In Part One of my conversation with Harry Handkammer we learned about the circumstances that led up to the creation of the Countax brand, (now owned by Ariens) and a successful launch to dealers in 1990.In Part Two, Harry talks about winning a BBC Award as Business Survivor of the Year, of events turning full circle when he was able to buy Westwood, the company that threatened his survival, of building a Williams Formula One garden tractor, a JCB version, and of a Countax lawn tractor reaching 100mph on a Welsh beach.Lastly, Harry tells how Service Dealer magazine, which I had founded in 1988, played an important role in the ongoing marketing of Countax.(02:07) Winning Survivor of the Year Award(05:48) Westwood full circle(12:30) Williams Formula One garden tractor(18:00) JCB branding(21:45) The '100mph' garden tractor(28:30) Sale to Ariens(31:00) Role of Service Dealer

This is the 80th episode of Inside Agri-Turf published on 27 October 2022, the 80th birthday of podcast host and producer Chris Biddle.Birth of a Brand features Harry Handkammer, whose company manufactured attachments exclusively for a garden tractor manufacturer. In 1989, the supply arrangement was cancelled overnight. Faced with losing virtually all his business and having just moved into a new factory, Harry decided to build his own tractor which was designed, tooled and ready for production in just over three months.His newly created brand, Countax, went on to claim market leadership within three years and was subsequently acquired by Ariens, a leading US lawn and garden manufacturer.Harry’s story spanning 1989 to 2010 is told in two parts, Part One focuses on the formative years, and the events leading up to the birth of the Countax brand. Part Two (next episode) tells how Harry’s tenacity won him the BBC Business Survivor of the Year Award, the story behind a special Countax model designed in association with a Formula One team, the involvement of Stirling Moss -and breaking the world land speed record for a lawnmower. 

Recorded on World Mental Health Day, ,Geoff Webb, CEO of the Grounds Management Association (GMA) opens up about the mental health challenges he faced during the past two years.Like many businesses and organisations, the pandemic hit the GMA hard, its showpiece event SALTEX, a major contributor to the Association's income , was cancelled in 2020, and the 2021 event was in doubt until the last minute.Running the organisation, albeit with a strong team, took its toll on Geoff. "I couldn't see how my mental capacity was deteriorating, although others could" he says.Running alongside his mental issues, Geoff's health was also to take another turn. He suffered a heart attack, had to be taken to hospital - during which the paramedics in the ambulance were talking to him about the turf at Wembley!Geoff describes his experiences in a self-deprecating way, but it is clear that he has re-evaluated his work/life balance, particularly in these uncertain times and urges others to do so.(01:43) Managing SALTEX during the pandemic(09:43) #groundsweek and lateral thinking(17:35) Diversity in turfcare(20:30) Onset of mental health issues(30:23) Recovery and industry wellbeingLINKSRead Geoff's story by Samantha White on memcom websiteThe Samaritans Tel: 116 123Perennial Helping people in horticulture

In the second part of this look at the evolution of agri-turf machinery and equipment during the 70 years of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II (1952 to 2022), I consider the technological advancements in lawnmowers and grass cutting equipment with my guest Brian Radam, the founder and curator of the British Lawnmower Museum.The collection numbering over a thousand machines, sits above Brian's lawnmower sales and service dealership in Southport, Lancashire. It attracts thousands of visitors, particularly from overseas, who are fascinated and intrigued by the once proud manufacturing lawnmower manufacturing tradition in the UK.As well as many early models including the original blueprints, the Museum displays many machines donated by famous people, including from members of the Royal family. The Museum is often featured on TV and radio programmes including Antiques Roadshow and supplies machines to film and TV production companies featuring in hit shows such as Downton AbbeyBritish Lawnmower Museum

IN the first part of this two-part episode, I look at the advances in farm machinery during the late Queen Elizabeth II’s 70 year reign – from 1952 to 2022.From an age when horses were still at work on many UK farms but tractors were becoming more affordable, spearheaded by the iconic little Grey Fergie - up to today's highly mechanised farm featuring autonomous tractors, guidance systems and ultimate comfort and convenience for operators.My guest is Charlie Nicklin, chief executive of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE). Prior to joining IAGRE two years ago, Charlie spent 24 years in engineering roles with JCB Landpower, working on the design of several of the company’s well known products.In this informal chat, we could only scratch the surface on how we got from there to now . .Institution of Agricultural Engineers

On the 7 September 2022, around 80 guests gathered at Springhill Barn near Pershore in Worcestershire to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Trust set up in the memory of Douglas Bomford, the driving force behind the invention of many well-known agricultural products still in common use today.The Trust’s aim is to support the future education, training and research in the design, production and application of agricultural machinery and equipment.The Trust also used the occasion to announce that its first patron is to be Dr David Llewellyn CBE, the former Vice-Chancellor of Harper Adams University.This podcast contains edited extracts from the speakers at the event. They were:(01:13) Jonathan Bomford (Trustee)(08:35) Nick August (Trustee/Chair)(17:02) Dr Paul Miller (Trustee)(27:42) Dr Nick Tillet (Tillet and Hague Technology Ltd)(31:44) Professor Jane Rickson (Cranfield University)(35:02) Dr Paula Misiewicz (Harper Adams University)(37:46) Dr David Llewellyn (Patron)Full details of the event, the programme, presentations and testimonials are available on the DBT 50th Anniversary website

