Celebrating a successful first year of business

Over the past 12 months, B&B Machinery has built a strong reputation for its service and customer support, and the open day served as an opportunity to showcase this success. 

As the newest arm of the B&B Group, the B&B Machinery open day welcomed farmers, industry professionals, and suppliers to explore the latest in agricultural machinery, with a strong presence from key manufacturers and service providers.

With a broad range of equipment on display, attendees had the opportunity to engage with experts, discuss industry trends, and take advantage of exclusive deals.

A positive industry outlook

B&B Machinery’s dealer principal, Andrew Walker, was keen to highlight the event’s success: “This is our second year running an open day, and it’s fantastic to see such a strong turnout. The team has done a great job, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Despite industry-wide challenges, Andrew noted signs of recovery: “Sales are starting to pick up, and both new and used machines are moving quickly. While it remains a tough time for farmers, we are seeing more and more enquiries and increased confidence.”

One key factor in B&B’s rapid growth has been its highly regarded service department. “We’ve built a strong reputation in our after-sales support,” Andrew added.

“Farmers know that when they buy from us, they’re not just getting a machine – they’re getting a team that will ensure they’re getting looked after.” The dealership’s dedication to responsive servicing appears to have contributed significantly to customer retention and follow-up business.

He also emphasised the importance of events like this in strengthening relationships. “It’s all about giving people the chance to meet the team, see the products, and connect with suppliers.”

In addition to machinery sales, B&B has seen a steady increase in demand for servicing and spare parts, highlighting the ongoing investment farmers are making in maintaining their fleets.

Challenges for farmers

The event also provided an opportunity for farmers to discuss the challenges currently facing the industry. Among the visitors at the dealer day was David Rhodes, a farmer from Tuxford, who shared his thoughts on the current state of British farming.

“We’re heading into a tough two years – there’s no ifs or buts about it,” he stated, expressing concerns over economic uncertainty and governmental policies affecting farming businesses.

He noted the role that technological advancements and new machinery play in keeping modern farms competitive, praising brands such as those represented at the B&B open day for their innovations.

Having purchased a Manitou industrial machine, David commented on the necessity of reliable equipment. “You don’t use it every day, but when you do, you really need it,” he said. 

Despite the industry’s challenges, David expressed optimism in the resilience of farmers. “Farmers won’t give up – it’s a way of life. But we do need public support and recognition for the role we play. We also need to make sure we find a way to keep younger people interested in staying in the business.”

Manitou demonstrations

Manitou’s sales support manager, James Hulme (pictured on the right with Farmers Guide’s Daniel Hodge) was on hand to demonstrate the MLT 420-60H, a compact telehandler that has been generating significant interest among farmers.

“This machine is ideal for applications where space is limited but power and lifting capacity are still essential,” he explained.

With a lift height of 4.35m and a lifting capacity of 2,000kg, the MLT 420-60H is designed for tight farmyards, finding particular utility in poultry operations.

“One of its biggest advantages is its low overall height of just under 2m, meaning it can access buildings that larger machines simply cannot, such as chicken sheds,” James noted.

The demonstration highlighted the telehandler’s precision handling, ease of manoeuvrability, and the operator comfort improvements that Manitou has focused on.

“We’ve incorporated a spacious cab, given the reduced size of the machine, with excellent visibility, ergonomic controls, and air-conditioning as standard,” James added. “It’s a machine that’s small in size but big in performance.”

Manitou was also showcasing its electric forklift offerings, including the ME 425L. “We’ve seen increasing interest in electric solutions, particularly from sectors looking to reduce emissions without compromising performance,” James explained.

He emphasised that Manitou’s expanding product line ensures that customers can find the right equipment for their specific needs, whether that’s traditional diesel-powered telehandlers, or the latest in electric machinery.

Premium AdBlue solution

GreenChem’s regional sales manager Chatan Patel introduced the relatively new formulation, Effinox – an advanced AdBlue solution designed for low temperature, low use scenarios.

“Under certain applications traditional AdBlue can crystallise and clog up the catalyser in the SCR exhaust system, which leads to expensive repairs. Effinox prevents that from happening,” he explained.

Farmers who own equipment that operate with a light duty cycle, such as back-up tractors or multiply applications, could benefit from this formulation.

“We’ve seen great uptake from the haulage industry as well, and it feels natural that agriculture is following suit. We also very recently introduced a 10-litre size option for smaller-scale users that has proven extremely popular,” commented Chatan.   

Hand tool lifetime guarantee

Sealey area sales manager Paul Gray was keen to showcase the company’s extensive range of tools and equipment, particularly focusing on the new pry bar.

“It’s a best-seller for us in the agricultural sector, and it comes with a lifetime guarantee – as do all our hand tools,” he explained. “The quality speaks for itself.”

Sealey was also offering exclusive deals on tool storage solutions, including a discounted three-drawer toolbox. “These are the type of offers that really bring people in. Farmers know the value of investing in reliable tools,” Paul added.

