INDUSTRY NEWS
boosting the network Case IH has announced a strengthening of its dealership network across parts of Queensland and NSW, with a number of existing dealerships expanding into neighbouring communities
C
ase IH Australia/New Zealand general manager Pete McCann says the new dealership arrangement is based on feedback from customers and an ongoing focus on providing the highest level of customer service across the network. “Our dealerships are well known for their customer relationships and service capabilities and this latest round of changes will only strengthen that, with some of the strongest performers in our dealer network taking on new branch locations,” he says. The expansion comes about due to Wideland Ag leaving the Case IH dealership network. Wideland Ag had been part of the Case IH network since 2010, with six dealerships in Tamworth, Gunnedah, Narromine and Gilgandra in NSW, and Toowoomba and Dalby in Queensland. Three Rivers Machinery is now operating the Case IH dealerships in Narromine and Gilgandra, in addition to its Warren branch, while Kenway & Clark – with dealerships in Moree, Inverell, Wee Waa and Goondiwindi, has taken on the existing Case IH dealership in Gunnedah and will open a new Tamworth Above: Three Rivers Machinery management Case IH branch early in 2021. team Kate Whiteley, Ray Watson, Ruth New arrangements for the Toowoomba and Dalby Case Plunkett and John Plunkett IH dealerships are currently being worked through and are Above right: Kenway & Clark owners James Fowles, Gemille Hayes and Peter Burey expected to be confirmed soon.
“Customers can be assured they’ll receive the highest level of service and support during and after the changeover to these new service providers,” McCann says. “The dealerships expanding into these communities are proven performers within our dealership network and we know they have the tenure and experience to elevate the service levels demanded by our customer base today and into the future. “While certain manufacturers prefer a dealer network made up of just a few ‘super dealers’, at Case IH we strive to have a connection with the local community through a network of locally-owned operators with a vast knowledge of the areas in which they operate and a wealth of experience when it comes to customer service and product support.” During this changeover period, McCann says customers should contact the new Case IH dealers in their local area. For Tamworth customers, contact Kenway & Clark’s Gunnedah branch with any inquiries prior to the new Tamworth branch opening, and Dalby and Toowoomba customers can call 1800 232 583 should they require assistance while the new arrangements are being confirmed. Case IH is also committed to honouring all existing sales and maintenance contracts, and warranties.
branching out
footprint in Queensland and NSW. “These new dealerships will enable us to better service the grain, forage and livestock producers in the Darling Downs, New England, Liverpool Plains and the NSW Central West regions,” he says. “They complement our existing Claas Harvest Centres at Dalby, Moree and Narrabri, and independent dealerships in Scone, Coonabarabran and Parkes. “Producers and contractors will have greater access to cutting-edge technology, service, parts and support to gear their farming business up for success. “Rather than the usual ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, Claas Harvest Centres represent a range of manufacturers that are acknowledged as leaders in their fields. “Combined with our reputation for service and support, you can be confident that you’re getting the very best solution for your requirements.” The Claas range includes the Lexion combine and Jaguar forage harvesters, Xerion, Axion and Arion advanced technology tractors, Scorpion telehandlers; and the integrated Greenline range of forage harvesting equipment. Needham says the Claas Harvest Centre network has thrived in the challenging conditions of 2020. “We have invested an additional $2 million in extra spare parts for this season, distributed across our network in anticipation of a long and difficult harvest. “In the middle of all this, we are demonstrating the new Claas Lexion 8000/7000 series combine harvesters throughout the eastern states and Western Australia.” Claas claims the new series delivers 10 per cent more capacity than its previous 700 range, which the company says is acknowledged as the world’s most productive and efficient combine harvester.
The Claas Harvest Centre network is growing with the appointment of three new dealerships in Toowoomba, Tamworth and Gunnedah, taking its Australian footprint to 35 dealerships
Above: Landpower general manager product Tim Needham and Wideland Group managing director Mick McDonald
22 TradeFarmMachinery.com.au
FFM2013_392 editorial.indd 22
T
he three new dealerships will be operated by the Wideland Group, an Australian-owned company with extensive interests in the farm machinery, construction equipment, truck, motor vehicle and vehicle rental sectors. All three centres will represent the entire Claas Harvest Centre line-up, including the well-known Claas, Amazone and Väderstad brands that are distributed in Australia by Landpower Group, along with the Wideland Group’s existing franchises. The changes are already in place at Wideland’s existing dealerships at 55–57 Carrington Road, Toowoomba and 137 Gunnedah Road, Tamworth, while a new dealership will be established at Gunnedah early in the new year. Landpower general manager product Tim Needham says the appointment fills the gaps in the company’s
THE TRACTOR YOU WANT IS NOW EASIER TO FIND
19/11/2020 2:11:23 PM