AFTER spending much of his early life in Canada, Ben Matthews moved to Scotland where he initially worked in Health and Social Care. But approaching his 40th birthday, he decided he needed a change of career.One day, passing SRUC Elmwood campus he spotted a banner advertising a career in greenkeeping. It was to be his eureka moment.He enrolled on the golf course management course and was subsequently named as winner of the HNC Golf Course Management Student of the Year sponsored by John Deere and Scottish dealer, Double A.Then an opportunity cropped to become a seasonal member of the course management team on the Old Course at St Andrews for the 150th Open Championship this year.Always sports mad, Ben said he was ‘living the dream’ – and as you will hear, seasonal been converted to a permanent post at St AndrewsThis is really an uplifting story and a real live endorsement for a career in turfcare.SRUC Elmwood, Scotland's Rural College

After a summer break, Season Three recommences on 15 September, so I thought I'd compile a compendium of snippets from earlier episodes for the 6 months from February to July 2022.There are 20 voices shoe-horned into this episode of just over 30 minutes.The speakers featured are:(00:57)  Caroline Drummond MBE (Tribute to LEAF founder) FULL EPISODE(03:07)  Graham Parker (Ernest Doe) FULL EPISODE(05:17)  David Withers (Iseki UK) FULL EPISODE(06:50) Simon Holmes (T H White Group) FULL EPISODE(09:01)  Jeremy Gibbs (Forces Farming) FULL EPISODE(11:10)   James Tuckwell (Tuckwells) FULL EPISODE(12:34)  Stuart Goodison Grace Nugent (De Lacy Recruitment) FULL EPISODE(14:26)   David Kirschner (consultant) FULL EPISODE(15:08)    Max Pearce (Excel Plant and KGM) FULL EPISODE(17:26)    Peter Hill (industry journalist) FULL EPISODE(19:32)   Martin Sanders (on mentoring) FULL EPISODE(21:25)   Mark Daniel (New Zealand machinery editor) FULL EPISODE(24:06)   Keith Kent (former grounds manager RFU) FULL EPISODE(26:34)  Jimmy Broadhouse (aka Jimmy The Mower) FULL EPISODE(28:34) Stephen Edwards (InTurf) FULL EPISODE(31:17) Jason Booth (Grounds Management Association) FULL EPISODE(33:18)    Corey Doctorow (US journalist) FULL EPISODE(36:16)    Ruth Bailey (AEA/BAGMA) FULL EPISODE Other guests appearing during this season were:Charlie Nicklin (IAgrE), Chris Gibson (GGM Groundscare), Marion Perret Pearson (Severn Trent Water), Richard Charles (AGCO) and Howard Pullen (BAGMA/CLIMMAR)

A year after the eye-catching acquisition of the British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA), the dealer trade association by the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA), representing manufacturers, distributors and suppliers, CEO Ruth Bailey tells Chris about the behind-the-scenes integration during the past 12 months.Although AEA and BAGMA are still two separate organisations, operating under the same roof, Ruth hints that ‘nothing is off the table’ regarding the future shape and identity of the combined associations"We are in an absolutely great position now, and are ready to move forward" she saysIn a wide-ranging chat, we covered:(01:38) Sorting the initial priorities(13:35) Reflections on post-Covid era(15:24) The value of dealerships(17:09) Industry consolidation(19:10) Pressing issues(22:28) Recruitment and awareness of our industry Episode is 28 minutes

Earlier this year, it was reported that tractors and combines worth more than $5m stolen by Russian troops from a John Deere dealership in Ukraine had been remotely disabled - and could not be used.It was a feel-good story in the midst of so many distressing reports and images coming out of this destructive conflict.But was the bigger picture more worrying? I speak with Cory Doctorow, author, Guardian journalist with a special interest in protecting human rights in this digital age.He says that whilst ‘kill-switches’ used to disable the machinery provide a security benefit, it is possible that widely available ‘hacking’ technology could also be used to disrupt the world’s agricultural infrastructure by those with more sinister motives.All of which feeds into the Right to Repair cases currently going through the US courts. It is also all about who owns the tractor, who owns data, and who owns the rights to the embedded software?Deere contends that a customer can never fully own connected machinery because it holds exclusive rights to the software coding.  Some US farmers have attempted to unlock the embedded by purchasing illegal firmware –mostly developed by sophisticated hackers based in Ukraine!  Episode is 43 minutesOriginal Cory Doctorow article 

