Farmers Guide Magazine November 2025

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for farmers

Farmers Guide

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OUT & ABOUT

With the Farmers Guide team

Farmers Guide was the media sponsor for this year's NORMAC cultivations event in September. The team are pictured on the FG stand, which was visited by lots of our readers throughout the day. Pictured (l-r) are: Accounts assistant, Ellie Wilkins; machinery reporter, Daniel Hodge; managing director, Julie Goulding; director, Greg Goulding; sales executive, Samantha Wilson; and sales director, Zohra Mitchell. You'll nd plenty of videos from the day on our social media channels.

contributor

machinery in Germany – read more on page 37.

Sarah Kidby and sales executive William Taylor attended UK Dairy Day in Telford, where they discovered the latest innovations in the industry. Turn to page 53 to read Sarah's comprehensive summary of the day.

Deputy editor Sarah Kidby visited the British Sugar factory in Bury St Edmunds, where some of the rst sugar beet deliveries were being made. You'll nd her interview with head of central agriculture, Nick Morris, at www.farmersguide.co.uk

John Deere unveiled its all-new forage harvesters and next generation round balers at a recent press event in the Netherlands. Daniel Hodge is pictured with John Deere tactical manager, Chris Wiltshire –read his full report on page 40.

Following a change in farming policy, V & R Waspe & Sons, based at Boyton Hall, Stowmarket, held a dispersal sale organised by auctioneers Clarke & Simpson on 1st October. Featuring a eet of working classic tractors, machinery and implements, the sale was well attended.

You'll nd video from the day on FG's social media channels, and the post-sale report will be published in the next issue. Pictured (l-r): Michael Nugent; Louise Waspe; James Durrant; Stuart Waspe; and David Williams.

Case IH held an exclusive press event in St. Valentin, Austria in early October, where the company shared details of the next generation of red high-horsepower tractors. Look out for the December issue of Farmers Guide, where you'll nd Daniel Hodge's write-up. Daniel is pictured with Case IH marketing manager for UK and ROI, Neil Macer (left) and Case IH business manager for UK and ROI, Simon Pratt.

And finally...

A farmer was driving down the road with a truck full of chickens when he got pulled over by a police o cer. The o cer says: “Sir, do you realise you’ve got chickens all over the back of that truck? Some of them aren’t even in cages!”

The farmer nods and says: “Yup, they like the fresh air.” The o cer frowns. “Well, that’s not safe. I’m going to need you to take them to the zoo.” The farmer agrees and drives o .

The next day, the same o cer spots the same farmer on the same road – still with a truck full of chickens. But this time, the chickens are all wearing sunglasses.

The o cer pulls him over again and shouts: “I thought I told you to take those chickens to the zoo!”

The farmer grins and replies: “I did! They loved it. Today we’re going to the beach.”

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With many news headlines reporting record or larger crops globally it does make you wonder if global warming is a positive or negative, writes Cecilia Pryce, Open eld’s head of research, compliance and shipping. The published numbers are what many in the global commodity market use and the data is certainly absorbed into many computers at point of publication, which allows the algorithms to tell the computer traders what they should do next.

Much has changed in the last 35 years and with data now constantly available to everyone, it’s tough to lter the headlines and work out what is really a ecting markets.

When does reliance on imports become too much?

0.55 million tonnes annually. We are a net importer of wheat whether we like it or not, but as crop sizes become more variable due to weather challenges and area being removed from productive arable crops, at what point does reliance on imports become too much?

In the UK the weather has been far from normal for many years and crop numbers have shown that, but by early October the world wheat crop was stated to be 816.2 million tonnes, with corn at 1,286 million tonnes and barley at 147 million tonnes. In conclusion the UK wheat crop equates to around 1.47% of the world’s wheat crop and UK barley to around 4.3% of the world’s barley crop. Those statistics are a quick reminder as to where we sit in the world and how little in uence our crop sizes can have globally.

The world will ship in excess of 215 million tonnes of wheat this year with the UK imports accounting for 1% of that – it’s not a major trade bargaining tool and our reliance is largely on the EU and Canada but if that reliance on imports, split approximately 50/50 milling versus feed, was to continue to increase and weather issues remain as they have been then there could be more volatility on UK prices, encouraging domestic consumers to just ll orders rather than play the markets or even contract grow tonnes.

This month, Openfield experts explore changing weather, imports and making fertiliser applications in time for spring applications. Price indicator (December 2025) £160–£170 .............

What they don’t show is how important UK cereals are to the UK population and how the UK farmers value the much beloved UK countryside. If you look back over the last ve years, the UK wheat crop has been an average size of around 12.9 million tonnes and we have imported around 2.2 million tonnes of wheat and exported around

Similarly, the UK relies on around 3 million tonnes of maize imports annually. With a global crop around 1,286 million tonnes, 57 million tonnes bigger than last year, we will consume 0.23% of it, but for every consumer who can and does use it, corn is a cheap cereal which keeps the price cap on wheat and barley. With the US exporting around 37% of the world’s 200 million tonnes that is anticipated to be shipped in 2025/26, it’s important that everyone understands any geopolitical issues that may arise, changes in anticipated crop sizes, alongside any new approvals of GMO varieties. The UK is a small cog in a big global cereal trading environment and to understand the prices in the UK relies on understanding as much of that environment as possible because it’s unlikely that we can impact any aspect of it.

Fertiliser matters

Following on from the AIC industry alert in early

October, there is a large emphasis on ensuring fertiliser purchases are made in good time before spring applications, explains Open eld fertiliser manager Lucy Hassall. A repeat of spring ‘25 where purchasing was delayed and suppliers and hauliers could not keep up with demand should be avoided.

Suppliers will be reluctant to bring in new vessels of product during periods of low demand and when markets do pick up there can be long timeframes from point of ordering to product arriving, being bagged ready for delivery. Ordering in autumn allows suppliers to plan shipping and timely deliveries, whereas delayed purchasing will also likely lead to increased pricing as supply and demand potentially becomes an issue.

There are other factors we should be aware of that could a ect product availability as Europe prepares for the introduction of CBAM in January 2026, together with new EU tari s on Russian fertiliser could mean that European producers reduce exports to ensure domestic market demands are met. FG to bring in new vessels of

*Prices quoted are from Open eld and were predicted as at 6th October 2025. They will be subject to regional variations.

A LONG WAY TOGETHER

AGRIMAX V-FLECTO

No matter how challenging your needs, AGRIMAX V-FLECTO is your best ally when it comes to soil tillage and haulage applications. The tyre features excellent traction along with enhanced driving comfort both in the felds and on the road. With the exclusive VF technology, AGRIMAX V-FLECTO can carry very heavy loads with a lower infating pressure even at high speeds providing reduced soil compaction, best self-cleaning properties as well as fuel economy.

AGRIMAX V-FLECTO is BKT’s response in terms of both technology and performance for high-power tractors.

Interfit welcomes BA Bush as a new Interfit Point Inter t, which o ers tyre and wheel services for the materials handling, agricultural and construction sectors, has announced a new Inter t Point partnership with BA Bush & Son Limited.

This further strengthens the company’s growing UK network and reinforces its commitment to delivering industry-leading tyre services nationwide.

“Partnering with BA Bush

allows us to strengthen our footprint in the East while continuing to deliver the high standards our customers expect,” said Chris Heale, sales director at Inter t. “Together, we’re building a more responsive, more capable service network that helps businesses reduce downtime and maximise performance.”

The new Inter t Point dealer will o er a comprehensive suite of tyre

pressing and maintenance services, backed by the combined knowledge and resources of both organisations.

“We are delighted to become an Inter t Point dealer in the east of England,” said Tom Bush, director at BA Bush. “This partnership allows us to combine our trusted technical expertise with Inter t’s innovative service solutions.”

Claas innovations receive prestigious awards

With a gold Agritechnica Innovation Award and four silver medals, Claas once again emphasises its strength in innovation. Its groundbreaking new products in the elds of balers, maize harvesters, and tractors, along with a collaboration in mechanical chopping, further enhance performance and e ciency while reducing operator workload.

The gold medal was received for the next performance class of square balers, featuring a completely new,

revolutionary overall concept that will position Claas’ baling programme above the Quadrant range in the future. The machine, with a bale size of 120 x 90cm, combines high throughput with consistently high bale densities. In practice, this new concept achieves up to 70tph throughput when baling straw and maintains constant bale densities of 210kg/m³, reaching up to 235kg/m³ at peak performance.

Among other features, these functions are enabled by the main gearbox integrated into the frame

with a straight-line power ow. The innovative drive operates with two longitudinal ywheels, each at 1,650rpm, which store considerable energy to ensure uniform compaction. Power transfer is handled solely through e cient, low-loss, and wear-resistant enclosed gearboxes, in addition to two power belts. Sensors in the rotor or rake gear continuously monitor gear loads and automatically adjust assistance systems, such as AI-assisted press density control and bale length regulation.

UK agricultural tractor registrations – September 2025

According to the Agricultural Engineers Association, for the rst time since December 2023, the number of agricultural tractors registered in September 2025 was higher than a year earlier. The monthly total of 932 machines was 4% more than in September 2024.

However, taking a

longer-term perspective, the gure is still 16% below the average for the time of year over the previous ve years, although that is the smallest shortfall so far this year. Therefore, it is too early to conclude that the market has taken a decisive turn for the better, especially as the number of tractors registered so far this year is

only around three-quarters of the average for the same period and is 14% lower than in January to September 2024.

Month: 932 units +3.7% change (compared with September 2024)

Year to date: 7,083 units -13.9% change (compared with January–September 2024).

New dealer for Merlo

Merlo UK has announced the appointment of Cotswold Farm Machinery Ltd (CFM), e ective immediately, as an authorised Merlo agricultural dealer. From its centrally located base at Fosse Cross, near Cirencester, CFM will cover a territory for Merlo from Mid Gloucestershire South and East Gloucestershire across to Burford.

Established in 2006 by Simon and Janet Carrington, CFM has grown to become a respected specialist in the supply and servicing of agricultural and horticultural machinery.

Owen Buttle, national sales manager at Merlo UK, commented: “We are very pleased to welcome Cotswold Farm Machinery to the Merlo dealer network. Their strong customer focus, technical expertise, and proven reputation make them an ideal partner. This appointment will ensure customers in the Cotswolds and surrounding counties bene t from access to Merlo’s industry-leading telehandlers, supported by rst-class local service.”

Simon Carrington, managing director at Cotswold Farm Machinery Ltd, added: “At CFM, we believe that delivering outstanding service is fundamental to our customers’ success. The Merlo telehandler range allows us to provide a key product that complements our existing portfolio and strengthens the solutions we can o er.”

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Please ring Chris Day on 07769 705004 or email chris.day@abfltd.co.uk or apply on line at www.abfltd.co.uk 105872

3+33

2+22

New entrants to forage maize Descriptive List

Twelve new varieties have been added to the BSPB 2026 Forage Maize Descriptive List (DL). Of the new varieties added to the Favourable sites DL, NIAB forage crop specialist Ellie Roberts highlighted KWS Zimo as the highest yielding new variety at 19.6t DM/ha, with a metabolisable energy (ME) yield of 230kMJ/ha and starch yield of 6.90t/ha. Bayer’s SU Addition is the next highest yielder at 19.5t DM/ha, with an ME yield of 221kMJ/ha and starch yield of 6.02t/ha. KWS Reo has the highest starch yield on the

list at 7.08t/ha.

Of the Less Favourable sites DL varieties, Limagrain’s LG31152 is the highest yielding new variety at 18.5t DM/ha at 40.0% DM, with KWS Reo giving the highest ME yield of the new varieties on the list at 222 kMJ/ha and highest starch yield on the less favourable rst choice list at 7.29t/ha at 37.0% dry matter. “All the new varieties score well for both early vigour and standing power,” advised Mrs Roberts.

NIAB coordinates the forage maize variety trials programme on behalf of BSPB. Halfway through yet

another challenging growing season for UK maize growers, Mrs Roberts remains positive that the majority of trials sites have had enough moisture in time to grow away.

The BSPB 2026 Forage Maize DL is available to download from the BSPB and NIAB websites.

UK feed market outlook – winter 2025/6

The feed industry is urging livestock producers to carefully consider their feed requirements through to late spring 2026 and to discuss these with their feed suppliers at the earliest opportunity.

A combination of geopolitical events, a challenging UK harvest, and an exceptionally dry summer in some regions has placed pressure on feed supply. Whilst the feed industry and livestock farmers are currently

managing to balance nutrient requirements and supply, it is unusual to have to manage such pressures so early in the season. The exceptionally dry summer has left many dairy, beef, and sheep farmers short of both grass for grazing and forage for winter feeding, although the situation varies considerably by region.

The feed industry is encouraging livestock farmers to prepare thorough and accurate feed requirements,

with the help of their registered feed advisers, through to the end of Q2 2026. It would also be prudent to factor in uncertainty over weather conditions in Q2 2026, where dairy, beef, and sheep producers may have to manage di cult and unexpected conditions. Forage stocks will be very tight in some areas, making planning nutritional requirements at the tail end of winter even more important.

Witham Group launches premium AdBlue

Manufacturer and supplier

Witham Group has announced the addition of Witham AdBlue to its product range.

Witham AdBlue is a premium Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) engineered to help diesel vehicles run cleaner, greener, and more e ciently. Formulated with 32.5% ultra-

pure urea and de-ionised water, it is manufactured to meet the rigorous ISO 22241 and VDA approval standards.

Designed for diesel vehicles equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, Witham AdBlue signi cantly reduces harmful nitrogen oxide

(NOx) emissions. This helps customers stay compliant with tough Euro 6 regulations while protecting the environment.

It is suitable for every diesel SCR vehicle, from cars, vans, trucks, and buses to heavy-duty and agricultural machinery.

Sale of “top drawer” machinery

A sale of farm machinery from Mount Pleasant Farm, West Boldon, Tyne & Wear, will take place by timed online auction starting on 31st October and ending on 4th November 2025.

The retirement of Mr David Colley, a third-generation farmer, has initiated the sale of his range of arable machinery through Stephensons Rural and includes a combine, tractors and loaders along with a wide selection of high-quality equipment that is low houred and has been exceptionally well maintained and looked after.

Richard Tasker, partner at Stephensons Rural, said: “In the many years I have been conducting machinery sales, I have seldom seen such a meticulously maintained, well-presented collection with some machines appearing almost brand new. There isn’t a scratch or dent to be seen.

“The machinery in this auction is truly 'top drawer'and showcases a full range of high-spec arable equipment.”

Viewing will be available onsite at Mount Pleasant Farm, West Boldon, Tyne & Wear, NE36 OBQ from Thursday 30th October to Saturday 1st November from 9am–2pm. Details of the sale, including the catalogue and photographs, can be found on the York Auction Centre website: www.ylc.co.uk

UK fertiliser producer wins award

Oswestry-based Lohas Fertiliser won the Sustainability Impact Award at the recent Four Oaks Trade Show. The accolade recognises the company’s carbon-negative organic fertiliser range, with the judges saying it is an “innovative technology that eliminates the emission of harmful emissions in the production and use of this organic fertiliser.”

Based at West Farm in Shropshire, the company was founded by Carlos Kao and Lian Lin. Since launching in 2021 with a £1M investment, Lohas has pioneered an enzyme-based fermentation process that converts organic waste, such as poultry manure, into a pathogen-free fertiliser within three hours.

Carlos said: “Winning the Sustainability Impact Award is a huge honour for our team and reinforces our commitment to transforming organic waste into valuable resources. This recognition shows our technology is helping farmers and growers and also addressing urgent environmental challenges such as nutrient runo , ammonia emissions and greenhouse gas reduction.”

Financial Problem Cases Including adverse credit. We can lend against property Farms, Farm Buildings, Farm Equipment & Machinery Equestrian Buildings, Shops, Bare Land and Buy-to-Lets.

Optimising nutrition for late-drilled cereals

Challenging weather conditions have pushed many cereal drilling operations well beyond optimal windows. Yara’s food chain business manager Mark Tucker explains how farmers can best manage the needs of crops that will struggle from the outset.

“While late drilling presents signi cant challenges, understanding the nutritional hurdles ahead and adapting strategies accordingly can mean the di erence between salvaging a reasonable harvest and watching yields collapse,” said Mark Tucker.

The fundamental problem with late-drilled cereals stems from the inevitable decline in soil temperatures. As October progresses into November, soil temperatures drop below the thresholds needed for e cient nutrient cycling, setting o a chain of developmental problems that limit crop performance.

Chemical reactions that drive nutrient availability slow dramatically as temperatures fall, particularly a ecting phosphate release from

soil reserves. This timing coincides with the period when young cereal plants exhaust their seed reserves and begin depending on soil nutrients for continued growth. The result is a nutrient availability gap that can stunt early development and compromise the entire season’s potential.

Mr Tucker explained the multiple challenges that stem from late drilling. “The single biggest challenge comes from the fact that as autumn progresses, soil temperatures are dropping and there’s nothing you can do about that. The consequence of that is nutrient availability in the soil decreases because it’s chemically driven. As the crop starts to grow and exhaust some of that available nutrient, the replenishment through

natural soil processes becomes very slow.”

This nutritional stress manifests in reduced tillering, smaller root systems, and lower biomass accumulation during the critical rst 60 days of crop development. Late-drilled crops typically enter winter with compromised root architecture, making them more vulnerable to both drought and waterlogging stress in the following spring.

Heavier soils present particular challenges, cooling faster once saturated and becoming di cult to access for remedial applications. That means the window for foliar nutrition between drilling and Christmas becomes increasingly narrow, yet potentially crucial for maintaining crop momentum during establishment.

Strategic fertiliser management

Farmers must fundamentally shift their approach to fertiliser management for late-drilled situations. Traditional application timings and rates become inadequate when crops face shortened growing periods and disrupted nutrient availability.

Early nitrogen applications become critical, but the choice between liquid and solid forms requires careful

consideration of seasonal conditions. Dry spring weather favours liquid applications for rapid uptake, while urea-based products can struggle in cold, dry conditions where conversion to plant-available forms slows signi cantly.

“Late drilled cereals should be the target crops for getting out very early with that rst application of nitrogen,” Mr Tucker noted. “Rather than a typical rst application which might be 40–50kg of nitrogen per hectare, for those late drilled crops we should be thinking about 70–80kg of nitrogen per hectare as that rst dressing to really get the crop going quickly.” (see Graph 1) This front-loaded approach mirrors historical second wheat management, where higher early nitrogen rates compensate for reduced tillering capacity and shorter development windows. The strategy requires biasing total nitrogen allocation toward early applications while maintaining exibility for later adjustments based on crop response.

Phosphate management becomes equally critical, particularly on soils with historic de ciencies. Cold soil conditions that inhibit natural phosphate release can be partially o set by fresh fertiliser applications that remain available in soil solution

24m booms with DC1 height control

Track Leader 2 software – 8 x 3m section switching

longer than under warm conditions.

Early foliar phosphate applications, either in autumn if conditions permit or as T0 treatments in spring, can provide the boost needed for root development and early vigour.

Biological solutions and stress management

Late-drilled crops face inherently higher stress levels throughout their development, making them prime candidates for biological interventions. While the evidence base for biostimulants remains variable, the challenging conditions these crops encounter justify their inclusion in nutrition programmes.

The key is maintaining growth momentum when crops encounter stress. Plants naturally respond to stress by slowing or stopping growth to redirect resources toward survival mechanisms. For late-drilled crops constrained by late establishment, any growth interruption can prove catastrophic. Biostimulants are compatible with both liquid and solid fertiliser programmes, and they provide potential insurance against stress-induced stalls in growth.

Current growing conditions may actually favour late-drilled establishments from a nutritional standpoint. Warm summer conditions and drought stress have likely created higher residual nitrogen pools due to reduced uptake by previous crops. This enhanced nitrogen availability, combined with improved soil structure from drought-induced cracking, could provide better starting conditions than usual for late sowings.

Economic targeting and monitoring

Economic pressures demand careful planning around input allocation for late-drilled crops. The greatest return on nitrogen investment comes from the rst 100kg per hectare, delivering 5–6:1 returns compared to 2.5:1 or less for the second and third applications.

“The nitrogen investment is going to be probably the single most important one,” Mr Tucker emphasised. “The biggest return comes from that rst 160kg of nitrogen, and particularly the rst 80kg. So that is where you wouldn’t skimp.”

He suggested concentrating resources on early, high-impact applications while maintaining exibility to adjust nal dressings based on seasonal conditions and commodity prices.

Monitoring strategies must also be adapted to late drilling realities. Limited leaf material restricts tissue testing opportunities, making historic soil and grain analysis data more

valuable for risk assessment and eld prioritisation. Farmers should develop risk-scoring systems for elds, considering drilling date, soil type, and historic nutrient status to guide resource allocation.

The AHDB wheat growth guide provides essential targets for shoot and ear numbers, allowing realistic assessment of whether crops can achieve pro table yields. Understanding these benchmarks enables informed decisions about continued investment versus cutting losses.

When it comes to crop-speci c considerations, barley crops require particular attention due to their in exible yield structure. Unlike

wheat’s ability to compensate for low ear numbers through increased grain numbers per ear, barley o ers no such elasticity. Getting plant populations and early nutrition right becomes critical for barley crops drilled late.

“Late drilling forces farmers into di cult decisions with very tight timeframes,” Mr Tucker concludes. “Success means throwing out the rulebook and focusing everything on intensive early nutrition, smart economic choices, and being honest about what yields are realistic. The challenges are signi cant, but farmers who understand what they’re up against and adjust their approach accordingly can still make these crops pay their way.”

The UK’s Perfect Choice for Alternative Spring Wheat

Turn up the volume.

The highest yielding spring wheat on the AHDB Recommended List with a huge specifc weight and wide drilling window for fexibility during wetter Autumns. Everlong ofers the full package for farmers looking to drill in the alternative wheat slot after maize, sugar beet and potatoes. So crank it up a notch and choose Everlong!

Everlong outperforms in alternative wheat trials

As wetter winters become more common, growers are seeking exible cropping options.

Alternative wheat varieties that can be drilled anytime from October through to April are gaining popularity, especially following maize, potatoes, root crops, and vegetables.

One variety getting attention is Everlong from Cope – a Group 4 feed wheat that combines the

highest treated yield and second highest speci c weight of any spring wheat on the AHDB Recommended List, with strong disease resistance. With the ability to be drilled in late autumn or as a true spring wheat, it provides growers with a reliable, high-performing option for the feed market.

The adaptability of Everlong has been demonstrated in Agrii’s 2024/25 ‘true spring’ and ‘alternative wheat’

trials drilled on 29th November 2024. Despite the late slot, Everlong topped both trials with:

• The highest treated yields in the alternative wheat trials at 112% of control

• A close second in untreated in the alternative wheat trials at 105% of control

• The highest speci c weight in both treated and untreated alternative wheat trials

• The highest score for yellow rust resistance.

“These results clearly show Everlong’s exibility and performance,” says Gemma Clarke, managing director at Cope. “Even in a late-drilled slot, it delivered top yields, excellent grain quality, and strong agronomics

– proving it’s a reliable option for growers looking for adaptable spring wheat.”

Alongside yield and grain quality, Gemma Clarke says Everlong has shown robust disease resistance.

In 2024 Agrii Throws untreated spring wheat trials site, Everlong demonstrated exceptional disease resistance, achieving a yellow rust score of 1 and a brown rust score of 2, indicating very low levels of

disease compared to other varieties, where lower scores re ect better performance.

And it has stood up to this year’s unprecedented yellow rust resistance on farm. “We grew Everlong in 2025 and have been very impressed by its disease resistance as it stayed clean the whole season with very little inputs,” commented North Lincolnshire farmer, David Armstrong.

For Gemma Clarke, this versatility is key: “Everlong is clean, easy to manage, and produces the boldest grain of any spring wheat. With its wide drilling window and strong results in both trial and farm conditions, it o ers growers real exibility and con dence in uncertain seasons.”

As weather extremes make drilling decisions more complex, Cope says varieties like Everlong are providing growers with valuable insurance: consistent performance, quality grain, and the exibility to adapt to whatever the season delivers.

If you’re interested in growing Everlong, contact your local seed merchant for seed. FG

Potential to reduce fungicide rates

Trials to establish performance impacts of co-applying the highly concentrated natural bio-stimulant and nutrient source, AminoA FLO, with reduced rates of the latest generation fungicides on winter wheat (Beowulf), have returned promising results. The ndings suggest that reducing fungicide rates in combination with AminoA FLO does not compromise performance, while performance was enhanced compared to when low rates of fungicide was applied alone.

Nick Anderson, technical director at Velcourt comments: “We trialled the addition of AminoA FLO with di erent levels of fungicide. Despite the dry conditions, all fungicide treatments increased yield. In this trial, lower rates of fungicide

applied with AminoA FLO resulted in statistically similar yields to higher rates of fungicide, which is in line with previous work looking at the bio-stimulant from AminoA.”

