BAGMA Bulletin January - February 2021

THE MEMBERSHIP MAGAZINE OF THE BRITISH AGRICULTURAL AND GARDEN MACHINERY ASSOCIATION ISSUE 25 | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

Fifty, not out!

Winchester Garden Machinery is stronger than ever

TRIBUTES TO HELMUT CLAAS | CORONAVIRUS VACCINE | DOE SHOW GOES VIRTUAL

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IN THIS ISSUE

It’s time to make this your New Year's resolution...

ISSUE 25 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

Remaining positive and caring about one another is key to surviving tough times

on those around us and pull together. We must make sure we are looking out for our colleagues and friends.

I am acutely aware of how last year has impacted so many people both young and old A NEW YEAR has begun and, for most, the – particularly on mental health. Have you or festive period has been like no other. I can your business considered training someone remember drafting this article at the end of within your organisation to become a mental 2020 and I believe my opening introduction health first aider? Do you have an understandwas ‘A brand new year brings with ing of common mental health illit new possibilities. It’s the perfect I AM ACUTELY nesses, and do you have the confiopportunity to take stock, re-eval- AWARE OF dence to promote awareness of it? uate and purposefully design and HOW 2020 Do you know how to spot signs of grow your organisations and lead IMPACTED SO poor mental health and support the way going forward’. News sta- MANY PEOPLE – positive wellbeing? As well as fultions were reporting a vaccine was YOUNG filling your legal obligations, trainbecoming available, and finally – at AND OLD ing someone would the last hour – a trade deal had been prov ide them struck with Europe. with the practical skills to So, on reflection, was I right to be so hopespot the signs of mental illful, as we enter lockdown number three with ness and the confidence to growing coronavirus infection rates, surging step in and support a perhospital admissions and increasing rates of son who needs assistance. deaths linked to the pandemic?

Are you still considering Regarding Brexit, I have already seen setting a New Year's resoluinstances where the cost of importing and tion? Maybe the above has exporting goods and machines has risen prigiven you some ideas on marily due to extra administration burden. how to make an impact It feels like the ‘Happy’ should not be put in on your most valuable front of the ‘New Year’. asset – your employees.

The start of 2021 is going to be tough for us all, Covid-19 is having a negative impact on all of our lives both inside and outside work. It is expected that the next few weeks may be the worst of all so we have to, more than ever, be aware of the affect of the virus may be having

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NEWS Tributes paid to Helmut Claas, who has died age 94

COMMENT

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SHOW GOES ON The latest ticket news from this year’s events

PETER ARRAND PRESIDENT BAGMA

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

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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COVER STORY Why Winchester Garden Machinery is fab at 50

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LEGAL Can you force an employee to have a Covid vaccine?

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PRODUCT NEWS All the latest safety gear from Snickers plus much more

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 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

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BAGMA NEWS

BULLETIN BOARD

JOHN DEERE MANAGER STEPS DOWN

John Deere has announced the retirement of Howard Storey.

He has worked for the firm for 35 years and his most recent role has been as a market development manager.

Manny Gan, director for global golf and sports turf, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Howard for his loyalty and dedication to the company and for the contributions he has made over his many years of service. We wish him and his family all the best in the future.”

COUPLE RETIRE FROM AEA ROLES Keith Hawken and wife Lesley have retired from the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA).

Keith served 20 years, and Lesley 11 years.

Both have worked in the AEA on standards for the industry and many projects relating to health and safety of equipment.

Keith has been a great help to BAGMA over the years and we would like to wish him and Lesley all the very best for their retirement.

BAGMA BOSS REFLECTS ON 2020 BAGMA’s Director Keith Christian looks back on the challenges of 2020 in an industry podcast. Keith is joined by agricultural journalist Martin Rickatson on Inside Agri-Turf, and they also discuss how Brexit may impact the sector in 2021. The episode, hosted by Chris Biddle, can be heard again at www. inside-agriturf.captive.fm

STRONG SALES PERFORMANCE FOR TORO The Toro Company reported results for its fiscal fourth-quarter and full-year periods ended October 31, 2020.

The company says that Q4 net sales were $841 million (£620 million), which is up 14.5% year over year.

Whilst full-year net sales for 2020 were $3.38 billion (£2.49 billion), which is up 7.7% versus last year. The residential segment net sales were up 24.1%.

BOTHAMS PRESTIGE IS SOWING THE SEEDS OF SUCCESS Bothams Prestige has been putting its BLEC Multi-Seeder 2100 to good use, working on a wide range of sports grounds including Sheffield Wednesday Football Club.

The multi-seeder was purchased by the Rotherham firm almost two years ago, but recently it has been busier than ever due to its ability to conduct both the initial seeding operation, together with more routine overseeding.

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Death of industry titan ‘a shock’ HELMUT CLAAS, LONG-TIME Managing Director, Chairman of the Supervisory Board and Chairman of the Shareholders’ Committee of the CLAAS group, has died aged 94.

His death, on January 5, 2021, has come as a great shock to his family, the more than 11,000 CLAAS employees around the world, and an entire industry.

Helmut Claas was born in 1926 in Harsewinkel, Germany, to parents August and Paula Claas, who managed a small agricultural machinery firm with a workforce of around 100.

He completed an apprenticeship as a machine fitter after graduating from school.

Practical experience followed in metalworking firms, and further practical training in casting.

After a complementary study of agriculture in Paris, he took over the planning and establishment of a CLAAS distributor in France, which now operates as CLAAS France SAS. He joined his parents’ family firm in Harsewinkel in 1958, working first in the engineering sector.

In 1962 he was made Managing Director.

Helmut Claas accepted the position of Personally Liable Partner when the company was reconstituted as a general partnership in 1978.

In 1996, as part of the restructuring of the firm into a joint-stock company, he changed from the role of Managing Director to the position of Chairman of both the Supervisory Board and the Shareholders’ Committee.

His special focus was always on developing pioneering products and mass-producing them economically. During his era, following the success of the combine harvester model DOMINATOR, came the completely new combine harvester construction the LEXION, which

remains the most efficient combine harvester in the world. Also, the JAGUAR forage harvester and the large tractor XERION were developed under Helmut Claas, author of the success story.

In 2003 he succeeded in taking an important step towards the company’s future: CLAAS took over the complete tractor business from Renault Agriculture in France. In other respects, too, internationalisation continued to progress with the establishment and expansion of production sites in Russia, the USA and China.

Fou r i nt er n at ion a l ly renowned universities in Hungary, the UK, Bulgaria and Germany awarded honorary doctorates (Dr. h. c.) to Helmut. It was in the year 2000 that he received the honorary title of ‘Doctor of Agricultural Science’ from the University of Stuttgart-Hohenheim. It was this university that also made him an Honorary Senator in 2004.

In June 2009 the Goryachkin University in Moscow bestowed an honorary professorship upon him. Also in 2009, he was made a Knight of the French Legion of Honour in recognition of his efforts as a pioneer of Franco-German cooperation. In November 2013, Helmut was finally inducted into the Hall of Fame of American Equipment Manufacturers (AEM). An important highlight was the awarding of the Diesel medal by the German Institute of Inventions in 2017.