Jason Booth made the move from aspiring professional cricketer to grounds management. He is now Chief Operating Officer of the Grounds Management Association (GMA) and has responsibility for the Pitch Advisory Service (PAS), funded by Sport England, with the aim of achieving continual improvement in the playing surfaces at an estimated 75,000 grounds used for recreational and community sport.Since its formation in 2014, Jason says that the PAS has collected extensive data on the quality of pitches used across recreational sports and that almost 90% of those surveyed have shown improvement - and this has resulted in increased available funding.The podcast is 45 minutes and includes (01:55) From professional cricketer to grounds management(05:05) PAS origins and role(10:38) Changing sport participation and engaging volunteers(15:50) Access to PAS resources(21:02) Benchmarking pitch standards(25:55) Disruptions from weather, vandalism or pitch quality(30:30) Impact of Covid on recreational sport(34:26) Perception of grounds staff and career pathLINKSPitch Advisory ServiceGrounds Management AssociationSport England

The large scale growing and harvesting of natural turf only really began in the 1980/90s, but with the advent of high capacity machinery is now a year-round operation by specialist growers to meet an ever-growing demand from landscapers, parks, sports grounds and home owners.Chris talks to Stephen Edwards, who along with his twin brother Alex, runs InTurf, one of the UK's largest and longest established suppliers of natural grass.They discuss the turf growing cycle, the logistics and timeliness of the operation, irrigation, the ban on exporting turf to Europe since Brexit - and of course the fake (plastic) grass versus natural grass debate.Episode is 43 minutesLINKSInTurf Turfgrass Growers Association (TGA)

Jimmy Broadhouse runs a contract grass cutting business. In 2019, he posted a photograph on social media of a council owned grass open space he had just cut with a comment "To the kids around here playing football, they think its Wembley - so I cut it like it is"That single post went viral and set in train an extraordinary chain of events that resulted in TV appearances, a tie-up with historic mower maker Ransomes and an invite to cut the pitch at Wembley Stadium.Today he is widely recognised as Jimmy the Mower, producing videos, making personal appearances, visiting sports clubs, offering a range of merchandise - and is regarded as a turf influencer.Jimmy talks to Chris about his whirlwind few years which he originally thought would blow over within a week.Episode is 37 minutesJimmy the Mower website

Keith Kent has scaled the heights of his profession. He has presided over the preparation of pitches for the English Premier League, England football internationals, England Rugby internationals and the 2015 Rugby World Cup Final.Keith joined Leicester City as a grounds trainee, and was later appointed Head Groundsman at English Premier League giants Manchester United. In 2002, he changed codes when chosen by the Rugby Football Union to take charge of the pitch at Twickenham - the home of English rugby. Keith retired from Twickenham in 2019, since when he has continued his love of turf maintenance – but away from the spotlight.This is a terrific episode with Keith opening up about the joys of turf management, weather watching, hosting an NFL game – and his part in attracting the Rolling Stones to play Twickenham.Photo courtesy of Grounds Training

Returning from a mid-season break, Chris reflects on some of the stories that have made news in recent weeks. 01:01 SHOWS: Reflections on the ever-changing show scene, and delightful memories about the origins of LAMMA by founders, Cliff Preston and John Sartain as it celebrates 40 years17:03 TRACTOR PORN: The profile of the ag machinery industry shot up following the outing of an MP caught watching porn on his mobile, who claimed he was searching for tractor info22:30 NO-MOW MAY: Did a laudable, but over-interpreted initiative, really cut through? Meanwhile opposition to the use of artificial grass is growing as RHS bans fake grass WATCH LAMMA FOUNDERS FIRESIDE CHAT (split into 3 parts of approx 10 mins each)

Earlier this year, the Farmers Weekly published a list of the UK's biggest farm machinery dealers ranked by turnover.Compiled for the FW by freelance journalist Peter Hill, the report makes for fascinating reading and confirms the rapid consolidation in the dealer network over the past few years. The report provides full details on the top 15 dealers, then outline information on a further 23 dealers with sales over £30m.Interestingly, and uniquely, the dealer group in the number one spot is owned by a manufacturer.The data is based on the 2020 accounts but subsequently a number of mergers and acquisitions have taken place which are noted in the report -and will mean that one dealer will almost certainly jump from No 12 spot to No2 if the report is to be repeated next year. Peter describes the amount of work involved in compiling the list, and that he had to cross-check the details of almost 200 dealers before publishing the final list.Read Farmers Weekly Britain's Largest Agricultural Machinery Dealers feature

After a long career with Honda, Martin Sanders is now assisting small businesses by providing business coaching and mentoring. In this podcast he explains the difference.For many years, Martin headed Honda's Power Products Division, and then went on to become Chief Financial Officer and Chief Audit Executive of Honda Motor Europe until his retirement in 2020.A trained accountant, Martin says that the most rewarding feedback and practical advice for businesses at the sharp-end, came from his time visiting and talking to dealers. And the most memorable yardstick or metric for judging business performance, the Lunchtime Test, came from a dealer.He understands how difficult it is to switch off when running a family business, and that a pair of outside eyes can help business owners see 'the wood from the trees' when day-to-day challenges get in the way of strategic planningEpisode is 33 minutesWebsite Martin Sanders – Business Coach and Mentor