Mr Anderson added that green leaf area was signi cantly higher in a number of treatments where AminoA FLO was included. “It is possible that in 2025, factors other than sunlight interception, such as moisture and grain number, were limiting to yield instead,” he continues.“Velcourt has looked at AminoA products in trials over several seasons, and on a number of occasions the addition of AminoA FLO has resulted in statistically signi cant increases in green leaf area and yield, particularly at lower levels of fungicide input,” he adds. FG

Nichino commercial technical manager, Ollie Johnson, o ers his advice on how to give late-drilled winter cereals the best possible start.

Later drilling of winter cereals is now common where the weather permits. It can be a valuable strategy for managing black-grass and other grassweeds, as well as easing autumn workloads. However, delayed drilling is not without its challenges. Crops drilled into colder, wetter soils face a shorter growing season, reduced tillering capacity, and slower establishment. Agronomists and farmers must therefore focus on giving late-drilled cereals the best possible start if yield potential is to be maintained.

“Nichino’s Newton seed treatment stands out as a key innovation. Used alongside modern agronomy practices and complementary products such as Bridgeway and BackRow Max, it o ers a reliable way to strengthen establishment, drive nutrient use e ciency, and improve crop resilience under the pressure of late sowing,” says Ollie.

Establishment is everything

safe from the herbicide itself, preventing bleaching, stunning and crop thinning, which is especially important in the wetter late autumn.”

Building rooting and resilience

Tools for success: Managing late-drilled cereals

nutrients. By enhancing root development and stimulating metabolic activity, it allows plants to make far better use of the fertiliser that is applied. In a year when input costs are high and nutrient e ciency is under scrutiny, this represents a major advantage.

active ingredient remains where it is needed,

When drilling is delayed, seedbeds are often cloddy and di cult to prepare, while cold soils make seedto-soil contact and germination less reliable. At the same time, weeds remain a signi cant threat, so robust pre-emergence herbicide programmes are essential. In such conditions, spray adjuvants like BackRow Max play an important role. “By improving coverage and retention of residual herbicides on challenging seedbeds and ensuring more of the active ingredient remains where it is needed, BackRow Max helps herbicides deliver consistent weed control,” Ollie explains. This ensures late-drilled crops begin life in a cleaner environment with less competition, a critical factor when tillering capacity is already limited. Ollie added: “Since the herbicide is held above the crops rooting zone, not only does it improve the activity against weeds such as blackgrass, it also keeps the crop

Once seedlings emerge, the priority is to build rooting strength and biomass quickly before winter sets in. Crops drilled from November onwards often struggle to put down deep roots and can be left with insu cient tillers going into the spring. Biostimulants such as Bridgeway provide valuable support here. “Rich in amino acids and peptides, Bridgeway encourages deeper rooting, improves nutrient uptake, and stimulates tiller formation,” points out Ollie. “It also helps crops recover more quickly from stress factors such as waterlogging, slugs and frost, which are common threats to late-drilled cereals. By supporting plant health and resilience, Bridgeway helps ensure that even a smaller crop can make the most of the shortened growing window.”

Making nutrients work harder

The standout product for late-drilled cereals, however, is Nichino’s seed treatment Newton, Ollie explains. “Used alongside conventional seed treatments, Newton’s biostimulant activity gives it a unique role in modern cereal agronomy. Its bene ts are particularly signi cant in late-drilled crops, where nutrient uptake and utilisation are often compromised. “In trials it’s been shown to speed up emergence by 4–5 days. This means that you’re still getting the bene ts as if you’d drilled two weeks earlier, without the compromises.”

The bene ts extend beyond nutrition. Newton has also been shown to improve crop resilience to stress, helping plants to withstand adverse conditions during establishment and early spring growth. In late-drilled cereals, where every week of growth counts, this can be the di erence between a weak crop struggling to catch up and a strong crop able to realise its potential.

A combined approach

According to Ollie, the greatest value comes when Newton is used as part of an integrated late-drilling strategy. A robust pre-emergence programme supported by BackRow Max provides weed-free conditions. Early applications of Bridgeway help roots and tillers develop ahead of winter. Then, as the crop moves into spring, Newton ensures that nutrients are used with maximum e ciency while also building further resilience. If stress events occur during the spring, a follow-up application of Bridgeway can add further support to keep the crop on track.

grass, it also keeps the crop

Nichino commercial technical manager,

4–5 days. This means that you’re drilled two weeks earlier, without phosphorus is reduced, absorb

In cooler, wetter soils, the availability of nitrogen and phosphorus is reduced, and smaller root systems make uptake ine cient. Newton directly improves the crop’s ability to absorb and utilise these

This combination tackles the three biggest risks of late drilling: competition from grassweeds, poor rooting and tillering, and ine cient nutrient uptake. With each risk addressed, crops are far better placed to perform strongly through to harvest.

Practical considerations

Seed rate decisions remain an important part of late-drilled cereal management, with higher rates often needed to compensate for the reduced ability to tiller. However, the real gains come from supporting those plants with the right tools. Stronger herbicide performance ensures cleaner conditions, deeper rooting supports better nutrient capture, and enhanced nutrient e ciency maximises the value of fertiliser inputs. By building these elements into their programmes, agronomists can help farmers overcome the constraints of drilling later in the season. FG

Arable farmers face crucial choices this autumn about how much – or indeed whether – to cultivate soils.

According to Dick Neale, technical manager at crop production specialists Hutchinsons, the dry conditions of 2025 mean that overworking soils could lead to signi cant structural damage and wasted costs.

Speaking at a recent Hutchinsons Cultivations Demonstration Day in Yorkshire, held in partnership with Sumo and Wilfred Scruton Ltd, and kindly hosted by HS Thirsk & Son of Little Grange Farm, Pocklington, Yorkshire, Mr Neale urged growers to put soil conditions at the forefront of decision-making.

Decisions around cultivations this autumn need to be more strategic than routine, he suggested. “Let soil condition, not the calendar, dictate operations. Careful assessment this autumn could save unnecessary costs while safeguarding the longterm health of soils.

“The rst consideration is whether to work the soil at all,” Mr Neale said. “Be patient. Consider leaving soil re-structuring to nature rather than reaching for a big bit of metal.”

Minimal intervention, he suggested, is often best. Where cultivations are required, the seedbed need not be more than a couple of inches deep. “Ask yourself

Assess soils ahead of cultivations this autumn

whether working deeper than that will really have an impact – and weigh up the costs,” he said.

For example, a full-depth cultivation may cost around £90/ ha, yet a targeted low disturbance loosening pass at £30/ha could achieve a better result.

Tramlines and field tra c

Another key point was the management of tramlines. Mr Neale argued for retaining them across multiple seasons: “In many instances there is no point in removing them. They provide valuable access yearround, and with GPS and matchedwidth machinery it’s easy to re-use the same lines. Removing them risks over-working the entire eld, raising un-weathered soil, creating clods, and leaving zones prone to re-compaction.”

Healthy soils between tramlines may not have been tra cked for years, allowing root networks, ssures, and earthworms to build strong natural structure.

While an over-aggressive pass risks undoing years of natural soil development, an under-aggressive pass can be just as damaging. “Failing

to address compaction properly still costs as much as doing it right – but without the bene t,” he warned.

Farmers on lighter soils also need to tread carefully. “Over time, such soils may acidify in the upper pro le, creating the need for occasional deeper cultivation. This can help mix more alkaline subsoil into the top layer, reducing acidity in a way that may be more sustainable than repeated lime applications.”

Beyond mechanical options, cover crops o er another route to improved soil condition, he

Monitoring soil health

suggested. “Deep-rooting species such as brassicas, linseed, vetch, lucerne, chicory, and plantain can help break through compaction layers and redistribute nutrients vertically, however, identi ed compaction zones should be addressed with appropriate cultivation rather than rely on roots alone.

“Establishment need not be costly, with 10–12kg/ha of seed often su cient to protect soil, improve in ltration, and maintain biological activity over winter.” FG

Given the year’s dry conditions, Mr Neale stressed the importance of checking soils carefully before any action. A visual evaluation of soil structure (VESS) test, ideally carried out in early spring when soils have re-wetted, allows farmers to spot signs of compaction, assess rooting, and judge changes in aggregation and colour.

“Remember, healthy soil smells ‘sweet’; unhealthy soils can give o a noticeably stagnant aroma,” he noted, adding: “It’s the biology you’re smelling.”

Looking ahead, technology could add new dimensions to soil monitoring. Hutchinsons is currently testing an 'electronic nose' developed by PES Technologies, capable of analysing a soil sample in minutes to provide data on microbial biomass, respiratory activity, nutrient availability, pH, water content and soil texture.

“If the technology delivers consistent data, it could become a valuable on-farm tool,” Mr Neale pointed out.

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disc for trash chopping and crust breaking

in

and full ISObus control make these drills simple to setup and operate.

tine stagger for pro le shattering and even soil fracturing across 3m rigid and 4.5m folding options available

Benefits of mechanical weeding

One key bene t of hoeing is the ability to destroy ‘resistant’ weeds. Furthermore, the crop su ers no negative e ects from hoeing; on the contrary, as well as removing weeds there are further agronomic bene ts. These include removing capping and opening up the soil thus improving aeration and increasing the soil’s ability to hold water. Moving the soil and darkening its colour will cause the soil to warm up more quickly in the spring, resulting in better growth.

KRM o ers a range of mechanical hoeing options including the recently introduced Klinea, designed speci cally for hoeing cereal crops. The specially designed tines and shares ensure that the surface of the soil is scalped at a constant depth

thanks to the individual control of each element. An innovative joint system supporting the tines incorporates a non-stop, spring safety system and enables e cient and precise adjustment of the share angle which is important for penetration in tough conditions. All Klinea machines come as standard with harrow tines behind the element to remove soil from the inverted weeds to prevent re-growth.

The fully automatic 'Kipline' guidance system ensures that the machine follows the rows. Its unique setup mode allows the operator clearly see what the camera is recognising as crop and weed so settings can easily be optimised for maximum accuracy. FG

Low-disturbance cultivation

Lincolnshire-based manufacturer

Fentech Agri’s design ethos has always been to produce machinery with the lowest possible soil disturbance at every stage of operation in the farming calendar, and the company’s Tremor subsoiler is no exception.

Built with strength and versatility in mind, the heavy-duty frame can accommodate a range of low disturbance legs which allows for working depths from 150mm right down to 500mm. Leg spacing of 450mm means e cient lifting and breaking of the soil pro le across the full width of the machine while at the same time reducing the surface disturbance and more importantly disturbing the weed seeds.

The Tremor is equipped with height adjustable sprung loaded discs as standard which run in front of the leg and are perfect for high trash situations. Depth control for the machine is straightforward with either a manual pin-andhole system on rigid machines or hydraulic ram option on folding versions.

Currently the subsoiler is available either in a 3m rigid or 4.5m folding widths with either shear bolt or hydraulic auto-reset options and a number of rear roller options depending on soil type or required nish.

For further information on any of the machines in the Fentech Agri range visit www.fentechagri.com  FG

Precise Solutions GPS Ltd

Independent repair and service specialists for Land Rover Vehicles

We offer servicing, repairs, MOT’s, vehicle upgrades and stock a range of 4x4 tyres for vehicles dating back to 1948 right up to the present day.

We are stockists of Allmakes, Bearmach, Britpart and genuine Land Rover parts, with over 17,000 stocklines.

We offer a daily delivery service across Norfolk and north Suffolk and aim to deliver within 24 hours of receiving your order.

Sharp rise in farm deaths prompts call for change

Farmers and industry figures are calling for a change in attitudes to safety as 19 farm deaths were confirmed in the first six months of the year. Sarah Kidby reports.

Whilst it’s long been known that agriculture has a high rate of fatal workplace accidents, a recent spate of farm deaths has prompted industry figures to speak out. From April to September 2025 there were 19 deaths related to agriculture – the latest figures from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) show there were 23 deaths in the whole 12-month period from 2024/25, suggesting the 2025/26 figures could be above average if the trend continues.

NAAC chief executive Jill Hewitt said machinery is still a big contributor, but the causes of the fatalities has been varied, including: moving vehicles, falling from heights, contact with machinery, falling objects, and livestock. Asked whether the pressure the industry is under could be playing a part, she said: “Those things don’t help because people may not be concentrating as hard. It’s difficult to say that’s the cause of the further deaths, but I suspect it’s probably contributing. Having said that, the same accidents are happening – just in greater numbers this year.”

She added: “I think we need a cultural change; we need to stop thinking that health and safety is a pain in the backside, that it’s difficult and involves lots of paperwork. We’ve got to get away from the attitude that it’s ‘health and safety gone mad’ and just start thinking about safety as a routine part of what everybody is doing all the time.”

Normalising safety

Doncaster farm contractor James Bannister has spent two decades raising awareness of safe working on farms after losing his arm in an accident involving a potato harvester. Speaking to Farmers Guide, he admits he was blasé about safety before his accident – and believes that while time pressure is a factor, complacency is a key reason for fatal accidents on farms.

When he gives talks on safety to farmers, the visual impact of his injuries makes farmers sit up and listen, he says. “I am very hot on safety now and the biggest thing that comes back to me from

any talks I do is the visual impact of seeing me. People have the mindset that it’ll never happen to them.”

Similarly, Callum Lindsay, 31, who farms sheep on the Isle of Arran, did not routinely wear a helmet on his ATV before his accident, which saw him hit a stone concealed by bracken – causing him to be propelled over the handlebars and to hit his face on the front rack. He fractured the C1 and C2 vertebrae in his neck, and his nose socket.

Callum believes his injuries would have been less severe, and the recovery time shorter had he been wearing a helmet. He wants to see wearing a helmet becoming the norm and part of a daily routine, and observed that during his time in New Zealand shearing over four seasons, helmets have been embraced there more readily than in the UK –even being a legal requirement in some cases.

“I don’t go on a bike without a helmet now. I feel more comfortable on a bike with a helmet. But to start with, I didn’t, you’re always forgetting it, but once you’ve got into the habit it just becomes normal and you don’t think about it.”

Staying safe

Asked to summarise some key advice to prevent accidents, Jill noted: “It’s easy to say ‘try not to get really tired’, but tiredness definitely kills.” She added: “Always wear an ATV helmet because people come off quad bikes and if you’re not wearing a helmet that will massively increase your risk of it being a fatal accident.” And make sure staff are trained and competent and understand how to carry out a job safely.

Practising Safe Stop – turning off machinery before working on it – is also essential. James said: “One of the reasons why they don’t like turning engines off is because it upsets the GPS. My GPS all shuts down on me when I turn mine off but for the three or four minutes it takes to reboot it, it saves your life.”

Additionally, different practices may be required for new machines or newer versions of existing machines, but a common mistake is to continue using them the way you always have, he added. Finally, Callum believes time is the biggest safety factor, and now takes an extra five minutes on any job to check it’s being done safely.

NAAC is running a sticker campaign – ‘I am vital to UK agriculture’ – as a visual reminder to farmers when they get in machines or farm vehicles, to take extra care. You can order your free stickers through the NAAC website: https://www.naac.co.uk/naacsafety-campaign/ FG

Unlocking the hidden value of land

may depend on embracing complementary income streams.

Strategic land development is one of the most powerful tools available, not only to secure resilience for farm businesses but also to breathe new life into the communities around them.

For generations, farming has been the backbone of the UK’s rural economy. Yet, as pressures mount – from volatile markets and rising input costs to environmental obligations – farmers are increasingly exploring how their land can deliver more than food production alone.

Tritax Big Box Developments says it sees rsthand how strategic land development can provide farmers not just with additional income, but also with a way to bring lasting bene ts to the wider community. Done well, development can deliver new jobs, improved infrastructure, and vital services that keep rural areas thriving for generations to come.

When people think about land development, the rst thought is often housing. However, farmland in the right location can also support industrial and logistics buildings, assets that are increasingly in demand.

Driven by the growth of e-commerce and the need for resilient supply chains, logistics facilities are essential to the companies we rely on – from retail to manufacturing to healthcare. For landowners, this demand represents an opportunity to unlock signi cant value while helping to accommodate the future needs of the UK economy.

Jobs close to home

Rural areas are often a ected by outward migration, particularly of younger generations seeking careers in towns and cities. This trend can put pressure on farming families, weaken the skills base, and risks hollowing out communities.

Strategic land development can help reverse this pattern. Distribution centres and logistics parks typically bring hundreds, sometimes thousands, of jobs across warehousing, transport, and technology.

Take Biggleswade in Bedfordshire as an example. A farmer had worked his family’s land for over 100 years, but faced pressure as traditional markets became more challenging.

Working with Tritax Big Box, Simon brought forward land for logistics development. Within eight months, planning was secured and a prelet agreed with Co-op for a major distribution centre. The project created 1,200 new jobs, breathing fresh life into the area and ensuring the land left a lasting legacy for the community.

Improving infrastructure

Farmers know better than most that rural infrastructure has not always kept pace with modern needs. Limited road capacity, patchy public transport, and slow broadband are common frustrations.

Well-planned development can bring tangible improvements: schemes are often required to contribute to new roads, upgraded utilities, and enhanced digital connectivity. Tritax Big Box, also works with councils to extend bus routes and embed sustainability features within its new developments.

Another challenge that can be sometimes faced by rural communities is the gradual erosion of local services and amenities. As populations age or decline, shops close, schools consolidate, and GP surgeries struggle.

Strategic land development can be a lifeline. By bringing new families, investment, and community facilities, farmers and their development partners can help keep schools open, ensure shops thrive, and support health services. The company’s approach is to select occupiers that deliver the greatest long-term bene t to the economy and the community.

Looking ahead

The rural economy is evolving. Farming will remain at its heart, but long-term sustainability

When approached thoughtfully, development is not just about bricks and mortar. It is about creating jobs for local communities, building infrastructure that connects the countryside, and sustaining services that every rural family relies on. For farmers, it represents an opportunity to leave a legacy that balances pro tability with purpose, ensuring land continues to support livelihoods and lifestyles well into the future.

Tritax Big Box Developments partners with landowners across the UK. Its Landowner Strategy guide explains how the company works – unlocking the hidden value of land while leaving positive, long-term legacies for farming families and rural communities.

Download the Landowner Strategy guide at www.tritaxbigbox.co.uk to learn how the company can help you maximise the value of your land. FG

Five factors to consider

Before making any decision, here are ve important factors for landowners to consider:

• Trusted advisers – Solicitors, land agents, and accountants help safeguard your interests, often with fees covered by your development partner

• Understand planning – Land with planning permission is far more valuable, but the process is complex and requires expertise

• Reputation matters – Choose a developer with a proven track record with planners and communities

• Think legacy – Development a ects land, relationships, and family futures. Long-term, community-focused partners are vital

• Explore di erent purchase agreements – From land sales to option agreements, the right structure depends on landowners’ di ering requirements.

What do you say to those concerned about loss of food-producing land?

FROM FARMING TO RUNNING A RENEWABLES COMPANY

We spoke to Robbie Gawthrop, former pig farmer and founder of East Green Energy, about how he moved from farming into providing a renewable energy solution for other farmers – and how his background in farming in uences the business.

Renewable energy specialist East Green Energy designs and installs solar PV, battery storage and sustainable heating systems for homes, farms and businesses. Drawing on rst-hand experience in farming, Robbie and his sons saw the potential of renewable energy to give farmers greater control over their operations, reduce overheads and build a more sustainable future.

What made you start East Green Energy?

A. It began as a diversi cation project from farming, but it was also driven by my interest in climate change and how it is a ecting the environment. I could see that renewable energy had the potential to reduce inputs on farms and businesses, while o ering customers quick paybacks. The technology was moving quickly, with batteries and smart systems changing the way we think about how we use energy. I wanted to be part of that change and to help others bene t from it.

Do you have renewables on your farm?

A. Yes, we have an acre of solar panels with battery storage. We only purchase electricity in December, otherwise we are completely selfsu cient and even generate a healthy export income. We also have a biomass boiler with district heating that serves the farmhouse and ve holiday cottages. I no longer farm myself, though I still help neighbours with their livestock from time to time.

How does your farming background influence the business?

A. It has given me the mindset that everything is possible and nothing is o the table. Farming teaches resilience and problem-solving, both of which are essential when working in renewables.

Do you di er from other solar energy companies?

A. Yes – we have 20 years of experience in the trade, making us one of the longest standing renewable energy businesses in the UK. That level of knowledge and continuity is rare, and it gives our clients con dence that we will be there to support them long after the installation.

Benefits of solar energy

A. Our approach is always rooftop rst, then looking at options like lakes or car parks. Groundmounted solar can play a role, but to put it in perspective to meet government solar targets for the UK’s energy strategy, less land will be used for solar than is currently taken up by golf courses. Food production and solar can absolutely work hand in hand.

What does getting into solar involve?

A. It starts with a consultation to understand your energy use, your land and buildings, and your goals. Our in-house team design a tailored system, look at planning requirements, secure the necessary permissions, and handle the installation. East Green also provides support with grid connections and nance options where needed.

What’s the expected return on investment?

A. It depends on the scale of the system, but typically returns are seen within 3–6 years. After that, the savings and income are e ectively pro t.

Are there any common pitfalls to be aware of?

A. Yes. Not all systems are designed or installed with the same level of care. Common issues include poor quality components, unrealistic performance expectations, and lack of long-term support. That is why it is so important to work with a trusted, experienced installer who understands both the technology and the unique challenges of farming and rural businesses. FG

East Green Energy sales manager Tim Thornton, shares the bene ts of solar energy on farms:

• Rooftop potential – Grain stores, livestock sheds and packing facilities often have large, unshaded roof areas that are ideal for solar PV installations. A well-designed rooftop system can supply power directly to farm operations during the day and export surplus to the grid for additional income

• Making use of poorer quality land – Ground-mounted solar o ers another route to diversi cation for farms with less productive elds, awkward corners or areas that are di cult to farm, turning underused space into a steady income stream

• Return on investment – Improved e ciency means systems generate more electricity per panel than ever before. This is strengthened by the ability to sell surplus energy back to the grid

• Reducing carbon footprint – By generating clean energy on site, farms can demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices, which can strengthen relationships with buyers and open up new marketing opportunities.

Clean and safe fluid handling

Within agriculture, wherever oil, fuel, or hydraulic uids are involved, cleanliness and safety can quickly become a challenge. Spills in the yard, contamination in the workshop, or messy lter changes on the eld not only cause unnecessary downtime but also pose environmental risks.

Derblaue, an innovative German company, has developed a practical product range designed to make uid handling in agriculture simple, safe, and e cient.

At the heart of the range is the Service-Set – a compact kit that farmers and service technicians can keep on hand for any maintenance task. The foldable Flexible Protection Tub unfolds in seconds, creating a

reliable working base that protects the ground surface, workshop oor, or even a stubble eld from leaks and drips.

Changing oil or fuel lters on tractors, combines, or loaders often means working in tight spaces. The Flexible Funnel adapts to the contours of the machine, guiding uids exactly where they need to go. Inside its three sides, reinforced bending metal elements are built in, allowing the funnel to be shaped and pressed into position – even in very con ned spaces. Strong neodymium magnets on the edges hold the funnel securely onto metallic surfaces.

For more information, visit www.derblaue.com FG

Improve grassland e ciency

Ceres says its Sub-Line Grassland Subsoiler is a low-cost, but e cient way to rejuvenate and sustain healthy grassland, by relieving compression from the year’s livestock, water and general tra c, with minimal disturbance, and helping to prevent water damage and further compression.

The Sub-Line is designed to achieve the maximum e ciency from your soil by lifting and shattering compaction, allowing air, water and nutrients to ow into the substructure, improving soil health and preventing ash run-o of water.

The row of leading discs can all be adjusted with one handle, which has six working positions and one out-of-work position. The discs can

be kept in their optimum working position, cutting through the sward cleanly, allowing the leg to pass through without tearing the surface. The at, rear roller has simple dual turn-buckle adjustment to control the working depth of the machine, and leaves a neat, level nish across the width of the work. There is an adjustable scraper mounted within the roller arms to prevent congestion and build-up. The legs, knock on points and all other wearing components are widely available, which reduces cost and downtime.

The Sub-Line is available from a single leg up to a ve-leg machine. All sizes are compatible with Category 2 linkage, from 40–190hp. FG

Protecting beekeepers and bees

Last issue, BIOM beehives discussed varroa mites, their impact on honeybee colonies, and treatment options using oxalic acid. BIOM beehives o ers a complete varroa treatment package, including Oxalika Mini Sprint vaporiser and BLS respirator.

The company says the Oxalika Mini Cordless Sprint is the ideal solution for beekeepers who want e ective varroa treatments with maximum practicality. With its three nozzles, it adapts to any hive setup, making sublimation of oxalic acid quick and e cient. Cordless, and designed to work with common Li-Ion power-tool batteries, it is lightweight, versatile and easy to handle in the apiary.

Protecting the beekeeper is just as important as protecting the bees.

That’s why the package includes the BLS 5600 full-face respirator with ABE2P3 lters, o ering complete protection against oxalic acid vapours and particulates.