Personal awards, such as honorary citizenship of his hometown of Harsewinkel, the medal of Merit of the German state of BadenWürttemberg, as well as the Order of Merit of the French Agriculture Minister, round off his life’s work.

CLAAS announce record sales CLAAS increased its sales in the 2020 financial year by 3.7 percent to 4.042 billion euros (£3.56 billion), it has been announced.

In the previous year, sales were worth 3.898 billion euros (£3.524 billion).

Thomas Bock, chairman of the CLAAS Group Executive Board, said: “CLAAS managed to achieve growth in sales

and to improve profitability despite the pandemic and shutdowns in production. In the process, our widespread international presence has paid off.”

Whilst sales in Germany, France and the other Western European countries remained stable on the whole, they grew significantly in Eastern Europe and especially Russia.

BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

BAGMA NEWS

STIHL’s app helps fleet managers stay Connected STIHL HAS LAUNCHED a new app, offering fleet managers more visibility and control over the usage of connected tools.

With a new streamlined design, managers can easily find the data they need from the STIHL Connected homepage, which provides an overview of the fleet of tools as well as model and ownership info.

From the homepage, users can quickly access information on machine running time and maintenance schedules.

To help improve efficiency and minimise downtime, the maintenance page is where fleet managers can easily see which tools are due for servicing. It is also where they can access the maintenance history, making it easier to effectively plan based on the tool availability, as well as minimise downtime by ordering spare parts ahead of time.

One of the new features available is the ‘nearby’ function, which shows users the tools that are in their

immediate vicinity, as well as allowing them to view the last known locations of the devices.

STIHL Connected comprises four central system components; STIHL Smart Connector, which is attached to the tool, STIHL app which connects to the STIHL cloud and STIHL connected portal. When used in conjunction, STIHL Connected enables users to easily analyse key machinery performance data that can be used to not only improve daily work processes, but also help achieve optimal task scheduling for an even more efficient team.

The app is easy to install and transmits the working time data via Bluetooth to a smartphone or tablet.

It’s available to download free for Android and iOS on the app store.

For information on the app or STIHL’s power tools, visit www.stihl.co.uk

Tributes paid to Fiona Bruce

IT IS WITH much sadness that we have to report that Fiona Bruce of Action Lawn and Leisure in Stirling passed away on January 8, 2021, after a long and brave struggle with cancer.

Fiona was a great supporter of BAGMA and often took the minutes for the BAGMA Scottish Regional meetings, she carried out all the administration and financial duties in supporting her husband Bob who is the BAGMA Regional Secretary and Treasurer.

Fiona, along with Bob, was a key person in running the family business and while managing the administration and financial side of the business was also known by customers for her ability to step in with sleeves rolled up and assess problems. She was recently instrumental in making a very frustrating change to the company’s computer systems.

All of us at BAGMA would like to offer our sincere condolences to Bob Bruce and Fiona’s family Graham and Ian.

Ludlow firm take on new GreenMech deal LUDLOW-BASED FIRM FRANK Alviti will be the premier dealer for GreenMech in Herefordshire, Shropshire and Mid-Wales with immediate effect.

With a client base that spans arb, groundcare and industrial, Frank Alviti will be offering sales and support across the complete GreenMech range from their Shropshire premises.

On their appointment, director Dave Alviti

said:, “We’ve been running a couple of GreenMech machines on our arb hire fleet for a few years and are pleased to now extend this into a full distribution agreement. Having personally worked as an arborist previously, I have a longstanding relationship with GreenMech and their machines, and so I am delighted to share this knowledge, experience and quality range of woodchippers with our client base.”

Martin Lucas, GreenMech sales director, added: “With a fantastic reputation for sales and aftercare, we look forward to working with Dave and the whole Frank Alviti team.”

GreenMech say any existing warranties relating to their chippers sold by previous area dealers Brian Beddoes and Tallis Amos Group Ltd, will continue to be supported by Frank Alviti.

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BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

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BAGMA NEWS

BAGMA COMMENT

Keith Christian – Director of BAGMA

Former Honda dealers angered further by ‘threatening’ letter FOLLOWING THE DECISION by Honda to something wrong. To me Honda are the Power axe 50 dealers from their UK network without of Nightmares.” warning on September 30, 2020, those dealers Strong words. Like most of you, when I get have been angered further by the company’s a letter addressed to 'Dear Homeowner', it goes threatening letter sent by First Class recorded straight in the bin. delivery, (but dated January 5, 2020 (sic).), writes In all my many years covering this industry, Chris Biddle.

I have never come across such a callous, The letter addressed ‘Dear Franchise unprofessional approach to ending a business Partner’ (although the franchise had formally partnership as that displayed here by Honda. To terminated on December 31, 2020) instructed address a dealer who has spent thousands upon the sacked dealers to discontinue using any thousands of pounds with your company over the Honda trademarks, trade names etc covered years, promoted, sold, and serviced your products by its Intellectual Property Rights as ‘Dear Franchise Partner’ rather and to destroy or return (at the I HAVE NEVER by name is unforgivable. dealers own expense) any signs, COME ACROSS But that’s only the tip of the instructions books, technical SUCH CALLOUS, issue. I understand that this dealer pamphlets, catalogues, documents, UNPROFESSIONAL still has over £10,000 worth of paperwork or examples within 14 APPROACH machines to sell. To comply with TO ENDING days or risk legal infringement. the instructions in the letter, it Furthermore, at the same time, A BUSINESS would appear that he cannot Honda sent letters directly to the PARTNERSHIP display with Honda logos nor customers of the sacked dealers advertise these machines that he confirming the removal of their franchise has paid for in good faith, if he is not to infringe and simply directing them to their website for Honda’s Intellectual Property Rights with all alternative dealers ‘to service or repair your its threatened penalties. I’m no lawyer, but that Honda product’, adding ‘we apologise for any would seem to constitute restraint of trade, and inconvenience’. There was no explanation given. the letter as defamatory and in breach of GDPR. Since the circulation of letter by Honda, there In summary, it saddens me to write in these have been numerous reports from those dealers terms, because I’ve had a very good relationship impacted of being contacted by customers with Honda, both as a former dealer and as asking whether they were closing down. a journalist.. During this time, the lawn and One said: “I’m angry and also very saddened. garden division has been headed by some highly We’ve lived and breathed Honda for over 30 professional, approachable and business-like years. When I got the termination letter in people who understood the dealer business.

September, without warning, I felt physically Not anymore. Attempts by dealers to engage sick. in dialogue are ignored. The organisation is now “We’ve always played the game, registering seemingly run by mail merge communications! machines when many non-specialist outlets Honda are quite entitled to uphold contracts would not have done so, and they kick us in the signed by dealers – but not surely at the expense teeth by writing to OUR customers, planting of common courtesy, respect for those they call a seed of doubt that we might have done 'Partners'.

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Chris Biddle kindly let us run his article in the BAGMA Bulletin in the interests of fighting for fairness for all dealers.

Honda’s lack of sensitivity in which they have written to their ‘ex-franchise partners’ without explanation and possibly implying that they have done something wrong is appalling.

Honda has been the champion of protecting their intellectual property rights for years. It is unfortunate they have not demonstrated an ability to respect the business of their now ex-franchise partners. They are clear they want the past, loyal dealers to be cleansed of all things Honda except the stock they have left them with and perhaps the ongoing issues of warranty, customer care and the liability that a seller has to his customer under UK law.