Durable workwear

TuffStuff Workwear’s regional sales manager Mark McGovern showcased the latest line of TuffStuff durable agricultural workwear.

“Our Portman Shacket is a best-seller, but we also offer a full range of high-quality, functional gear suited for farming environments,” he said.

TuffStuff Workwear has also expanded its reach through e-commerce, making its products more accessible. “We’re adjusting to market trends by offering our products through multiple channels, ensuring that customers can get what they need,” Mark noted.

To engage visitors, TuffStuff Workwear had incorporated a darts challenge into the stand, linking to its sponsorship of professional darts players. “It’s all about making the event interactive and enjoyable while also showcasing the quality of our products,” Mark concluded.

Manitou’s growing influence

The growing demand for Manitou’s agricultural telehandlers was readily pointed out by B&B’s Manitou sales specialists, James Richardson (left) and Dave Chambers.

“We’ve got a wide range in stock, from the smaller MLT 625 to the larger 10m machines. There’s been strong interest across the board,” commented Dave.

Manitou’s continued support with competitive finance deals has helped drive sales. “We’re in a strong position in the market because of the backing from Manitou,” noted James.

He explained that these finance packages make high-end machinery more accessible to farmers who are cautious about large capital investments given the current economic and political uncertainty. 

New models, such as the MLT 738 and 742 launched at LAMMA, were also a key talking point. “These machines offer new features like stop-start technology and improved fuel efficiency, which have been well received by customers,” Dave explained.

Manitou also showcased its skid steer range, which has seen growing demand, particularly among poultry farmers needing compact and manoeuvrable equipment for tight spaces.

“Game-changer” tools

Milwaukee had a wide array of power tools on display. Area sales manager Calum Weaver was on hand showcasing the brand’s latest power tools, particularly its innovative power head system.

“This is a game-changer for farmers and contractors alike. One power unit can be fitted with multiple attachments, eliminating the need for several dedicated tools,” he explained.

Milwaukee has continued to expand its cordless tool range, providing increased flexibility for agricultural and industrial users.

“We’ve had a lot of interest in our hedge trimmers, brush cutters, and line trimmers. Farmers appreciate the ability to switch between attachments quickly, especially 
when time is of the essence,” Calum added.

Securing deals for farmers

Woldmarsh’s sector head of farm business and machinery Paul Massey spoke about the organisation’s role in helping farmers secure better deals on essential purchases. “We negotiate bulk discounts on everything from fuel to machinery parts, giving our members significant savings,” he explained.

Beyond cost savings, Woldmarsh also provides advisory services to help farmers make informed decisions. “Many farmers come to us when they’re considering major purchases. Having an ally to bounce ideas off can be invaluable,” Paul added.

Woldmarsh also places a strong emphasis on building relationships. “Events like this help us put faces to names. We pride ourselves on the personal connection we maintain with our members, ensuring that their needs are met effectively.”

Tyre management solutions

The Tanvic Tyres stand was manned by tyre technician Asley Stevenson, who highlighted the company’s extensive expertise in agricultural tyres. “We don’t just sell tyres – we provide complete tyre management solutions,” he said.

With so many different soil conditions and machinery types in use, selecting the right tyre is crucial. “Our team understands the complexities of agricultural machinery, and we work closely with farmers to ensure they have the best possible tyres for their operations,” Asley noted.

Tanvic’s reputation has been built on service, knowledge, and the use of high-quality products. “We stock a wide range of brands and aren’t tied to any single manufacturer, which allows us to offer a really comprehensive service,” he added.

“Whether it’s flotation tyres for wet fields or narrow tyres for row-crop work, we 
can source the right solution.”

Robust, reliable transport

BJT’s business development manager Jim Cherry discussed the strong demand he was seeing for car transporters and flatbed trailers: “Professional users rely on our trailers daily, and we back that up with a five-year warranty on Brian James manufactured parts including the chassis.”

He explained that BJT’s range caters to businesses needing robust, reliable transport solutions. “Our trailers are designed for daily use and built to withstand heavy loads, whether for agricultural use or general logistics.” 

Jim also pointed out that demand for specialist digger trailers has risen significantly. “As more farmers are diversifying in their operations, we’re seeing more interest in trailers suited for transporting heavy machinery,” he noted.

BJT is working closely with dealerships like B&B to ensure customers have access to the right products for their needs.

Popular with contractors

Toro and Hayter’s territory manager Ben Kirkby was in attendance displaying groundcare equipment. “We’re seeing strong interest from homeowners and contractors, with our zero-turn mowers and compact utility loaders proving particularly popular.”

Toro’s zero-turn technology allows for exceptional manoeuvrability, making it ideal for large estates, golf courses, and equestrian facilities. “With fuel efficiency, and increasingly noise and air pollution being a concern, we’re also seeing more interest in our battery-powered models,” Ben said.

He highlighted that Toro is working on expanding its range of electric machinery, ensuring customers have access to sustainable options. “The compact utility loaders, in particular, have been gaining traction among equestrian customers who need a powerful, quiet, and nimble machine.”

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