck up a relationship with nearby dealer

BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

Cheshire Turf Machinery to help him develop the course into one of the most consistent and fast in the area.

“I always attend the shows to see what’s available and network to learn from other people’s experiences,” he says. “It’s for those reasons I’m confident we have the best combination working with Cheshire Turf Machinery and Reesink and using Toro. Add to that having

the right staff, the right training and a progressive club who continues to invest in its future and the result has been an increase in membership as the country comes out of lockdown.”

Richard Beech, club manager, added: “Having this machine means we don’t have to choose between being responsible neighbours and preparing the course for our members."

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BAGMA NEWS

Groundscare team is really bowled over by new mower Introducing new Vice President of BAGMA Council PETER HEMING OF Heming Services Ltd has been voted in as BAGMA’s new Vice President.

Peter was featured in the cover story in the July/August edition of the BAGMA Bulletin.

Peter is Chairman of BAGMA’s Four Counties Region, Hereford, Worcestershire, Warwickshire and Gloucestershire. He recently joined the BAGMA Council and realised the VP’s position was vacant and volunteered to fill the position. Peter Arrand, BAGMA President, said: "I am delighted to be able to bring the BAGMA Council up to full strength and a volunteer is always better than a pressed man."

Peter is interested in bringing new people into the industry and raising the awareness of the importance of the sector and the ever-changing technology to those seeking career opportunities.

It’s all go for LAMMA 2021 LAMMA is set to go ahead in January 2021 as planned, it has been announced.

The decision has been made after the Government stated that exhibitions can go ahead from October 1, 2020.

LAMMA will take place on January 12 and 13, 2021, at the Birmingham NEC. Organisers have said a full and thorough COVID-19 risk assessment in line with the latest government and industry guidance has been conducted.

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RICHARD PEEL GROUNDCARE is the sports turf contractors to take delivery of an INFINICUT® FX pedestrian mower.

Complete with an UltraGroomer™ cassette from the TMSystem™ range, this new setup will help Richard and his team deliver on a new bowls maintenance contract.

Undertaking pitch maintenance and renovations for football clubs at all levels, Richard prides himself on using ‘industry leading machinery to deliver the best possible results to each individual customer’. That was why, when the company won a new contract to maintain five bowling greens in the Manchester area, there was only one mower in contention to deliver the desired results.

“We’d had always been impressed with the INFINICUT® when we had seen it at industry trade shows,” said Richard. “It was clear from posts on social media that it was going to tick a lot of boxes for us.”

After a successful demonstration, Richard took delivery of his new 22” INFINICUT® Fixed Head mower in June, from local dealer Balmers GM. “From an environmental point of view, the battery is major plus - not just as a cleaner source of energy, but the reduction in noise and vibration issues for

the operator.” One operative on Richard’s team takes care of the eight greens they now maintain, each cut twice a week. “I’ve received nothing but positive feedback, particularly how lightweight the unit is, how easy it is to set-up, adjust and control and the fantastic cut quality.”

Richard added: “This combination of equipment now puts us in the best position to keep the greens healthy, playing well and looking at their best throughout the year.”

Award-winning groundsman transforms pitch WITH 12 YEARS of greenkeeping experience under his belt, Carel Fourie has been turning his hand to the maintenance at Holwell Sports FC. And he’s made quite the impression, scooping the United Counties League Groundsman of the Year title for 2019/20.

Assisting Carel with the transition from fine turf to sports turf has been Alex Hawkes of Headland Amenity, who has overseen the construction of a nutritional programme that has boosted the health, appearance, and playability of the Welby Road pitch.

Carel said: “What started out as an advisory role, and carrying out the occasional spot treatments, turned into me being appointed as the club’s first permanent groundsman three years ago.

“While I have done a lot of spraying and built up knowledge on a range of Headland products for golf, getting to know what would work for football was a real learning curve.”

Following soil sampling and analysis by Alex, a programme was introduced based around Multigreen® temperature-controlled release fertiliser.

“I utilised the time during lockdown to conduct some heavy renovation work which included hollow coring and overseeding, which germinated really well largely thanks to nutrients sustained in the soil from the previous application of Multigreen®, alongside a treatment of H-Cote™ Mini which I put down in early March,” said Carel.

The lockdown also didn’t stop the invaluable technical support from Headland. “I was sent a kit to take my own soil samples which Headland then analysed to make sure everything was still on track. There were a couple of times where WhatsApp came in handy too, with Alex able to identify some issues we were having with Brown Patch via video call when he wasn’t able to visit the site.”

With golf and football firmly on his CV, Carel is also now undertaking some work at Melton Mowbray Cricket Club. “Each surface brings its own unique challenges, not to mention the added complications that Covid has presented, but we’re nothing if not versatile, and with enthusiasm and the right advice I relish those challenges!”

BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

BAGMA NEWS

AGCO chief exec to retire at end of year

JCB’s mini excavator scoops top award JCB’S ELECTRIC MINI excavator has scooped one of the world’s most prestigious prizes for engineering innovation.

The UK’s Royal Academy of Engineering has awarded JCB’s ultra-quiet and zero emissions 19C1E electric digger the 2020 MacRobert Award.

The award marks innovation since 1969; previous winners include the CT scanner and Rolls-Royce’s Pegasus engine used in the Harrier jump jet.

JCB faced strong competition for this year’s award from two other finalists: the all-electric I-PACE sports utility vehicle from Jaguar Land Rover and ecoSMRT® liquid natural gas reliquification technology from Babcock’s LGE business.

JCB Chairman Lord Bamford said: “To win one of the world’s most respected engineering prizes is

an outstanding endorsement for JCB’s electrification team, who have achieved so much in applying a science which was new to our business.

“JCB’s electric mini excavator will contribute to a zero carbon future and it’s a huge honour for our contribution to be recognised in this way.”

Professor Sir Richard Friend FREng FRS, chairman of the Royal Academy of Engineering MacRobert Award judging panel, added: “JCB’s electric digger is a huge engineering achievement.

The team has developed all parts of the electric propulsion system to deliver system performance that matches real customer requirements. This is a huge achievement in itself, but the additional benefits of zero exhaust emissions and much lower noise has lifted the 19C-1E excavator to a new level.”

We’re here for you A bank for independent dealers.

By your side, no matter what’s thrown your way. bagmabank.com

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BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

AGCO, A WORLDWIDE manufacturer and distributor of agricultural equipment and solutions, has announced that Martin Richenhagen has chosen to retire as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer on December 31, 2020.

The company further announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Eric Hansotia, currently AGCO’s Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, to succeed Mr.Richenhagen as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2021. In addition, Mr. Hansotia has been elected to the Board of Directors, effective IT'S BEEN MY GREATEST immediately.