How do you go about finding new staff for key roles in your company? Finding the best people with the right qualifications and experience can be extremely time-consuming. You can either ‘do-it-yourself’ through advertising in the press or social media, or engage a specialist recruitment agency In this episode, Stuart Goodison and Grace Nugent of agricultural specialists De Lacy Executive Recruitment talk about the role they play in unearthing candidates with the right skills and personality before presenting to clients for interview.They say that the person is often more important than the role itself – and that companies should spend as much time on promoting themselves as a great employer as they do on selling the products and services they provide.Episode is 34 minutesDe Lacy Executive Recruitment

I'm delighted to welcome as my guest, Mark Daniel, the Machinery Editor of New Zealand’s leading agricultural journal, Rural News Group.Many in the British agri-turf industry will remember Mark from his time representing Rustons Engineering, E P Barrus and Claas UK before he left for New Zealand with his family in 2002.Mark initially worked for a couple of New Zealand's largest dealerships before being appointed to his present role of Machinery Editor for Rural News Group in 2015 A Welshman, Mark now lives and works in the small coastal community of Raglan near Hamilton on North Island, and I spoke to him about the current farming scene in New Zealand, particularly the challenges of coping with the pandemic, as well as the relationship of the farming community with the current Labour administration in New Zealand dedicated to pushing a 'green agenda' For reference of UK listeners, many of the figures Mark quotes are in NZ dollars – currently worth around 2 $NZ to the pound sterling.Rural News Group, New Zealand

Do hire and sales mix - or are they different business models?Dealers often stock a few specialist machines to hire, or loan machines to cover breakdowns.However, they tend to view hire as time-consuming and risky with excessive paperwork to cover health and safety issues. They also believe hire takes away sales opportunities.Max Pearce sees things differently. He runs a plant hire company in Southampton and recently bought a local garden machinery dealership - and now runs both businesses side-by side as one company.He tells Chris Biddle about the benefits of an additional, and complementary, income stream - and of providing a valauble service to the cruise ship sector. Chris first reflects on the way firms like Cazoo and Cinch have disrupted the established second-hand car market - and wonders whether 'disruptors' might have an impact on the agri-turf machinery sectorExsel Plant Hire

QUOTING former Russian Agricultural Minister, Alexander Tkachev, the organisers of YugAgro, the largest Russian farm machinery exhibition, say that Russia needs ".. at least 180,000 new tractors and 80,000 new combines" to fill the gap in Russia's total farm machinery pool which has shrunk by more 50% in the last decade.No wonder major US and European manufacturers have ramped up their presence in Russia over the past 10-15 years. It is a country with huge farming potential, which has been starved of the machinery and new technology it needed to make the most of its natural resources.Manufacturers such as CLAAS, John Deere, CNH Industrial and AGCO have invested huge sums to establish state of the art production facilities, training and service support in a country where the sheer size of the region presents considerable logistical challenges.Today everything has come to a shuddering halt. Sanctions have been imposed and most leading manufacturers have announced that they are halting supplies as a result of Russia's decision to invade and wage war on neighbouring Ukraine, a democratic, independent country.Chris Biddle looks at their presence in the Russian market, and the difficult position they find now themselves in. He also quotes a Ukrainian arable farmer who says "Today I'm farming wheat , tomorrow I might be shooting Russians" - and who has already modified his farm truck to mount a machine gun.However, Chris preludes his analysis with a few words on the day that the Russians came to his home City armed with one of the worlds deadliest nerve agents - and ends by considering whether we need to re-consider our food self-sufficiency in the UK.Time stamps(01:08) The Salisbury poisonings(04:54) Russian farm machinery fall-out and short-fall(19:56) Release more land, grow more food.Source documentsYugAgro show market analysisRussian Agri-business (US International Trade)Press releases from Rosspetsmash (Russian Ag Machinery Association)Challenges for Ukraine farmers (Sunday Times)

The agri-turf machinery industry will always be stronger with manufacturers and dealers working in harmony to provide customers with the best possible buying and support experience.But as the industry and technology evolves, what factors might impact on the future shape of the UK dealer network in the years ahead?In this Agri-Turf Talks episode hosted by Chris Biddle, a panel comprising James Tuckwell managing director of multi-branch John Deere dealership Tuckwells, David Withers , managing director of Iseki UK and Howard Pullen, Board Member of European dealer association CLIMMAR share their thoughts.But first the panel considers the likely impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a fertile market for used tractors and machinery and the wider industry implications.The topics discussed are:(6:06)   Ukraine(10:14) Prospects for new dealerships?(14:23) What makes a good dealer and supplier?(18:12) Availability of funding and dealer contracts(23:27) Long line dealers and niche opportunities(29:55) Challenges of dealer expansion(36:03) Staffing for new technology(41:32) Creating the right imageLINKShttps://www.climmar.comhttps://www.iseki.co.ukhttps://www.tuckwells.com

How well does the agricultural engineering industry present its Environmental Credentials?It is an industry that spans many disciplines aside from tractors and farm machinery. It encompasses horticulture, soil science, water quality, forestry, food processing, sports and recreation, renewable energy, robotics - and much more.A panel drawn from across the industry discuss the challenges and opportunities for getting a positive message to young people - and the wider world. The panel isCaroline Drummond MBE, Chief Executive of LEAF (Linking Environment with Farming)Charlie Nicklin, Chief Executive of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers, (IAgrE)Marion Perrett-Pearson, Senior Agricultural Advisor at Severn Trent WaterChris Gibson, managing director GGM Groundscare LtdLEAF UKIAgrE Severn Trent WaterGGM Groundscare