With this ready-to-use package, available at www. biombeehives.co.uk, HIIVE stewards and beekeepers can work with con dence, combining e ciency, safety and convenience.

The design and geometry of HIIVE gives those not wanting to use chemicals to treat for varroa a legup. The HIIVE is designed to mimic nature, in so much as it promotes similar thermodynamic and hydrodynamic properties as a living tree cavity, meaning physiological stress on your colonies is greatly reduced versus a traditional framed hive. FG

Is a timber building for you?

Whether permanent or mobile, Timberspecs UK Ltd says it can help. With over 50 years’ experience, Timberspecs can help you through your whole build journey from the foundations to choosing your interior ttings. Over the years, the company has formed many partnerships with all trades in order to make decisions easy and seamless.

If you have a spare piece of ground that’s sitting redundant, that could earn you an income, could be complementing your own residence or provide accommodation for family or sta , a log building could be the answer.

According to Timberspecs UK Ltd, for a mobile building measuring up

to 20 x 6.8m, no planning permission is required if in the curtilage of your garden – you just need a lawful development certi cate. They don’t require the foundation of a traditional build – easy pads with crushed concrete, or even ground screws would work very well.

Timberspecs says its structures are eco-friendly with a very low carbon footprint and produced from a sustainable, managed and licenced forest in Romania. Each building regardless of size has a minimum of 200mm wall depth and, complete with oors and ceilings they are fully insulated. All are double glazed, and quoted prices include delivery and construction. FG

Varroa Treatment Package

• BLS 5600 full face mask with filters, face seal in thermoplastic rubber with FDA certification for greater safety

• Oxalika MINI Cordless Sprint vaporiser works with 18 volt lithium-ion batteries (⚠ battery not included) automatic temperature control, available with adapters for various battery brands

BIOM Beehives (UK Distributor) www.biombeehives.co.uk

info@timberspecs.com

AgriScot 2025 returns to Ingliston in November

The UK’s agship agricultural business event, AgriScot, is set to return to the Royal Highland Centre at Ingliston this November.

The event promises farmers and industry professionals an outstanding showcase of innovation, expertise, and networking opportunities.

The exhibition halls will feature hundreds of stands, presenting everything from precision farming

technology, livestock equipment and animal feed and nutrition to sustainable farming solutions, nancial and business advice, and renewable energy systems.

Visitors will have the opportunity to examine machinery up close, speak directly with manufacturers, and discover new products that could transform their operations. This hands-on approach allows those attending to make informed

decisions about investments that will shape their future farming strategies.

AgriScot’s seminar programme will cover signi cant topics a ecting modern farming, from policy changes and market trends to technical innovations and sustainability practices. These sessions provide invaluable insights from industry experts, researchers, and successful farmers sharing their experiences and knowledge. And for those unable to join the event on the day, they are all recorded.

The show ring takes centre stage with livestock competitions featuring the country’s nest dairy cattle and a beef demonstration, alongside the presentation of AgriScot’s Business Skills Award and Silage Competition winners. The ring will also celebrate the winners of the Farm of the Year Awards 2025. Additionally, visitors can attend a sheep handling equipment demonstration outside the Upland Hall.

Gilmour Lawrie, chairman of AgriScot commented: “The loyalty of our returning exhibitors and steady growth in attendance

over two decades demonstrates AgriScot’s value as an essential business networking platform. There is a real buzz on the day as there’s something for everyone, and the time of year makes it perfect in planning for the year ahead, as well as o ering a vital social boost before we head into the winter.”

Located within walking distance of Edinburgh airport, free bus transfer and direct links to mainline trains from right across the UK available, AgriScot is in an excellent location for anyone travelling for the day, or overnight. A range of hotels can be found also within walking distance of the venue. FG

Event details:

Date:

Wednesday 19th November 2025

Location:

Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh EH28 8NB

Ticket information:

Visit www.agriscot.co.uk to register for your free ticket. Parking is available for all attendees.

Thames Valley Machinery for sale after 22 years

Having built the business from the ground up and traded successfully for 22 years, owner Mike Hampshire has put Thames Valley Machinery up for sale.

For Mike, machinery has been a lifelong fascination and, having grown up on farms, his love of agriculture has always been strong. But, while his father warned him away from the long hours and modest pay of farm management, Mike’s love of machines left him determined to stay close to farming. Selling equipment became, as he puts it, “a pretty good step.”

His career began with Farol, before he joined Oakes Brothers – a well-regarded dealership more recently bought by Haynes. After 15 years of service, redundancy in the late 1990s came as a shock. A year of temping work followed, but the sight of tractors passing office windows confirmed his heart still lay in machinery.

In 2002, he launched Thames Valley Machinery. With a mortgage to pay and two daughters at school, the brokerage model suited him well: selling surplus machinery on behalf of farmers without tying up capital in stock. In the early days, Mike leaned heavily on the reputation he had built at Oakes Brothers, phoning old customers to ask if they had surplus stock. “They’d all say, 'Yes, come and see me tomorrow',” he recalls. That quick uptake gave the brokerage strong foundations, and within months he was handling millions of pounds’ worth of stock without ever needing

to own it himself.

valued the honesty and trust he brought to

From there, the brokerage grew into a professional operation, with national advertising, a website and exports worldwide. Turnover reached millions in its strongest years, but Mike believes success was built less on figures than on relationships. “I intentionally worked with a personal touch,” he says. Farmers valued the honesty and trust he brought to each deal, and many became friends.

everything about it, and said that if I ever came to Greece, I’d want to sit down for a cup of tea and hear him tell me it was good.”

Now, as he approaches his 67th birthday, Mike has decided the time is right to retire. Having once considered running the business part-time, he now feels ready to step back fully. “I’ve done my time,” he says simply.

Established in

stripped back the image, spending more time face-to-

sure your customer

That emphasis shaped his whole approach. Previously suited and corporate, Mike deliberately stripped back the image, choosing casual wear and spending more time face-toface with customers. “Make sure your customer knows he is the priority,” Mike explains. For him, likability and loyalty were as important as the sale itself.

As for the future, Mike sees Thames Valley Machinery as a “turnkey” opportunity for the right person; ideally someone with sales experience and a knowledge of farming. His advice is equally straightforward: “Give 100% service. Be honest. Gain trust. Do what you say you’re going to do. And be likeable.”

Mike explains. For him,

including selling a Greece he had never deciding factor: opportunity with sales experience and a is equally straightforward: “Give trust. Do what you say you’re

Along the way there

Along the way there were memorable deals, including selling a combine to a dealer in Greece he had never met. Trust, he says, was always the deciding factor: “I told him

After more than two nearly half a century in to hand over the reins. The very useful outlet for farmers wanting to sell surplus machinery.”

After more than two decades in brokerage, and nearly half a century in machinery, Mike is ready to hand over the reins. The business, he says, remains “a very useful outlet for farmers wanting to sell surplus machinery.” FG

Thames Valley Machinery FOR SALE

Agricultural Machinery Brokerage

New T7 Standard Wheelbase models were the main event, continuing the T7-series upgrades that started with HD models in 2021.

The T7 line-up includes 12 models from 180–340hp across three series including standard, long wheelbase and long wheelbase HD variants. The new Standard Wheelbase line-up features four of those models, from 180–225hp, all with a new Horizon cab, a new front axle and fresh styling, and all designed to create the most versatile tractor possible within this popular size segment.

Completely new

The wheelbase is unchanged at 2,789mm, but a new sculpted body and front axle design provides a tighter steering angle and improves manoeuvrability, reducing the turning circle by 17% from 14.3m to 11.4m. Revised Auto Command and Dynamic Command transmissions as well as a much atter torque delivery curve increase productivity and fuel e ciency.

The new tractors have a maximum 13.5t gross vehicle weight, so with a full 350-litre fuel tank and 48 litres of AdBlue on board, there is still 5.5t payload capacity.

The new front axle is claimed to provide best-in-class suspension, with angled hydraulic accumulators either side helping soak up bumps and also reducing roll and increasing stability when working with heavy mounted implements or loaders. An optional roll control mode allows operators to completely lock the cylinders to eliminate movement and enhance handling in transport mode. There are two versions; standard with 6t capacity and heavy-duty carrying 9t. New hood styling and a new Dynamic Blue series colour hint at upcoming changes to other series later.

Class-beating economy

Power is from the proven six-cylinder FPT NEF 6.7-litre engine meeting Stage 5 emissions requirements. “Customers far prefer six cylinders to four in this power class,” suggests New Holland global brand communications and marketing

New Holland demonstrated new and updated machines on a farm in north Germany ahead of their public launch at Agritechnica this November. David Williams was there.

projects manager, Andrew Dunne. “This latest version provides increased performance with maximum power at 1,500rpm, and 1,060Nm of torque produced at only 1,300rpm, while it also uses less fuel. The T7.225 with Dynamic Command recently proved the e ciency, achieving the best PowerMix performance in its power class – at just 243g/kWh, while the Auto Command version also did well at 257g/kWh.

New tractors, loaders and a baler for New Holland

Low costs of ownership are as important as minimising downtime and these engines come with a 750-hour oil service interval.”

All models feature Engine Power Management, providing 22–25% additional power for transport, hydraulic and PTO applications.

Transmission options

New transmissions make the most of the extra engine power, increasing tractive e ort by up to 33% at low revs, with up to 11% increased e ciency. Larger diameter rear axle hubs are tted, to cope with the extra torque.

The T7.180, T7.190 and T7.210 models are all available with Auto Command CVT or Dynamic Command semi-powershift, dual-clutch transmissions initially, with Range Command semipowershift coming later. The most powerful T7.225 is available with either Dynamic Command or Auto Command transmissions.

New Dynamic Command, replacing previous PowerCommand, has 24 forward and 24 reverse gears with eight speeds in each of three ranges, increasing exibility and e ciency allowing 4–17kph for eld work in one range. It also includes 50kph Eco and start-stop functionality, while Auto Command CVT now delivers drive through three ranges rather than two before, giving a 55kph maximum speed.

Practical features

The rear hydraulic lift arms are straightened, and the hydraulic top link includes a more secure

locking system. Changing from Cat 2 to Cat 3 linkage set-up is simple just by relocating a pin on each side. Most electric, hydraulic and pneumatic connections are on the left side, more easily accessed when the driver is leaving or entering the cab. The hydraulic connections have pressure release levers for easier coupling and reduced oil loss. The standard hydraulic system is 130-litres/min, with 150- and 170-litre pumps available as upgrades.

Improved operator comfort

There is a choice of three cabs: standard, with a sunroof, or low pro le panoramic, and a choice of three cab suspension systems; mechanical, pneumatic and new hydraulic. New Holland said the choice between pneumatic and hydraulic is largely down to operator preference. The pneumatic system is self-adjusting and provides the best experience for intensive road use, whereas hydraulic allows the operator to select the ride – hard, medium or soft. Stabiliser rods reduce cab rocking.

Inside the cab, the SideWinder armrest is new, with the IntelliView 12 touchscreen display and a re ned CommandGrip multifunction joystick. Models with electronic remote valves also feature new operating paddles. The InfoView display on the steering column ensures that essential operating information is always in sight, with menus allowing information of interest to be selected by a manual encoder dial on the armrest.

There is a choice of Dynamic or AutoComfort seats.

All models are fully ‘connected’ as standard and Isobus Class 2 and 3 with TIM tractor / implement management is supported, allowing both front and rear mounted implements to control key tractor functions.

“These new T7 tractors are designed to be incredibly versatile. For those upgrading from previous T7 models as well as from competitor machines, the driving experience will be very di erent. The at torque curve and low engine revs make it a quiet and relaxing tractor to operate while running and ownership costs are low. Ride quality is superb, and the latest cabs are an attractive place to work with great all-around visibility and high levels of comfort. We have kept the T7 package small, making it ideal for loader and yard work and allowing quick headland turns, but the improved

driveability is noticeable,” Andrew continued.

Power without fuss

InfoView screen have straightforward menus and are easy to use. All in all, the new T7 models make an attractive package, backed by a network of excellent dealers across the UK. Prices aren’t yet available, but orders will be taken from Agritechnica onwards for customer deliveries early next year.

T5 Utility updates

Updated T5S models will be previewed at Agritechnica and available in late spring next year. The previous series was introduced in 2022, and the new models feature extra power, an upgraded front axle option for faster steering response, new styling, controls and improved visibility. Rear wheels up to 34in can be tted, increasing performance for eld work.

The line-up will include three models with 101, 110 and 117hp with Electro Command 16x16 semi-powershift transmission adding productivityboosting features including brake-to-clutch for single pedal stop and start operation. There is an electro-hydraulic shuttle with three ‘aggression’ settings for drive engagement.

A new engine hood pro le plus U-shaped exhaust increase forward visibility and an optional SuperSteer front axle speeds up the front wheels when turning to maximise manoeuvrability. A 2wd version is also available.

An 82-litres/min hydraulic oil supply is standard, and a wet clutch-driven front PTO is an option.

A T7.225 hitched to a Lemken cultivator allowed users to experience the lower revving engine and new transmission performing under heavy loads. With the engine set for maximum power a plough symbol appears on the InfoView display, but in-cab noise levels remain at only 68dB allowing conversation without raised voices. There is very little noise from the engine or the transmission. “With three ranges rather than two before, the Auto Command CVT operates more of the time in the most e cient working zones utilising a greater proportion of mechanical drive,” explained product specialist, Ross Macdonald. “For those used to previous models, it’s quite a noticeable di erence.”

In the cab, a new digital cluster display adjusts automatically to ambient light, providing information on fuel consumption, area worked, distances travelled and engine and operating LED light packages can be speci ed for improved safety and productivity during long working days.

The tight turning circle allowed quick headland turns on a small, angled headland. The controls are operatorfriendly and well arranged. The large IntelliView 12 display as well as the

utilising a greater proportion of mechanical information on fuel consumption, area worked, data.

Unlimited connectivity is standard, including lifetime telematics and allowing full integration within New Holland’s FieldOps management portal.

Unlimited connectivity is standard, allowing full integration within management portal.

New Holland global brand communications and marketing projects manager, Andrew Dunne.

Optional Isobus Class 2 connection enables tractor and implement information exchange. A factory- tted auto guidance system, fully compatible with the IntelliView 4 Plus display and DirecSteer for precision working will be available later.

New wheeled loaders

The new W170D+ Forage Power, with a 16.4t operating weight, is designed for forage and silage handling applications. Peak 255hp power output is 30% more than the standard W170D while the maximum 1,300Nm of torque produced at just 1,300rpm is 37% above the standard machine. Power is from the proven FPT 6.7-litre engine and a six-speed transmission with a lock-up clutch from rst gear upwards maximises drive and pushing e ciency. The front axle has a 100% self-locking di erential and the rear di erential is a limited slip version to make the most of available grip. The engine is right at the back and coupled with one of the longest wheelbases in the loader’s size class, it ensures maximum stability and lifting performance.

Contractors and those operating remotely from the farm base will appreciate the generous 350-litre fuel tank capacity.

Well-equipped cab

The cab comes with an adjustable pneumatic seat, an 8in touchscreen display and a one-piece panoramic windscreen o ering great forward visibility. The small engine compartment, electrically adjusted mirrors and rear-view camera as well as LED lighting ensure a good view to the rear, while optional radar obstruction sensing increases safety.

Additional features include an engine speed control function with engine revs set by a hand control, and allowing operators to remove their foot from the throttle pedal during long road journeys. Maximum travel speed is 48kph. Buyers also have the option of a steering joystick. Complementing the steering wheel, the small joystick is on the lefthand armrest.

Safety features include an external seatbelt indicator, illuminating a green light above the cab when the seatbelt is fastened. The belt itself is coloured orange, so those outside can easily see when it is correctly used.

The W170D+ comes standard with agricultural cleated tyres and the boom has a 4.54m standard hinge pin height providing high lifting for loading large trailers and AD plant bunkers.

New, heavier duty roll-belt balers

New Roll-Belt 180 Plus and 150 Plus variable chamber round balers will be available next year, with uprated drive lines and additional features to meet the increasing demands of modern farmers.

Roll-Belt 150 Plus models produce bales up to 1.5m diameter while the Roll-Belt 180 Plus makes bales up to 1.8m. The updated line-up includes three intake options and upgraded components and drivelines to optimise work rates and reduce downtime. These include triple-lip bearings to protect against dirt ingress, upgraded high tensile chains on Rotor Cutter and Rotor Feeder variants, and all models have a new roller design with seamless construction and made of 3.5 times thicker steel than the previous version with two-piece welded construction.

Automatic oiling is a new option. The balers are available with net wrapping as standard utilising New Holland’s duck-bill feed arrangement to ensure positive bale to net engagement. Using net, the balers provide over-edge wrapping for bale protection and, when the twine option is used, up to eight spools can be carried with two spools feeding simultaneously to achieve quick tying and maximise work rates.

Bringing baling up to date

connectivity is now included.

“In variable crops or damp conditions, mapping moisture contents allows farmers to isolate bales which are outside of their speci ed parameters and store them for alternative use elsewhere,” explained business manager for balers, Marco Otten. “Using the tractor’s telematics, maps can be produced showing where every bale was dropped and its moisture content, so those loading and transporting them from the eld can see clearly which bales might require segregation.

All the new balers are Isobus compatible allowing operation direct from the tractor. Basic telematics enables access to baler data through the FieldOps mobile app or website, while Advanced connectivity gives additional access to agronomic data and eld maps through the same platforms. Non-Isobus tractors can utilise the IntelliView 4 Plus screen, or the IntelliView 12. The previous balers were also capable of Isobus operation, but growing demand for accurate agronomy data including moisture content and size means

where tractor functions are controlled by and reduced operator fatigue. This will

Marco told Farmers Guide: “Isobus integration also provides opportunities to exploit TIM, where tractor functions are controlled by the implement for automated operation and reduced operator fatigue. This will initially be available only for working with CNH tractors, but compatibility with other

CNH tractors, but compatibility with other brands will come later.

“These baler durability and feature upgrades will increase their appeal balers were also capable : “Isobus integration

to professional farmers and contractors.” FG

JOHN DEERE DIALS UP DAIRY EFFICIENCY

At Vroege Farm in the Netherlands, John Deere unveiled its latest kit to the agricultural press. Farmers Guide machinery reporter Daniel Hodge attended.

The launches included the all-new F8 and F9 forage harvester and the next generation of round balers, alongside digital tools aimed at cutting paperwork and boosting sustainability.

John Deere also placed emphasis on its wider production system strategy, a shift from selling machines in isolation to supporting the full cycle of feed, forage, and milk.

A production system approach

John Deere framed its latest launches within a wider “production system” strategy, shifting the conversation away from individual machines and towards the daily reality of livestock farming. As one John Deere representative put it: “Dairy farmers do not wake up thinking about tractors, they think about cows, feed, and milk output.”

The production system model places the cow at the centre, with surrounding layers covering crop production, forage harvesting, feeding, and nally milking. John Deere’s role, it explained, is strongest in crop and forage, but partnerships ll the gaps in feeding and herd management. The company’s tie-up with Italy’s Dinamica Generale on feed mixer technology, and with DeLaval on milking, were highlighted as examples of this joined-up approach.

This marks a deliberate attempt to align machinery and digital tools more closely with the full cycle of dairy production, acknowledging that no single company can cover all aspects alone.

Milk Sustainability Centre

A central pillar of John Deere’s production system strategy is the Milk Sustainability Centre (MSC), developed in partnership with DeLaval and dsmrmenich, and built by Dairy Data Warehouse (DDW). The platform brings together data on crops, feed and herd performance into a single cloudbased dashboard, giving dairy farmers a clearer picture of nutrient use e ciency, carbon footprint and milk output.

From our quick look at the software, the obvious appeal lies in automation: rather than manually entering gures across multiple software packages, the MSC automatically collects and processes data form existing feeding, milking and herd

management systems. Farmers can then choose to share results with consultants, vets, or processors, ensuring transparency across the supply chain.

Already available in 13 countries, including the UK, the MSC is free to use and intended to ease the growing burden of sustainability reporting. As a DDW representative noted: “What every dairy farmer really hates is manual data entry.”

New forage harvesters: F8 and F9

John Deere used the event to unveil its new F8 and F9 self-propelled forage harvesters, positioned as the successors to the long-standing 8000 and 9000 series.

The changes are more than cosmetic: the lineup now centres on three engine families, with all F8 models powered by the JD14X engine (the same unit used in John Deere’s X9 combines), while the F9 500 to 700 carry the larger JD18X, and the agship F9 900 and 1000 step up to a 24.2-litre Liebherr V12 delivering up to 1,020hp. Power gains of between 15–50hp across the range mean contractors can expect more throughput without stepping up a size.

these features reduce the number of manual interventions by more than 20%, allowing operators to concentrate on crop ow and trailers rather than juggling controls.

Silage quality also received upgrades. The new IDS 2.0 inoculant dosing system includes insulated tanks and integrates with the HarvestLab sensor for precise additive use, while contractors can choose between two new kernel processors: the ultimate 250 with larger rolls and temperature monitoring, or the XStream 305 with a 56% larger surface area and electronic adjustment. Together, these aim to improve chop consistency and starch availability, key factors in forage digestibility.

Kemper 400Pro header

Much of the attention, however, fell on the completely updated cab. Wider and brighter, it features slimmer pillars for better visibility, along with a host of operator-friendly details, from storage compartments and smartphone holders to an optional ActiveSeat II with heating, cooling, and even massage functions.

The new CommandPRO joystick o ering up to 11 customisable buttons, sits alongside the G5/G5Plus touchscreen displays, giving drivers ngertip control over spout position, header folding, AutoTrac guidance and more.

Automation was another recurring theme. The F8 and F9 come with a full suite of precision ag tools, including Ground Speed Automation (which adjusts forward speed to engine load), Active Fill Control 3 (for automated trailer lling), and the new ProTouch Harvest one-click headland automation system. John Deere claims

Alongside the forage harvesters, John Deere showcased the new Kemper 400Pro header, designed to complement the F8 and F9 machines. Its standout feature is a centrally mounted 360-degree transport wheel, which spreads weight evenly, reduces tyre wear and smooths the ride both in the eld and on the road. The wheel’s suspension system and position in front of the header also improve visibility for the operator.

Switching between road and eld mode takes just 30 seconds from the cab, minimising downtime and making transport easier for contractors covering long distances. The header also introduces ComfortRide and ComfortProtect options, further reducing vibrations and operator fatigue over a long working day. After our road test in the F9, we can con rm that the ride is indeed smooth and quiet.

Next generation round balers

The second major launch centred on John Deere’s next-generation round balers, covering both xed and variable chamber designs. All models in the new 2 Series are Isobus-ready, allowing direct control from a tractor’s CommandCenter display without the need for additional screens, something that John Deere equates to a saving of around £830 for a farmer already running a 6R tractor.

Connectivity is a key theme. Bale moisture, size, drop location and density can now be automatically recorded and synchronised with the John Deere Operations Center, giving farmers and contractors a full digital record of

their baling work. This includes optional on-board weighing systems for combi balers, with sensors on the transport table rollers providing bale weights in real time.

Variable chamber models feature a 15% increase in driveline capacity, translating to roughly 8% higher output. New endless belts replace traditional laced designs, o ering a rougher surface for better net grip in wet silage and lasting up to 10 times longer. Together with higher knife engagement force and new kinematics on the tension arms, John Deere claims bale density can reach up to 140kg/m3.

For operators, features such as weave automation remove the need to “slalom” across swathes, automatically guiding the baler left and right to create uniform bales. Combined with the latest G5 displays and optional remote display access, the system aims to reduce driver workload while maintaining bale quality.

Precision ag

Both the new balers and forage harvesters are designed to slot neatly into John Deere’s digital ecosystem. Automatic documentation of bale weights, moisture levels, eld locations and machine settings is transferred directly into the Operations Center, where farmers and contractors can review performance, export reports or even generate invoices.

For contractors, this removes the need for paper records or manual spreadsheets – a common source of errors when jobs are invoiced at season’s end. With remote display access, managers can also view or adjust machine settings in real time from the

yard, guiding less experienced operators without leaving their o ce.

Looking ahead, John Deere suggested that these data ows could be linked into the Milk Sustainability Centre, closing the loop between crop production, feed e ciency and milk output. The result would be a fuller picture of dairy performance – and fewer late nights wrestling with spreadsheets. FG

Hugh Pearl Land Drainage

Amazone owner Christian Dreyer reminded the audience that Amazone’s roots stretch back almost 250 years, from supplying winnowers in the 18th century to building one of today’s most recognisable agricultural brands. That continuity, he argued, rests on a simple principle: innovation only matters if it’s communicated and shared. With over 3,200 patent families to its name, and 350 in progress, the company sees constant product development as both its tradition and future. Despite recent turbulence in machinery markets, Amazone has continued to invest heavily in R&D, production capacity and sustainability, including solar energy at its factories and the acquisition of Brazilian fertiliser spreader specialist MP Agro. The academy itself, still smelling of fresh paint, emphasised the company’s commitment to training and knowledge transfer as much as to hardware.