“The Board and PRIVILEGE I are confident that TO SERVE Eric is the right ALONGSIDE person to build on MY AGCO AGCO’s solid foun- COLLEAGUES FOR THE dation” Mr Richenha- PAST 16 gen joined AGCO YEARS in 2004 as President and CEO and was named Chairman of the Board of Directors in 2006.

“It’s been my greatest privilege to serve alongside my AGCO colleagues for the past 16 years,” said Mr Richenhagen.

“Their dedication, integrity, innovativeness and commitment to our customers are what make AGCO such an extraordinary company, and I’m proud to have been part of its history. I have tremendous confidence in Eric, the Board, our employees and our dealer network, and believe that AGCO’s best days are yet to come.”

Get in touch to find out more about: • • •

Vehicle & equipment loans Savings accounts Vehicle discounts

info@bagmabank.com 24/08/2020 09:30:39

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TRAINING AND EDUCATION

BAGMA training is back in action THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC has caused many issues throughout the education system, including apprenticeship programmes and general training schemes. Government initiatives and guidance have tried to help the situation with varying degrees of success.

As we move into another academic year and students are returning to their courses we are seeing more schemes designed to help with training and generally a return to work.

BAGMA’s training is back, catching up on previously booked courses and setting up new ones. Hopefully, we'll see this across the sector.

We've rounded up some useful information here. Get involved if you can.

Consultation on changes to apprenticeships funding recommendation The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (the Institute) is consulting on a proposed new approach and model for generating funding bands. A funding band is the maximum level of government funding made available for an apprenticeship standard. The Institute generates a funding band and recom-

mends it to the Secretary of State for Education for approval. A new approach has been designed to replace the existing process.

The change relates wholly to the process and calculations used by the Institute in recommending the maximum levels of government funding for apprenticeship standards.

You can find details of the proposed model and how to support its further refinement by using the following link: www.instituteforap-

Funding is available for 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus associated employer National Insurance contributions and employer minimum automatic enrolment contributions. There is also £1,500 per job placement available for setup costs, support and training. Funding is available following a successful application process. Certain conditions apply. Details at www.gov.uk/ guidance/check-if-you-can-apply-for-a-grantthrough-the-kickstart-scheme or search for Kickstart Scheme.

prenticeships.org/reviews-and-consultations/ consultations/funding-consultation/ or search for IFATE consultation

Changes to apprenticeships Guidance for apprentices, employers, training providers, end-point assessment organisations and external quality assurance providers about changes to apprenticeships due to coronavirus (COVID-19). It outlines the changes the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) is making to the apprenticeship programme during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Find details at www.gov.uk/government/publica-

New Kickstart Scheme If you are an employer looking to create job placements for young people, you may be eligible for funding through the Kickstart Scheme.

You can use the scheme to create new sixmonth job placements for young people who are currently on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment. The job placements should support the participants to develop the skills and experience they need to find work after completing the scheme.

tions/coronavirus-covid-19-apprenticeshipprogramme-response

WE’RE AS PASSIONATE ABOUT GREAT SERVICE AS YOU ARE! Free up your stock room with our drop shipping service – simply place an order for direct delivery to your customer, perfect for bulky or high ticket items.

When you need it fast, take advantage of our next day delivery service. We maintain our stock levels to ensure your order is fulfilled on time.

We provide extra support with UK based customer services, technical product helplines and, in case you didn’t know, we’re rated Excellent on Trustpilot.

Take a look at our latest tools, prices and offers: visit b2b.drapertools.com, contact your Draper Area Sales Manager or call Draper on 023 8049 4333

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BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

ar tr y s

Se fo

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“The support you receive as a member is similar to having a friendly and knowledgeable head office that is always there to support you.”

s i r o n g In d u e ver 100 y

Bob Chapman Bavenhill Mechanics Co. Ltd

Members since 1998

Join thousands of like-minded businesses We’ve been supporting independent, agricultural and garden machinery businesses across the UK since 1917. In this time, we’ve consistently delivered genuine business savings and benefits for members, as well as networking opportunities and business support.

Industry events We attend varied events & exhibitions, and host BAGMA meetings

Business services Access to preferential rates on services designed to save you time and money

Support Through our membership team for phone support or via the BAGMA website

You can access all of the above and much more with BAGMA membership.

Join today bagma.com/join

When the going got t Since 1985, family-run Flitwick Mowers in Bedfordshire has built a strong reputation for supplying and servicing top-quality lawnmowers and garden machinery. Here, owner Gordon Tyler talks about how the industry has changed and why the Covid pandemic has created solidarity in the sector Good morning Gordon, thanks for chatting to the BAGMA Bulletin. Firstly, would you tell us a bit about Flitwick Mowers…

Gordon: Flitwick Mowers Ltd started serving the local community with quality garden and lawn machinery more than 30 years ago. During that time, we’ve developed a reputation in Bedfordshire that is second-to-none with a customer base that continues to grow and remain loyal to us. We offer expert advice on lawnmower and garden equipment purchases and topclass servicing and repair facilities, including collection from our customers’ front door. My wife Sarah works with me doing the business accounts and admin, and our daughter Samantha also helps when she’s not at university.

You’ve had your own business since 1985 but what was your career path to getting there?

I originally worked for Flitwick Motorcycles, who are still nearby. I was offered the job by the

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local careers office after completing a six-month work experience course at Dalgety Spillers on £23.50 a week. At the time, Flitwick Motorcycles had just started selling lawnmowers and I was taken on to develop that side of the business. The business grew further, and the operation was moved to Farr’s Garden Centre near Maulden, for a few years. Then I was eventually offered the opportunity to run it as my own business. I purchased the current premises (in Lyall Court), an old engineering works, and refurbished it with the help of my father-in-law, moving in with the business in 2003.

You have a strong reputation as one of the most respected garden machinery dealers in Bedfordshire, how have you done that?

I liked machinery and service work when I was young and have always been happy working with garden machinery and the customers I have. I believe in good customer service and

have always kept my standards high. We are reliable with consistent values, and this has earned me a good reputation locally.

What elements of the business do you particularly enjoy? Are there any aspects you do not enjoy?

I like to look after my customers and see them happy with what I do for them. However, I don’t like the issues created by sales from the big sheds and online businesses, that create problems for local servicing dealers. We sometimes see noncustomers demanding our attention for something they did not buy from us. Machine-wise, I don’t really like two-stroke engines because they are smelly and temperamental!

What are the major changes you have seen to the industry over the years?

