New auction representative for Cheffins

Auctioneers Cheffins has expanded its machinery division with the appointment of James Beaton (below) as auction representative.

The Cambridgeshire-based auction firm conducts Europe’s largest monthly sale of tractors and agricultural machinery from its Sutton sale ground, near Ely. Mr Beaton will liaise with farmers and contractors looking to sell surplus stock.

Previously field sales manager at agricultural machinery dealership Oliver Agriculture, Mr Beaton has lots of experience dealing directly with farming customers, machinery manufacturers and distributors.

Cheffins’ dominance of the sec ond-hand sector has gone from strength to strength in recent years. It achieved record-break ing sales in the first quarter of 2023, selling more than £25m of machinery at its monthly auction and on-site sales.

Cheffins chairman Bill King said: “As the monthly machin ery sale continues to grow, we could see the real merit of hav ing someone ‘on the ground’ who could go and meet clients and help with the consignment process.

“I have no doubts that James will help the machinery division consistently provide a brilliant service for both buyers and sellers from across the UK and further afield.”

Mr Beaton said: “I look forward to being able to meet Cheffins diverse range of clients, from farmers and one man bands to some of the largest machinery dealers in the UK, as well as introducing some new customers to the sale ground at Sutton.

“Coming from a local farming family, I have a good understanding of the farming sector and their machinery needs, as well as the importance of being able to convert redundant surplus kit into cash, quickSales at Cheffins have increased by 40% in value during the past six months, with a strong export market ensuring that prices have continued to rise. Multiple on-site auctions have involved both modern machinery and the vintage sector.