Against this backdrop, the 2025/26 launches spanned the portfolio, from cultivation, seeding and crop care to fertiliser spreading and digital management. All of this with an ever-present focus on precision, e ciency, and stewardship.

Cultivation & residue management

Amazone used the event to showcase its longstanding strength in cultivation, with the Catros range of compact disc harrows celebrating 25 years on the market. For growers, the latest generation brings a few important tweaks. The agship Catros+ 12003-2TX introduces a ve-part folding system for better contour following across its 12.25m working width, alongside the new Smart Frame System for fully hydraulic depth adjustment. The addition of AutoLane feels particularly relevant for the UK’s rolling ground – automatically correcting slope drift so the discs track true behind the tractor. It’s a small but signi cant change: fewer overlaps and

Amazone gathered European journalists at its new training academy in Altmoorhausen to unveil its latest wave of machinery and digital systems. Daniel Hodge reports.

misses mean better volunteer germination for stale seedbeds, reduced weed pressure, and less wasted diesel.

Residue management is another clear theme. The TopCut knife roller combinations (5m, 6m and 12m) are designed for ultra-shallow 0–3cm work, addressing black-grass, slugs and moisture conservation by breaking capillarity at the surface without disturbing deeper soil. For British operators battling high levels of OSR volunteers or heavy maize stubbles, that shallow pass could prove a valuable tool. In practice, the Cut ’n’ Sow system goes further by pairing TopCut with tine drills such

INNOVATION IN FOCUS AT AMAZONE

as the Condor or Primera, allowing direct seeding through heavy residue while minimising blockages – an approach that speaks directly to the industry’s move towards reduced tillage and cover crop systems.

On heavier soils, the new Cenio 5000-2 extends the Cenio tine cultivator range to 5m. With hydraulic depth adjustment and a wide choice of share options, it o ers genuine exibility for stubble work down to 5cm or loosening to 30cm –particularly relevant for mixed arable farms where conditions vary.

Ploughing may be less central to many UK rotations currently, but Amazone hasn’t neglected it. The Teres 200 adds a stepped, lower-cost variant alongside its Vario ploughs, while the Tyrok 400

now comes in a compact 5+1 format, retaining boundary ploughing capability. Both share the SpeedBlade body design, which concentrates wear on a replaceable shin to cut costs at higher working speeds – a sensible detail for the smaller but committed ploughing sector.

Drilling and seeding

Precision and e ciency were key themes across Amazone’s seeding lineup. The latest Precea 7500 precision seeder brings a 10-row format with 70–75cm spacing, targeted squarely at maize and beet growers. A 3,000-litre fertiliser hopper and optional 75-litre seed hopper per row support long workdays, and with Amazone’s FertiSpot system, fertiliser is placed in a dollop under each seed. Amazone claims savings of up to 25%, and improved emergence to boot.

Alongside it, the Avant 4502-2 expands Amazone’s mounted drill family with a 4.5m model. Sitting neatly between existing working widths, it gives contractors and larger farms another option for matching drills to tramline systems. Quickchange coupling makes swapping between a seed bar and the Precea precision unit a half-hour job, extending the drill’s usefulness across the season.

For high-output establishments, Amazone continues to invest in tine-based concepts. The Cut ‘n’ Sow process pairs the TopCut roller with drills such as the Condor or Primera to create a reliable sowing chain even in heavy residue.

The latest Condor 02 builds on the established tine drill concept with a more compact chassis and new 8m and 9m working widths. Key to its appeal is the 20cm row spacing on the ConTeC pro tine coulter, now with automatic pressure control to maintain consistent depth across hills and hollows. The 4,100-litre triple hopper supports exible crop and fertiliser combinations.

The updated Primera DMC 602-2c o ers a 5,000-litre hopper and higher outputs, showing Amazone’s push towards robust tine seeding systems that handle bulky residue without compromising on emergence.

Sprayers and crop care

Amazone’s spraying updates centred on exibility, precision and wear life – themes that echo across the rest of its launch programme.

The Pantera 7004 W self-propelled sprayer arrives with a wider track option adjustable between 2.25 and 3m. For growers handling multiple cropping systems, or those wanting greater stability on hilly ground, that adjustability should add useful versatility. Trimble steering integration is also on the options list, broadening guidance compatibility beyond the in-house system. A more tangible change is the direct inject system, which allows operators to meter in products on demand. That reduces tank contamination and makes it easier to switch between elds and mixes without downtime.

Nozzle technology continues to be a key development area. The new AmaSelect Twin bodies come in two avours – the 2-2-2 version for broadacre work and the slimmer 2-1-2 for row crops – and can be retro tted to existing booms. With 25cm nozzle spacing, automated switching and curve control, the system pushes application accuracy further while minimising overlaps.

Beneath this sits Amazone’s own twist on

pulse-width modulation: PWFM (pulse width frequency modulation). Unlike standard PWM, which modulates valve duty cycle alone, PWFM adds frequency and pressure control into the mix. According to Amazone, that combination extends working speed range by more than 80%, reduces the need to swap nozzle sizes, and crucially, cuts valve wear. The system can automatically switch between pulsing and pressure control depending on speed and duty cycle, avoiding the streaking and misapplication that can occur with conventional PWM. Faster valve actuation also supports spot spraying, and the technology integrates directly with AmaConnect for future digital tie-ins.

Amazone took the opportunity to announce the WeedDetector project, developed with Claas. Here, AI cameras mounted on mowers identify dock weeds in grassland while cutting, creating a weed map than can be wirelessly transferred to an Amazone sprayer. Using AmaSelect or AmaXact, operators can then apply herbicide only where it’s needed, avoiding the costs and restrictions of broadcast treatments.

Mechanical weeding

Mechanical weeding also remains on the agenda. Amazone’s interrow hoes now stretch up to 12.8m wide, with 60cm of lateral adjustment built into the shifting frame. A modular Venterra 1k that can be front- or rear-mounted unit provides exibility for vegetable crops, with camera guidance options ready to slot in as required.

Together, these updates reinforce a push towards accurate, adaptable crop care – combining self-propelled innovation with nozzle technology, digital spot spraying and mechanical hoeing in one broad sweep.

Spreading

If there was a single headline on the spreading front, it was the new AutoSpread system on the updated ZA-TS 01 fertiliser spreader. Developed over six years and tested on more than 100,000ha, the system brings a step-change by monitoring both the direction and distance of granules as they leave the vanes. Until now, spreaders have worked largely from assumptions: a laboratory-calibrated

pattern at best, tweaked by wind sensors or border spreading settings in the eld. AutoSpread goes further, continuously measuring how far the fertiliser is ying and adjusting the spread pattern on the move.

That feedback loop unlocks several practical gains. Section control can now switch precisely at the right point rather than at a theoretical setting, curve control adapts to the real throw distance rather than a xed gure, and the machine can even detect broken or worn vanes. The result is a spreader that calibrates and validates itself as it works, tightening accuracy and giving the operator live assurance that the job is being done right. With NVZ rules and rising fertiliser prices sharpening the focus on precision, this feels like a big step forward at the right time.

Running alongside AutoSpread is EasyMatch, a free AI-based smartphone app for fertiliser identi cation. Using a simple template and a smartphone photo, it creates a “digital ngerprint” of a batch and pulls the correct spreader settings automatically. It’s designed to cut through the confusion of rebranded or imported products, where the same material might appear under multiple di erent names.

Taken together, these two developments mark

a shift towards spreading systems that are not just set up carefully at the start of the season, but adapt and validate themselves with every pass.

Digital systems

Much of Amazone’s hardware development is now tied together by its digital backbone, AmaConnect. More than just an Isobus terminal, the platform is being positioned as a decision-support and quality assurance hub. By linking sensors, implements and farm management software, it enables data-driven control across drilling, spraying and spreading. For operators, that means a clearer record of what’s been applied where, with the scope to layer in prescription maps and validation data from systems like AutoSpread or PWFM.

One of the most striking new tools within this framework is EasyTram, a tramline management system that takes the guesswork out of headlands and wheelings. Instead of relying on half-side shut-o and manual coulter blocking, tramlines are pre-planned once with centimetre precision on an application map, then reproduced identically year after year. That map can be generated by the farm manager or contractor, uploaded to the AmaConnect platform, and sent to the tractor terminal via USB, app, or the AmaConnect unit. From there, the drill automatically switches rows using its MultiSwitch system to create tramlines exactly where they’re needed.

This unlocks more than just tidier bouts. Crops such as oilseed rape can be sown right up to the tramlines at low seed rates without plants being wasted under wheelings. On sloping land, tramlines can be set at an angle across the incline, reducing water erosion without a ecting subsequent spraying passes. The system can also generate additional wheelings for hoeing, slurry tankers or irrigation rigs, giving operators new exibility in crop care. Integrated GPS guidelines even provide virtual pre-emergence markers, guiding sprayers accurately before wheelings are visible.

Amazone claims EasyTram with MultiSwitch single-row control can reduce overlaps to less than 1% on awkward-shaped elds, delivering potential savings of up to around £9,155 per 1,000ha in seed and fertiliser. More importantly, it reduces driver stress and guarantees a consistent, professional nish across di erent operators and machines. FG

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MANNS

Krone’s headquarters in Spelle played host to the international farming press this autumn, to introduce the company’s latest developments. Daniel Hodge was there.

The setting was as much about context as machinery: 2025 marks 25 years since the launch of the BiG X forage harvester, and Krone remains a family business with its roots rmly in Emsland, but with an eye on global markets.

In his welcome, Bernard Krone underlined both the company’s heritage and its outlook. Innovation, he suggested, was not a slogan but a necessity, and one that depends on listening closely to customers.

Mowers, rakes, balers and harvesters all received attention, as did Krone’s e orts in digitalisation and user interfaces. Taken together, they o er a snapshot of where the company sees the industry heading: bigger, faster and more connected, but also designed to make life a little easier for those in the cab.

Rotary rake and baler combo

Krone used the event to present a new machine that blurs traditional boundaries between raking and baling. The Swadro BaleTrain TC 880 Pro is billed as the world’s rst combination rake and round baler, designed for e cient single-person operation.

The twin-rotor rake is permanently linked to a Krone round baler, with the whole unit steered so that the baler faithfully tracks the swathe. A continuous PTO connection drives both machines, while a gearbox allows the operator to disengage the rake if conditions call for baling only.

Krone has also added layers of automation. The AutoBale system lifts the rotors when the baler begins its tying cycle, and if the driver selects reverse, the pick-up and rake also lift to avoid damage. All of this can be monitored through a single Isobus terminal.

Whilst the capital outlay may make some contractors pause, in the right system the BaleTrain has appeal: fewer machines, fewer operators, fewer passes, and the promise of a cleaner, more e cient work ow.

Forage harvesters and headers

Krone’s reputation in forage harvesting rests heavily on its self-propelled BiG X line, and the company used the event to introduce a new mid-

WORLD-FIRST: KRONE’S BALETRAIN LAUNCH

range model, the BiG X 860. Powered by a 16-litre Liebherr engine delivering 843hp and over 4,000 Nm of torque, it plugs a gap between the smaller 700-series machines and the range-topping BiG X 1180. Importantly, the engine meets Stage V emissions standards using only SCR aftertreatment, so no diesel particulate lter or exhaust gas recirculation is needed.

Maximum pulling power arrives at around 1,300rpm, allowing the machine to operate in

Krone’s PowerSplit Eco and X-Power modes. Features such as the large-diameter crop processor and Krone’s VariStream crop ow system remain. SmartConnect telemetry and near-infrared sensors add the data layer, with yield mapping and crop analysis increasingly expected on high-output machines of this scale.

MACHINERY

Alongside the forager, Krone presented the XCollect 750-2 RotoChop, a 7.5m maize header with integrated stubble mulchers mounted directly behind the cutting discs. The idea is to destroy the stubble before it can harbour pests such as European corn borer or fungi like fusarium. Ten independent mulching units span the width, hydraulically controlled from the cab.

Krone claims tackling stubble this way o ers around 50% better destruction rates than tractormounted mulchers, while also eliminating the need for a separate pass.

Mowers

At the front of the tractor, the fourth-generation EasyCut F320 and F360 expand Krone’s line-up of compact, modular front-mounted mowers. Available in Push, Pull, or Plus con gurations, the headstocks can be tailored to di erent operating conditions. Working widths are 3.16m or 3.60m, and include the proven EasyCut cutterbar. With no conditioner, the F320/360 models remain lightweight and can be operated with tractors from around 67hp.

At the other end, Krone demonstrated the new EasyCut B 1250 Fold, a butter y mower combination delivering a working width of up to 12.5m. Designed with Controlled Tra c Farming (CTF) systems in mind, the machine uses a sliding gearbox and hydraulic side shift to adapt to di erent front mower widths. Despite its scale, the patented folding cutterbars allow the mower to travel at under 4m high and 3m wide, keeping it within road limits.

Round balers

Krone’s round baler line-up received two major additions at Spelle. The rst was the ComPack Pro –a exible all-rounder that builds on the Comprima platform. Four versions are o ered: two baler-only models, and two baler-wrapper combinations. Bale sizes can range from 1.25m to 1.5m, making the machine adaptable to grass, hay, straw and silage. Also new on the ComPack Pro is the option of a silage additive dosing system, featuring twin 110-litre tanks. Cameras and Krone’s new Isobus user interface have also been integrated, with a simpler layout and consistent graphics across di erent machines.

If the ComPack Pro is the adaptable middleweight, the CombiPack HDP CV 165 XC represents Krone’s push for outright performance.

Its standout feature is a 41-knife cutting unit, producing chop lengths as short as 27mm. The claimed bene ts are better compaction, faster fermentation and higher forage intake at the feed barrier.

Mechanically, the CombiPack HDP is notable for doing away with chains entirely. The main drive relies on gearboxes and PTO shafts, rated to handle up to 340hp. Throughput is said to be up to 30% higher than conventional machines, with bale densities also improved. A new twin binding system allows a switch between net and lm from the cab.

Together, these two machines show Krone’s attempt to cover both bases: a versatile contractor machine in the ComPack Pro, and a high-density, high-throughput specialist in the CombiPack HDP CV 165 XC.

Square balers

Large square balers remain a cornerstone of Krone’s range, and the company used the event to highlight updates to its agship BiG Pack HDP II 1290 (VC).

At the heart of the machine is Krone’s Variable Fill System (VFS), which uses a pre-chamber and feeder forks to ensure that every plunger stroke is fully loaded. The HDP II also o ers a short-cutting option, with up to 51 knives available in the VC speci cation.

Capacity gures quoted during the launch were ambitious: nearly 150 bales per hour, equating to

around 74 tonnes of straw.

Updates also target ease of use. Crop roller height, previously a manual job, can now be adjusted hydraulically from the cab. Plastic stripper bars on the pick-up reduce wear in stony ground, while new hydraulic start-up assistance smooths operation when the chamber is full. The machine’s knotters continue to use the patented double V-knotter design, now paired with a positive aircleaning system.

Perhaps the most signi cant change is the new AutoCheck mode, which automates several maintenance and timing checks that previously required two people.

As ever, the BiG Pack HDP II 1290 VC is not intended for every farm, but for those who need it, the updates underline Krone’s commitment to making very big balers not just more productive, but more practical to run.

Digital integration

Alongside the hardware, Krone is putting increasing emphasis on the software that ties it all together. The company’s latest Isobus user interface was on display across several machines, bringing a consistent look and feel whether operating a mower, rake or baler.

It may not be as eye-catching as a new forager or baler, but for contractors juggling mixed eets and seasonal sta , a familiar screen layout might make all the di erence.

Krone may still be best known for its balers and forage harvesters, but the latest round of updates shows a steady push in several directions at once: greater working widths, ner chop lengths, higher densities, more automation and a growing digital layer to tie everything together.

Some of the launches will appeal to specialist contractors chasing maximum output per hour; others are aimed at making mainstream kit easier to run and more forgiving for seasonal sta .

Krone’s decision to mark the 25th anniversary of the BiG X with both a new 860 model and a maize header focused on stubble hygiene also re ects a wider theme: e ciency is no longer measured only in tonnes per hour. Field health, fuel use, sta ng pressures and operator comfort are now part of the equation. And in each of those areas, Krone clearly intends to set the pace. FG

JCB marks 80 years with tractor and telehandler launches

JCB welcomed dealers and press to its Rocester headquarters this autumn for what is shaping up to be a signi cant anniversary year. Daniel Hodge reports.

With the company approaching 80 years since its foundation in 1945, the event served both as a celebration of heritage and a showcase of new product development.

Managing director John Smith acknowledged the volatile market conditions of recent years –tractor registrations across Europe have slipped since 2019, with the UK showing particular softness. Yet he pointed to resilience in the materials handling sector and argued that JCB’s longterm strategy of “product leadership” required continuing to invest in new machines, even during uncertain cycles.

The day’s launches re ected that dual focus, with major updates in both tractors and Loadall telehandlers.

Fastrac market gap

One of the clearest themes in John Smith’s introduction was the way in which farms are consolidating their horsepower. While overall tractor sales are down, demand at the top end has remained rm, with buyers expecting fewer machines to do more work.

That is where JCB has long pitched the Fastrac. For more than three decades it has o ered something di erent from conventional tractors: suspension on both axles, truck-standard braking, and higher road speeds, while still capable of pulling heavy implements in the eld. Contractors in particular have found the combination appealing, especially when long road runs are part of the job.

Until now, though, the Fastrac range had a gap. The 4000 Series ends at 235hp, designed as a versatile multi-role machine, while the 8000 Series tops out at 348hp with 70kph road speed. That left a

sizeable middle ground unserved. It is precisely that 240–330hp bracket that the new 6000 Series has been developed to ll.

The 6000 Series unveiled

The two-model 6000 range comprises the 6260, producing 284hp, and the agship 6300 at 335hp. Both use a 6.7-litre FPT NEF six-cylinder diesel, producing 1,275Nm and 1,400Nm of torque respectively. Importantly, around 95% of peak torque is maintained between 1,200–1,800rpm, giving what JCB’s engineers describe as “plenty of back-up grunt” when the revs dip under load.

Transmission is handled by the ZF Eccom 3.1 CVT, which covers four ranges with a high proportion of mechanical drive at typical eld and transport speeds. The design means uninterrupted acceleration up to 66kph, avoiding the shift from eld to road range familiar to most CVTs.

The tractors carry a new chassis design, with a cast front section and fabricated rear. This accommodates an 11t rear lift and optional 5t front linkage, alongside a new 1,000rpm reversible PTO shaft. Weight distribution remains the familiar Fastrac 50:50, intended to improve both traction in the eld and stability on the road.

Tom Mowforth, product manager for Fastrac, told attendees that the project began more than ve years ago and represented the largest single investment JCB has made in its tractor business. “The brief was to create something with the strength and power of the 8000, but in a more compact, manoeuvrable package,” he said.

Hydraulics and PTO options

Hydraulic demand has risen steadily with the size

of implements, and the 6000 Series re ects this. A 205-litre/min variable- ow pump is standard, with an optional twin-pump system on the 6300 delivering up to 410-litres/min. Separate hydraulic oil and transmission circuits reduce the risk of contamination.

The tractors can be tted with up to seven spools, connected via couplings that allow underpressure connection. A Power Beyond circuit is also available.

At the rear, the 11t three-point linkage is attached directly to the axle to maintain suspension movement under load. The PTO is four-speed, while the optional front PTO includes a reversible six- or 21-spline shaft. JCB’s engineers described the reversible shaft as a small change with practical value, enabling a wider range of front-mounted equipment to be used without adaptors.

Central tyre inflation system

The 6000 also introduces a fully integrated central tyre in ation system (CTIS) – the rst time JCB has tted one to a tractor. Twin compressors supply 600 litres/min of air, routed through single lines within the axles. This avoids external pipework, reducing the risk of damage from hedges or gateposts.

Switching between eld and road pressures can be done in a matter of minutes. JCB’s gures suggest four minutes to in ate from 1 bar to 2 bar, and less than a minute to de ate. Operators can make the change on the move, meaning a tractor can leave the eld at low pressure and be ready for the road by the time it reaches the lane.

The bene ts are familiar to those using CTIS on other machines; improved traction and less slip in the eld, combined with reduced compaction. On the road, higher pressures improve stability and extend tyre life.

Suspension and steering

Another focus has been steering and ride. The 6000 carries hydro-pneumatic suspension front and rear, allowing the tractor to “squat” under heavy implements or demountable equipment such as a sprayer. Four-wheel steering is standard, with multiple modes including true tracking and rear delay, useful when manoeuvring long trailed implements into tramlines or gateways.

Unlike the mechanical lockout on the 4000 Series, the new tractors use a progressive hydraulic system. As speed rises beyond 17kph, rear-wheel steering phases out gradually, giving what JCB engineers say is a smoother transition to stable twowheel steering at road speed.

Braking and safety

At 66kph, braking performance is a central issue. The 6000 introduces single-calliper outboard discs on all four wheels, replacing the twin-calliper design of previous Fastracs. JCB says this change addresses noise and vibration seen in testing, while also improving serviceability.

Replacing pads and discs can be done in around three hours, compared with the day or more typically required on inboard systems. Outboard discs also aid cooling, helping to keep braking consistent.

Wear sensors on each corner alert the operator before pads deteriorate – believed to be an industry rst for tractors. ABS is standard, along with a trailer ABS socket.

 The 555-70 can lift 5.5t to a 7m lift height.

 Autoboom assist kept the forks in a vertical plane in an impressive manner.

Endurance testing

The tractors have been in endurance eets for more than two years, accumulating hours in real farm conditions rather than just test tracks. Feedback has come from customers in the UK, Germany, the US and beyond, with Tom Mowforth describing his role as a “translation service” between the eld and the design o ce.

According to JCB, feedback on horsepower, soil protection and manoeuvrability all fed directly into the design. Demonstrations at Rocester showed the GPS system in action, with twin receivers giving quicker line acquisition and automated headland turns.

New Loadalls expand the line-up

The tractor launch was followed by additions to the Loadall range. The 546-70 and 555-70 build on the 542-70, o ering more capacity without increasing machine size.

The 546-70 lifts 4.6t, about 9% more than the 542-70, while the 555-70 reaches 5.5t, nearly a quarter more. Both machines share the 7m lift height.

Power comes from 130–173hp DieselMAX engines. AGRI Super and AGRI Xtra versions use a 40kph DualTech VT transmission, while AGRI Pro speci cation raises this to 50kph. DualTech’s hydrostatic control at low speeds switches seamlessly to powershift for higher speeds, aiming to balance precision around buildings with e ciency on the road.

AGRI Pro models also engage four-wheel drive under braking, while air trailer brakes are available as a factory t. A Sway Control system (previously limited to larger machines) is now o ered, allowing the chassis to be levelled from the cab on uneven ground.

IntelliAssist and IntelliWeigh

The new handlers also introduce operator support systems. IntelliAssist o ers automation for repetitive boom movements, such as height and reach limits,

or return-to-dig and return-to-load positions. Auto boom extension and retraction help keep attachments on a straighter path when stacking.

Hydraulic re nements include adjustable ow to soften control response and an Inverse Front Auxiliary function that reverses oil ow without swapping hoses.

IntelliWeigh provides integrated weighing using hydraulic pressure and boom position, rather than external load cells. It can record individual bucket weights, total loads, and set target weights to prevent over lling feeders or trailers. Data links to JCB’s LiveLink system for recordkeeping and analysis.

The systems are optional, but JCB suggests they will appeal both to less experienced drivers, by reducing the chance of error, and to contractors seeking greater consistency across their eets.

Closing thoughts

Between the Fastrac 6000 Series and the two new Loadalls, JCB has targeted two areas of demand it believes are growing: higher horsepower tractors with transport capability, and smarter telehandlers with more operator support.

Both launches were presented as part of an ongoing feedback loop between JCB engineers and customers. With Agritechnica 2025 approaching, and the company’s 80th anniversary on the horizon, the Rocester event was as much about showing that process as it was about unveiling machines.

Farmers and contractors will now decide whether the new tractors and handlers deliver the mix of power, technology and practicality they require. FG

VIBRANT ATMOSPHERE AT 2025 UK DAIRY DAY

Over 8,000 people visited the Telford International Centre for this year’s UK Dairy Day –and while the agricultural industry in general is facing signi cant pressures, the overall sentiment was one of resilience and investing in the future. Sarah Kidby reports.

The national event featured over 300 trade stands, while cow numbers for the annual Cattle Show were over 140 despite labour pressures on farm and animal health restrictions due to bluetongue. New for this year was the enhanced practical demonstration area, featuring AHDB and Shropshire Farm Vets, who demonstrated the bene ts of lung scanning – a non-invasive and quick process that is used for earlier detection of disease and potential causes in the rearing process.