How long have you got? There has been a huge shift due to the web and online selling. CustomBAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

BAGMA INTERVIEW

demic with high demand both through the shop and online. Thanks to BAGMA, I understood early on that our business sector did not have to close like ‘non-essential retail’, so we have been here to help our customers through the crisis and provide new product and service support. I did have to alter my collection and delivery routine due to be being so busy, but most people have appreciated the need for that.

I have operated a ‘one in, one out’ customer policy for the shop to keep everyone safe and that has worked well.

tough... ers are generally more aware of what they want and better informed. As result their expectations are higher. There is, maybe, less understanding of the support a garden machinery specialist dealer can offer that is more comprehensive then a big store or online business that does not support a product.

More recently, the move towards batterypowered products with the lighter weight offered by lithium ion batteries has affected sales of petrol-powered products. The scarcity of lithium may mean that the current trend towards battery-power machinery may fade away. There are also changes in the make-up of petrol with the increases in bio ethanol content making normal petrol a problem if it is left in fuel tanks too long. For me though, Aspen sales, an alternative treated fuel, have been very good.

I have also seen a lot of online discounting from some of the larger retailers in the industry which devalues products and, once again, raises customer expectations on wanting lower instore prices despite the level of support we offer.

How has the coronavirus pandemic impacted the business?

My business has been very good during the panBAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

You really can’t put a price on this and, as they say, ‘when the going gets tough the tough get going’ and the family has really toughened up the business.

What do you see as the main challenges moving forward? For you, and the industry as a whole…

The industry challenges are the same for all of us. We will all have to adapt, long-term, to the changes brought about by the Covid pandemic.

There may be an increase in machinery sales online, but we are a resilient industry and one Is there anything you learned about that prides itself in its after-sales and service business from the onset of the support and hopefully our customers will pandemic? buy locally and support us.

I suppose they are a lot of things I think there will be issues that have had to change, and with battery-powered equipI have learned that change ment not standing the test is not always bad. I have of time and that the curlearned that despite these rent trend toward robotic changes I can survive mowers will flatten out and hopefully prosper. I as the market saturates. lost my mechanic a while Suppliers will become ago but have now decided more flexible in their supnot to replace him because port for a dealer network. I I can manage without him. would hope that an element I think that my consistent of common sense will creep approach to customer service in with those selling equipment over the many years, has helped online at ridiculously low prices I'VE LEARNED DURING and devaluing the market. retain their loyalty.

THE PANDEMIC THAT DESPITE THESE CHANGES I CAN SURVIVE AND HOPEFULLY PROSPER

How do you rate the level of support available to small businesses during the coronavirus crisis?

I have manged without using the support but having it there has been a comfort and being made aware of the type of support through BAGMA has been helpful in understanding what ‘lifebelts’ could be thrown to a small business.

I have also been supported by my suppliers who have been flexible and understanding as the pandemic has moved on. We are all in this together after all.

Being a small business - with my wife helping with accounts and the support from my daughters - I have been grateful for this help.

What’s next for Flitwick Mowers?

I am happy with Flitwick Mowers and my customer base. I am already a well consolidated business and I like to think well organised. I'll adapt to changes and the longer-term effects of Covid. I have a few years left in me and a solid business which I want to maintain.

And finally, how do you spend your spare time?

I obviously have a grown-up family that I spend time with but I also swim regularly, as Covid allows. I also have a passion for motorcycles, both riding them and supporting a racing team although I no longer race myself.

9

EXPERTS

Pallet deliveries causing a strain YOUR DELIVERIES FREQUENTLY arrive panies have become more risk averse. They on pallets, and the drivers simply drop them don’t want their drivers putting themselves at on the pavement and expect staff to unpack risk of injury carrying out tasks which are not and carry everything into the building. Is this part of their job. acceptable and, if so, is there a legal If you’re receiving palletised TIP SAFETY limit to observe? loads and it doesn’t suit you, In this example, individual boxes PAUL MARSH consider whether making smaller manager on the pallet weigh up to 20kg but Office orders would still be economical, SafetyAide there could typically be 40 items in making the delivery manageable. the load. The weight of each item is borderline for some to cope with as a Is it a safe load? one-off, let alone when the lifting and You should not be allowing staff to carrying must be undertaken repeatcarry out this type of activity unless edly and swiftly. The previous driver you have completed a manual hanprobably went beyond his remit by dling risk assessment. This involves using a sack truck to ferry the goods into the two parts: (1) a preliminary assessment; and (2) building. As this is no longer happening you've a detailed assessment. been left with a problem.

When determining the risk control TIP

Can you insist on a better service?

Changes in the logistics industry are making this problem more commonplace and it’s unlikely you’ll be able to avoid it. Lorries take mixed loads with pallets for multi-drop delivery, whereas smaller orders would previously have been sent in a box van. Palletised goods are highly convenient if you’re equipped for it, e.g. with a fork lift truck or powered pallet truck, but otherwise they’re far from ideal.

An additional problem is that logistics com-

measures to include in your written assessment, the first priority is to avoid manual handling activities which carry a risk of injury. In this case that might mean finding a way to reduce the size of individual packages or obtaining a powered pallet truck and changing the layout of the workplace so that the delivery can simply be brought in without manual work. Secondary options are providing trolleys, safety footwear, checking that staff are fit to handle the work and providing manual handling training.

Maximum weight limit The HSE has provided a Manual Handling at Work guidance (INDG143rev3) along with a manual handling assessment template to help employers. They provide the following diagram showing guideline figures to assist those carrying out manual handling risk assessments. Use this to work out which activities are low risk. It illustrates different 'safe' load limits when lifting from different positions, e.g. ground, overhead, waist height etc.

If your lifting activity exceeds the HSE’s guidelines weight chart, undertake a manual handling risk assessment.

TIP

This type of activity could easily cause injury so should be avoided. Consider your options, ideally by starting to use a pallet truck, asking suppliers to use smaller package sizes etc. Undertake a manual handling risk assessment. There are no fixed legal limits to observe.

Winter is coming – how prepared are you?

AS A PROVIDER of Dealership Management heard about from a lot of dealers is the slowing Software to several sectors, the team at Catalyst down of supply chain. Now is the time to work get a first-hand view of whats going on and how with your suppliers. Think about your fastest dealers are faring. moving lines and use your dealership manIts fair to say that across all sectors we are agement software to check seasonality and observing that dealerships are focused, working popularity in order to determine how many you harder than ever and making money! may require in the coming months.