The annual Doe Show, staged by the multi-branch dealership, Ernest Doe Ltd has been held every year since 1960.The 2020 show, and always held during the first week of February, was staged a few weeks before the Government announced a complete lockdown due to the spreading pandemic. Determined to keep the show on the road, Ernest Doe Ltd sales director Graham Parker and his team started to make plans for the 2021 show - whatever the ever-changing restrictions.Graham describes how they put together a very different event in 2021, and still had to juggle Plan A, Plan B, Plan C for the February 2022 show as a second wave of Covid arrived.In the event, the shows survived - and resulted in record returns. Graham tells of fluctuating plans, sleepless nights, new technology and visitor feedback.The episode also reflects on the recent panel episode on recruitment and previews a forthcoming episode on proving the industry's environmental credentialsEpisode is 30 minutesErnest Doe CompanyLandbased Engineering website Inside Agri-Turf website and all previous episodes

For the third in this series of Agri-Turf Talks, a panel drawn from across the agri-turf sector discuss the issues they face recruiting new talent into the industry. The panel is:Richard Charles: After Sales Customer Care and Training Manager, UK and Ireland AGCO CorporationSimon Holmes : Group Service Manager Agriculture and Construction T H WHITE GroupJeremy Gibbs: Farmer and Founder of Forces FarmingDavid Kirschner: Independent Industry ConsultantChris Biddle: Inside Agri-Turf HostAmongst the issues covered are the role of recruitment agencies, apprenticeships, training, the visibility of the industry to outsiders and much more.LINKSLandbased Engineering CareersAGCO Academy Training CentreForces FarmingT H White Group

A wrap-up to Season Two of Inside Agri-Turf with a selection of edited recordings covering issues of dealer economics, equal opportunities, mental welfare and succession in the business. Those featured are:(01:08) Tim Lane(06:18) Steve Halley(09:07) Tom Black(12:32) Laura Bassnett(15:20) Lauren Savage(17:37) Poppy Burrough(22:13) Tom Johnston(28:14) Stephen Shortt(29: 45) Howell and Emyr JenkinsThe clickable time stamps will take you direct to that section, including the introductionMany thanks to all my guests who featured during Season Two. The full episodes from May to December 2021 can be found on the Inside Agri-Turf website.Season Three starts on 2 February 2022

Chris Biddle hosts the second in the AGRI-TURF TALK panel discussion featuring Shaun Groom (Merlo UK and current AEA President), Angus Lindsay (Group Head of Assets and Fleet Management at idVerde) and Jason Nettle (Director, Winchester Garden Machinery).The panel discussion includes:03:50 Current supply difficulties16:10 Industry image and recruitment26:20 The future impact of COP2635:45 Dealing with adverse criticismFinally the panel are asked about their 'go-to' mottos or role modelsEpisode is 48 minutes

Fossil fuels are on the way out - in time. What will replace petrol and diesel for the tractors and machinery used by farmers to produce food to feed the world's growing population?Host Chris Biddle examines the options - and reflects on the recent Annual Conference of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE) with its theme of Future Fuels in Agriculture which co-incided with the COP26 Climate Change conference in Glasgow(03:50) Hear how school children are starting to Do, Do, Do as an antidote to protesters chanting of blah, blah, blah(05:40) How the President of the United States became the warm-up act for the the last IAgrE Conference(09:04)) Eureka moment for Chris Mann on exploding grass clippings and turning 'bad' methane into a cost saving fuel(14:23) Will hydrogen be the 'silver bullet'? Royal Academy of Engineering Ask the Engineer forumLINKSBennamann WebsiteRoyal Academy of Engineering Forum: Ask the Engineer Is hydrogen the silver bullet?Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE)

No, not the hit TV series about a dysfunctional family dynasty with the siblings at war over who succeeds the founding father (who still wants to retain a powerful presence in the company).With virtually every dealership or supplier in the agri-turf sector being a private family business, the challenges associated with deciding who is best equipped to take the business forward in a changing world are very real.I talk to Stephen Shortt, a leading small business strategist about the tensions, the planning, the dynamics, and the personal ambitions that come into to play when deciding on succession issues.Each family set up is different. Sometimes succession is a straightforward matter, at other times when several family members are involved, damaging conflicts can arise that can spread from the boardroom, to dining room and even the bedroom.Speaking from personal experience, Stephen outlines how potentially serious family disagreements, often as a result of dogmatic attitudes, can be diffused to the benefit of all concerned when deciding on succession planningLINKSStephen Shortt websiteEntrepreneurs Organisation