While changes to distribution may be necessary and suppliers may believe they are doing the right thing for the benefit of themselves and the majority of their customers they should have more respect and support for their business partners during and after any agreement that's been made. Threatening legal action by letter if there is no compliance to their rules is just an insult to the long term support they have had from the dealers.

The Honda brand carries a lot of weight internationally so surely they could be sensitive enough to handle the changes they have made more professionally.

Dealer contracts in both the garden machinery and agricultural machinery world have been a bone of contention for more than a 100 years. They rarely benefit both sides equally and if they ever have to be referred to or acted on it will invariably be the dealer who loses out. Fortunately, garden machinery dealers are resilient.

Out of necessity, contracts contain detail but before a dealer signs one check the performance and termination clauses.

Make sure that if you do part company you can get out clean and with some of your investment intact to move forward.

No doubt the Honda dealer contract is watertight and covers their actions in legal terms but will do little for the reputation of the dealers, and some of the actions Honda have taken may be considered to be defamatory to their past ex-franchise partners.

BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

BAGMA NEWS

AEA releases tractor regs for December Toro fleet deal was ‘worth the wait’ IT WAS A deal a couple of years in the making for Hainault Golf Club in Chigwell, Essex, as it changed machinery brands and settled on a large fleet with Toro and Reesink – but it was worth the wait, according to course manager Paul Selbie.

Choosing a new machinery brand and partnering with a new distributor are two big decisions, requiring research and demonstrations, and it can take time to be sure it’s the right move for the future of the club.

But Paul said the decision to commit to Toro and Reesink Turfcare was a straight-forward one, made with no hesitation.

“I appreciate it’s a big thing to step away from what the club and team has known and relied on for a long time, but with the previous machines well-overdue an

upgrade, it was the right time to present all the options to the team.

“Everyone was involved and while I had used Toro previously, no one else had. The feedback was interesting from the demos and it brought everything to the table, not just the performance of the machines, but the bigger picture.”

So why the delay in the process? Well, that comes down to factors out of Paul’s control such as renegotiating the lease of the land, Paul said: “We had to press pause and while it was frustrating, it was worth the wait to receive them in 2020 of all years.

“We’re planning on putting Toro through its paces with some improvement projects over the winter months too so we’re in a positive place with some exciting things to look forward to.”

Tim takes over leadership of Kubota sales team KUBOTA UK HAS strengthened its agricultural and groundcare sales team, which is now lead by sales manager Tim Yates.

Tim, who joined the business in 1999 as a sales administrator and until recently was business development and product manager for ground care equipment, takes over the role held by Rob Edwards.

Rob has taken up his new position as agricultural and ground care marketing manager for the company’s recently formed Tractor Business Unit (TBU). The TBU brings together Kubota’s agricultural and ground care divisions

into one entity, aligning the company’s UK and Ireland operations with the Japanese manufacturer’s European commercial structure.

Expansion of the TBU has also seen Phil Catley join the marketing departmen.

As part of the re-alignment, all Kubota TBU dealer managers have adopted a change of focus with a portfolio that now combines agricultural and ground care machinery ranges. This sees existing agricultural sales team members Phill Brooks and Jonathan Rook add ground care equipment to their recently expanded dealer manager roles.

BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

THE AGRICULTURAL ENGI- ing from information supplied to NEERS Association (AEA) has AEA by DVLA earlier in the year. released its tractor registration Adding these numbers brings the figures for December. annual total for 2020 to 10,380 The UK agricultural tractor units. That is still 14% lower than registrations (over in 2019 but is similar 50hp) in December to the levels recorded FULL YEAR remained well above in 2015 and 2016, the last year’s level. At 776 lowest figures in recent Units machines, the monthly years. total was up by more Most of the yearthan a quarter, comon-year decline took pared with Decemplace between April change ber 2019. Given the and July, when supply (compared with JanuaryDecember 2019) unprecedented year chains were adversely which we have just affected by Covidexperienced, AEA has undertak- 19 disruptions. For the final five en a reconciliation exercise with months of the year, registrations DVLA to ensure that we did not were 11% higher than in August to miss any registrations from the December 2019 and from Septemannual total. This has identified ber onwards volumes were slightly 425 machines which were miss- above the average of recent years.

10,380 -13.8%

Over 70 suppliers tailored to you The buying group for Agricultural and Garden Machinery businesses Exclusive offers for BAGMA members including garden preseason and promotions BAGMA.com/bagma-direct

direct 5

OUT AND ABOUT

Visitors to our event won’t be disappointed – that’s a guarantee!

VISITORS LUCKY ENOUGH to secure a ticket to this year’s Royal Highland Show have been told they ‘will not be disappointed’.

The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS), organisers of Scotland’s biggest outdoor event, has now released more tickets for the 2021 four-day event.

Taking place from 17-20 June, the show, which celebrates the best in food, farming and rural life, will make a welcome return to Ingliston showground following the cancellation of the 2020 event due to Covid-19 restrictions.

While normally attracting almost 200,000 people over the four days, organisers have said that they are planning for limited number of show-goers this year as social distancing measures are likely to still be in place. There will, however, be the opportunity to ‘scale up’ if changes to government restrictions allow.

As a result, organisers are releasing tickets via Ticketmaster on a staged basis with the first batch made available last month (December) with more released over the coming weeks.

While visitor numbers will be restricted, organisers are setting their stalls out for what they plan will be a fitting showcase for the sector and the unveiling of the new RHASS members’ area.

Ticket prices l Standard tickets £30 + booking fee. l Children 15 and under will go free with a paying adult (max 3 children per paying adult) l Parking £10 per day, two-day Parking £15, four-day parking £20 l For more details go to www.rhass.org

RHASS Chairman Bill Gray said: “We have the industry and will therefore feature the key left no stone unturned in our planning for what pillars of this much-loved event, including food, will be the best possible celebration livestock, show jumping, educaof our 180th show. Yes, there will IT IS REALLY tion, rural skills and, of course, the be special measures we have had to IMPORTANT THAT camaraderie of coming together to factor in, but that won’t take away WE ENSURE THAT network and socialise. from what will be a vitally impor- THE EVENT WILL “The reality is that there will be tant showcase for the sector – we REMAIN A TRUE less people, but for the lucky people all need this more than ever as REFLECTION OF that get a ticket, they will not be we emerge from this challenging THE INDUSTRY disappointed. That is our absolute year.” commitment.”

To plan with confidence, RHASS directors RHASS members receive free entry to the and staff have been working in close partnership show and this year however, to enable track and with the Scottish Government and City of Edin- trace to take place they will be asked to opt in for burgh Council to ensure all necessary guidelines the days they will attend. are in place to enable the show to go ahead.

Similarly, members of the public will be RHASS Chief Executive Alan Laidlaw required to purchase tickets – both entry and added: “It is really important that we ensure car parking – for the specific days they plan to that the event will remain a true reflection of attend.

We’re not out and about – but online After returning to work in September BAGMA’S Business Development Manager Richard Jenkins has contacted as many members and non-members as possible.

Not in the usual way at shows, events or site visits but by email and phone calls.

Covid has meant that Zoom and Teams have become the new way to communicate.