IT SYSTEMS Of course we have all had a good Dealers are often surprised by what dose of “reality check” and dealers MIKE they discover. Keep your suppliers CAMERON have had to make some tough, bold Sales Manager, advised of your immediate requiredecisions but these challenges have Catalyst ments and discuss your forecast of also reminded us that a common future requirements. sense, honest approach to dealerCustomer Retention – It is often ship operations and our relationsaid that retaining an existing cusship with customers and suppliers is tomer is five times cheaper than sometimes all that’s required. acquiring a new customer. So don’t sit back and wait for those customPlan ahead ers to contact you, get in touch now and make a Planning ahead for the winter months is essen- plan for the 'quieter' season. Consider contacting tial for any successful dealership, especially dur- customers that may have units with outstanding ing these unprecedented times. If done correctly, servicing needs, approaching end of warranty or a successful winter plan can help boost your issues that we have reported to the customer that businesses efficiency and increase the dealer- remain unresolved. These are all good reasons to ships revenue. get back in touch with your customer.

Parts & Stock Forecasting – One issue we’ve Sales Prospecting – Most dealers are all too

aware of the potential customers (prospects) you can spend hours with only to never be seen again without them spending a penny, so make a point not to forget them. When spending time with a prospect, it should be standard practice for all dealership staff to log as much information about the prospect as possible, for example the unit they’re interested in, any potential part exchange, budget etc. Armed with this information you can then follow-up, help them feel valued and show that you are interested.

Online – Understandably footfall in dealerships has decreased. Web adverts allows dealers to sell units even when showrooms are quiet.

Broadcasting your units to a broad range of platforms such as eBay, Gumtree, FarmAds and even our very own Catalyst Findit helps ensure your stock is being regularly seen by a much larger audience.

10

BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

Finally use social media, it works!

All of these suggestions work. At Catalyst we hear of dealers doing some or all of these things every day and they really can have a profound effect on your business.

EXPERTS

Remembering good times – and looking ahead COMMENT

KEITH CHRISTIAN DIRECTOR BAGMA Having just spent a couple of hours reading through several pieces of government advice on apprenticeships, the Kickstart Scheme, funding guidance and so on, I wonder how an employer is supposed to be able to understand all of this and still find time to run the very businesses that these schemes are aimed at. Read all about it in the training section of this edition of the BAGMA Bulletin.

I am very pleased to announce that Peter Heming has now been elected to fill the BAGMA Council’s Vice President role, and we have also been joined by Craig Footman from Mark Weatherhead Ltd. who will be taking over Mark Weatherhead’s position on the Council. Our thanks go to Mark for the many years he has been a Council member and the

wisdom and direction he has brought to the is nothing worse than a customer who cannot table during these years. cut their grass when they want to!

I am also delighgted to let our members I visited Gordon Tyler, who appears on know that after nearly six months on furlough our cover, and spent a half a day with him Richard Jenkins has returned full time to and his family. Gordon is an old customer of BAGMA to take up his role as our Business mine from my Claymore days so apart from Development Manager and he will also be the necessary interview we found some time dealing with general membership enquiries to reminisce with stories from the good old and recruitment. He will be out days. One particularly memorable THERE IS visiting members and a few tale was when Gordon mocked up potentials but only by appointment NOTHING a Masport mower in Stiga colours WORSE THAN and convinced Mark Jenkins, his or request due to the Covid-19 A CUSTOMER situation.

Claymore rep at the time, that Stiga Our industry generally seems to WHO CANNOT were now branding Masports to CUT THEIR be doing well and weathering the sell in the UK. Mark was caught GRASS! Covid storm. hook, line and sinker and urgently It has also become more rang me to let me know. Very funny apparent than ever that the support at the time but as we now know anything machinery dealers offer their local can happen to a brand nowadays to squeeze communities has been a crucial factor in more volume out of the market. keeping our farmers going and maintaining Enjoy the magazine and as always if there the sanity of gardeners by providing is anything we can do for you just get in touch equipment and support. As we all know, there with the BAGMA office.

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BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

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11

BAGMA LEGAL

In times of Covid-19, don’t forget the basic rules of workplace safety The HSE has stressed that while Covid-19 management remains the clear focus, employers must not become complacent to ‘basic’ workplace risks such as slips and trips, fire safety and training

w

AS THE GOVERNMENT moves into a new phase of supporting a safe return to work, the HSE is ramping up site visits and inspections – but it’s not just employers’ Covid-19 control measures that stand to be scrutinised.

Following the annual release of its workrelated fatal injury statistics, BAGMA’s legal partner Ellis Whittam shares its guide on some of the things inspectors will be doing: ● Resuming targeted proactive inspection work of high-risk industries; and ● Continuing to investigate work-related deaths, the most serious major injuries and dangerous occurrences and reported concerns.

cause of major injury in UK workplaces. While they may appear relatively minor incidents, the HSE reports that 95% of slips and trips result in broken bones and they can also be the initial cause of more serious accidents, such as a fall from height.

Employers have a legal duty to assess the risk from slips and trips and take reasonable precautions, such as ensuring adequate lighting, providing slip-resistant footwear, and checking floors to make sure they are in good condition.

Most of these measures are simple and inexpensive to implement and will prevent costly absences and injury claims resulting from inaction.

Don’t forget the basics The message is simple: although the return to work has seen employers implement new Covid19 safety procedures and protective measures, it’s important that this does not compromise existing arrangements or cause other health and safety issues and requirements to be overlooked.

Covid-19 does not remove other statutory health and safety obligations, and employers are still legally obliged to protect the safety of employees and others. This means continuing to manage all hazards within your workplace.

Fire safety Fire is still one of the biggest threats to a business and the need to consider fire safety hasn’t gone away because of Covid-19. In fact, employers should review their fire risk assessment now to make sure it reflects any recent changes made in response to Covid-19. For example, if you have reduced staffing levels or made changes to working patterns, this may mean you have fewer Fire Marshals available. Fire awareness training is also a legal requirement and refresher training is likely to be needed on return to the workplace.

Key risk areas that must continue to be managed effectively during the pandemic include: Slips and trips Slips and trips are the single most common

Premises The law requires that premises are safe for use both by employees and visitors. Electrical equipment, gas appliances, flues and pipework must be maintained in a safe condition and should be

inspected by a competent person. The HSE has also released guidance on Legionella risks during the coronavirus outbreak as water in systems that haven’t been used in months can become stagnant, increasing the chances of Legionella bacteria.

More generally, it is a good idea to conduct regular walk-through checks of your premises so that any unsafe conditions or acts can be identified and corrective measures taken.

Musculoskeletal disorders Back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders are the most common type of occupational ill health. Repetitive work such as lifting, moving and carrying items can lead to muscle strain directly or over time. Employers must take steps to prevent or minimise such ill health by: ● Training staff in proper lifting techniques; ● Using mechanical aids such as hand trolleys; Organising work areas in ways that reduce the need for lifting, moving and carrying.