Unsurprisingly the seminar programme featured a talk on inheritance tax, which saw Roy Jackson, of WR Partners advise on strategies to mitigate planned changes to APR and BPR, such as: reviewing the ownership and structure of the farming business; reviewing asset ownership; and considering any assets with Hope Value or potential for signi cant capital growth in value. Other points discussed included gifting to the next generation/trust, life insurance for donors and donees, and pre/post nuptial agreements.

This year’s show also coincided with Back British Farming Day, led by the NFU, to celebrate

At the time of the show, Neogen’s cleaning and disinfectant business had recently become Quat Chem and is now part the Kersia Group. The team took the opportunity to reassure visitors that the acquisition means the same trusted products and team, backed by the strength of Kersia.

The main product being promoted at the show was Syno lm GL – an all-season postmilking teat dip based on a blend of lactic acid and glycolic acid. Key bene ts include: enhanced moisturisation as the glycolic acid gently removes dead skin cells; double defence against teat

the contributions of British farmers and raise awareness of the sector’s challenges. NFU Dairy Board chair Paul Tompkins commented: “It’s always a pleasure that the two coincide because dairy farming is the primary agricultural sector that delivers trailblazers in so many ways, and Back British Farming is a day to celebrate that. We celebrate the hard work that dairy workers do each and every day across the country – raising that pro le with politicians, decision makers and the public alike.

“There’s an energy here that’s good to see but we also know that we’re facing into the challenges that are ever present in dairy farmers’ minds whether that be the weather, regulation changes, or markets uctuating. Dairy farmers want to be part of the growth agenda and grow the value supply chain, and I think that is mirrored across processors and retailers too. There are some challenges to get there, but I have every con dence that the dairy industry will address those challenges and get on with them.”

Mr Tompkins came to the show fresh from a meeting with the new secretary of state Emma

Reynolds, and had also met new farming minister Angela Eagle the previous day. He said: “The success of dairy farming is partly dependent on the support of a highly functioning DEFRA department so it’s good to see that the new farming minister is a strongly detailed person –she’s somebody that wants to understand all the nuances to make an informed decision and that’s a positive. It’s also a positive that the secretary of state recognises the importance of dairy farming in the agriculture sector.”

The show also saw the launch of the rst Association of Dairy Producer Organisations (ADPO) – by founding members Davidstow Creamery Direct (DCD), MMG Dairy Farmers, the Milk Suppliers Association (MSA), and Selkley Vale Milk Group (SVMG). The ADPO aims to give a uni ed voice to farmers who are members of registered DPOs across Great Britain; and to support other dairy farmers seeking to formalise and professionalise their relationships with milk buyers. The initiative recognises the growing need for structured, e ective and respectful dialogue between farmers and the dairy processing sector.

The next UK Dairy Day will take place on Wednesday 16th September 2026 at Telford International Centre, Shropshire. FG

Benefitting dairy farmers with asset funding solutions

Despite the challenges facing agriculture, farmers were particularly keen to talk about investing in automation and diversi cation at UK Dairy Day this year, according to Jack Male and Charlie Craddock, of Shire Leasing. As it can be di cult to nd funding for such projects from traditional banks, farmers are increasingly turning to asset nance.

Shire Leasing Plc is a funder/ broker trading since 1990, while Finance For Farms was formed in 2012 – funding anything from livestock and equipment, to land, buildings and renewables. It’s predominantly an unsecured, short-term nance provider, starting with deals as low as £10,000 with a maximum term of seven years.

Charlie said: “Farming businesses are always looking at the future and planning ahead – this could be through anything from increasing stock numbers and expanding farming operations, to utilising land in di erent ways through diversi cation projects. At Finance For Farms we are glad to support all funding requirements.”

Jack believes that many farms’ traditional stance of turning to

their banks for nancial support is changing, mainly due to the quicker turnaround, specialism in working with farms, and attentiveness available from businesses like Shire.

“Banks can take several working days or even weeks to get to some decisions we can get to in a matter of hours. A lot of customers like dealing with us because instead of speaking to several people in a call centre, they prefer to have a contact they know they can get in touch with; either Charlie or myself are always available.

“We never have our phones o so it’s quite common for a farmer to get in touch on the weekend and say ‘I want to go to a sale next week and there’s some kit or livestock I want to buy. Can you get that in place for us?’ You’re not getting that from a mainstream bank.”

There’s also been a shift towards nancing in general – while in the past, farmers may not have purchased new cattle if they didn’t have the cash, nancing has become more normalised, Jack added. “Our point is, spread the cost, pay it monthly or quarterly whilst that project you’re working on is going to generate the capital to pay for it. Nine times out of 10 we’re funding cash ow positive

deals – the asset is generating more than what it’s costing.”

Despite challenges in the industry, there was a positive atmosphere at the show. Charlie said: “Farming prices can often be volatile, our products provide

a xed, budget-friendly solution that can be tailored for all sized farms. Cash ow is paramount in every business and Finance For Farms are always looking to support the agricultural sector where we can.” FG

A new chapter in hygiene excellence

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Quat Chem will continue to deliver the high-quality cleaners and disinfectants you’ve relied on, now with the added strength of being part of a global leader in food safety and biosecurity.

Call your usual supplier to continue ordering Neogen Viroxide Super, Farm Fluid MAX, Synergize®, Farm Foam EVO and all your favourite cleaning and disinfecting products. If you've not ordered from us before get in touch here:

The goal should always be to obtain "Green Status". Calves of optimum lgG status will perform better both in the short and long term which is critical for welfare, sustainability, and profitability.

AMBER

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Calves of "Red Status" require an immediate intervention in partnership with your vet or youngstock specialist to investigate and rectify. Calves in the red range have been shown to achieve reduced daily liveweight gains (up to 11%) and up to 46% increase in antibiotic use (mg/PCU).

Working with our network of local engineers and installers we are able to offer technical support, a service and repair facility for all types of lamb and calf feeding equipment, along with an extensive range of spare parts and consumables

CowManager specialist Christo Steyn.

Ear tag and cow management specialists, CowManager, launched two new innovations at the show – a new model for youngstock, and the ‘Find my Cow’ Flash functionality. CowManager ear tags measure rumination, activity, eating behaviour and ear temperature, which combines to provide an algorithm for health alerts and heat alerts to time insemination – plus a nutrition module for feed intake and heat stress alerts; and a module to monitor the transition period.

Area marketing manager Bart Oors commented on the launch of the new youngstock model: “The USP is you have one sensor for calf, heifer and cow, with di erent algorithms for youngstock and adult cows – and it switches automatically from the calf to the cow algorithm after 180 days. We have a calf development graph to compare that speci c calf to the rest of the group, and health alerts for diseases such as pneumonia and diarrhoea can be sent out three days before clinical signs appear.”

Other key bene ts include the cloud-based nature of the system, which means innovations are in the ear tag straight away. Plus, the tags are reusable so there’s no need to buy more unless you expand your herd. Also new was the Flash functionality, which Bart said can save signi cant time spent searching for speci c cows – now, farmers who do not have a sort gate can use the app to pinpoint a particular cow for arti cial insemination or treatment.

Zoetis POM-V account manager Rob Smith said the company’s new Protivity vaccine – the rst and only modi ed live vaccine for Mycoplasma bovis – has been well received by farmers since its o cial launch at the end of last year.

The vaccine o ers active immunisation of calves from one week of age to reduce clinical signs and lung lesions caused by M bovis. Challenge studies have shown a 74% reduction in lung lesions among vaccinated calves. Field studies also showed a signi cant increase in average daily weight gain, and reduced antibiotic use.

Two doses of 2ml are required 21 days apart, administered subcutaneously in the neck, and Protivity comes in 10-dose vaccine packs. Onset of immunity is from 12 days, so protection is possible by six weeks of age.

Unique on-farm calf immunity test

Animal health company Bimeda kept the focus on its Coseicure trace element boluse range and on-farm IgG testing kits. The ImmunIGY Bovine IgG is relatively new to the market and unique in a number of ways, explained market activation manager Connor Smith. It can be used to determine whether a calf has received su cient IgG antibodies on farm in just 10 minutes.

BD Supplies returned to the show with the majority of its hoof trimming and animal husbandry equipment, plus its very popular KVK cattle crush. The farmer model –the 650-SP2 – is developed for medium-sized and large farms to provide e cient and ergonomic trimming with low maintenance requirements.

Features include: a hydraulic harness hoist, a hydraulic lift that adjusts chute working height, a hot dip galvanised frame, e ective light sources at all working sites and a hydraulic hoist in all four legs. Its hydraulic functions are also moderated to eliminate the risk of injury to the animals.

company owner.

Additional options include a hydraulically operated front and rear gate, and hoof support plate control.

The lateral ow device can be used in calves up to 42 days of age, with a blood sample obtained from the calf’s nose, and gives an answer in mg/mL. Results indicate whether the calf has received enough high-quality colostrum in the correct time frame.

Red or amber scores in tests have been linked to signi cantly lower daily liveweight gain and higher antimicrobial usage. Routine monitoring helps to reduce neonatal disease, time and labour treating calves, antibiotic treatments and lifelong productivity impacts.

Yardscrapers draw attention at show

Ian Burnell, owner of Devon yardscraper specialists, Maxiscrape, said there had been lots of interest and new customers for the company’s range of box scrapers at the show. All machines are British made and fully galvanised with linkage or A frame, and Hardox in the tips – plus a choice of rubber blades.

There are ve width and two box capacity options, twin door push-pull operation and fully oating sides for uneven surfaces.

The Maxi-Plus larger capacity box scraper clears away muck, slurry, snow and water, making quick work of cleaning large areas of concrete on many dairy, beef, pig and poultry farms on a daily basis.

The Maxi-Plus larger capacity box scraper

Diet

Agricultural engineers HF Evans & Son attended for the third year, bringing the Rino diet feeder, imported from Polish manufacturer Euromilk. HF Evans rst imported the Rino feeders to the UK around two years ago and is currently the sole UK importer.

Key features include its build quality, ability to customise to each customer’s requirement, good lead times, and 24-hour service and back-up, explained Sophie Evans. “There was a lot of interest as it’s still a relatively new brand. It takes a lot for people to change brands but the more machines we get onto farms the more interest there is. And Dairy Day is the show where you get genuine leads.”

The Rino diet feeder is available in 5–50m3 capacity, with augers from 15–25mm. It comprises a Comer gearbox, Dinamica generale weighing and is constructed from S355J2+N steel.

After much work to raise awareness of the impact of Q fever on UK dairy farms, Gill Ainge, marketing manager at Ceva Animal Health, said vaccine uptake is now on the increase and many farmers are beginning to see the bene ts for herd fertility.

Q fever has the potential to cost producers over £7,000 a year in a 100-cow dairy herd. Productivity impacts can include weak newborns, abortions, infertility, stillbirths, premature calving, metritis and retained placenta. Q fever is also a zoonosis.

Among the case studies being discussed at the show was Chester farmer Mary Ankers who milks 100 Holstein cows and averages 10,400 litres per cow per year. Fertility concerns prompted a discussion with their vet about Q fever, and after tests came back positive they were keen to get on top of it, so started vaccinating in 2023. Within a few weeks, they were seeing much more heat from the cows so they could start serving sooner. They’ve since had minimal abortions, hardly any early pregnancy losses and very little metritis.

Greencrop’s manager William Skea outlined the company’s irrigation and slurry machinery at Dairy Day. Headlining the stand was the SEPCOM 065 screw press separator, capable of up to 40m³/hr (depending on feed solids and setup). Also featured was an 11kW 3-phase mixer, available with di erent impellers and motor sizes to suit various slurry pit capacities. An electric long-shaft pump with a 7.5kW rotor and mixing device was demonstrated, with a PTO version also available. For parlour water applications, Greencrop highlighted its own-brand dirty water pump, handling up to 27m³/hr.

Completing the line-up was the Doda HD35 PTO slurry pump, a wellknown tractor-driven model featuring return-to-tank, spongeball line cleaning, and two hydraulic gate valves. The pump can process around 200m³/hr, is fully galvanised, and tted with a hydraulic primer on a 4–5in outlet. Finally, Greencrop showed a 4kW submersible pump mounted on a galvanised stand. With a DN65 outlet, it delivers up to 50m³/hr to 8m head, and uses Star–Delta control for soft start. Based in Norfolk, Greencrop holds the UK franchises for Saveco and Kemper.

Electric cubicle brush a hit on dairy farms

RS Agri showcased its new muck spreader, which originally launched at this year’s Dairy-Tech, alongside an electric version of the EVO-BED Nova cubicle brush, which has proved to be a real hit with dairy farmers, explained company director Sam Lloyd.

“One customer had a demo of the petrol version but when it went into his robot sheds it stressed the cows out, because they weren’t used to the noise. He’s now bought an electric version and he absolutely loves it – he can’t nd any fault with it. It will do 700 cubicles on one charge, and will recharge overnight. It’s easy to use, with only grease point maintenance required and no oils to change.”

An electric version of the EVO-BED Orion cubicle bedder is also coming soon, Sam added.

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Visitors keen to seek silage advice

Given this season’s silage supply changes, Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) had great engagement with livestock producers seeking advice about silage feeding and their test results, and where to nd Forage Analysis Assurance Group (FAA) Group members. AIC attended the event to showcase the services o ered by the members of the Feed Adviser Register (FAR) which is a professional register for livestock nutritionists and the FAA group of laboratories o ering assured analysis of silage.

There was also signi cant interest in feed professionals enquiring about joining the FAR professional Register and producers enquiring about sourcing nutritional advice from FAR members. It was very exciting to see so many young people showing enthusiasm for careers in agri-business too, the company said. The AIC lea et, Careers in the Animal Feed Supply Chain, was a particularly popular takeaway from the stand.

Edwards Seaweed Fertiliser UK won the best medium trade stand on the day for its display, which included a drone from Aerial Applications. Company owner David Edwards explained that the fertiliser products are made with natural UK seaweed, which is manufactured and blended at its base on the Shropshire border. It is supplied to the whole of the UK and Ireland. “The shows this year have been absolutely phenomenal – more and more farmers are looking to move across to a natural seaweed fertiliser," he said. "This is a UK fertiliser whereas a lot of chemical fertilisers come from around the world and there’s been a lot of issues with troubles in other parts of the world making fertiliser deliveries di cult. We’ve got it readily available and can get it out to farms in 2–3 days.

“One product will go across the farm, you can use it on grassland, cereals, horticultural, potatoes, fruit trees. And we can outperform 20-10-10 chemical fertilisers at around half of the cost.”

The product is used by well-known farmers such as Gareth Wyn Jones, Cammy Wilson and the Frustrated Farmer, and is very easy to apply using any crop sprayer or a drone in areas that are di cult to access.

David added: “With cereal prices being where they are and the low yields people had due to the weather, it’s been a really bad season. So what we're suggesting is that you go in with a pre-emergence spray with some seaweed and Easy Bio-N to push the crop into a very good state going through the winter. Then reappraise the situation and make a decision on what to do next spring.”

Dairymaster showcased its DairyVue 360 management platform in the UK for the rst time at Dairy Day. The move follows two years of successful deployment and re nement in international markets.

“DairyVue 360 has already helped farmers across the globe take control of their operations,” said Derrick Davies, UK business development manager. “We’re excited to now o er this proven technology to UK farmers, giving them the tools to thrive in a competitive and evolving industry.”

DairyVue 360 collects real-time data from the milking parlour – including milk yield, let-down time, ow rates, and performance deviations. This data is analysed and displayed via an intuitive dashboard accessible on desktop or mobile.

The platform supports remote diagnostics and troubleshooting, enabling dealer technicians to resolve issues quickly – often without needing to visit the farm. Farmers can also customise milking settings for individual cows and integrate fertility and health monitoring systems for proactive herd management. Bene ts include: improved e ciency, pro tability and animal welfare, and reduced labour and downtime. It’s also scalable and user-friendly, suitable for small herds to large-scale operations.

DairyVue 360 is now available through Dairymaster’s UK dealer network.

New silage additive

Known for its feed supplements, Rumenco drew interested farmers to its stand with a new silage additive which launched at the show. NovaSile CS (Cool and Stable) is a bacterial inoculant for enhancing fermentation and improving aerobic stability. It is comprised of Lactobacillus plantarum, Enterococcus lactis, and Lactobacillus buchneri

The product reduces spoilage at feed out, ensures less waste at the tops and shoulders of clamps, keeps silage fresher for longer, and reduces yeast by 98% and mould by 94%. Treated silage has shown lower ammonia content (26% lower on average), so protein content is better preserved. DM recovery of 4–6% can be achieved, plus aerobic stability of 6+ days compared to 1–2 days for traditional inoculants.

It works by helping to control fermentation, by converting sugars in silage to lactic acid and acetic acid, causing the pH level to drop rapidly which preserves nutrients such as protein and DM. Each 200g sachet treats 100t fresh forage.

MAKING DAIRY DATA WORK

so your solutions can drive effciency and sustainability on farm

DAIRY STRATEGY REVEALS PROGRESS

Reduced lameness, better udder health and improved cow comfort are all key outcomes of an earlystage review of the UK Dairy Cattle Welfare Strategy 2023–2028. Launched two years ago by Ruminant Health and Welfare (RH&W) with the support of NFU, AHDB and 19 industry signatories, the latest data and evidence from the strategy shows advancements across the six welfare goals: healthy feet; thriving cows; healthy udders; comfortable cows; appropriately nourished cows; and positive welfare.

pedigree Holsteins and 200-plus followers by focusing on improving mobility in recent years with the implementation of the Healthy Feet Programme.

“A team e ort and zero tolerance towards lameness, focused attention to detail, plus simple protocols and procedures have together made a great di erence to overall herd foot health. We are seeing 30% less lameness identi ed through mobility scoring, with massive reductions in digital dermatitis, sole ulcers and white line disease playing a key part in this,”

With more than one out of two herds testing positive for Q Fever (in some areas of the UK), farmers can no longer afford to ignore this disease1,2

Cattle are mainly infected by breathing in air particles contaminated with the bacteria.

Infected cows, even if asymptomatic, shed C. burnetii mainly through birth or abortion products, but also in vaginal mucus, faeces and milk4

A key achievement the launch of the GB Manifesto in Now backed

A key achievement during this period has been the launch of the GB Dairy Cow Lameness Manifesto in January 2025. Now backed by over 25 signatories across industry, the manifesto details 21 action points across four strategies to reduce lameness prevalence to less than 5% in 95% of British dairy herds by 2044.

foot health. We are seeing 30% less scoring, with massive reductions ulcers and white line disease says Mr Twose. highlights improvements in udder health,

Dairy farmer Richard Twose.

The report also highlights improvements in udder health, with reduced somatic cell counts and an improving mastitis picture, while cow comfort also took a step forward, as evidenced by less hair loss and fewer lesions and swellings.

somatic cell

Dr Alison Russell, animal health and welfare scientist at AHDB, adds: “With industry input, LANTRA has accredited two new levels of foot trimming award focused on urgent treatment and routine prevention, with 362 successful course completions by farmers since 2024. We’ve also seen the expansion of the Register of Mobility Scorers, which now boasts 860 accredited scorers, and the development of the AHDB's Healthy Feet Programme.”

Farmer Richard Twose, from the Carmarthenshire/Pembrokeshire border, has seen signi cant levels of improvement in his herd of 400

There were also positive welfare advancements, with an increased focus on providing opportunities for cows to exhibit natural behaviours, such as access to brushes and outdoor areas.

RH&W chairman, Gwyn Jones adds: “There is much to celebrate. Yes, economic and environmental pressures on farmers remain and continue to impact welfare outcomes, but there is already evidence to show improvement and goals are achievable.”

Find the UK Dairy Cattle Welfare Strategy 2023–2028 review of progress report at: https:// ruminanthw.org.uk/ FG

• Q Fever is endemic in GB dairy herds1

• It causes reproduction and fertility issues to cattle, sheep and goats2

C.burnetii is able to travel up to 11 m carried by the wind and infect other herds in the process5

• It is also a zoonosis, risking the health of those working with livestock

• It is caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetti

• Animals shed bacteria at calving in vaginal mucous, also in milk and faeces, with infection caused through inhalation of the bacteria.

• Coxiella b. can be carried on the wind3,4,5

• Coxiella b. is persistent, surviving up to 5 months in soil6

Agriculture is evolving at pace, and so too must the infrastructure that supports it. Farmers today face growing demands for e ciency, resilience, and adaptability in every aspect of their operations. Creagh Concrete, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading precast manufacturers, has engineered a solution designed to meet those challenges head-on: the Creagh L Wall.

With over 50 years of experience driving innovation in concrete design, Creagh has become a trusted partner across multiple

Sustainable silicone for dairy

Since 1987, Silclear has pioneered the use of silicone in the dairy sector, supplying tubing, liners and components which help farmers to improve animal comfort, milk quality and system e ciency.

industries. The company says its precast L Walls embody that expertise – delivering strength, reliability, and exibility to the agricultural sector. Built with high-strength C45/55 concrete and designed to perform for up to 50 years, with exposure classes of XC3/4, XD2, XF2 these walls o er unmatched durability while remaining quick and easy to install, Creagh reckons.

Available in a range of sizes, from 1.5m to an impressive 3.75m in height, Creagh’s L Walls can be

tailored to t the unique needs of any farm. Whether building silage clamps, slurry containment, ood defences, or aggregate bays, farmers can rely on a product that is engineered for performance and adaptable to changing requirements. The modular, bolt-down design allows for ease of relocation, ensuring that infrastructure can grow and shift alongside evolving farm operations.

Creagh understands that agriculture is about more than just function – it’s also about

the environment in which farms operate. That’s why L Walls are also available with a brick-clad nish, combining durability with enhanced visual appeal. This option allows agricultural structures to integrate more seamlessly into their surroundings, meeting both operational and community expectations.

From delivery to installation, Creagh provides a complete service across the UK and Ireland. Each unit is designed for safe handling, e cient installation, and secure xing using a resin-anchored foundation system. The result is a cost-e ective solution that minimises downtime, reduces on-site labour, and provides longlasting peace of mind.

Creagh’s reputation for quality and innovation is well-earned. The company says its L Walls are more than just retaining walls – they are an investment in the long-term success of agricultural businesses. By o ering versatility, durability, and customisation, Creagh is helping farmers strengthen their foundations and prepare for the future with con dence.

More information is available at www.creaghconcrete.com FG

The company says its liners last up to 10,000 milkings; around four times longer than traditional black rubber alternatives, providing farmers a cost-e ective solution to reduce mastitis risk, save on labour, reduce replacement frequency and minimise downtime.

Silaclear’s latest innovation takes things one step further. Re-Sil is Silclear’s unique recycled silicone material, created to tackle the severe waste challenge facing the silicone industry. Every year, over three million tonnes of silicone are produced, yet only a tiny fraction of this is currently recycled. With Re-Sil we take scrap silicone, otherwise

destined for land ll, and is reprocessed into high-quality, food-grade products; giving waste material a second life and helping farmers to reduce their environmental footprint.

In September, Silclear attended UK Dairy Day and proudly shared not only its trusted dairy solutions, but also its vision for a more sustainable future. With Re-Sil, farmers maintain the performance bene ts of silicone while also knowing their choices are part of the solution, the company concludes.

Find out more at https:// silclear.com/re-sil-recycledsilicone/ FG

New calf strategy launches at Dairy Day

The GB Calf Strategy 2025-30 – put together by AHDB, NFU, Innovation for Agriculture and Ruminant Health and Welfare –challenges the dairy-beef sector to ensure every calf is reared with care, purpose and value.

The new strategy outlines three key focus areas – right calf, right start and right route – with measurable goals and actions listed for each. It builds on the progress from the 2020-2023 strategy, with industry input from 45 farmers, vets, processors, retailers and industry bodies.

Gwyn Jones, Ruminant Health and Welfare (RH&W) chairman, said: “There has been signi cant change since we initially developed a calf strategy back in 2020, but we all continue to have a role to play so this new ve-year strategy is launching at a key time for the industry.

“Since 2014, dairy-beef calf registrations have risen by 74%, and in 2024, dairy-beef made up 37% of prime age cattle slaughtered which is a clear sign of the sector’s commitment to rear every calf with purpose as part of an integrated supply chain.”

Sarah Tomlinson, lead veterinary science expert at AHDB, explained that every calf born should have the right genetics, the right start and the right route, but delivering on this ambitious strategy will not be without its challenges.

The ‘right calf’ focus area is designed to drive better breeding strategies in the industry. AHDB lead animal genetics expert Harriet Bunning said: “When a calf is bred with a clear purpose, it’s far more likely to enjoy good health, welfare and environmental outcomes. That starts with breeding decisions that consider the end purpose of the animal from day one. To enable this, we need to provide genetic information which is backed by clear advice and solid data so farmers can make informed choices.”

Meanwhile, the right start focus is all about encouraging evidence-based best practice rearing management in the sector. The goal is to see standard operating procedures in place on all farms, peer networks to share learning, and a clear professional pathway for calf rearers.