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Richard has found that both systems are a great way to catch up but can be difficult to manage when large numbers join a meeting.

BAGMA is looking to run online meetings.

The first was the Four Counties Regional Meeting on January 19, 2021. The group is made of members from Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Warwickshire, and

Worcestershire. On this occasion, new CEO of IAgrE Charlie Nicklin spoke about his new position, and his passion for the industry and its future.

If you are a member or non-member within this region and wish to join future meetings contact Richard at richard. jenkins@bagma.com

BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

OUT AND ABOUT

A Doe show with a difference THE ANNUAL DOE Show, a firm fixture in the agricultural, construction and groundcare industries since the 60s, will be going ‘virtual’ for the first time.

Held during the first week of February every year, the Doe Show attracts huge crowds to itshead office at Ulting, Essex, and is by far the largest agricultural, construction and groundcare machinery dealer in the UK, possibly Europe.

However, due to the current pandemic restrictions, the 2021 Doe Show will not go ahead as normal. Instead, the 61st Doe Show will be available to view online. The Ernest Doe team has said that finding new ways of engaging with customers is exciting and challenging. A spokesman said: “This bold step forward into the digital domain presents us with a unique opportunity to try something new and we very much hope you will join us for our Doe Show with a difference.”

Here’s what you can expect….

WORLD CLASS MACHINERY The Doe Show is a place for customers to view

the very latest in machinery from all the leading manufacturers and to seek advice from the attending manufacturers staff. This year Case IH, New Holland and every other brand that we sell will have a dedicated page, filled with interactive videos and product walk-throughs, so that visitors can learn about all the latest equipment available, just as if you were here at Ulting.

DOE SHOW DEALS The 61st Doe Show will feature some fantastic deals which is always a popular element of the event. There will also be some offers and finance packages available – so check out the Doe Show Deals section on the website for the full listing.

ONE OF THE BIG ATTRACTIONS AT THE DOE SHOW IS OUR CLEARANCE STOCK AND USED MACHINERY At this time of year, we need to move our old stock to make way for new items arriving in the spring.

This means customers can buy new warranted machines at clearance prices, representing excel-

lent value for money. This year, Doe is partnering with renowned auctioneers, Cheffins, for an online timed auction for all used, ex-demo, exhire and clearance items. The process is easy, and there will be a support team on hand to help bidders through the auction. There will be no buyer’s premiums so the price you bid is the price you pay.

Our Doe Show microsite launches on January 25, and links from the main ernestdoe.com website. Go to doeshow.ernestdoe.com JOIN US FOR THE JOURNEY Ernest Doe is grateful for customers' support throughout 2020. The team is constantly looking for ways of engaging and keeping in regular contact, at a time when normal working practices are being challenged and face to face contact is often not possible. The team was initially disappointed not to be able to host the Doe Show but having spent the past couple of months putting together our Doe Show with a Difference, they hope people will enjoy the new experience. #doeshow2021 #joinusforthejourney

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BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

Fifty years and still going strong Winchester Garden Machinery is celebrating 50 years in business and, as Keith Christian finds out, it's going from strength to strength

The history In January 1971, two intrepid friends formerly of Huxley’s of Alresford decided to start their own garden machinery business working out of a shed on a farm near Winchester. Andy Hoskings and Robin Nettle called their new fledgling business Winchester Garden Machinery. The pair, in their early days, mainly offered service but started to sell a few mowers from Mountfield and Hayter. The first machine to be sold was a Hayter Harrier Mk2 as Andy fondly recalls and their first employee was Dave Scott.

A year later, decimalisation was introduced in the UK and many of the early transactions at WGM were done using a dual monetary system as the country gradually changed from pounds shillings and pence to the new decimal currency. Unfortunately work dried up and Andy and Robin started a building extension busi-

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ness which did not work out so well. Seeing the Hilliers Garden Centre on Romsey Road they decided to ask Robert and John Hillier if they could have some space for a showroom and were offered an old greenhouse on the site which they had to refurbish in 1976. This resulted in Andy running the workshop from the farm site and Robin running the Romsey Road showroom.

At the same time, the world was moving forward. On January 21, 1976, there was the first commercial flight of Concorde from London to Bahrain, a month later the Queen opened the NEC, Birmingham; Harold Wilson resigned as Prime Minister and Anita Roddick opened the first Body Shop in Brighton. Summer saw a heatwave with temperatures soaring to 36 degrees centigrade affecting the sales of garden machinery and causing the Government to introduce the drought act after 45 days without rain in some places.

In 1977 , WGM employed their first secretary, Sandra Stevens and three other staff including Cliff Mason who also became a long-term employee staying with the company for nearly 40 years. Having outgrown the farm workshop site, the workshops were moved to two units on the Winnall Industrial Estate in Winchester in the early 1980s. Jason, Robin’s son and Amy, Andy’s daughter used to play around the industrial estate when they were little (there was less health and safety back then). New showrooms were also set up in Hillers Garden Centres in the 80s at Liss, Sunningdale and Horsham although Horsham proved to be a garden centre too far without the technology available to us today and closed after five years.

The 80s saw a significant business growth for WGM with more branches came more staff, both sales and technical and in 1999 the compaBAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

THE BIG INTERVIEW

ny purchased the current site at Fairlane adding an extension in 2013 creating the main hub for the whole business.

For just over a week in September of 2000 the nation came to a virtual standstill as protesters blocked the crucial flow of fuel, due to a fuel crisis. While truckers and farmers blockaded refineries, petrol stations ran dry, tempers soared and panic buying raged. At WGM fuel was scarce for the company vans and machinery and some very inventive ways had to be found to keep things going.

The success of the business meant that suppliers were keen to count WGM amongst their dealer network and WGM stocked most of the UK’s main brands such as Honda, John Deere, Stihl, Countax, Hayter, to name a few. In some years they sold several hundred ride-on mowers.

The business also had a commercial ground care BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

interest and was involved the development of the customer from their parents. They both have Roberine commercial grass cutting equipment the same view on looking after their customfrom Holland as well as other brands, developing ers, which in turn ensures the reputation of the a reputation for being a specialist in this area. company and the word-of-mouth recommendaEarly 2000 also saw the opening of WGM’s tion that is so important to any business. They Forest and Arboriculture business an online are both passionate about being able to provide operation with a bricks and mortar showroom a solid bricks and mortar business with a clear based at the Fair Lane premises. It was headed online presence supported by likeminded staff up by Richard Thomas, who has been with the who offer a very personal service.

Company for more than 30 years, and staffed Many a supplier would have experienced the with knowledgeable people and authorised wrath of Robin when there was a problem that dealers for all the equipment they sell. The Arb needed to be resolved whether it was a design business was started to fill a gap in the market problem with a machine or a failure to satisfy a and went online in 2006 and had redeveloped customer need. On the rare occasion Andy got web ite in 2020 offering an online showroom for involved with a problem it was wise to listen and browsing, a click and collect service and linked do what was asked. Any supplier would quickly to some suppliers' sites. learn this ‘approach’ was always for the benefit It was at the same time Tiger Woods became of all and ‘resistance was futile’ as invariably they the first golf pro since Ben Hogan’s 1953 triumph were both right and were only looking after eveto win three majors in a calendar year; the first ryone’s best interests. ever Olympics was held Down Under; and on Jason highlights the case of the October October 31, 2000, the first crew was launched to 1987 ‘hurricane’ which devasted the South East, the International Space Station from the Baidespite the incredible demand for chainsaws konur Cosmodrome, taking two and generators WGM honoured days to arrive at their destination. THEY ARE BOTH discounts, did not take advantage Moviegoers were treated to the first PASSIONATE of the situation and looked after film adaptation of the Harry Pot- ABOUT BEING their customers. ter book, in Harry Potter and the ABLE TO OFFER A Sorcerer’s Stone.