Training Employers must provide instruction, information and training to ensure workers are aware of workplace risks and understand how to perform tasks safely. In addition to training around your Covid -19 arrangements, consider appending refresher training on other important health and safety topics, such as your emergency arrangements, accident reporting procedure, and the safe use of equipment.

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Find a range of products to sell to customers and equipment for your shop including: • • • • •

PPE Social distancing signage Stockroom essentials Garden equipment Tools and other hardware products

direct 16/06/2020 14:26:07

BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

BAGMA LEGAL

Coronavirus: Ready for a spot check?

With many businesses back operating under new safety guidelines, local authorities have begun visiting those who have reopened since lockdown to check they are covid-compliant.

Almost 4,000 businesses were subjected to spot checks between March 9 and June 29. This represents a mixture of site visits and over-the-phone checks supported by a request for evidence. Promisingly, of those contacted so far, all but 41 businesses were deemed to be compliant after the second check.

Still, the prospect of an unannounced visit can be daunting, so what can businesses do to strengthen their position ahead of time and make the process as pain-free as possible?

Vehicles A significant number of safety incidents happen during deliveries and collections when people are at risk from moving vehicles, particularly where HGVs are reversing and lack space. To ensure good workplace transport safety, make sure your site is well lit, with sufficient signs and pedestrian segregation in place. If possible, design traffic routes that avoid or reduce the need for reversing.

Display screen equipment Display screen equipment (DSE) training is legally required for DSE users – those who use computers, laptops, tablets and similar devices as part of their normal work, continuously for an hour or more. In addition, while a workstation assessment is normally conducted when a new workstation is set up or a new user starts work, it is a good idea to carry out DSE assessments for staff who have been away from work for a prolonged period, especially if you have made changes to the workspace in light of Covid -19.

BAGMA Legal’s Health & Safety Consultants explain how to prepare for a COVID-19 inspection.

Make sure you’re taking all reasonable precautions Even if your business isn’t currently on the HSE’s radar, there is every chance that you may be visited at any point in the next 12 months. It is therefore important to prepare for that possibility by ensuring all ‘reasonably practicable’ measures are and remain in place.

Understand what could prompt a complaint (and work with staff, not against them) Employees are able to submit an anonymous complaint to the Health & Safety Executive if they are concerned that risk is not being properly managed. Issues that might prompt a complaint include: ● Not adhering to social distancing measures ● Not producing a COVID-19 Risk Assessment and making this available to staff ● Not providing training to employees on your risk control measures ● Allowing symptomatic staff to remain in work

● Not providing adequate PPE ● Gather your documents ● Make sure you have the following: ● A COVID-19 Health & Safety Policy (or a separate section within your existing policy that deals with COVID-19) ● A COVID-19 Risk Assessment (if you employ five or more employees, it is a legal requirement to keep a written record of significant findings) ● Training records ● An Emergency Action Plan All of these documents should be shared with staff through regular communication and training to prevent any suggestion that employees haven’t been informed of your risk control measures or made aware of what they must do to keep themselves and others safe.

Know your stuff The HSE Inspector will ask questions to determine whether you are managing risk effectively, and you will need to make sure you are familiar with your arrangements so that you can answer confidently. They might include: ● Did you conduct a risk assessment before opening? ● Was the risk assessment documented? ● How are you ensuring the specific controls mentioned in your risk assessment are being adhered to and remain effective? ● Has the risk assessment been kept up to date? ● What is your policy surrounding workers who may be displaying symptoms of coronavirus? ● Who is your competent person? By law, all employers must have access to a ‘competent person’ – someone who has ‘sufficient training and experience or knowledge and other qualities’ to recognise risks and identify solutions.

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BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

13

PRODUCT NEWS

School is giving ISEKI and MST full marks for groundcare

ISEKI UK & Ireland, distributors of ISEKI compact tractors and mowers through dealer MST, sold a fleet of machinery to Blundell’s School in Devon.

Graham Cox, at Blundell’s, was also tasked with upgrading the groundcare fleet of machinery, with the aim of it being more cost efficient.

So, after contacting a number of local dealers, ISEKI and MST came up trumps.

Graham said: “We knew our two previous 36hp tractors needed an increase in power to 50hp in order to run the specialist sports turf equipment around the site. The school’s overall strategy is to significantly improve its sports pitches and gardens and it fully supports the development of the team and the equipment necessary to do that. MST brought out the ISEKI TG6495 IQ on demo for us to try, it was perfect for the jobs we do.”

He added: “As part of the package we also required new ride-on mowers for the gardens and fine turf areas. After trying a variety of manufacturers, we found the ISEKI SXG323 to be the quietest, most productive, and comfortable.

“Scott Struthers at MST was responsive and very easy to deal with, we had a large range of

New payment scheme will help keep you in business

demos and competitor quotes but MST made the decision simple – they offered the full package. We have been very lucky; the school has supported the grounds department to enable us to produce top quality playing surfaces and grounds maintenance across the site with the best equipment.”

For details go to www.iseki.co.uk

Otterbine help you make your water feature beautiful and safe WITH SOME RECORD high temperatures this summer, water management specialist Otterbine is advising greenkeepers to be pre-emptive to the challenges hot weather can throw at lakes and ponds.

Water left unattended for long periods of time can very quickly deteriorate, especially in warm weather. It cannot be underestimated how important it is to manage water quality; without a proper water management system in place, lakes and ponds can face problems such as algae, weeds and odours.

TORO AND ITS UK distributor Reesink Turfcare have announced two new industry-first cashflow-friendly finance schemes to support customers in 2020-2021 and beyond.

The two companies have combined to offer a ‘buy now, pay later’ at 0% interest finance option and also a lease hire option, both of which include welcome lengthy payment holidays.

Alastair Rowell, national accounts manager (grounds) for Reesink Turfcare, said: “These two finance deals react to the current times. Together with Toro, we wanted to show support to our

Simon Powell, Otterbine business development manager at distributor Reesink Turfcare, said: “Oxygen depletion or stress situations occur for different reasons, but many lake management issues are related to both the light and heat generated by the summer sun. We understand that for some, water management may not be top of the to-do priority list, but it really does pay dividends to act now before the problems take hold.

“Once a lake has lost its ecological balance and goes into crisis, the costs of restoring

the lake increase dramatically. As well as often being more expensive to implement, reactive solutions tend to be less friendly to the environment too.

"That’s where Otterbine’s aeration systems can help.”

With Otterbine’s aerating fountains, industrial aerators and diffused air systems and their proven high oxygen transfer rates, you can easily increase the dissolved oxygen levels in your lake or pond. And Otterbine’s decorative range can make your water feature beautiful too.