Finally the right route focus is designed to ensure every calf

has access to the right route to market, whether that is through an integrated dairy-beef scheme, direct sale or an auction market. NFU livestock adviser Phoebe Traquair said the group wants to remove market barriers for calves where possible, ensuring bio-secure routes to market are accessible to herds a ected by bTB.

The strategy is available to view and download at: https:// ruminanthw.org.uk FG

Rispoval® IntraNasal

From 9 days old 3 months later Up to 9 months protection

2

Giving a single shot booster vaccination of Rispoval 2 following Rispoval IntraNasal RS-Pl3 provides protection for up to 9 months*

*Up to 9 months BRSV and 6 months Pi3 virus cover - 2 of the major viral pathogens in the Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) complex.

Rispoval® RS+PI3 IntraNasal contains Bovine parainfluenza virus 3 (PI3V), strain RLB 103, live and Bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), strain 375, live. POM-V.

Rispoval 2 / BRSV + Pi3 lyophilisate and solvent for suspension for injection for cattle contains Bovine parainfluenza virus 3 (Pi3V), strain RLB 103, live and Bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), strain 375, live with an adjuvanted liquid solvent. POM-V.

For further information please see the products’ SPC or contact Zoetis UK Ltd, Birchwood Building, Springfield Dr, Leatherhead, KT22 7LP • www.zoetis.co.uk • Customer Support: 0345 300 8034 or customersupportUK@zoetis.com • Use medicines responsibly (www.noah.co.uk/responsible). Prescription decisions are for the person issuing the prescription alone.

Date of preparation: July 2025 • MM-42299

Advanced Healing for Newborn Animals

Micellerate Dermacare

Micellerate Dermacare Navel & Wound Spray is designed to support healing with natural ingredients, helping to promote faster healing and reduce infection. It offers an innovative solution with a sustainable, non-aerosol design.

Key Benefits:

Supports Quick Navel Drying & Healing

Antibiotic-free with natural antibacterial and antifungal properties to aid natural drying and healing. Bitter taste prevents licking.

Soothing & Protective

Relieves pain, calms irritated skin and promotes a healthy healing environment.

Helps Reduce Infection Risk

Forms a breathable protective barrier which helps prevent bacterial growth.

Better local & general

More gut commensals to fight gut & respiratory DISEASE pathogens

IMMUNITY ght

GIVING CALVES THE BEST START

The navel is a direct pathway into a newborn calf’s bloodstream. If not properly managed, it can become a gateway for harmful bacteria, leading to infections such as joint ill or navel ill. These issues can lead to longterm health setbacks and increased treatment costs.

Micellerate Dermacare has been specially developed to deliver fastacting, natural protection where it’s needed most. The spray contains a synergistic blend of essential oils and naturally derived actives that are proven to support healing while reducing the risk of infection.

Key bene ts for calf health:

• Fast drying and long-lasting barrier on the navel to reduce infection risk

• Natural ingredients – no harsh chemicals or iodine

• Supports rapid healing of cuts, scrapes, and minor wounds

• Ideal for use at birth and for treating minor injuries during rearing

• Easy application with a precision spray nozzle – even in challenging weather.

Spray Micellerate Dermacare liberally onto the calf’s navel immediately after birth to help dry and protect the area. It can also be used to treat minor abrasions, post dehorning wounds, or any skin damage that may occur during housing or transport.

Its natural formulation means it's gentle enough for repeated use, yet powerful enough to o er e ective antimicrobial protection.

Using Micellerate Dermacare as part of your standard newborn protocol can help give calves the best possible start. Healthy calves grow better, perform better, and require less intervention later in life – a simple spray can make all the di erence.

Trusted by farmers

Farmers using Micellerate Dermacare report cleaner navels, fewer cases of joint ill, and a more natural healing

INCREASED daily live weight gain and weight at weaning healthy gut microbiome

Protecting the health of newborn calves starts from the moment they hit the ground. One critical aspect of calf care is proper navel management and wound care – which is where Micellerate Dermacare Navel and Wound Spray can act as an essential tool in every calf-rearing system, says Provita Animal Health.

Longer gut villi which allows more ABSORPTION of vitamins and nutrients

process without the need for harsh chemical products. It’s also ideal for organic and conventional systems seeking a more natural approach to calf care.

One farmer said: “Since we started using Provita’s Micellerate Dermacare, we have not had any cases of joint ill and haven’t needed to use any antibiotics, which is a big change from previous years. It dries in very quickly and is easy to apply. You can tell it’s working – it has a bitter smell and taste that the calves hate, so they leave the treated area alone. We also use it on cuts and scrapes – it’s a handy all-rounder to have on the farm."

Calf protection

Do you dread hearing the ‘S-word’ –scour – or the ‘P-word’ – pneumonia – in the calf shed? Are you sick of tubing sick calves, running back and forth with electrolytes, and paying for costly vet callouts? Every farmer knows that the first few weeks of a calf’s life are the most critical, and when scour or pneumonia strike, they not only take time and money to treat but can set calves back for life.

Good management, hygiene, and colostrum protocols are vital, but even the best-run farms can still face health challenges. That’s why many farmers are now turning to Provita Protect to give calves the best possible start, the company explains.

A newborn calf is born with a sterile gut. Colostrum provides vital antibodies, but that’s only half the job, the gut needs to be quickly colonised with bene cial bacteria to help build a strong immune system and stop harmful bugs from taking

hold. If “bad bacteria” get in rst, scour and other illnesses are far more likely.

Provita Protect is a licensed veterinary probiotic (POM-VPS) designed speci cally for calves. It contains three EU-approved strains of bacteria that colonise the gut immediately after birth. This forms a natural protective barrier, stabilises the gut, and supports immunity from the inside out – helping calves stay healthy and thrive.

And it’s not just theory – it’s proven. Trials on hundreds of calves show that using Protect at birth reduced scour cases by 83%, cut respiratory problems (including pneumonia) by 70%, and improved daily liveweight gain by 31%. By weaning, calves were on average 10% heavier than those not given Protect. Farmers using Protect consistently report easier calf rearing, fewer sick days, and a smoother weaning process.

Wouldn’t it be nice to spend less time treating sick calves and more time focusing on the rest of the jobs? Scour and pneumonia are two of the biggest causes of antibiotic use on farm. By preventing them, you save on treatments, labour, and stress while helping fight the bigger battle against antibiotic resistance.

Protect is quick and simple to use. It’s given as a single oral dose right after colostrum feeding on day one and one dose on day two and three, meaning calves get that protective layer from day one. It slots easily into your current calf routine, and because it’s a licensed product, you know it’s been tested for safety, quality, and e ectiveness, the company concludes. FG

KWS DOMINATES LATEST MAIZE DL

KWS leads the charge with four out of six of the rst-choice maize varieties for dry matter yield (t/ ha) on the 2026 NIAB Descriptive List (DL) for favourable sites, strengthening its position as a key innovator in the UK maize market.

KWS also claims the top three spots on the less favourable list, with a total of six varieties added for the rst time across the entirety of the DL.

Commenting on the announcement, Andrew Cook, KWS’s

maize product manager, says: “We’re delighted that our varieties have secured such strong recognition on the NIAB Descriptive List for 2026.

“We’ve ramped up our testing and selection procedure and are now testing more varieties across more sites than ever before. This is allowing us to be more robust in our selection process and it’s clearly paying o .”

He says these new additions to the Descriptive List o er a real stepup in maize production standards.

Everything your farm needs

“Joining the DL in 2025 with the second highest dry matter yield on the rst-choice variety for favourable sites, KWS Zimo, boasts an impressive 19.6t/ha,” says Andrew.

“What makes Zimo particularly exciting is its well-balanced pro le, with a starch content of 35.3% and 11.73 MJ/kg of dry matter, and with an FAO of 190, it establishes quickly and shows excellent early vigour. This makes it an ideal candidate for the forage and biogas sector, with a long

growing season.”

KWS Reo has also earned itself a position on the list this year. With an FAO of 170, Andrew believes it will be an attractive option for a lot of farming systems.

“These new varieties rising through the ranks are great news for growers – it’s never been more important to maximise your homegrown forage stocks and investing in a dependable variety is absolutely critical.

“When you see new candidates like Reo delivering tremendous dry matter yields, backed up by 36.7% starch content and an early vigour of 6.9, there is real scope to boost yields, improve disease resistance, and enhance adaptability to the changing climate.”

Andrew says KWS's success on the list is a direct result of their rigorous breeding and testing program, which places a strong emphasis on yield, disease resistance, and adaptability to both favourable and challenging growing conditions.

“With a robust line-up of from ultra earlies to later maturing varieties, we are con dent this new generation of varieties will help maize growers achieve greater yields and a valuable forage crop.” FG

Scan to find out more.

your

The trusted names you’ve always bought from – Hydor, Bowden & Knights, Farmtech Services, Animal Aids, and All Agri – have united as EG Agri.

That means one brand, one team, and one simple way to get everything you need for your farm. From disinfectants, PPE, and pest control to ventilation systems and everyday consumables, you can now source it all from a single, reliable supplier. Ready for click & collect from 4 UK sites or delivered straight to your door.

info@egagri.co.uk www.egagri.co.uk

E cient, durable, a ordable

With over 57 years of experience and more than 130,000 machines sold worldwide, Joskin is constantly investing in machine design and production. Whether in the research and development of new solutions, production techniques or the search for better materials, the company says it works hard to keep improving production standards and o er the best agricultural machinery.

For maximum nish and quality of its machines, Joskin controls the entire production process. It develops and produces 85% of the components for its products in-house. Of course, the quality of materials remains the most important factor for Joskin

– for sturdier, lighter machines, materials are selected and sorted to keep only the best. Either with high tensile steel or Hardox, no compromises are made so as to supply sturdy, durable machines.

Joskin seeks to provide e ciency, durability and a ordable agriculture for as many people as possible. The company says it now o ers one of the biggest ranges in the world in its eld of activity, focusing on three main areas: spreading, transport, livestock and grass care.

The family business intends to continue making waves, especially at Agritechnica 2025 in Hanover, where it will exhibit part of its range. FG

Using a drone to undersow grass into a standing maize crop was just one of the fascinating talking points among growers at the Hutchinsons Maize Regional Technology Centre open day in early September.

The trials, kindly hosted by the Fisher family at Smalmstown Farm near Carlisle, showcase various ways to help farmers maximise the output of maize grown under lm and in open ground, including demonstrations of more than 20 new and existing varieties, placement fertilisers, and this year, a novel way of aerially establishing grass within maize.

TAKING TO THE SKIES AT THE CARLISLE MAIZE TRIALS

Hutchinsons agronomist Jim Clark said the decision to try undersowing with a drone came about because of the rapid crop growth seen earlier this spring, which made it di cult to get into elds to broadcast, or drill, grass seed before maize plants got too large.

“Drilling seed properly would generally still always give you the best results, but we’ve been really impressed with how well the drone has done,” Mr Clark said.

Two large (1.5ha) plots were undersown by agricultural drone contractor SAS Land Services

Ltd after herbicides had been applied at the beginning of June, with one at 15kg/ha (6kg/acre) of grass seed, and another at 20kg/ha (8kg/acre).

A 75% Westerwold, 25% Italian ryegrass mix was used on both.

“The whole process was really easy, as we were able to export digital maps of the areas to be sown directly from Omnia to the drone operator, allowing them to easily create a ight plan.

“We found the downdraft from the drone’s propellors helped to blow the seed straight onto the oor. Seed was then reliant

Four new hybrids to raise your yields to new heights!

on having su cient moisture to germinate, which fortunately we got, and the cover it has established is more than good enough.”

Finding ways to establish cover within maize, even when ground or crop conditions are more challenging, was becoming increasingly important given grazing requirements, and the widespread adoption of stewardship schemes, such as the SFI, on many farms, plus new greening requirements for overwinter cover in Scotland, he added. “We’ve also seen some milk processors introduce payments for having a cover crop on stubbles.”

Next year, Mr Clark hoped to take the drone trials a step further, by using it to apply nutrition to the crop. “We want to see if this could be an e ective back-up plan for applying vital nutrition in seasons when you can’t get onto the eld with a tractor.”

Picking the right variety

The variety trials were another highlight of the Hutchinsons demonstration, with more than 20 varieties from eight di erent breeders put under the spotlight. “There’s quite a selection, with everything from very early maturing varieties, rated 150–160, to later maturing types nearer 190–200,” noted Mr Clark.

“It was interesting to see that some varieties coped with the early dryness much better than others, although we did notice a real turnaround once they received much-needed rain in June, with some backward crops overtaking those that had looked more promising earlier on.”

All maize looked to have excellent potential

With an impressive combination of earliness, yield and quality, KWS Mojo delivers in all regions – lifting performance ever higher.

this season, with some early yields coming in at 47–57t/ha (19–23t/acre) at 31–32% dry matter. “That’s almost unheard of around here, and I’m con dent that maize, along with winter wheat, will be the stand-out crops in this area.”

Early nutrition benefit

Another trial at Smalmstown Farm examined the bene ts of applying the placement fertiliser, Primary-P, with seed at drilling, to help support strong early root development and improve the crop’s ‘scavenging ability’ for water and nutrients throughout the season.

Three varieties were sown under lm, and two in the open, each one compared both with and without a placement fertiliser. “It was really interesting to see all plants that received Primary-P were de nitely greener, more leafy, and had bigger, stronger stems, compared with the untreated,” said Mr Clark.

“It remains to be seen whether yield is massively di erent or not, but it certainly appeared to help the crop earlier in the season. We’ll yield map everything with the forager, so should be able to see if there is a yield bene t too.”

He suggested more attention should be given to maize nutrition, as some crops may still be being under-fed, and in dry years such as 2025, it could be particularly challenging to ensure crops took up enough nutrition from the soil. Indeed, leaf testing at the end of August con rmed some crops were “hungry” for nitrogen and potash, largely due to the dry conditions, Mr Clark said. FG

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An exciting advancement in this key maincrop maturity. A clamp filler packed with quality to meet your exacting requirements.

Delivering the exceptional yields of later maturing varities in long growing seasons on favourable sites.

Carlisle maize trials summary:

• Hosted by the Fisher family at Smalmstown Farm (dairy farm)

• Soil is predominantly sandy clay loam

• Fertile soils, pH 6.4

• Maize plots were ploughed, power harrowed, and drilled on 7th May

• All plots sown at 42,000 seeds/acre

• Trial plots received pre-emergence dimethenamid-P + pendimethalin

• Post-em mesotrione, nicosulfuron and pyridate

• No seedbed fertiliser applied, but all plots received 40–50 kg/ha of foliar N in late June.

Ernest Doe & Sons appointed as AVR machinery dealer

Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd has been appointed as an authorised dealer for AVR – a leading Belgian manufacturer specialising in highquality potato machinery.

AVR o ers a complete range of equipment for potato growers –including cultivators, planters, ridgers, toppers, trailed and self-propelled harvesters, and in-store handling solutions. The machines are designed to deliver exceptional performance, reliability, and e ciency, helping growers maximise yield and quality while reducing operating costs.

“We’re delighted to welcome AVR into the Ernest Doe portfolio. Their machinery is built with the grower in mind – combining innovative design, reliability, and value. This partnership strengthens our vegetable machinery range and ensures our customers have access to high-quality, cost-e ective equipment, backed by the service and support they expect from Ernest Doe,” said Ernest Doe & Sons sales director, Graham Parker.

Known for its innovative engineering and competitive pricing, AVR provides a strong, cost-e ective solution in the potato machinery market, without compromising on build quality or results. The equipment

is trusted by growers around the world and is proven in UK conditions.

While the Sutterton and Littleport branches will lead AVR machinery sales, the brand will be available across the full Ernest Doe branch network, providing growers throughout the trading area with easy access to the AVR range. The company now has a Puma self-propelled four-row harvester ready for demonstration this season.

“Partnering with Ernest Doe & Sons

Blackburn Potato Chitting Crate

is an important step in strengthening AVR’s presence in the UK,” said AVR country manager UK, Andrew Starbuck.

“Their extensive branch network, experienced sales teams, and strong aftersales support make them the ideal partner to deliver our machinery to potato growers throughout the Ernest Doe trading area. We look forward to working closely together to help customers maximise their e ciency, yield, and pro tability.”

With the addition of AVR to its product portfolio, Ernest Doe & Sons is well placed to support potato growers with innovative, reliable machinery backed by expert advice, parts, and service. The launch marks an important expansion of the company’s specialist vegetable machinery o ering and provides customers across the trading area with greater choice and capability for the seasons ahead. FG

Innovation and collaboration to support a critical crop

At the recent Potatoes in Practice event, BASF provided insight on the current season, showcased innovative fungicides, and shared details on its exciting product pipeline.

The annual event is held at Balruddery Farm near Dundee. Speaking post-event, Scott Milne, BASF agronomy manager, commented: “We enjoyed welcoming growers and advisors from across the potato growing and processing chain, exchanging insights on the current season and demonstrating the performance of our two fungicides, Honesty and ALLSTAR.

“Honesty is a liquid tuber treatment containing Xemium, available in partner packs with an application enhancer. It has strong activity on rhizoctonia, silver scurf, and black dot, with incidental activity against dry rot and gangrene. These diseases can have a signi cant impact on the yield and marketability of potato crops.”

ALLSTAR is another Xemium-containing protectant fungicide, applied as an in-furrow treatment at planting, which gives moderate control of black scurf caused by soil-borne Rhizoctonia solani. With in-furrow application, the soil around the planted potato is treated, rather than the potato.

“We could see from the potatoes in the plots that using ALLSTAR produces clean, uniform, potatoes. ALLSTAR reduces rhizoctonia symptoms such as misshapes, growth cracks, elephant hide, and irregular skin setting, and helps crops develop faster and produce more potatoes.”

BASF’s nal plot contained a bene cials

nectar mix, which is designed for integrated pest management, and provides food for natural predators that help control aphids, explained Scott.

Aphid borne viruses a ect both ware and seed growers and can cause signi cant economic losses.

According to a seminar given on site by Dr Adrian Fox of Fera Science Ltd, potato leafroll virus is a re-emerging threat to potato production in the UK and has in recent years become the main virus intercepted in seed certi cation inspections.

Late blight was a hot topic on the BASF stand as Phytophthora infestans has developed resistance

to two key fungicide active ingredients, bringing exceptional pressure to late blight strategies.

Scott said: “Privest (Initium + potassium phosphonates) works systemically and has activity against all late blight genotypes with no resistance issues. Privest’s very strong e cacy, proven in the eld, helps to build a sustainable programme for current crops and future crops. We also have another stand-alone protectant late blight fungicide coming to market soon (subject to approval) which will give growers another option in the ongoing ght against this disease. FG

JONES BROTHERS

Pre-Stressed Concrete Wall Panels

Inspired by the latest technology in Pre-stressed Concrete Wall Panels, and with the desire to continue in meeting our customers' requirements regarding Quality, Design, Volume & Delivery... ...we have opened a new & improved manufacturing facility in Green eld, Flintshire, North Wales

• Brand new precision built moulds & tooling

• Larger range of sizes & loadbearing options (95, 145, 200 & new 240, 280mm)

• Selection of Concrete Lego Blocks

• Increased capacity

• Made to measure

• Shorter lead-times

• Established Quality Assured products at competitive prices

• Design & Bespoke Project capability

t: 01352 719182 or 01352 716648 • f: 01352 837690 e: tracey@jonesbrothersconcrete.co.uk www. jonesbrothersconcretepanels.co.uk

•Rubber grading screens •Rubber web covers •Sample riddles

•Perforated washer belts

Insulate farm buildings and potato stores e ciently

Tag Insulation says its closed cell insulation is one of the quickest and most cost-e ective ways to insulate your farm buildings.

Tag o ers a nationwide insulation service from a dedicated and knowledgeable team who visit, advise, measure and quote for free.

Closed cell insulation adheres to all the common materials used for agricultural buildings, including steel, aluminium, asbestos, tin, brick, stone, brecement, and concrete. It is also the best choice for corrugated surfaces and irregularly shaped buildings, as pre-manufactured insulation prevents them from being insulated e ectively.

The spray foam Tag uses is an easily applied polyurethane material that sets “exceptionally fast”, meaning the building will not be out of production for a long time compared to other insulation options. It has a dense cellular structure and rigid setting which is an additional bene t as it can strengthen the roof by making it up to three times stronger.

Farm buildings can be cold, dark and damp, especially in the colder months, which can lead to moisture and condensation – causing havoc with crop stores, including mould, water ingress and large uctuations in temperature – all leading to loss of income for the farm.

TAG says its insulation has excellent thermal properties, reduces heat loss in the winter and helps keep the building cooler in the summer, saving money on energy bills. In addition, it is bulk water resistant and weatherproof, as well as being great at reducing any risk of dampness and

condensation issues.

Asbestos is one of the most common roof materials used on older commercial barns and buildings. Not only does closed cell insulation contain the asbestos it will encapsulate, seal and repair nearly every damaged panel, and this is done at a fraction of the cost compared to a new roof alternative.

TAG’s insulation is pest-resistant, which is ideal

for agricultural buildings that are being used to store crops. Mice and rats have been known to chew through electrical wires, breglass insulation and rigid foam insulation. Tag’s insulation does not appeal as a food source to pests, and is much harder to penetrate.

The insulation is eco-friendly, class 1 re rated, and comes with a 25-year warranty. It is also backed by the LABC, KIWA, BDA and fully certi cated. Contact the company directly or visit www.taginsulation.co.uk for more information. FG

• Combined 45 years in Drainjetter design and development

• Technical knowhow in problem-solving blocked eld drains

• Full range of nozzles developed for all applications including clay tiles

• Track and trace blockage locator developed 5 years ago speci cally for eld drains

• More than 90% of spare parts are held here in the UK

• Sales and Technical Support 7 days a week

RVW Pugh | Oliver Knowles | 07483 184996 | West England

Ernest Doe | Tristan Parish | 07870 230981 | Norfolk, Sufolk & Essex

Ernest Doe | Tom Cross | 07909693748 | Lincolnshire & Cambridgeshire

Jackson Agri & Plant | Neil Jackson | 07805 023132 | Yorkshire

www.avr.be

From simple Visser palletisers to the Symach’s “all singing, all dancing” alternatives and from the incredibly accurate Manter weigher baggers to the tough and reliable Sack Filling Company stitching line they will, along with expert back-up, help to keep your packhouse both proftable and fully operational. David Harrison Handling Solutions Ltd are proud to have possibly the UK’s largest stock of used and refurbished potato handling equipment.

British Potato Industry Event 2025 returns

Every two years, the entire potato industry gathers for this ‘seed to shopping trolley’ event, bringing together everyone involved in the supply chain, from growers and processors to retailers and suppliers.

The event o ers a platform to network, share knowledge, and explore the latest innovations shaping the future of the industry.

Whether you’re involved in production, handling, processing, or retail, this is your opportunity to connect with key decision-makers, discover cutting-edge technologies, and stay ahead in one of the UK’s most vital agricultural industries. Key reasons to attend include:

• Find out the latest in potato research and development

• Get up close to all types of growing, packing and processing machinery

• Experience breakthroughs in production and processing

• Take advantage of current business news and emerging opportunities

• Speak directly with buyers, suppliers and advisers, from plough to plate.

This year’s seminar programmeaddresses the most pressing challenges and future opportunities across the sector, including:

• Managing the threat from a changing late blight landscape – Presented by Prof Ian Toth, Dr David Cooke, Dan Milbourne and Andy Cunningham

• Securing the potato’s place on the plate –

Presented by James Young, Prof David Hughes and Cedric Porter

• Future changes to UK’s supply of seed potatoes – Presented by Richard Baker, Phil McCaul and Mike Wilson

• Transformative reduced input potatoes –Presented by Simon Fox and Dr Katherine Steele

• Maris Piper has had its day; or has it? –Presented by Alex Godfrey, Katy Pook and Gordon Stark.

Each seminar has been designed to o er practical takeaways, expert-led discussion, and points for BASIS and NRoSO members.

The British Potato Industry Awards presentation takes place on the rst night of the British Potato Event – the evening of 19th November – with a celebrity speaker, celebratory dinner and presentations to winners of 10 award categories.

The awards will be held at the Majestic Ripon Road, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 2HU, not far from the British Potato Industry Event, providing a great opportunity to celebrate and network. FG

Event details:

Date: 19–20th November 2025, 9am–5pm (Wednesday) and 9am–4pm (Thursday)

Location: Great Yorkshire Event Centre, Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate, HG2 8NZ.

Ticket information: Entry is free for registered visitors. To register for your free ticket visit www.britishpotato.co.uk/industry-event/visitors

Grimme to showcase “innovation and excellence”

The industry-leading British Potato event will once again see Grimme taking centre stage as one of the o cial Gold Sponsors.

Known for its unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence, Grimme says it is set to impress visitors with a range of new machinery and cutting-edge technology.

One of the highlights of the Grimme stand this year will be the UK launch of the new Varitron 470 XL. This state-of-the-art harvester, which will be released at Agritechnica just a week before, is set to make waves in the industry. The Varitron 470 XL

is the fourth generation of this highly successful model, and it comes with a host of new features and improvements that Grimme says are sure to catch the eye of visitors.