SOLID BRICKS AND Andy Hoskings MORTAR BUSINESS At 72 Andy is slowly taking a step A family business back from the business but is there WITH A CLEAR From the outset WGM started as ONLINE PRESENCE for Jason and Amy when needed. a family business and 50 years on He has a wealth of history, experiit is still a family business with the same values ence and memories that allow the past to deteras in 1971, albeit with a new generation at the mine the future of the business. His main hobby helm. Jason and Amy now run the business with outside of the business has been restoring classic Andy quietly keeping an eye on things from the cars particularly Jaguar E types. background. Andy’s grandson will be putting a He talks of the early years with Robin and toe in the WGM pool this year doing some work how they worked together at Huxley’s, took on experience. adjacent run-down farmhouses together (and The business is built on a passion for customstill living there today) as a result of a bad cuser service par excellence passed on from Robin tomer debt being paid off in kind and the ups and Andy to Jason and Amy, who both agree and downs of 50 years in business. Andy rememthat they learned their passion for providing an bers fondly dealer trips which he and Robin went excellent service and going that extra mile for a on along with their wives Judith and Lesley.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

Memories from a (once) young sales representative BAGMA Director Keith Christian, formerly of Spear and Jackson and Claymore Grass Machinery, dealt with WGM for many years and recalls his early encounters with Andy and Robin.

"I remember that calling in at WGM to see Robin at Romsey Road in my early days as a rep used to frighten the living daylights out of me! It was always an all-day session with Robin up and down like a yo-yo dealing with the day to day business. The long walks to the toilet or to make a coffee, the constant interruptions for phone calls, customers, deliveries and occasional staff issue.

The business discussions about product terms, quantities, design improvements and putting the industry and world to rights were never ending.

As the day wore on one wondered if it would ever end. The early evening came and went, the coffee got less frequent and the loo was now shrouded in darkness.

As nighttime set in Robin would reach in to a drawer and drag out a sheet of paper with a written order on it. It had been there all day, never referred to, never mentioned and seemingly never changed during the whole of the day despite some very lengthy discussions. What an experience!

I learned a lot from WGM and Andy and Robin. Robin was a taskmaster but his commitment to the business, the customers and his suppliers became very apparent to me and the success of the business due to the philosophy instilled in it from Andy and Robin is worthy of note.

It was a very different visit to Andy in the workshop. Usually brief, always useful and I am sure Andy deliberately made the time with him more of a warm down from a visit with Robin. If I had a phone call from Andy I knew it was serious as they were so infrequent and action needed to be taken as directed without argument.

The nature of the mostly independent, family-run businesses in our industry does mean many relationships become long term and personal and I count myself fortunate to have been a part of the 50-year history of WGM and look forward to seeing the business develop further through the new generations that are following Andy and Robin.

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Back in the day: Winchester Garden Machinery was launched by Robin Nettle and Andy Hoskings in the early 1970s – and has weathered the changes for 50 years

From a business point of view Andy was full of praise for the company's bank, which has supported them Jason and Amy are proud throughout, and the many the business has constantly suppliers they have worked invested in the future with with. a significant investment He claims to be oldin 2020 in their online school and a traditional presence. WGM has a engineer so new technolgreat variety of products ogy, plug in diagnostic to offer, and a diversity systems, robotic mowers and reputation that will are not so interesting for enable it to move into the him. He dislikes the modfuture with confidence. ern throwaway society.

Staff have largely been with He feels that machinery relithem for the long term with ability has increased so much that it many having served for 20 to 30 has become more difficult for workshops years. to make a living as people are not prepared to Their relationship with the Hillier family is pay for quality labour. The increase in house very strong and both businesses are complimenbuilding with small houses and gardens means tary in the garden centre sites where footfall is there is also a trend for smaller battery powered strong, parking is plentiful and the consumer equipment needing little serexperience is excellent. vice support.

They both agree that there The workshops and parts will be challenges ahead with side of the business have been Covid and Brexit causing handed over to Amy. Meansome real short to medium while, he is very pleased his term issues. The internet will In May 2018 WGM lost one grandson will soon be getting remain a challenge in terms of of its co-founders, Robin a taster of the business. Andy competition but is also a necesNettle, following a brave will continue to keep a parental sary tool for the business. battle with cancer. His loss eye on things but is very clear Environmental issues will was felt by the company that the next generation now become a key part of their busiand the entire industry. run the business. ness plans in relation to recycling and energy issues. One of The challenges their most important areas will be the wellbeing Jason and Amy have been in the business for of their staff and the HR changes bought about some time now and have been around the busiby Covid and the need to protect staff and cusness all their lives. Their knowledge and passion tomers until the Covid issues improve. is as great as that of their parents. Their relationMore recent issues to do with Covid and have ship with their customers, staff and suppliers is affected the personal contact with sales repreas strong as ever and their outlook for the future sentatives and suppliers and these traditional is equally as positive. personal relationships may change to a more The 2020 Covid year provided its challenges clinical impersonal relationship as company’s but the company was in a strong position to deal reduce the amount of face-to-face contact as with this and had a good business year. This year prolonged travel restrictions change the way may prove more challenging from a sales point the industry does business. of view as parts and whole goods supplies are Unfortunately, WGM will not be able to celalready under pressure. Consumer spending ebrate their 50th anniversary with a party this may suffer as more people are affected by issues month but will instead plough on with business relating to the pandemic. as they have done for the last five decades.

Robin Nettle (1949 - 2018)

BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE

Latest lockdown guidance for dealers

Can you force an employee to get a Covid vaccine?

AT THE START of December 2020, the UK disciplinary action against employees for refusbecame the world’s first country to approve the ing to have the vaccine would be fraught with Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Less than one week risk and there are several factors to be taken into later, the first jab was administered. account. Firstly, is the request a reasonable one in Following 10 months of disruption and chaos, the first place? That will depend on the nature of a whirlwind of economic turmoil, and nearly the employer’s business and the employee’s role.

70,000 deaths UK-wide, it seemed a light has An employer must also consider the employee’s finally appeared at the end of the tunnel. reasons for refusing the vaccine.”

However, there remains a final, predictable fork in the road. Whilst employers may be Could refusal be legitimate? breathing a sigh of relief, the issue of obtaining At this early juncture, it’s important that employcollective buy-in from workforces is becoming ers consider all possible scenarios, including the apparent, with many naysayers and ‘anti-vaxers’ various reasons that could be given for refusing already expressing their disapproval at the prosto take the vaccine. pect of receiving the vaccine.