For details contact distributor reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

Upgrade your tractor with this competitive finance deal Reesink Turfcare has announced a package promotion offering a competitive deal on four of its most popular models in the TYM tractor range.

Customers looking to purchase a new tractor can benefit from a three-year ‘Bumperto-Bumper’ warranty, two years’ interest-free finance and now the option to upgrade the tractor with a front loader for just £300 when purchasing either a T393, T433, T503 and T754 before the middle of September.

The package deal is available on a limited

14

number of tractors and is only available for a short period or while stocks last.

Promotion is applicable until midSeptember and is strictly subject to stock. Finance is for business users only, subject to acceptance and only available in the UK. To find out more about the deal contact Reesink on 01480 226800 or email info@reesinkturfcare. co.uk

BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

THE DIRECTORY

Whatever you SOW always pick SPAL Whatever SOW • High performance axialyou fans and centrifugal blowers • Engine cooling, hydraulics cooling, always pick SPAL cab cooling • Long life, reliable, robust.

ATV SECURITY

AXIAL FANS & HEATER BLOWERS

customers.Revolutionising We understand that cashflow is, and perhaps will be for some ATV & Asset Security time, uncertain, yet machines are still Revolutionising • High performance axial fans and centrifugal SPAL a member of BAGMA and discreet ATV tracker that monitors needed Anow to maintain courses tothe the New kitsisoffer more time blowers • Engine cooling, hydraulics cooling, a Bira– Direct preferred supplier.

ATV & Asset Security movements of your asset in real-time, allowing best possible standards.” working cab cooling •not Longwaiting life, reliable, robust.

Contact SPAL direct for member only deals. you‘buy to view status and usageoption history 24/7 The now pay later’ is awith familiar Toro’s MVP (maintenance value SPAL is a member of BAGMA and A discreet ATV tracker that monitors the notification of unauthorised movements. product but is an embellished deal in response to performance) arepreferred widely known a Bira kits Direct supplier. movements of your asset in real-time, allowing Contact SPAL direct for member onlytodeals. the COVID-19 landscape.

Customers can order as one of the most effective solutions you w towview w status . a t and v tusage r a chistory . c o24/7 . uwith k www.spalautomotive.co.uk any time before December 2020 with the deal minimising downtime. notification of unauthorised movements. at 0% interest, with a single payment required And there’s a new pack available through www.atvtrac.co.uk on May 7, 2021. The second option is a lease hire UK distributor Reesink Turfcare offering more www.spalautomotive.co.uk option with a six-month pause period followed value and more time working, not waiting. by either 60 monthly payments or five annual MVP kits were designed with specific ATV SECURITY AXIAL FANS & HEATER BLOWERS payments, according to each individual cusmaintenance and repairs in mind and tomer’s cashflow requirements. extending the range of handy kits is the new Revolutionising • High performance axial fans and centrifugal In addition to these two plans, there are Blade pack for the Groundsmaster 1200. It blowers • Engine cooling, hydraulics cooling, ATV & Asset Security many other repayment options that joins,cab among others, Groundsmaster Deck cooling • Long life, reliable, robust.

Revolutionising clubs can consider, including the popuKits, Groundsmaster Bladefans andand Beltcentrifugal Kits and • High performance axial SPAL is a member of BAGMA and A discreet ATV tracker that monitors the blowers • Engine cooling, hydraulics Tomonthly take uporany of our multimedia advertising lar three, four or five year Groundsmaster Caster Wheel Kits. cooling, ATV &of Asset acooling Bira Direct preferred supplier. movements your asset in Security real-time, allowing cab • Long life, reliable, robust. opportunities, including the Bira member magazine, Contact SPAL direct for member only deals. annual options.

All packs have one thing in common, they you to view status and usage history 24/7 with BAGMA Bulletin, websites and newsletters, contact SPAL is a member of BAGMA and A discreetBoth ATV tracker that monitors the deals are available on help save time and money. They help you notification of unauthorised movements. a Bira Direct preferred supplier. movements of your asset in real-time, allowing sales team: track maintenance all Toro fine turf our and grounds and bring peace of mind

Whatever you SOW always pick SPAL Let’s talkWhatever about you SOW always pick SPAL working together

THE MEMBERSHIP MAGAZINE OF THE BRITISH AGRICULTURAL AND GARDEN MACHINERY ASSOCIATION ISSUE 22 | JULY-AUGUST 2020

you w towview w status . a t and v tusage r a chistory . c o24/7 . uwith k

Contact SPAL direct for member only deals.

that you have the parts you need to keep Multimedia Sales Executive www.spalautomotive.co.uk To talk to someone abouton 07799 your equipment Lisa Ebdy 886 115 on the job. So, instead of w w w . a t vthe t roptions ac.co .uk available spending valuable time sourcing individual lisaebdymedia@outlook.com

machinery.

A new man

notification of unauthorised movements.

Peter Heming, BAGMA Council’s newest member, tells us what he’s hoping to achieve in his new position INDUSTRY NEWS | CLIMAAR SURVEY RESULTS | TRAINING UPDATE

and how the Toro range would suit your club, call 01480 226800.

BAGMABULLETIN BULLETINSEPTEMBER-OCTOBER MARCH-APRIL 2020 BAGMA 2020

www.spalautomotive.co.uk parts as issues arise, grounds teams can purchase all the parts they need for a particular

Product news POWER TOOLS

maintenance or rebuild job in one convenient box that comes with the added benefit of saving up to 20% in repair expenses.

Michael Hampton, Reesink Turfcare parts manager, said: “Now more so than ever, machinery repairs and downtime need to be kept to a minimum and costs in check. It has BUSINESSPOWER TOOLS SOFTWARE MANAGEMENT never been more important for machines to work as an extension to the team, efficiently and effectively. MVP kits have all the required parts included in a single package to make ordering and completing the job easier and less expensive.”

Each pack come with instructions giving advice on when to perform specific maintenance tasks depending on the model and the number of hours of use, helping to prevent running machines into the ground and incurring unnecessary costs www.ibcos.co.uk | +44 to (0)repair 1202 them.

714200 For details contact distributor Reesink’s Toro parts department on 01480 226854.

THE DIRECTORY

Industry-Leading Soſtware for Machinery Dealers

19 15

EVENT NEWS

Saltex 2021 will be 'step forward' There has been overwhelming industry support for next year’s 75th SALTEX, according to the show’s organisers.

SALTEX, which is taking place at the NEC, Birmingham, on March 3 and 4, 2021, has been given the official go-ahead following news that exhibitions and events will be able to resume from the start of October 2020.