With shows and exhibitions back on the industry calendar, I catch up with Kris Kiser, CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) organiser of the annual lawn, garden and landscape EXPO in Louisville, Kentucky - and with UK based freelance journalist Martin Rickatson of JMR Agriculture who has just returned from the Italian EIMA show in Bologna.Kris Kiser runs through the new branding for the Louisville Show for 2022, and both reflect on the two recent shows in the US and Europe.With organisers having to stage virtual shows over the past 18 months, will trade shows return to normal - and might we see the emergence of hybrid events providing on-line access to show events? Oh, and there's a brief cameo from Mulligan, star of the TurfMutt FoundationLINKSOutdoor Power Equipment InstituteJMR AgricultureEquip Louisville 2022Inside Agri-Turf website

For this 50th episode, I've invited four industry guests, all of whom have featured in earlier episodes, and all from very different backgrounds. They are Kit Franklin from Harper Adams University, and the Hands Free Farm Project; David Hart, managing director Kubota UK; Will Foster, formerly Tank Training Manager in the British Army now ag machinery technician with Ben Burgess Ltd and Lauren Savage, finalist in the AEA Technician for 2021 Awards and AGCO apprentice with Chandlers Farm Equipment, Bristol branch.The conversation was wide and varied from quotas on tractors and machinery in 2022, automated farming, apprenticeships, selling the industry to outsiders - and Jeremy Clarkson

Everybody is talking about energy. The cost, availability, sources – all against the background of the upcoming UN COP26 Climate Change conference in Glasgow.This episode features the views of celebrated US scientist Dr Lawrence Rocks who wrote The Energy Crisis in 1973 and who was closely involved in the establishment of the US Department of Energy under President Jimmy Carter. Dr Rocks talks about the impact of farming and food production on climate changes and says that a weather station on the moon would help provide valuable data to scientists and environmentalists.The interview is an edited version from the Mooch FM podcast series hosted by President Trump’s former Director of Communications, Anthony Scaramucci, who has kindly given me permission to use extracts.My other guests are Charlie Nicklin and Paul Hemingway, CEO and President of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAGRE) who preview the very timely 2021 IAgrE Conference on the theme of Future Fuels in Agriculture to be held online over Zoom on 3 November.Mooch FMIAgrE 2021 Conference: Future Fuels in Agriculture

Ahead of the 2021 Service Dealer Conference and Awards, Chris talks to two previous winners of Dealer of the Year Awards about what winning the accolade meant to the company, the staff - and most importantly the customers. Awards organiser Duncan Murray Clarke, Service Dealer publisher also explains the changed categories for 2021 intended to recognise outstanding performance and dealer excellence particularly during the COVID lockdowns and business restrictions.GGM Groundscare have won the Professional Turfcare Dealer title twice, in 2014 and again in 2019 whilst Strathbogie Forest and Garden won the Garden Machinery Dealer of the Year title in 2017.Chris Gibson (GGM) and Pete McArthur (Strathbogie) say that whilst the award meant a great deal to their staff - it was the customers who seemed to engage most in their win. Both put down the recipe for a winning dealer as good and clear communication with staff, with suppliers and with customers.Duncan Murray Clarke explained that, after missing a year, the 2021 Awards were a celebration for an industry that has performed with skill and ingenuity during a difficult period "I think the Awards this year will be very special" he saysService Dealer Awards

Founded 70 years ago when Cyril Johnston met a young enterprising engineer, Douglas Hayter, Cyril Johnston & Co Ltd has had a seamless relationship with Hayter mowers (now part of Toro) to the present day. The running of the family company then passed to Cyril's son, Dolway and David who have grown the business to encompass retail, hire, distribution and manufacturing.A year ago, Tom Black, who trained at accountants Price Waterhouse (now PCW) was appointed as Managing Director. As a family outsider, he tells Chris Biddle how he helped refocus the company on its core business of grass machinery after several years of diversification. He also tells how an outside consultancy was hired to help strengthen the company culture which was very successfully tested during the Covid trading restrictions.Tom also says he hopes the company will benefit from the recent decision to provide each adult resident in Northern Ireland with a £100 shopping voucher to spent in bricks and mortar businesses over the next couple of months

From a previous ownership by Electrolux, maker of Flymo mowers, Cheshire Turf Machinery has emerged as one of the UK's leading professional turf machinery dealers with an impressive client list that includes Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool.Managing Director Steve Halley describes the evolution of the business as it celebrates its 25th Anniversary in 2021.He talks about developing a strong ethos amongst his staff, of coping with the COVID crisis, and the prospect of manufacturer owned dealerships.He also tells of an early encounter with a bank manager that shaped the company's reliance on having a strong financial base - and also the importance of a man called Bob

The first in a trilogy of podcasts called Dealernomics talking to three turfcare dealers about the economics and evolution of their business over the ages. First up, Tim Lane who started his business, ATH Machinery, 2 years ago, and just months before lockdown.He will be followed by Steve Halley of Cheshire Turf Machinery (established 25 years) and Tom Black, md of Cyril Johnston, Belfast (70 years) After holding senior management roles in a multi-branch dealership group, Tim realised a personal ambition by starting his own turf machinery sales and service business in the heart of Hampshire focussing on the golf course and professional users.That was in August 2019, and he spent the winter equipping his workshop facilities and contacting potential customers ahead of the 2020 season.Within months, he had to rip up his business plan as the pandemic hit and the Prime Minister ordered a lockdown. He talks to Chris Biddle about the initial shock and impact of the pandemic on the fledgling business and of putting a Plan B into operation.Two years on he reflects on progress, talks about issues of finding franchises, adding to his staff, some initial ‘wins’ for the business alongside mistakes made. He says keeping overheads as low as possible is essential – and that every ambition he has for the business in the future has to be matched by the funding available.https://athmachinery.co.uk