James said: “If there are genuine health, With this in mind, the obvious question religious or philosophical concerns – and I don’t looms for businesses across the UK: can employsimply mean conspiracy theories about the vacees be compelled to have it? cine – then they should be taken into account by Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on the employer and weighed against their reason your stance) the short answer is ‘no’, says BAGfor insisting the vaccine needs to be taken.

MA’s legal partner Ellis Whittam.

“In a disciplinary case, it It’s very difficult to persuade IF THERE ARE is always important to weigh employees to do anything that GENUINE HEALTH, t he employe e’s m it ig at i ng they do not want to do and the RELIGIOUS OR circumstances against the alleged employer’s options in this scenario PHILOSOPHICAL offence before making a decision are limited. However, as is to be CONCERNS THEY and these sorts of cases would be expected in the realm of employ- SHOULD BE TAKEN no different.” ment law, there is an array of cave- INTO ACCOUNT On this basis, it could be argued ats to consider.

BY THE EMPLOYER that legitimate health-related or Firstly, there is currently no religious reasons would prevent legal requirement for anyone to receive the employers from taking disciplinary action. If the vaccine in the UK. And it stands to reason that nature of the work meant that employees withemployees should not be forced to do so. out vaccinations could not attend then, in turn, However, if the employer feels it’s imperative this may require employers to provide full pay or that the entire workforce is vaccinated, there may statutory sick pay to the employee in the event be an avenue to take action in the event of a refusthat they refuse to receive the vaccine. These are al. That said, nothing is guaranteed, and each issues that could potentially be discriminatory case will be judged on its merits. James Tamm, and, if raised, should be considered thoroughly Director of Legal Services at Ellis Whittam, said before action is taken. employers should proceed with caution. “Taking That said, if the employee cannot provide a BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

BAGMA advises machinery dealers can be open as they offer an essential service.

Dealers are advised there should be restricted access to showrooms, operating safely under Covid restrictions for both their staff and customers.

Use an appointment system for customers and operate Covid safe collection and drop of points. The main need will be for service and repair.

Agricultural dealers may stay open.

Unfortunately, any shop or showroom for dealers [of] garden products is likely to be considered ‘non-essential’ and is required to close. Rules would allow dealers to operate ‘click-and-collect’ (where goods are pre-ordered and collected without entering the premises) and delivery services. Servicing, repairs and maintenance of machines can continue.

Again, these should be managed by appointment rather than walk in service provision.

It is unlikely that the Trade Counter provision would apply here as it to allow essential building and building maintenance operations to continue.

BAGMA also recommend the business provide staff who have to travel for work, to and from and for deliveries and collections, a letter on company headed paper explaining that they are allowed to do what they are doing.

See the Government website for further details.

legitimate reason, it is arguable that they are not ‘ready, willing and able to work’, and therefore are not entitled to pay.

Other considerations It’s likely that vaccination will become a complex issue for employers to navigate. So, if you’re in doubt about how to handle this, the best course of action is to seek professional advice as soon as possible. First consider this: Before any drastic or conclusive action is taken, consider whether the individual can continue their work remotely in the event that they refuse to be vaccinated. Not only would this contribute towards safeguarding the remainder of the workforce, but it may allow both employer and employee to avoid a potentially complicated legal issue.

Secondly, employers must consider the parameters of on-site conduct for those who have been vaccinated.

For more advice visit BAGMA Legal at www.bira.co.uk/services/bira-legal/

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EXPERT VIEW

How to embrace a new era of customer engagement during the pandemic IT’S NO SECRET that the Covid19 pandemic has drastically changed the way businesses interSales Director at act with customers. It has become IBCOS Computers Ltd increasingly popular for customers to shop online and it’s easy to see why so many traditional retail businesses are in such a precarious position right now.

However, this doesn’t mean you can’t make this situation work in your favour—because you absolutely can. We’ve come up with a few tips you can use to help your business thrive during the pandemic.

IT SYSTEMS

JAMES BUCHANAN

1. Provide in-store safety to customers Given that customers are the source of your income, consider how you can make them feel at ease at your dealership. First and foremost, you should know and abide by all relevant local and national rules for operating during the pandemic. Secondly, be sure to implement store policies for cleaning and sanitation, such as, limiting the number of people allowed in the store, requiring face masks and/or providing masks for in-store use, encouraging hand sanitiser use at the entrance and exit, and installing plexiglass dividers and floor decals for social distancing If you want to be extra careful, you should consider TIP measures like temperature checking and/or verbal health checklists for customers.

2. Fully commit to a digital storefront In an ideal world, your physical and digital storefronts should operate as one. So, if you already have a welldesigned website, you’ve made the first (and arguably the biggest) step. If it happens to display accurate information on all your products and brands, you’re closer to that goal.

This is important since so many customer shopping occasions start online, if you don’t have a website, you may be missing out on a huge portion of potential buyers.

3. Reach customers where they are Be sure to stay in touch with your old and new customers via emails and texts. We strongly advise that you use both methods to communicate with your customers, since there is a difference in how Gen X and Gen Z view emails as an essential form of communication. In a well-rounded communication strategy, texts and emails can complement each other because each of them has their own strengths.

Final word The pandemic has demonstrated how important it is for businesses to think on their feet and stay multiple steps ahead. What we’ve discussed here is only a fraction of what your business can achieve today with all the tools available.

If you want to thrive during this pandemic or any other time, we urge you to keep your eyes peeled for new and existing solutions and technologies from Ibcos, and make sure you have the capability to adapt quickly and effectively.

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How will exiting the EU impact health and safety laws?

NOW THE UK has finally exited Europe, will continue to apply. Prior to the Brexit what impact has it had on Health and deadline the HSE released a statement to Safety Law in the UK? Do we have to confirm this position: ‘After Brexit you change our existing paperwork in any should continue to manage your busiway or rewrite our Risk Assessments? The ness and employees in a proportionate simple answer is NOT at all! way to reduce risk and protect SAFETY The Health and Safety people, and the environment.

PAUL MARSH (A mend ment) (EU E x it) Office manager Your obligations to protect peoRegulations 2018 were drawn SafetyAide ple’s health and safety will not up under the existing H&S at change with Brexit’.

Work Act 1974, which preThe same principle applies dates all EU directives that to the Regulatory Reform (Fire have affected UK Legislation.

Safety) Order 2005 which was These regulations ensure that enacted under the Fire PrecauEU derived Health and Safety tions Act 1971. protections will continue to It is likely during 2021 that be available in UK domestic IN THE Fire Safety Legislation will law following the exit from the MEANTIME, be reviewed in the light of the IT’S BUSINESS Grenfell Enquiry, and any such European Union.

It is important to remem- AS USUAL changes will be suitably pubber the main principles that (WITHIN THE lished on the HSE and Governrequire employers to assess, CONFINES ment websites. avoid and reduce workplace OF UK In the meantime, it is busirisks to their employees should LOCKDOWN) ness as usual (within the concontinue without change in fines of UK lockdown proceorder to comply with existing UK laws. dures, sadly!).

The key principles of Risk ManageWe will keep you posted in the usual ment contained in the H&S at Work Act ways with any changes that may come 1974 and The Management of Health our way, in the interim, remember we are and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 ‘safer working together’.

BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

DIRECTOR'S COMMENT

Brighter days must be ahead – but for now, batten down the hatches COMMENT

KEITH CHRISTIAN DIRECTOR BAGMA With so much going on in the world, it is difficult to know where to begin for our first edition of 2021.