SALTEX has been serving the grounds management industry since 1938. Since then, the show has developed in stature and reputation and is now recognised as the industry’s showcase event creating opportunity for all who attend.

Geoff Webb, CEO of the Grounds Management Association, believes that the historic exhibition will be a huge first step towards the industry’s recovery.

“We believe that there comes a point where we lay the foundations for recovery and we of course want SALTEX in March to be a catalyst for this to showcase products, demonstrate the innovation this industry possesses, engage, network, renew acquaintances and generate new business for our exhibitors. In fact, we are making every provision to build assurance for a positive ‘return on investment’ for our exhibitors.”

Geoff said, SALTEX is ‘the’ place to do business and the show’s independently audited year-on-year figures demonstrate the steady growth of SALTEX these past years.

At SALTEX 2019, the post-show survey revealed that 96 per cent of exhibitors generated new sales leads and 82 per cent took orders then and there on the show floor.

The visitor survey further revealed that 79 per cent of SALTEX visitors had purchasing responsibility and 77 per cent had the ability to sign-off on amounts of more than £50,000.

Therefore, it is no surprise, that SALTEX 2019 exhibitors are still reporting a high conversion rate from the leads they generated at last year’s show.

These figures have resulted in SALTEX 2021 witnessing a record-breaking loyalty period with more than 75 per cent of exhibitors returning, including many stand upgrades and an influx of debut exhibitors.

The new spring dates have not only been welcomed by exhibitors. A large proportion of visitors have voiced their support for the 2021 show with many claiming that they will be in the hunt for new products and services.

For more information visit www. gmasaltex.co.uk, follow SALTEX on Twitter @GMA_SALTEX

16

Final events of 2020 are cancelled due to Covid THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC has unfortunately put pay to some of the last major shows and events of the year.

Undoubtedly, it was initially hoped these would be able to go ahead.

However, the complexities of a show or event and the financial implications for the organisers and those taking part are such that early cancellations are necessary to avoid the huge ongoing costs being lost.

Some of the organisers are hoping to hold on to deposits and carry them through to next year but are mostly requesting this as a voluntary action. In some cases, this will suit exhibitors as they are provided for in this year’s budgets but who knows what next year will bring.

Here's a summary of the later events which have recently announced cancellations.

Tillage Live The Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) has taken the decision to cancel this year’s Tillage Live due to take place on September 23.

AEA Director General Ruth Bailey said: “This decision, whilst regrettable, has been taken to avoid placing members of the public, exhibitors and the event delivery team at unnecessary risk.”

BTME January 2021 BIGGA has cancelled BTME for January 2021.

However, BIGGA’s world-leading education programme, Continue to Learn, which is held alongside BTME annually will still take place during January 2021. This will be delivered in an online event and with an altered timetable designed to reflect the new digital platform.

To provide BIGGA members with an opportunity to network, BIGGA has also revealed that we intend to host a ‘festival of turf’ during summer 2021. An outdoor event, this will allow many of the great features of BTME to take place, such as the interaction between

innovative exhibitors and prospective clients, but in a safe and socially-distanced setting.

Midland Machinery Show The Midlands Machinery Show has decided to cancel its November event. However, it will continue to support the sector through its Agricultural Engineering Apprentice Awards.

The awards – chosen by a panel of Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society judges – receives £500.

GIE+EXPO postponed 2020 to 2021 GIE+EXPO, held in Louisville, Kentucky, USA, will be postponed until next year.

Kris Kiser, president and CEO of OPEI, and managing partner of GIE+EXPO said: “We’re looking forward to 2021 and already gearing up to make our next show a dynamic and engaging experience for the industry.”

AgriScot 2020 AgriScot 2020, due to take place on November 18, has been cancelled.

AgriScot chairman Robert Neill said:“We do intend mark this year’s date with online activity.

More details will be released in due course.”

Service Dealer Conference and Awards 2020 postponed until 2021 Service Dealer owner Duncan Murray-Clarke said: “Over the last month or so it has become clear that whatever the guidelines are, the right thing to do would be to make the conference and awards completely virtual.

“However, with the event building in energy over the past few years, I could only see a 100% virtual conference as a step backwards, reducing the impact for the dealers and quite simply not offering the sponsors the value they deserve.”

Keep up to date with the latest show news at www.bagma.com BAGMA BULLETIN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020

THE DIRECTORY THE DIRECTORY ATV SECURITY SECURITY ATV

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17

D N A S O P F O S E G OVER 100 PA S N O I T U L O S G N I S I MERCHAND

IT F E R E T E L P M O C EVERYTHING FROM A USE TRAPS TO A TRAY OF MO ASK YOUR LO CAL SALES REPRESENTA TI

62 BRANDS INCLUDING

VE OR TOOL BANK

BRANCH FO

R PRICE DE

Merchandising Dea

MERCHANDISINGK & DISPLAY BOO

Brick Trowel Rang 3

als

SIZE

FAIPTFPT5 FAIPTFPT6

Contains: • 6 x FAI 6802 H/DUTY SCRA TCH BRUSH • 6 x FAI 6803 2 ROW H/DUTY SCRA TCH BRUSH • 6 x FAI 6804 3 ROW H/DUTY SCRA TCH BRUSH • 6 x FAI 6804 4 ROW S 680/4S H/D SCRATCH BRU • 6 x FAI 680S SH 4 ROW 4 680/S4 H/D S/STEEL SCRA • 6 x FAI680B4 TCH 680/B4 BRAS S WIRE SCRATCH BRUSH 4 ROW BRUSH 4 ROW

DISPLAY OF 36

LIST £ / € Pointing trowe l 5in £11.99 €13.7 Pointing trowe 9 l 6in £12.99 €14.9 Gauging trowe 4 l 7in £14.99 €17.2 Tuck pointer 4 7 x 1/2in 2 FAIPTFMT52 £9.99 €11.49 Margin trowe l 5 x 2in 3 FAIPTFBT7 £12.99 €14.9 Bucket trowe 4 1 l 7in 3 FAIPTFBT10P £16.99 €19.5 2 Phil brick trowe 4 l 10in 3 FAIPTFBT11P £28.99 €33.3 Phil brick trowe 4 l 11in 2 FAIPTFBT12P £29.99 €34.4 Phil brick trowe 9 l 12in 2 FAIPTFBT11L £30.99 €35.6 London brick 4 trowel 11in 2 FAIPTTS12 £29.99 €34.4 QTY CODE Trowel & squar 9 e 1/2in 2 FAIPT SIZE TS34 £8.99 €10.34 Trowel & squar 3 FAIPTFPT53 FAIPT e 3/4in LIST £ JOINT £9.99 /€ Poin ting12 €11.49 Brick trowe l 5injointer 1/2 x 5/8in 3 FAIPTFPT63 FAIPTJOINT £11.99 €13.7 £6.49 Pointing34 Brick jointer 3/4 9 €7.46 trowe l x 7/8in 6in 3 FAIPTFG7 2 FAIPTEDG6SS £6.49 £12.99 €14.9 Curved edgin Gauging trowe 4 €7.46 g trowel 6in 2 FAIPTEDG1 l 7in 2 FAIPTFTP712 0SS £14.99 £11.99 €17.24 €13.79 Tuck pointer Curved edging trowe 1 l 10in £16.9 MERF AIBRIPOS 7 x 1/2in 2 9 €19.54 FAIPTFMT52 Brick trowel POS £9.99 €11.4 1 Marg MERF inPOS AIHB troweBrick £7.40 9 €8.51 l 5 x 2in 3 FAIPTFBT7 Hero Display£12.99 €14.904 Bucket trowe £16.2 €18.63 l 7in 3 3