“We have the technology to blow little minds”That is the view of Josh Payne, Education Manager for the National Farmers Union (NFU). A former primary school teacher, Josh tells Chris Biddle in the latest Inside Agri-Turf podcast that the best time to engage children’s interest in STEM subjects, demonstrated through the prism of farming, food and nutrition is during their very early school days. By the time they get to secondary school, many have developed pre-conceived ideas and opinions through a variety of external resources he says.Very few small children will end up in agriculture, he added but each one of them will be consumers.The application of science, technology, engineering and maths is best demonstrated by engaging children in practical projects which excite and engage, rather than in the classroom. The NFU have developed a range of resources for teachers which in its first full year reached over 250,000 primary school children.Josh is joined on the podcast by Emma Foyle, currently Deputy Head of a primary school in Bournemouth who has over 30 years teaching experience who fully welcomes the NFU’s teacher support programme. We do not want all learning to be in pre-planned boxes, she says, there has to be a link to real life and hopefully also an opportunity to meet role models who can bring their industry to life.Tractor in Schools has been a success in the past, but Josh says that like every other STEM subject, the tractor’s use and role on the farm has to be explained and put into context. https://education.nfuonline.com

To complement his social media activity on Facebook, Instagram and other platforms, Devon based power equipment dealer, James Hayes, has established a dedicated You Tube channel during the past 12 months which has had over 400,000 views to date.To help achieve this, James has taken on filmmaker Will Evans, a university graduate and Royal Television Society Award winner.The portfolio of more than 75 films on the Hayes Machinery You Tube channel include product reviews, How To videos, restoration videos and comparison videos covering garden machinery, chainsaws, ATVs, trailers and power tools as well as ‘tongue in cheek’ productions.“It’s important we place our personality at the heart of the videos” says James but adds that he is still on a learning curve.He engages all the Hayes staff in the production and encourages their ideas for future content.In conversation with Chris Biddle for the Inside Agri-Turf podcast, James talks about the time it takes to script, film and edit each video, the cost of high-quality equipment, the initial minimal return apart from greater consumer awareness – and any problems he has with negative feedback. “I’ve got a thick skin” he says “and don’t mind criticism but do draw the line at the malicious or offensive comment” “It is time consuming” he says “but we’ve invested heavily in the channel and dug our hole, so we have to keep tunnelling”James has connected with many You Tubers throughout the world and says he gets a great deal of help and advice from the community Hayes You Tube channel

'Start to interest the young in a career in agri-turf from a very early age - and keep that fire lit".That is the key message from Amanda Dawson, HR Director and Andy Luikens, Talent Acquisition Manager of RDO Equipment Co, the ag and construction equipment dealership based at Fargo, North Dakota which operates 75 branches in 9 States across the US and has partnerships in several international markets.The business was started from a single branch in North Dakota by Ronald Offutt at the age of 26 in 1968 and has grown into one of the largest dealer groups in the US.Chris Biddle talks to Amanda and Andy about the initiatives they use to interest young people and how they closely monitor the progress of staff in the service and parts departments to promote and encourage long-term career prospects with the companyWebsite: RDO Equipment

Can two trade associations representing companies on different sides of the fence, really operate as one? Reflecting on the news that the manufacturers trade association AEA (Agricultural Engineers Association) have bought BAGMA (British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association) representing sales and service dealers, I talk to former BAGMA Director General Jonathan Swift who was also responsible for bringing BAGMA into the British Hardware Federation (now BIRA) when he was BHF DG.There has long been talk of a joint body, even back more than 40 years when Jonathan was running BAGMA at the time that his father Dean Swift was Director General of the AEA. Many of these early discussions took place over Sunday lunch! Jonathan reflects on some of the issues faced by BAGMA including improved warranty arrangements, dealer contracts, code of practice, all of which provoked lively discussion.He says "I have a concern that one association should own the other when it would be better that it becomes something of an industry G7 with absolute parity between both parties"Episode is 35 minutesAgricultural Engineers AssociationBritish Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association

Following the recent announcement that the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) representing UK manufacturers and suppliers has acquired the UK dealers trade association BAGMA (British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association), Chris Biddle talks to Ruth Bailey, the AEA CEO and Keith Christian, Director of BAGMA about the rationale behind the move.Amongst the questions being addressed are:Will there be a conflict of interest with the AEA now owning the dealer association?How has the deal been received by members?Will the benefits negotiated for BAGMA members now be available to AEA members?Did the previous owner BIRA (British Independent Retailers Association) feel that BAGMA was no longer was a 'good fit' long term?Was there any consideration given to a new name to reflect the industry TODAY? Will AEA and BAGMA be independent entities although sharing the same offices and same secretariat?What happens when I ring the BAGMA number now? . . . and much moreAEA websiteBAGMA websiteLISTEN to the original Collective Voice episode from July 2020