Meeting modern needs

The Varitron 470 XL has been designed with the needs of modern farmers in mind. It boasts a wide range of equipment options, making it one of

the world’s best-selling four-row self-propelled harvesters for potatoes, onions, and carrots, Grimme claims.

One of the standout features of this new model is the patented NonstopBunker, now available in an XL version. With a volume of 13m³, the enlarged bunker can hold up to 11 tonnes of crop. This makes it one of the largest in its class, ensuring that farmers can harvest more e ciently and e ectively.

Another key improvement in the Varitron 470 XL is the increased hydraulic drive power of the MultiSep, which has been boosted by 25%. This, along with re ned adjustment options, meets the increased demands for cleaning performance and adaptability. For extremely sticky soils, new rollers with more e ective lips for the roller separator have been introduced, improving operational reliability and separation performance.

Powered by a Mercedes-Benz (MTU) engine with 340kW/460hp, the Varitron 470 XL not only delivers outstanding performance but also o ers improved comfort for the driver. The new X11 cab, equipped with a CCI 1200 operator terminal and the SmartView video system, ensures that operators can work in comfort and with ease.

New receiving hopper

In addition to the Varitron 470 XL, visitors to the Grimme stand can look forward to seeing the new RH 24-60 receiving hopper. This machine can

From 2 to 8 rows, GRIMME’s Toppa lineup fts any grower size. Each machine features rugged build quality, high-speed fail rotors, and adjustable widths for superior crop protecton and residue control.

The new Toppa 600 Combi optons include:

• Hydraulic height control for precise haulm length

• Hydraulic side shif with auto ridge steering

• Pendular frame for contour-following and selectve lif

• Ridge tyres to seal cracks and prevent greening

Now available from £34,500, GRIMME ofers front or rear mountng optons to suit any tractor setup. The 2025 8-row model adds a folding frame for easier transport.

Why Toppa?

• Clean, uniform topping – even in dense canopies

• Fuel-efcient, low power demand

• Compact for road travel and tght felds

• Backed by GRIMME’s expert dealer network

Ready to upgrade? Contact your local GRIMME partner for a demo today.

at BP2025 event

now come with a factory- tted MultiSep and a presentation belt for improved crop distribution and separation across the separator. With a width of 2.4m, the RH 24-60 enables throughput rates of 100–140tph. Other features include easy unloading sensors that monitor the 3.1m wide receiving area, indicating the optimum position for unloading to the driver, and an intuitive IBX 300 Isobus operator unit with numerous assistance systems.

Online parts shop

Visitors to British Potato will also be able to learn about the online Grimme parts shop. The online Grimme web shop for spare parts o ers multiple bene ts, including a large selection of over 50,000 items for all Grimme machines.

Users can review past orders and save commonly used items to personal favourites. Registered myGRIMME members can also pro t from special discounts. Furthermore, the British Potato event will see the UK launch of the new myGRIMME user interface. This completely redesigned interface o ers an innovative user experience, with features such as a georeferenced map that visually displays all machines.

Records of machine transport on the road, including time required, consumption, and distances, can now be visualised, making it easier for customers and cooperatives to manage their operations. All documented activities, such as seeding, planting, harvesting, and plant care, can

be grouped together, with sub-activities evaluated individually or linked to other activities.

Improved six-row planter

Another exciting addition on the stand will be the improved Grimme GL 660 CupPlanter.

Grimme says this high-capacity, six-row planter has long been a favourite for its reliability and output, and the updated 2025 prototype model brings even more to the eld. The new quick-fold drawbar streamlines the shift from road transport to planting mode, saving growers valuable time and e ort.

The GL 660 now features automatic depth control, ensuring consistent planting depth across

varying soil conditions, which supports uniform crop emergence and can signi cantly boost marketable yields. E ciency is further enhanced with section control, reducing seed wastage and eliminating overlaps. Combined with a generous hopper capacity and gentle tuber handling, the GL 660 delivers on both quality and productivity.

BP2025 is set to be a spectacular showcase of the latest advancements in ag technology, and Grimme says it is proud to be at the forefront of this innovation. With a range of new machinery and cutting-edge features on display, visitors to can expect to see the future of farming alongside some classic Grimme hospitality. FG BP2025 stand number: 100

GRIMME 6-row Toppa optons startng from £34,500!

The only completely natural product. Stand-alone. Truly sustainable. Excellent efficacy. Sequesters carbon during growth. Flexibility of timing.

Minimal weight loss in store. Curative and preventative. No MRL.

One day withholding period. No persistent residues on crops or in stores. Approved for use on organic crops. May be used in multi-use stores.

The

Juno (Plant Protection) Ltd discusses the challenges that faced growers in 2025.

After more than 12 months of excessive rainfall, it was as if someone had turned the hose o in early March and, for many in the east, a few dry days extended into record-breaking dry weeks and then months – a stark contrast to the relentless rainfall of 2024.

Another interesting season for potato growers

By the time we arrived at harvest, growing conditions for the 2025 potato crop had varied widely around the country, with some important potato growing regions su ering from little or no rainfall, while others experienced signi cant rainfall events.

For those in the dry, a consequence of crops spending time under signi cant moisture stress during the growing period is to bring forward dormancy break, on occasion in the eld before harvest.

King Edwards are well known as a variety

which will break dormancy in the eld given half a chance, and the small group of specialist growers who persevere with the variety are well-used to addressing the problem. However, reports are being received from around the country, which suggest that the issue is more widespread in 2025, with a number of varieties breaking dormancy in the eld.

It would seem logical to expect that even those varieties which appear to have made it into store in good condition, are likely to break dormancy earlier than would normally be expected.

Successful storage of potatoes is always about attention to detail, and 2025 is unlikely to be any di erent. In a season in which early dormancy break can be anticipated, rapid curing of crops on arrival in store is important, so that an early application of Biox-M can be made to address any risk from an early opening of the eyes. Biox-M is particularly exible in the timing of application and is very well-suited for an early application to bring crops

irrigation management system

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under control, if they have broken dormancy, even in the eld.

Summary of Biox-M:

• A naturally occurring and sustainable product, in widespread use in the food Industry

• Approved for use on organic potato crops

• Has no harvest interval or MRL beyond the one-day mandatory withholding period after treatment, and so it ideal for use on crops for which the date of movement is uncertain

• Has exibility of timing of application

• Results in minimal weight loss in store

• Does not leave persistent residues in the fabric of stores and boxes used for storage

• Is e ective at higher storage temperatures, reducing the risk of acrylamide development when crop is processed

• Sequesters carbon during growth, removing 1t of CO2 for every 1,000t of potatoes treated. FG BP2025 stand number: 136

BAUER Polyester Tankers

Maximising storage for active crops

Potato crops harvested this season are expected to come out of the eld more physiologically active than in recent years. This heightened activity can create challenges for long-term storage, as tubers are more prone to sprouting, weight loss, and quality degradation. To maintain marketable quality and reduce shrinkage, supplier DormFresh says growers are increasingly turning to 1,4Sight for potato storage management.

An early rst application soon after store loading with 1,4Sight is not only about preventing visible sprouts, but also maximising the secondary bene ts. For optimal use, second and subsequent applications should be made at rst signs of new sprouting.

1,4Sight, applied as a fog in storage, slows down cell division in

the meristem – the tissue responsible for sprout growth – without damaging the tuber. This allows potatoes to maintain dormancy for longer periods.

For active crops, the bene ts are particularly signi cant. By reducing metabolic activity, 1,4Sight helps minimise moisture loss and preserve tuber rmness. This leads to better pack-out percentages, reduced shrink, and maintains frying quality.

In a season where potatoes are likely to demand extra management from the moment they enter storage, DormFresh says 1,4Sight provides peace of mind. “With rising pressure on storages to hold crops longer and with greater consistency, 1,4Sight is proving to be an essential tool for modern potato management,” the company concludes. FG

BP2025 stand number: 167

High performance potato packaging

In the world of potato farming, packaging is a guarantee of protection, presentation, and performance. According to East Riding Sacks, this is why it has become a trusted partner for growers across the UK.

As the nation’s largest paper sack manufacturer, the company says it prides itself on combining innovation with reliability to deliver packaging solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability.

The sacks are designed with potato farmers in mind. Manufactured from two-ply to three-ply wet strength paper, they o er the toughness needed to withstand the

demands of transport and storage. Options such as mesh windows for visibility and ventilation, crepe nishes to suit speci c needs and plastic handles for ease of carrying ensure that every grower can nd the right solution. Available sizes range from 5–25kg with sewn or rolled bottom variants.

Available nationwide and backed by state-of-the-art printing technology and rigorous hygiene controls, East Riding Sacks says it supplies packaging that not only performs but also re ects the quality of your produce. FG

BP2025 stand number: 106

Team Sprayers to showcase innovative application technology

At BP2025, Team will exhibit a range of innovative machines designed to support potato growers with precise, e cient, and reliable application solutions.

As the UK’s largest dedicated potato industry event, British Potato provides an ideal platform for Team Sprayers to present its latest technology and engage directly with growers, agronomists, and industry partners. This year, the company will bring four key machines to the show, each addressing di erent points in the crop production and storage cycle:

• On-planter powder application system – A proven system designed to apply powders accurately at the point of planting. This ensures consistent coverage and e ective crop establishment, helping to protect early growth and improve plant health

• On-planter compact applicator for Amistar and Velum Prime – A compact, integrated applicator tailored for the application of leading crop protection products. By delivering treatments such as Amistar and Velum Prime precisely during planting, growers can bene t from maximum e cacy with minimal waste

• Front-mounted liquid fertiliser applicator

– Providing an e cient and exible solution for applying liquid nutrition, this applicator supports optimum crop growth and can be adapted to meet a range of fertiliser programmes

• CTC2 air canopy system for in-store treatments – Speci cally developed for

post-harvest use, this system ensures uniform application of crop protection treatments in store. Its advanced design helps growers maintain quality, extend storage life, and reduce crop losses.

“We are delighted to once again attend the British Potato show, which is such an important xture for the industry,” said Danny Hubbard, managing director of Team Sprayers. “Our focus has always been on providing practical and innovative solutions that meet the real-world needs of growers. The machines we are showcasing this year demonstrate our commitment to helping

customers maximise e ciency, safeguard crop health, and achieve the best possible results.”

Team Sprayers’ technical experts will be available on-stand throughout the two-day event to demonstrate equipment and discuss how each solution can be tailored to individual grower requirements.

Growers attending BP2025 are invited to visit Team Sprayers to explore the equipment rsthand and learn more about how the company’s application technology can support every stage of the potato production cycle. FG BP2025 stand number: 105

Cutting-edge planting and harvesting machinery

UK manufacturer and supplier of potato planting and harvesting machinery Standen Engineering says it is proud to announce its participation in the upcoming BP2025 event.

Visitors will see the very latest in precision planting and cultivation technology from Standen, including the Standen T2XS trailed harvester, with updated software and double acting dual machine levelling, the SR300 three-row trailed planter, and a brand-new Baselier four-row Combi Planter with full Isobus connectivity.

As an established innovator in the potato sector, Standen will demonstrate at BP2025 how its equipment is designed to deliver e ciency, precision, and sustainability for modern farming operations.

“The British Potato event is a fantastic platform to showcase our latest innovations and to connect with growers who want machinery that supports greater e ciency and productivity,” said Edward Gilbert, Standen’s sales director. “We’re especially excited to present the new Baselier four-row Combi Planter, which

combines the trusted build quality of Baselier with Isobus technology for smarter, more connected farming.”

Visitors can explore

Visitors can explore these machines up close and speak with the company’s experts to learn how Standen can support growers in achieving optimum results. FG

BP2025 stand number: 120

Getting ready to irrigate in 2026

With the potential for ground water depletion next year, irrigation will continue to be a priority for many potato growers at BP2025.

Briggs Irrigation will exhibit the latest models from its range of hosereels and diesel-engined pumps. The pumps can be tted with the traditional controls, or the idroMOP ID4 pump controller which provides remote, app-based control of pressure and run time.

Other ‘smart irrigation’ technology on display will include two eet management devices.

The Raindancer solar-powered GPS system can be used to monitor, control and provide reports on all parts of the irrigation network. The option of Raindancer gun control provides automated sector control to manage variable width headlands,

obstacles etc, and with the possibility to link with the hosereel speed control.

An alternative to Raindancer is the 7Sense irrigation sensor which monitors water ow, GPS-location, speed and estimated run time, alerting the operator if the ow stops or the irrigator stops for any reason and logging irrigation runs.

Briggs also supplies the compact and reliable IRIS data logger which transmits the data from the water meter wirelessly to an app and web portal. A smart meter for your irrigation system – automating your meter data logging requirements.

Out-of-season price incentives this autumn make it a perfect time to think about irrigation requirements for 2026. FG

BP2025 stand number: 134

• Booms for lane widths 10 - 96 metres

• Hosereels from 150 - 750m pipe length

• Motorpump range; fow rates 30-150m3/hr

• Raindancer remote monitoring & control

• Fixtures, fttings, pipework and more... visit our website: briggsirrigation.co.uk call us on 01536 260338 or email: enquiries@briggsirrigation.co.uk

Wireless control systems for storage

Cornerstone Systems manufactures temperature and humidity monitoring and control systems speci cally designed for bulk vegetable (potatoes, carrots, etc.) and grain storage. The company says its wireless systems o er unparalleled safety, accuracy and reliability in stacked box and loose product stores and silos.

The latest Crop*Sense system has a completely new operating system and user-friendly, HD touchscreen interface, optimised for remote access and full control from PCs, tablets and mobile phones.

The Crop*Sense system aims to provide the lowest possible energy usage while maintaining the required

CORNERSTONE CORNERSTONE SYSTEMS LTD LTD

crop storage environment according to grower requirements.

Cornerstone Systems has over 35 years’ experience in environmental control and monitoring covering many popular crops such as potatoes, onions and grain. Its systems are designed, manufactured, installed and serviced by its own UK-based engineers. This, the company says, a ords a high degree of exibility which ultimately allows the company to provide its customers with the key features they require for many years of long-term service. Contact Cornerstone Systems for more details or to arrange a free, on-site demonstration. FG

BP2025 stand number: 194

The CROPSENSE system has been completely redesigned with user interaction, remote accessibility and intelligent power efciency at the heart of the design.

Designed and built in the UK, Cornerstone Systems ofers the full package using our own engineers. From design and build, through to installation and long-term servicing of your CropSense systems. We even ofer customisation of systems to meet your specifc requirements.

Key Features and Benefts:

� Robust Design and Manufacture

� Secure, Full System Remote Accessibility

� Automated Email and Texts

� Battery Backup

� Full Turnkey Solution

� Intelligent Control for Power Efciency

� In-House Customisable System Software

� Integral Monitoring, Control and Data Storage www.cornerstonesystems.co.uk

Celebratory discounts available

The UK distributor of Algifol is to exhibit at British Potato for a second time and is running a special competition to mark 20 years of representing the seaweed-based biostimulant in the UK.

“British Potato 2023 was our rst appearance at the show, and we were very pleased with the interest Algifol received, so we’re exhibiting again,” says Marcus Palmer, owner of MJP Supplies. “As 2025 is our 20th year representing Algifol in the UK, we will also be running a celebratory competition on the stand, giving people the chance to win one of 20 discount vouchers ranging from 1–20%. To enter, people just hand their business card when visiting our stand or ll in a simple entry form.”

Developed in Germany by NeoMed Pharma, Algifol is concentrated brown algae gathered from the North Atlantic. It is dried and re ned to maximise its wealth of trace elements, vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, carbohydrates, polyuronides and growth-regulating plant hormones.

Over the last 20 years, Algifol has proven popular among potato growers, who have experienced enhanced stress tolerance, improved

nutrient uptake and e ciency, root system development, increased photosynthesis and biomass production, as well as improved tuber quality and yields, by applying 1-litre/ha three times during the season.

For more information about Algifol or to make a purchase, visit MJP Supplies at British Potato or visit www.mjpsupplies.co.uk FG

BP2025 stand number: 132A

Get ahead of the game at BP2025

At BP2025, Tong Engineering is set to showcase how its latest handling and automation technology is helping growers meet today’s demands, while equipping them for the future.

With 95 years of experience as a fourth-generation family business, Tong has built its reputation on engineering solutions that respond directly to grower needs.

For the rst time, Tong will exhibit alongside its Swift Lift range, bringing both brands together on the main indoor stand and adjoining outdoor space. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the latest innovations up close, including:

• Reception and intake equipment like the FieldLoad PRO and Caretaker, designed for gentle handling and now increasingly integrated with optical sorting Tong Swift Lift elevators and

✓ High resistance against

✓ More pro t for farmers without extra work

✓ Protection from stress due to pest attack

✓ Stronger rooting & larger root mass

✓ Rich harvest of excellent quality

@mjpsupplies

conveyors, engineered for e cient store loading and site-wide crop movement

• Optical sorting and grading systems using advanced camera technology for automated quality control, reduced labour, and improved pack-out

• Automated washing, polishing, and sorting lines that maximise throughput and crop quality whilst o ering ultimate reliability

• Smart control systems o ering real-time monitoring, energy savings, and performance insights. BP2025 will also mark the launch of new equipment innovations from Tong, developed in direct response to customer demand. These nextgeneration machines are designed to set a new benchmark in e cient, gentle, and intelligent crop handling. FG BP2025 stand number: 114

Increasing potato yields sustainably

After the hottest summer on record and three particularly di cult years, growers are facing shifting planting windows, volatile crop prices, limited water availability, and rising stress –both for farmers and for their crops.

At the same time, pressure is mounting to reduce agrochemical inputs, while prices remain under strain. Potato growers are seeing lower returns this season, with buyers tightening quality speci cations and reserving premiums only for the very best crops.

In this environment, farmers need con dence and reassurance that what they grow will be consistent, high-quality and pro table. Many are

actively seeking alternative solutions to achieve this.

Maxstim says it o ers one such solution. Its treatments not only increase yields but also signi cantly improve skin nish. Trusted by farmers and supported by more than 50 realworld eld trials, Maxstim says it has delivered statistically signi cant and consistent yield increases, boosting pro ts by up to £700/ha for potatoes and £500/ha for onions. This innovation was recently recognised with an award at Potato Europe in the Netherlands.

Visit the Maxstim team at BP2025 to discuss how it could work for you and your crop. FG BP2025 stand number: 200

Advanced potato sorting solutions

The Farm Electronics Samro stone and clod separator, and the Optica Q optical sorting machine o er increased e ciency, accuracy and adaptability over traditional sorting equipment for the potato and root vegetable industries, it says.

The Samro stone and clod separator employs a mechanical sorting process that distinguishes between stones, clods, and crops based on density and size. This results in a highly e cient separation, minimising the risk of crop damage. The Samro system reduces the need for manual labour and works well in a range of soil conditions. Its robust design ensures reliable

The Optica Q Optical Sorting Machine utilises cutting-edge camera and laser technology to sort vegetables based on colour, shape, and size. It detects even the smallest defects in real-time and rejects unsuitable products with minimal waste. The Optica Q processes large volumes at high speed without sacri cing accuracy. Its advanced software allows for easy calibration and adaptability to di erent crop types, which reduces downtime between sorting runs. These technologies streamline agricultural operations, driving higher yields and greater pro tability.

Visit the team at the British Potato Event or give the company a call.

performance in the most challenging environments. Event or give the company a call. FG BP2025 stand number:130

Agritechnica returns for 2025

Agritechnica returns to Hanover, Germany this year, and will be open from 9–15th November 2025. With around 2,700 exhibitors from over 50 countries and a fully booked exhibition centre spanning 23 halls, the event will once again showcase innovations in agricultural machinery. This year’s guiding theme, ‘Touch Smart E ciency’, highlights the role of digital technologies in driving sustainable and competitive farming.

Making its debut is the Digital Farm Centre; a new platform aligned with this year’s guiding theme and dedicated to smart farming solutions.

Agritechnica’s international technical program features 400

speakers across ve DLG Expert Stages, three DLG Spotlights, and a series of pop-up talks, o ering insights, debates, and networking opportunities.

The event will showcase more than 2,700 exhibitors and 37 international pavilions representing 23 countries and regions.

As both a re ection of current trends and a driver of future developments, the trade fair will showcase the full spectrum of agricultural machinery, from smart tractors and digital farm management systems to resourcee cient solutions in soil cultivation and crop protection. FG

Meet the Future

Wave of innovation from Amazone

For years, Amazone has been testing individual fertilisers in its spreader testing facility in Gaste, Germany, with thousands of makes and blends of fertiliser settings added to its online database.

But now, the company says it can bring this testing facility out into your eld, making your spreader a mobile testing facility.

AutoSpread on the ZA-TS 01 spreader uses advanced sensors which continuously monitor the actual spread pattern and spread distance, automatically adjusting settings for optimum distribution. This means perfect lateral spread, regardless of fertiliser type or batch, saving time and maximising yield.

Meanwhile, available on all Amazone spreaders, new or old, EasyMatch harnesses arti cial intelligence to identify fertiliser types by analysing granule size, shape, and structure. With a simple phone photo on the mySpreader app, EasyMatch recommends the ideal spreader settings, eliminating guesswork and reducing setup time. This innovation is available with a simple free update to the mySpreader app and only needs

Amazone’s scale reference photo frame to work.

Finally, for sprayers, AmaXact takes crop protection to the next level with pulse width frequency modulation (PWFM) nozzle technology. Each nozzle is individually controlled for precise, site-speci c spraying and minimal overlap. AmaXact’s intelligent pressure and frequency adjustment signi cantly extends valve life and maintains consistent application quality, even at varying speeds or in tight curves – delivering exibility, e ciency and precision. FG

Stand number: Hall 9 Stand D32

The first Spreader that fully self-adjusts and then stays on target

Introducing the NEW Amazone ZA-TS 01 with AutoSpread - the frst fully self-adjusting fertiliser spreader. AutoSpread constantly measures and perfects your spread pattern in real time, whatever the fertiliser, whatever the conditions. No more guesswork, no more wasted input - just precision, every pass.

Powered by our vast fertiliser database and new sensor array, we’re virtually bringing our in-house testing hall to your feld. And with CurveControl, you’ll get perfect distribution even on the tightest corners, ensuring no misses and no overlaps, making your feld more productive, year after year.

The future of spreading is here.

Lemken to launch unique Solitair MF pneumatic seed drill

The new Solitair MF pneumatic seed drill is a folding counterpart to the Solitair MR, and Lemken says it meets the highest requirements in terms of precision, exibility and user-friendliness.

The Lemken Solitair MF is unique in this working width segment thanks to its active seedbed preparation and rear seed hopper. With its numerous practical equipment features and smart operating concept, this seed drill, which is available with a working width of 4, 4.5 or 6m, is a powerful tool for making the most of short time windows for sowing.

The basic version of the Solitair MF already comes with two electrically operated metering units, each of which supplies one seed distributor. This design enables width section or half-side control as standard. With a working width of 6m, the seed drill can be extended to up to four width sections.

The metering units are corrosionresistant, suitable for use with fertilisers and particularly easy to maintain thanks to their easy accessibility. The metering wheels can be changed without tools,

enabling quick adaptation to di erent types of seeds, even when the hopper is full, thanks to the integrated shut-o gate. The dose rate can be conveniently set between 0.5–500kg/ha from the tractor cab.

The seed hopper of the Solitair MF has a capacity of 2,000 litres.

A double tank with a 60:40 split is available as an option, allowing exible combinations of applying di erent components. The Solitair MF can also be combined with the Solitair F front tank (1,900 or 2,400 litres) for particularly high e cacy and the ability to hold additional components. A roller tarp cover makes lling easier and the two-part lter can be completely removed for cleaning. The tank can be conveniently drained either via the 90mm ap or, for smaller residual quantities, via the metering unit.

At the heart of the sowing unit is the maintenance-free OptiDisc coulter bar with parallelogramguided OptiDisc M double disc coulters. Thanks to the mechanically adjustable coulter pressure of up to 45kg, these coulters enable precise placement even under di cult conditions.

The sowing depth can be adjusted centrally from the left-hand side of the machine, independent of the coulter pressure.

There is a choice of row spacings, either 12.5cm or 15cm. The coulter

bar can be complemented by optional harrow variants, which can be adjusted without tools and optimally adapted to variable operating conditions. FG

TECHNOLOGY FOR SUCCESS MOMENTS.

LEMKEN supplies perfectly coordinated, innovative technology for high-yield agriculture. From stubble cultivation to ploughing, seedbed preparation, sowing and CropCare - well thought-out solutions come from a single source at LEMKEN.

New GreenTec rotary mower

Danish manufacturer GreenTec has introduced its latest innovation –the Tiger rotary mower, soon to be presented at Agritechnica 2025. The mower is available in two models, the Tiger 510 and the Tiger 725, with working widths of 5.10m and 7.25m.