3

FAIPTFG7 FAIPTFTP712

Brick Trowel Rang

e

Brickies Trowe

A / metre disp lay Brick Trowel Ran solution for the Prestige ge. Including ma and a hero disp lay. (Stock only gnetic POS deal)

£299.99/€344.4

9

STOCK ONLY

Plasterers Trowel

BUILDERS TRO

Nett Price

l)

TRE STOCK

£299.99/€344.4 Internal corne

r trowel 5 x 4in FAIPTHAWK 13 Aluminium hawk 13in FAIPTMIDGET Midget plaste ring trowel 8in FAIPTPT11S TotalSList:Plaste £650 ring.60 trowe / €748 l 11in .19 FAIPTPT14SS Plastering trowe l 14in 2 FAIPTPT16SS Plastering trowe l 16in 2 FAIPTNT11SS Notched trowe l 6mm notch 2 FAIPTNT13SS Notched trowe l 10mm notch 2 FAIPTCT16SS Cement trowe l 16in 1 MERFAIPLAPOS Plastering trowe l 1 POS MERFAIHPPOS Plastering trowe l hero display 2

9

2

STOCK ONLY 2

2

Plasterers Trowel 1

£23.99 £20.99 £29.99 £32.99 £34.99 £19.99

£21.99 £30.99

Range

£7.10

£14.8

£199.99/€229.9 9

www.to QTY CODE List: £443.83 o1lb / €510.40 SIZE Kb ON2 aSTSSOCk LY bTotal FAIPTICTn LIST £ / € .c Internal corne r trowe om 2

2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1

l 5 x 4in Aluminium hawk 13in FAIPTMIDGET Midget plastering trowel 8in FAIPTPT11SS Plastering trowe l 11in FAIPTPT14SS Plastering trowe l 14in FAIPTPT16SS Plastering trowe l 16in FAIPTNT11SS Notched trowe l 6mm notch FAIPTNT13SS Notched trowe l 10mm notch FAIPTCT16SS Cement trowe l 16in MERFAIPLAPO S Plastering trowel POS MERFAIHPPO S Plastering trowel hero displ ay FAIPTHAWK13

PLASTERING

Nett Price

TROWELS 1/2

£11.99

€13.79

£23.99 £20.99

€27.59 €24.14

£29.99 £32.99 £34.99 £19.99

Total List: £443

.83 / €510.40

Plasterers Tro we

l Display

OVER

53% 9

€27.59 €24.14

DISCOUNT

€34.49 €37.94 €40.24 €22.99 €25.29 €35.64

€8.17

OVER

54% DISCOUNT

MORE DISPLA YS AVAILABLE

€37.94

CALL SALES

Valid Until: 30th

€40.24 €22.99

£199.99/€229.9 CK 9

STOCK ONLY

OVER

OR SEE YOU

R LOCAL SALE

S REPRESEN

€34.49

£21.99 €25.2 9 £30.99 €35.6 4 £7.10 €8.17 £14.80 €17.0 2

METRE STO

l Display

LIST £ / € £11.99 €13.7

A metre display 0 €17.02 solution for the Plasterers TroPLASTE Pre RIN wel Ran G TROWELS stige ge.

Including ma 1/2 METRE STO POS and a her Nett gnetic CK o Pricedisplay. (Stock only deal)

/2

1m Brick & Pla stering Trowe

DISCOUNT

Range

WELS 1/2 ME SIZE

QTY CODE 1 FAIPTICTSS

l Display

53%

FAIPTFBT10P £16.99 €19.5 PhilRS BUILDE 4 brick trowel 10in TRO FAIPTFBT11P WELS 1/2 MET £28.99 €33.3 RE STO4CK Nett Phil brick trowel 11in FAIPTFBT12P £29.99 €34.4 Price Phil brick trowe 9 l 12in FAIPTFBT11L £30.99 €35.6 London brick 4 trowe 2 FAIPTTS12 Totall 11in List: £650 £29.9 €34.4 .609/ €748 Trowel & squa .199 re 1/2in 2 FAIPTTS34 £8.99 €10.34 Trowel & squa re 3/4in 3 FAIPTJOINT12 £9.99 €11.49 Brick jointer 1/2 x 5/8in 3 FAIPTJOINT34 £6.49 €7.46 Brick jointer 3/4 x 7/8in 2 FAIPTEDG6S £6.49 S DE TRA Curv ed edgin R CO DEg:trowel 6in £11.99 €7.46 2 FAIPTEDG10S €13.79 1 S Curved edgin FAI trowel 10in /2 RED 1 metre ALO MERFAIBA disp X gRO £16.99 €19.5 RIPOS DIS soluLL Brick trowelay PLA tion 4 Y for the Plas l POS Pres 1 tige MERFAIHBPO terers Trowel Ran £7.40 €8.51 Brick Hero Disp ge. Including POSSand magnetic a hero display lay. (Stock£16.2 €18.63 only0 dea 3

2

IL A T E R R U YO HELPING ELL MORE! SPACE S

e

Merchandising De

2

0 2 0 2

ls

A 1/2 metre disp lay Brick Trowel Ran solution for the Prestige ge. Including magnetic POS and a hero disp lay. (Stock only deal) QTY CODE

2

TAILS PLUS MANY MORE DISPLAY

FULL RANGE FAITHFULL ME RCHANDISING CATALOGUE COMING SOON !

TRADER CODE : FAI 680 DEAL 36-Piece Wir e Brush Displa y

September 201

9

11

OVER

54% DISCOUNT

For more details please contact your local Toolbank representative or branch, 11 email marketing@toolbank.com or phone 01322 321460 where someone will be happy to assist.

Valid Until: 30t

h September

2019

TATIVE

33