'Happy New Year' would normally be a good place to start but when we are surrounded by messages of doom a gloom it is a hard one to believe in. Yes, I am starting 2021 in a grumpy mood. My kids would say ‘so what is new, dad?’

Well, it’s cold and gloomy outside, Brexit has been overshadowed by Covid even though we got somewhere with it in the end and we can move forward with business.

Lockdown means even more restrictions

and staying home if you can, and you should – for now at least. Please pay attention to the lockdown guidance. Even with the vaccines being rolled out we are some way away from beating this pandemic and the real cure is going to be down to people being sensible.

On a more positive note, our industry survived 2020 with some good outcomes by all accounts. Dealers have adapted to the required changes, as they always do and will. New and improved ways of working have been introduced and will, no doubt, stay with us. The lessons of 2020 will serve us well for 2021 and get us through this sad awful mess we find ourselves in.

Thankfully, we are still here with a Brexit deal done but not dusted yet; at least we now have more of a positive outcome and whatever the drawbacks are we can move

into 2021 with a platform to work from.

In this respect we should be able to look forward to more business stability and a little less speculation.

I have spent a lot of time the last few days, trying to get some clarity on the issues of dealers being able to stay open during the latest lockdown.The Government guidance is vague and the wording is different to previous lockdowns but it is our view that machinery dealers can be open as long as they operate within the guidelines.

Showrooms should have restricted access and the focus must be on service and repairs. Call us if you need further advice.

For 2021 from a Mister Grumpy, batten down the hatches, keep safe, be sensible and keep up the incredibly good work that you all do for your businesses and your customers.

Handover and Installation of Products to Customers This one day course provides dealer staff with practical guidance in the relevant legislation, areas of responsibility, methods, recording and reports for Installation of products and services.

Contact info@bagma.com or call 01295 713 344 for more information.

Bira Training Advert - Jan 2021.indd 1

BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

20/01/2021 09:13:28

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PRODUCT NEWS

Compact tractor was ‘just right’ say competition winners Douglas and Alex Chalmers, Countryside’s TYM competition winners, compared the tractor they won for the year to a fairytale.

“It’s a bit like Goldilocks. Not too big, not too small, but just right.”

The duo run Learning Fields, a not-for-profit centre of wellbeing based at Nag’s Head Farm in Cumbria, which didn’t operate in 2020, but that doesn’t mean the T194 tractor hasn’t been put to good use.

“We use the tractor around three times a week, and once it gets started up it doesn’t stay idle for long,” says Douglas, director of the business. “It’s been instrumental in getting jobs done around the farm and we would have struggled

without it. We’ve invested in pigs this year, and the T194 has made that possible."

“It’s a massive improvement compared to the quad bikes we were previously using to transport equipment across the farm. All the tractor’s controls fall easily to either hand, and are light and easy to operate. Plus, it allows us to complete tasks that we just couldn’t do before. But the biggest bonus is definitely its size.”

Part of the TYM compact utility range, the T194 combines the practicality of a smaller tractor, weighing in at just 650kg, with enough power to pack a punch – thanks to its 19hp three-cylinder Yanmar engine.

It’s full steam ahead at ISEKI UK DESPITE THE CHALLENGES of 2020, ISEKI UK has been busy developing its dealer network and launching a range of new products.

Among some of the developments is the further increase of dealerships including Gammies operating out of their Forfar depot in Angus, Scotland, and Chandlers covering Bedfordshire up to North Lincolnshire.

Alongside these businesses Glyn Lloyd & Sons in Wales, Youngs Machinery also in Scotland at Kilmarnock and FISCO Farm & Garden Machinery, whose depot is based in Wakefield, also joined the ISEKI dealer family.

David Withers, Managing Director of ISEKI UK, said: “We are excited to have all these new dealers on board with us to help continue to grow our market share. All dealerships have a great following in their area’s and we expect to see significant growth from our partnerships together.”

Meanwhile, Gavin Pell, Managing Director

of Chandlers Farm Equipment added: “Chandlers are very pleased to have been appointed ISEKI dealers.

“This excellent quality range of compact tractors, and diesel-powered ride-on mowers will complement our professional groundscare range.”

For information on the full ISEKI range of Mowers and Tractors visit www.iseki.co.uk

Now is the time to pay attention to machinery maintenance TORO PARTS AND distributor Reesink Turfcare have all you need to make grounds maintenance during the winter months as hassle-free as possible.

Keeping surfaces in play and maintained properly throughout winter is tough enough, but good maintenance will ensure your machines are functioning to their full capabilities whatever the elements throw at you. And there are simple cold-weather tips that can mean when it’s time to bring your machine out of storage, it should be as easy as adding fuel and checking the oil to quickly get up and running.

Toro and Reesink Turfcare suggest the following steps: Check the manual: Toro includes a guide inside the owner’s manual for every piece of equipment which provides specifics.

Change the oil: Allowing contaminated oil to sit in the engine during months of storage can cause sludge that leads to corrosion and rust.

Drain the fuel tank: Protect your fuel system by draining the fuel tank and running the engine to empty the carburettor.

Clean inside and out: Dirt lowers performance so clean up.

Keep the battery charged: Check its electrolyte level and top off with distilled water if needed.

Other tips include: Sharpen cutting units and changing to new tyres.

Talk to your genuine Toro parts dealer for more.

New Reesink sales manager for Midlands DANIEL TOMBERRY IS relocating to the Midlands from Scotland to take on the role of sales manager for the area.

Daniel has almost 15 years’ experience in sports turf management in various roles including head groundsman at East Dorset Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, and three years sales experience working with all Reesink brands in Glasgow and West Scotland.

It is this mix of sales set against a

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practical background ‘in the field’ that Daniel, and Reesink Turfcare equipment sales manager Alastair Rowell, say will benefit customers in the Midlands.

Daniel said: “I’m excited about making a new home in the area and look forward to carrying on the good relationships the company has with existing customers and creating new ones with those who have not benefited from fantastic brands such as Toro before.”

Daniel’s role covers both fine turf and grounds customers and turfcare equipment sales manager Alastair said Daniel is ideal to cover both markets: “The Midlands is a key area for us, so it was imperative we get the right person in the role.”

Daniel Thornberry can be contacted via Reesink headquarters on 01480 226800.

BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

Produ newsct

THE DIRECTORY

New catalogue profiles latest workwear

When the going gets tough, the T393 gets going AS MAINTENANCE PLANS and renovation works start, your machinery needs to be ready to pull its weight as conditions and work gets tough – this is when TYM’s T393 tractor really deserves its shed status.

At the bare minimum, you will be repairing the turf from the stress of summer and a lot of play and preparing it for the tough winter conditions ahead.

There will be aeration programmes, hollow coring, scarifying, topdressing, vertidraining, spiking and perhaps construction work, drainage installations and building tees and bunkers, too. And while all this is going on, the weather can be wet and the last thing you want to do is damage the turf as you move equipment and heavy loads across it.

This is what makes the T393 the perfect

compact workhorse for this time of year. It’s strong and capable, but light and nimble to ensure it doesn’t create more clear up work by being out and about over the course.