Inside Agri-Turf podcast creator and host, Chris Biddle, reflects on starting the podcast 12 months ago, finding an audience, and getting to grips with audio editing after 30 years of manipulating words rather than sound waves.He reveals the outline stats of downloads and unique listeners over the past year, the international reach of the podcast - and which episodes attracted the most downloads. There is also a canny insight into the beginnings of a 'coupling' that perhaps had its roots in the very first episode There is also a reminder of some the external noises that have cropped up at inopportune moments!Podcast is 20 minutesWebsite

To mark International Women in Engineering Day 2021, Inside Agri-Turf features three women who are currently fully engaged in technical and service roles with agricultural engineering companies.There is an extract from a previous episode talking to Laura Bassnett, the winner of the Technician for 2021 Award, I discover how the runner up in those Award, Lauren Savage, prefers tractors to her previous job working with cars whilst Poppy Burrough, an engineering apprentice with JCB tells how prospective employers described their workshop as 'no place for a girl'.Finally, for an industry perspective on whether there is real transformation underway for an industry commonly regarded as male dominated, I talk to Charlie Nicklin, the CEO of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE)Women in Engineering SocietyLE-TEC (Landbased Engineering Training and Education Committee)

That is just one of the principles of being a specialist dealer outlined by Howell and Emyr Jenkins of Jenkins Garden Machinery in South Wales in this episode.In recent years, the Jenkins family have suffered from a series of personal set- backs with Howell just back in the business after leukemia, and the passing of wife and business founder Glynis shortly after the death their other son Gareth, both in the last two years.Emyr has since driven the business forward making the fulsome use of social media and this year a successful TV commercial hosted by legendary international rugby referee, Nigel Owens.The pair complement one another, and both adopt a very clear set of business terms for customers.The episode is full of Jenkin-isms, such “The customer is always right – NOT” and “Compared with newpaper adverts, on Facebook we can express ourselves better – and be more playful!”Or their motto for customers “It doesn’t matter where you buy your machine until . . .* (* it breaks down, it needs parts, you need advice, you’ve got a problem etc etc)And perhaps the ultimate in Google Reviews received by the company “It is a pleasure to have a machine break down so Jenkins can fix it”      

Recently, the Landbased Education and Training Committee (LE-TEC) selected the winners of its Technicians for 2021.Overall winner was Laura Bassnett who works as a Technician at Case dealership, Ernest Doe, Fyfield branch.I caught up with her during a hiking holiday in Wales, and just after she had climbed the Tryfan peak in Snowdonia. We chatted about her love of the outdoors and how she had been attracted to a job in the agricultural machinery industry after spending time in Australia and New Zealand.After enrolling on a two-year agricultural machinery course at Reaseheath College, she was taken on by Ernest Doe and talks about many of the enjoyable aspects of her job - as well as some areas that she still finds challenging.Laura says that her job is possibly not for everyone, but for anyone who loves the outdoors, wants variety and is always up for a challenge, then landbased engineering is an ideal career

During the early hours of 7 April 2021, a devastating fire swept through the premises of specialist ATV dealer, MKM Agriculture in Bedfordshire.Owner Anthony Deacon, along with the fire crew, could only stand and watch as huge flames wiped out his workshop along with over 80 machines (both his stock and customer repairs), all the workshop equipment and tools.Fortunately, the offices were unaffected and his computer records provided a full inventory of all the machines that has been lost.Anthony talks me through the events of that day, the aftermath and the difficult questions he had to face from the insurance company before they accepted his claim in full three weeks after the fire. He urges businesses to fully study, 'the last six pages' of their policy containing the exclusions and other factors that might disbar a claim - rather than the opening pages which summarise the extent of the cover.It's a salutary tale for any business owner considering a scenario of 'What If'

Recorded during Mental Health Awareness week, I talk to Tom Johnston who experienced depression and a series of mental health issues as he took his first steps into agricultural engineering, a career that he had always dreamed off.For a 'tractor-mad' boy, he never wanted to do anything else, but several twists and turns resulted in set-backs, until he decided to return to college after a couple of experiences with dealers were blighted by his mental state.A chance opportunity, resulted in a job on a golf course. He immediately connected with the turfcare industry and has recently started his own repair business.He says that mental doubts and uncertainties still lie under the surface, but urges those with similar symptoms not to hide them, but to speak out. Tell everyone that's "Its OK not to be OK" he says WEBSITE: Inside Agri-Turf WEBSITE: LE-TEC (Landbased Engineering and Training Education Committee)CONTACT: [email protected]

After a short break, Chris Biddle summarises the content of future episodes of Inside Agri-Turf which re-launches with Season Two on 24 May 2021.Topics covered will include mental health, coping with a business-threatening event, diversity, the importance of family businesses with their 'name above the door', the future role for independent dealers in the future.As ever, Chris will also reflect on the changing news agenda as it affects the industry as a whole and dealers in particular. Also see the new website www.inside-agriturf.comContact Chris at [email protected]