When it comes to attachments, TYM’s UK distributor Reesink has customers covered with an extensive range that adds to the versatility and productivity of the T393. The wide range of accesories can all be sourced through Reesink, along with the TYM T393.

To find out more about TYM, the tractor attachments and finance available from Reesink call 01480 226800, or go to wwwreesinkturfcare. co.uk

Face it, there’s no better protection Hellberg Safety specialist PPE products include highly-advanced face protection, noise hazard protection and communication solutions for personal safety on site.

Hellberg’s interoperable face protection products offer helmet and visor solutions to suit internal and external work situations.

With a standard product design across the range, users are able to mix and match visors, carriers, and hearing protectors for complete ‘headband-only’ or ‘safety helmet’ solutions that protect against the hazards faced in differing task environments.

Every single component in the Hellberg Safety PPE range combines the hallmarks of, advanced technology, quality, and comfort with superb, practical protection for the hazards you’re likely to face – whatever job you’re doing in high-risk work environments.

For more information call the Hultafors Group UK Helpline on 01484 854788.

WITH A FOCUS on comfort, performance, and sustainability in its new products, the 2021 digital catalogue has all you need to know about Snickers Workwear.

It includes new products that now use REPREVE, the world’s number one brand of recycled performance fibre.

There’s also new AllroundWork Topwear with the cooling 37.5® moisture transportation fabric, as well as upgraded FLEXIWork Stretch Trousers with extra functionality and durability.

There’s also a stretchy hi-vis work jacket with great comfort and flexibility for high-performance work.

Added to which, there’s the most innovative street-smart stretch fabrics in the ALLROUNDWork clothing range for mobile comfort and a Layered Clothing System that ensures you can choose clothes to suit the weather on site – rain or shine, wind or snow – plus an extensive range of ENcertified ProtecWork and PPE products.

Download the catalogue at www. snickersworkwear.com

Best protection for high-risk environments LONG WORKING DAYS and cheap uncomfortable clothing makes the new ProtecWork lightweight protective wear from Snickers Workwear the ideal alternative for people working in high-risk environments.

They combine maximum practicality with the highest protection levels against a variety of hazards, with ergonomic designs for both men and women to keep them working safely and efficiently all day, every day.

The new range also includes lightweight, insulated GORE-Tex Work Jackets that provide protection and high-visibility in low-light, highrisk environments.

There’s also waterproof shell Work Trouser and accessories including flame-retardant kneepads.

Download a digital catalogue at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk

15

TRAINING

We must continue training – but only if it is really safe ON JANUARY 4, 2021, Boris Johnson announced a third national lockdown in England is curd the spread of coronavirus.

Here, we look at the Government’s latest guidance on training in the sector.

An extract from Government guidance: Training providers, employers and EPAOs must ensure that training and assessment takes place remotely wherever possible.

Face-to-face training and assessment can continue in colleges and training providers’ premises for vulnerable young apprentices and the children of key workers who need it. Face-toface training and assessment can also continue in employers’ Covid-secure settings where it is essential for workers to attend their workplace.

End-point assessment (EPA) and Functional Skills (FSQ) assessments can continue in colleges, training providers’ premises, assessment venues and workplaces where it cannot be conducted remotely.

We recognise that for some apprenticeship programmes which normally involve substantial use of practical equipment and demonstration of applied knowledge this new guidance will be particularly challenging. We have seen strong examples of how providers have adapted training and assessment using live lessons.

We have also seen providers adjust the sequencing of apprenticeships to concentrate practical learning when on-site training is possible. This approach should be taken as far as possible to ensure that training can continue.

We know that receiving face-to-face training is best for apprentices’ mental health and for their educational achievement.

We will continue to review the six restrictions on apprenticeship providers and assessment organisations and will ensure that apprentices return to face-to-face education as soon as possible.

For the full guidance see the Government website www.gov.uk and search ‘apprenticeship programme response'.

Partnership puts a stop to farming fatalities One of the Farm Safety Partnership’s most recognisable campaigns is ‘Safe Stop’.

We are reminding readers of the campaign and the four-stage stopping procedure for agricultural vehicles: 1.

Engage handbrake; 2. Controls in neutral; 3. Switch off engine; 4. Remove key.

Hashtags for the campaign include #SafeStop #ComeHomeSafe #farmsafety The Farm Safety Partnership (@ FSP_England) consists of organisations representing a broad spectrum of agricultural interests. It works to improve safety on farms and allied industries.

One of the ways the FSP reaches the farming community is through Twitter.

As one of the 40 members of the FSP, BAGMA will be taking over the Twitter account for a week in March so please follow BAGMA and look for our tweets.

Any re-tweets and comments are appreciated and could help to save a life.

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Established 1919

WE’RE AS PASSIONATE ABOUT QUALITY TOOLS AND GREAT SERVICE AS YOU ARE Draper Tools cater for everyone; from DIY enthusiast through to trade and professional users.

Our tools meet all relevant quality and safety standards and undergo rigorous quality control testing.

We deliver fast – with next day delivery available on all in-stock lines. With our drop-shipping service, simply place your order and we’ll deliver direct to your customer; ideal for bulky or high-ticket items.

Take a look at our latest tool prices & offers: visit b2b.drapertools.com, contact your Draper Account Manager or call our UK customer services team on +44 (0)23 8049 4333

JN_10299 - BAGMA Advert_1220_F.indd 1

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BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

THE DIRECTORY

ATV SECURITY

Revolutionising ATV & Asset Security A discreet ATV tracker that monitors the movements of your asset in real-time, allowing you to view status and usage history 24/7 with

AXIAL FANS & HEATER BLOWERS

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

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

Industry-Leading Soſtware for Machinery Dealers

SPAL is a member of BAGMA and a Bira Direct preferred supplier.

Contact SPAL direct for member only deals.

notification of unauthorised movements.

www.atvtrac.co.uk BUSINESS MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

www.spalautomotive.co.uk POWER TOOLS

www.ibcos.co.uk | +44 (0) 1202 714200 WEB DESIGN & MARKETING

CATALYST

A Constellation Software Company

All-in-one Business Management Solution for Growing Agriculture and Groundscare Dealer

www.catalyst-uk.com | 0116 230 1500

BAGMA BULLETIN JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2021

17

Introducing the all-new range of fibreglass handled shovels from ROUGHNECK . A comprehensive range of fully-featured products aimed at the trade professional who wants the ultimate in quality and strength. ÂŽ

SHARP SERRATED EDGE

SOFT D-SHAPED GRIP

CONTOURED GRIP

Most of our shovels are available in standard and long-handled versions.

Our standard shovels have a generous 1070mm/42" handle with a soft D-shaped grip, whilst our long-handled shovels have a 1460mm/57½" handle with a contoured grip, for increased leverage.

Contact your local representative or branch for details

w.t To find ool out m ban ore kb2 visit: b.c om

Our new round shovels have a serrated cutting edge, ideal for slicing through roots, opening bulk bags of aggregate, and bags of cement. Drainage and trenching shovels have sharpened or tapered blades, making it easier to penetrate compacted or heavy clay-like soils. Other new products include a grain shovel, ideal for moving various bulk materials, digging spades, and a digging fork.

All this plus our market-leading micro shovel range, compact shovels built to the same exacting spec as the full-sized product.

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SHARPENED BLADE