The series has been developed under the leadership of British agricultural engineer Martin Lole, founder of Spearhead, and is built on more than 35 years of experience with rotary mowers. The result is a machine that combines high capacity, low power consumption, and exceptional exibility to suit any task.

The Tiger features a patent-pending mounting system, connecting directly to the tractor’s lift arms. This makes the mower simple to attach, reduces

the risk of PTO shaft damage, and provides a signi cantly smaller turning radius. In addition, the cutting height can be ne-tuned via the tractor’s rear link arms, ensuring greater safety, improved operating economy, and faster work ows.

Another innovation is the GreenFlex Blade System, which allows the operator to choose between three blade types depending on the task: standard High Lift blades with low power requirements; Mulch blades for ner shredding; or additional Recycling blades for extreme fragmentation and faster decomposition. With a working speed of up to 11mph, the Tiger can handle large areas in a short time. FG

Stand number: Hall 26 Stand H31

GreenTec Hedge Cutter

Move the cutting head into field of view

Quality and Innovative Hedge Cutters

Next-level Väderstad seed drills

For model year 2026, Väderstad says it is taking the Spirit and Inspire seed drills to the next level in seed depth precision and performance.

At the core of this advancement is the new seed coulter, featuring the patented TriForce II suspension technology. This system enables every seed coulter to follow the contours of the eld with greater accuracy, delivering unmatched consistency in maintaining set coulter pressure even under challenging eld conditions.

The TriForce II design incorporates a unique triangular beam, giving the suspension both a high and low-gear function. This allows it to handle eld movements while maintaining steady ground pressure. The result is a signi cant step forward in seed depth precision compared

to conventional methods in the double-disc seed drill segment.

Proven in testing, TriForce II provides superior coulter pressure stability, even at higher working speeds. This translates into more consistent seed depth, even germination, and uniform crop emergence.

The new seed coulter can now apply up to 120kg of pressure – an increase from the previous 80kg. This expanded capacity allows the Spirit and Inspire to perform at peak levels across a wider range of soil conditions, while also enhancing suspension performance.

Additionally, the 2026 models can be equipped with an optional hydraulic depth setting. This feature enables operators to adjust seed depth directly from the cab. FG

Stand number: Hall 12 Stand C58

GreenTec now has sales and service departments located in the UK. Reach out today for a demonstration of our innovative and ergonomic hedge cutters.

Two key products for Wox at Agritechnica

At Agritechnica 2025, Wox Agri Services will be displaying the Greenmaster Compact 600 and Supermaxx Tined drill.

After two years of design, construction and eld testing, the launch of the Greenmaster Compact 600 has been long awaited.

Showcased at LAMMA 2025, the Greenmaster Compact was launched in the UK for the rst time this year. Product has been rolled out and demonstrated on UK farms throughout 2025.

The machine features the standard working components of the traditional Greenmaster range – a ripper board, and two rows of 12mm tines. The same adjustments are all there and are very simple to use in a wide range of conditions – from a full overseeding mix to harrowing and rejuvenation, establishment of all sizes of seeds have never been easier, Wox Agri Services says.

The machine is tted with the ‘Seed Pro High’ 400-litre hopper with hydraulic fan and ISO control as standard.

The key feature for the larger grassland farmer is the use of the Mediana 33/38cm diameter roller, which is fully self-cleaning and able to perform just as well as the traditional 45/50cm Stable mate.

Other advantages to the Mediana are that it can be o ered with either fully cast or half cast/ half synthetic-ultra for those wishing to be weight conscious. In exceptional situations it can be fully synthetic. Other options available to the unit will be shown in due course.

The Supermaxx Tined drill will also be on display

at Agritechnica. After two seasons of testing and evaluation on farm, the project was borne from existing user customer demand and has developed to serve all types of scenarios and conditions; from direct seeding to plough-based and min-till situations.

The biggest realisation during the development is that it is really quite a simple, yet robust, accurate and desirable machine which will appeal to all cereal farmers, in all conditions. Its exibility for farmers and contractors has been demonstrated on all soil types and seed types, according to the manufacturer.

The choices of speci cation range from gauge wheels, rear rollers, single or double following harrows, ve and seven-row unit track eradicators,

The new Spirit

Precision that stands apart

Introducing

Wox Agri says it is looking forward to speaking with farmers at both Agritechnica 2025 and at LAMMA 2026. FG Stand number: Hall 11 Stand C53

Introduced on Spirit and Inspire seed drills.

The new patented TriForce II coulter arm suspension brings an unmatched ability to maintain set coulter pressure when stressed by field irregularities. The result is seen in a more consistent seed depth, leading to an even germination and more uniform crop emergence.

Midlands Machinery Show 2025: New format and new products

MMS now has a one-day format, allowing timepressured visitors to make connections, see products rst hand, and get the inside line on the issues currently a ecting farming.

A packed schedule of live machinery demonstrations, driving experiences and businessfocused talks will run alongside exhibitor halls representing a cross section of products and services for farmers.

The Newark & Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society (NNAS) organises the event in order to support its charitable objectives to promote, celebrate and champion agriculture across the Midlands region. NNAS CEO Simon Eccleston said: “We are anticipating the traditional two days’ footfall will be condensed into the one-day format, and we want visitors to attend and see the full breadth of what the show has to o er.”

Over the past decade, the Midlands Machinery Show has attracted visitors from the Midlands and beyond, with many travelling 100 miles or more to attend. It is the ideal platform for agricultural businesses to showcase a diverse range of new products, services, machinery, industry innovations and the latest technology to farmers, machinery operators and farm contractors in agriculture.

This year attendees will be able to learn about a range of products and topics to take back to their businesses, as well as topping up on much-needed BASIS and NRoSO points at the end of a busy year.

Farmers will be able to meet major machinery dealers, parts suppliers and engineering specialists, while also connecting with business

consultants, service providers across energy, construction and water, and innovative agri-tech companies shaping the sector’s future.

A major highlight of the 2025 event will be the NFU’s Environment Conference, which will share insights on the issues of the day, and update attendees on key areas of agricultural policy.

Alongside the exhibition halls, visitors can enjoy a range of popular features such as the

Midlands Machinery Show info

Event date: Wednesday 19th November

Opening times: 8.30am–4pm

4x4 driving course and a packed programme in the demonstration ring, while also taking the opportunity to catch up with colleagues and friends during a quieter time of the farming year. New for 2025 is a UTV driving experience to test out the latest all-terrain machines.

Simon added: “We’re con dent this new format will make the show more vibrant and productive for both visitors and exhibitors.” FG

Address: Newark Showground, Lincoln Road, Coddington, Newark NG24 2NY

Please use the A17 and follow road signs for the public. If you need disabled parking, please follow the disabled parking signs

Tickets: Visitors can register at www.midlandsmachineryshow.com for free tickets

“First fully-automated applicator” for wet bale management

Seasons change, and conditions shift – but your baling shouldn’t have to, says PFC.

That’s why the company has developed the HarvestPro – which it claims to be the rst fully automated applicator designed with built-in moisture control and wet bale management.

Whether it’s the scorching dryness of 2025 or the excessive rainfall of 2024, PFC says the HarvestPro keeps your forage consistent and your

operation “stress-free”.

As Victor-Ian Otradovec of PFC explains: “The Shark Fin moisture sensor is designed to take the guesswork out of baling. By combining a simple rub-pad concept with advanced engineering, it removes static interference and temperature errors, delivering ±1% accuracy every time.

“The microwave sensor achieves ±0.5% accuracy, making it the most precise solution

worldwide. With no wearing parts and total independence from crop type, dew, or bale density, it ensures uncompromised consistency.”

Victor-Ian adds that the HarvestPro applicator is the only automatic system capable of handling the workload of every baler on the market. “Its high-capacity single pump eliminates downtime, even in unpredictable weather. Paired with the industry’s rst zero-drift nozzle, it guarantees that every drop of acid or inoculant lands exactly where it should – giving your bales maximum protection and e ectiveness.”

PFC also claims that HarvestPro acid is both the strongest per litre and the most cost-e ective per tonne of forage treated. “This formula re ects PFC’s core principle: maximum strength and reliability, with lower running costs,” points out Victor-Ian.

And with manufacturing brought in-house in the UK, PFC says it has cut costs without compromising on quality.

In addition to this applicator development PFC has also introduced high-quality slurry storage bag. At 1,300–1,400g/m2, PFC says its bags are the highest grade of PVC storage bags being installed across the UK and Europe.

The bags come with two standard 6in outlets, the positions of which are chosen by the customer along with the type of outlet, whether that is a Bauer tting or sluice gate.

PFC is exhibiting at the Midlands Machinery Show in November. Visit the team to discuss the company’s products and services in more detail. FG

New loosening toolbar for Cousins

Cousins of Emneth will have a focus on soil loosening at the Midlands Machinery Show. The company’s new 3m Loosening Toolbar will be on display, as well as the wellestablished Less-Lift and V-Form soil looseners.

The new o ering from Cousins is available initially in a 3m working width and comes tted with six low disturbance Step Change loosening tines set at 500mm spacings.

Capable of being able to work up to 350mm deep, this tool is ideal for use in combination with shallow cultivation implements or drills.

Cousins of Emneth managing director, Laura Cousins, commented: “This is a simple, entrylevel toolbar system with a robust with rear linkage for mounting the following implement.”

There is currently a special introductory on-farm price – this and other out-of-season o ers will be available throughout November and December. For more information on prices or to speak with a member of the team about anything else, contact Cousins directly or visit the company’s stand at the Midlands Machinery Show. FG

Innovative twist on weeding

The Ferrari Twistweed AI intra-plant weeder is new to the market this year and is a UK rst.

It o ers fast, e cient and precise intra-plant weeding using arti cial intelligence and cutting-edge technology. It comes equipped with fully integrated power system, automatic side shift, independent and adjustable oating weeding units for each row.

The star pro le rotating hoe blades, are designed to work between the plants creating maximum soil disturbance with minimal debris throw. A strobe light camera system provides precise plant location via an AI powered touchscreen tablet operating system.

The Twistweed is available in xed or folding and tractor mounted or self-propelled versions to suit exact customer requirements.

With over 40 years’ experience in all aspects of agriculture and horticulture, Richard Parish formed VSM Grow Tech Ltd in April 2025 to focus on the supply of premium quality machinery for crop production across the salad, vegetable and arable sectors for the UK and Ireland.

Its current portfolio includes: Agrisem, Ferrari Growtech, Forigo Rotor Italia, MOM and Oliver Agro, with further products to be added soon.

To nd out more, visit VSM Grow Tech Ltd in George Stevenson Hall at MMS. FG

Designed and built in Britain for cultivation, consolidation, cover crops and more... HELPING TO SOLVE YOUR PROBLEMS IN THE FIELD FOR OVER 70 YEARS

Trelleborg ProgressiveTraction® tyres - available in the TM1060, TM1000, TM900 and TM800 ranges - are engineered to deliver superior traction, reduced slippage, and maximum durability. Now offered for rear axle, with up to 5,000 hours of certi ed tread wear performance.

Offer valid exclusively upon registration to the Premium Care Program at premiumcare.trelleborg-tires.com

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5,000 HOURS OF GUARANTEED TYRE PERFORMANCE

In a move that blends customer con dence with performance metrics, Trelleborg Tires has introduced up to 5,000 hours of certi ed tread wear performance for a selected range of its agricultural tyres.

The initiative covers four of the most popular Trelleborg ranges: TM1060, TM1000, TM900 and TM800, all equipped with the proprietary ProgressiveTraction technology and designed for high-horsepower tractors.

Speci cally, the performance warranty covers rear tyres, o ering agri professionals and contractors the opportunity to receive a credit toward replacement tyres if their Trelleborg tyre wears down to below 20% of its original tread depth before reaching 5,000 hours. The unused hours are calculated and reimbursed as a partial value toward a new tyre purchase of the same model and size.

With this initiative, Trelleborg Tires experts aim to help farmers achieve maximum e ciency and productivity in increasingly demanding environments, where premature tyre wear can lead to higher operating costs, downtime, and logistical challenges.

“We understand that managing tyre replacement costs while maintaining peak performance is critical for farmers’ daily operations,” said Luca Sabelli, brand director at Trelleborg Tires. “This performance warranty is our way of backing our tyres with a tangible commitment, o ering customers peace of mind and real value.”

The 5,000-hour performance guarantee is o ered through Premium Care, Trelleborg Tires’ dedicated support programme for farmers and contractors who rely on its products in the eld. Going beyond a standard warranty, Premium Care gives access to exclusive contents and o ers, expert guidance and ongoing value to help users get the most out of their tyres over time.

Registration is required within 30 days of purchase through the Premium Care online portal, with hour meter

data and basic vehicle information. Once the process is complete, the warranty can be activated when conditions are met, ensuring a seamless and timely claim procedure.

Bringing together innovation and practical bene ts for end-users, this initiative re ects Trelleborg Tires’ ongoing commitment to supporting agri professionals with advanced tyre solutions that drive productivity.

At its core is ProgressiveTraction,

featuring a distinctive double-edge lug that o ers superior grip and stability, resulting in enhanced traction and superior performance.

This innovative design also reduces vibration and promotes excellent self-cleaning, supporting greater e ciency, lower fuel consumption, and longer tyre life. By focusing on rear tyres, the warranty targets the component most exposed to stress and tread wear in everyday farming operations. FG

Turbofarmer 38.10TT

Power, Precision and Stability

Bobcat launches new ‘V-DRIVE’ telehandlers for agriculture

Bobcat has completed the company’s agricultural telehandler range with three new machines.

The new large high ow models – the TL34.65HF V-Drive, TL38.70HF V-Drive and TL43.80HF V-Drive – all utilise the ‘V-Drive’ continuous transmission system. They are designed to o er more comfort and productivity while improving operators’ peace of mind and reducing

the total cost of ownership (TCO) of equipment during its lifecycle.

Bobcat EMEA product manager for telehandlers, Florian Hilbert said:

“With the V-Drive models added to the existing range, Bobcat still o ers the current gearbox transmission for the high ow models, so customers can choose between the existing gearbox system or the new V-Drive continuous transmission. The

innovative and smart functions on the new V-Drive models provide an excellent solution for customers requiring a high-performance alternative for their applications.”

Using dual hydraulic motors in series, Bobcat has been able to maintain the same performance as the current gearbox transmission.

Contrary to the current transmission, the V-Drive transmission allows the operator to drive from 0–40kph without the need to stop the machine or think about changing the gear before starting. As a result, the simplicity and e ciency of the V-Drive transmission o ers the highest comfort and peace-of-mind for the operator. It also removes any jolts that might happen when moving from one speed range to another.

The hydraulic tank has also been redesigned resulting in a higher capacity (70-litres instead of 59-litres in the current transmission).

In the new V-Drive models, the Turtle and Rabbit hydrostatic speed ranges are still available and are always selectable through the joystick.

Based on the most popular options and assuming the V-Drive models are the premium models in the agricultural telehandler range, the following features are included in the base models:

• Tractor homologation

• 40kph transmission (max speed with 24in tyres)

• Alliance tyres – set of four at 460/70R24

• Fan inverter with manual and auto modes

• 7in touch display (Bluetooth radio with microphone and Job Manager)

• Hand throttle and ex drive.

Like all Bobcat products, the new ‘V-Drive’ telehandlers are backed by the company’s aftermarket support service, o ering an extensive dealer network, a single service point for both machine and engine, and the ability to monitor the machine's performance remotely thanks to Bobcat’s Machine IQ telematics system. All of this is backed by a three-year warranty.

For more information, visit www.bobcat.com FG

These

Successful 18 months for franchise

The team at C C Agricultural Engineering say they were really pleased when Merlo approached the business to take the franchise on for an area covering Norfolk, parts of Su olk, Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire. Speaking of the agreement, which began in 2024, sales manager Karl Arndt comments: “This was a franchise that we couldn’t turn down, as many Merlo units had been sold over the previous 3–5 years within the area we are covering. We have now been a Merlo dealer for more than 18 months, and have received an incredible interest in the entire range of telehandlers.

“To date, our sales levels have been very successful, with the most popular Merlo models being the 32.7, 35.7, 42.7 and the Multifarmer. The client base has comprised both new and existing customers, and we’ve also had a signi cant number of existing customers coming directly to us to service and support their previous Merlo purchases, with genuine parts supplied.”

Karl continues: “We must also highlight the support we have been giving by all departments at Merlo – our area manager has helped us tremendously, along with the support we have received from the service and parts departments, and all the sta working behind the scenes to make the franchise successful for both companies concerned.” FG

Chains: Vital in material handling

In modern agriculture, material handling is everywhere – whether feeding a mixer, transferring grain, moving silage bales, or loading bulk materials. Much of the heavy lifting depends on chain-driven conveyors, forklift systems, and lifting machines. Selecting the right chain can make the di erence between smooth operations and costly downtime.

coatings and nishes to resist abrasion or corrosion, may cost more up front, but typically lasts much longer, saving on replacement chain, labour and ancillary wear

Chain manufacturer, Donghua, caters to the material handling uses within agriculture with chains engineered to meet these demands. Donghua explains that these are the reasons why farmers should care about the chain they use:

• Reliability reduces downtime

– A chain failure in the middle of a harvest or feed season can halt operations and cost far more than the replacement chain itself

• Optimised life-cycle cost – A chain that is well matched to its operating environment, with

• Ease of replacement – Using standardised chains ensures that downtime is minimised because parts are available through Donghua’s approved product partners and stockists

• Compliance and safety –

Having full test certi cates, traceability and CE/UKCA marking supports safe operations and compliance. Chains are crucial components in agricultural material handling machinery. Selecting the right chain, engineered for durability, precision and reliability, is a lowvisibility decision with high returns. For more information visit www. donghua.co.uk/agriculture-chain/ FG

HIGH PERFORMANCE

Chain

Farm Business Innovation Show 2025

The Farm Business Innovation Show is the UK’s only event dedicated to farm diversi cation.

Over two days, farmers, landowners, and rural entrepreneurs can discover innovative solutions and opportunities to enhance and diversify their income. The show provides a comprehensive platform for networking, learning and inspiration, o ering you the support needed to diversify and optimise your land. There is a range of exhibitors,

Event details

o ering income-generating opportunities beyond traditional farming, such as agritourism, renewable energy, direct-toconsumer sales, and more.

In a time of uncertainty in the sector it’s time to take advantage of insightful seminars, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, designed to equip you with practical advice and solutions to help you generate new income streams beyond traditional farming. FG

Event date and times: Wednesday 5th November, 9am–5pm; Thursday 6th November, 9am–4pm

Address: National Exhibition Centre, North Avenue, Marston Green Birmingham, West Midlands B40 1NT

Tickets: Visitors can register at www.farmbusinessshow.co.uk for free tickets

Self-storage revenue streams

The team at Stora says it can’t wait to be back at this year’s Farm Innovation Business Show, where the company will be sharing how self-storage can open up new revenue opportunities for landowners, farmers, and entrepreneurs.

Stora describes itself as an allin-one self-storage management platform that “makes it easy for operators to launch, manage, and grow their business ve times faster than the industry average.”

Powering over 20% of the sites in the UK, with many farm-based ones in the mix, Stora says it is the perfect tool to help you diversify your income.

From online bookings and automated payments to customer management and the ability to integrate with thirdparty platforms, operators get everything they need to run a successful facility.

Stora head of sales, Rob Sweeney will be joining a panel session, ‘Self-storage: The ultimate hands-free business’, where he’ll share how anyone with

spare land or buildings can turn them into a highly pro table self storage business. He’ll give practical insights on how to attract customers, keep operations lean, and drive long-term returns.

For farmers looking to seriously increase their income, self storage is one of the most exciting opportunities out there. If you’re at the show, drop by to see how Stora can help you. FG

Stand number: FM324

Stora is the software that gives you everything you need to run and grow a successful storage facility.

Customer website with online bookings & payments

Automated contracts, ID checks & invoicing

Smart Entry integrations for 24/7 access

Dynamic pricing & automated price increases

Upsell insurance and add-ons at checkout

Real-time analytics & reporting

Don’t let wastewater hold you back

Wastewater is part of everyday life on the farm, but old septic tanks are increasingly becoming a problem.

Many are leaking, polluting local streams, and falling foul of Environment Agency rules. Add in stricter planning consents and nutrient neutrality requirements, and the challenge becomes even tougher.

That’s why farmers are increasingly turning to modern package treatment plants as the smarter, future-proof alternative.

Haigh Environmental says: “We are your “trusted partner for o -mains wastewater treatment solutions. We o er a ordable wastewater treatment systems that protect your land and water, can be installed quickly with minimal

disruption, and are guaranteed to comply with phosphorus and nitrate removal standards.”

The company adds: “Driven by impact, not pro t, we pride ourselves on our open, transparent approach, taking a long-term view on the right solutions for our clients and the environment. We’re currently working with farmers up and down the country, from Cornwall to Scotland, and from smallholdings to large mixed farms.”

So, whether you’re upgrading a failing tank, diversifying your farm, or unlocking a development project, Haigh says it will ensure you get the right wastewater solution – rst time around. FG

Stand number: FM804

Your partner for sustainable wastewater solutions

WASTEWATER TREATMENT YOU CAN TRUST

Replacing an ageing septic tank?

Navigating strict planning or environmental consents?

Concerned about nutrient neutrality rules?

Haigh Environmental is your trusted partner for off-mains wastewater treatment solutions.

From design to installation, our package treatment plants help you:

Stay compliant with planning and environmental regulations

Protect the environment

Secure planning approval with confidence

We’ll help you get the right wastewater solutionfirst time around.

FARMS OFFER IDEAL SPOT FOR EV CHARGING STATIONS

As the percentage of electric vehicles (EV) on the road continues to rise, and with farms facing increasing nancial pressure, it’s no surprise many are turning spare land into EV charging stations – a diversi cation that requires little maintenance or capital outlay.

Fastned has been working with farmers to develop electric vehicle charging stations on underutilised land – and it’s a symbiotic relationship, giving landowners additional revenue, and providing Fastned with ideal locations, explains expansion lead Teddy Kealey.

Key bene ts for farms include:

• Long-term secure rental income from what is often underutilised land – leases are typically 30 years or more

• Fastned handles the entire life cycle of the process –the planning application, construction, delivery and of course the operation as well

• It’s a very hands-o type investment, with essentially no capital outlay for the farm

• Enhancing the farm’s environmental credentials

• Opportunity for additional revenue through retail such as shops and cafes for drivers to visit.

The company operates 35 (and counting) charging hubs in the UK. One most recent project includes an ultra-rapid charging hub in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, which was completed on 5th June 2025. It was built on a green eld site, which Fastned is used to working on, located o the A47. The station features an initial

six charging bays powered by 100% renewable energy, o ering up to 400kW of power and delivering up to 300 miles of charge in as little as 20 minutes.

The Freebridge hub, situated on a 0.5-acre site, was built in Fastned’s signature drive-thru format with overhead canopies, providing an easy, convenient and weather-protected charging experience. It took only around three months to build. The only small hurdle was an overhead line which needed diverting, which Fastned’s construction team handled easily in conjunction with the distribution network operator (DNO).

Is your site suitable?

For those interested in a charging site on their farm, Fastned will initially visit the site to check suitability and discuss the process, before negotiating the lease.

Criteria includes:

• Access to busy roads is key, and visibility from the road is a big plus

• A space of around 0.2–1+ acres

• A at site on uncontaminated land, ideally not in a greenbelt area but this is a hurdle that can be overcome.

Grid connection is applied for

early to ensure availability and a ordability – and the cost of this is covered by Fastned. Stations can be delivered quickly, depending on external factors such as planning permission and grid connection, but the company is a “well-oiled machine” with a successful track record in getting projects wrapped up in a timely way.

All that’s really needed from the farmer is to instruct solicitors in negotiating the lease agreement, and giving consent to the distribution network operator for their substation, Mr Kealey explains.

Farmers will get a quarterly xed rent, which is index-linked and reviewed every ve years to ensure they don’t lose out due to in ation. However, for those wanting to take a bit more risk and see potentially higher pro ts, there’s an option for revenue share – or a mixture of revenue share and a lower xed rent.

Design and reliability

Fastned puts a big emphasis on delivering good quality station design

About Fastned

and safe, intuitive, drive-through layout. Its distinctive yellow canopies o er protection from the rain while capturing solar energy to help power the lighting and facilities at the station.

The in-house software team built a bespoke auto-charge feature which means drivers can register their car with Fastned through an app and any Fastned station in Europe will recognise their car when they plug in, and start charging immediately.

Reliability is also key for the business; the company is leading the way with a 99% reliability rating which means drivers trust the service provided. It also has a 24/7, in-house customer support team.

For more information visit the QR code to get in touch with the Fastned team. FG Stand number: FM530

Fastned was founded in The Netherlands in 2012 and is now operating in nine countries – starting in the UK in 2019, where it also built the rst ultra-rapid charger. The company founders remain heavily involved in the company and were some of the rst pioneers in ultrarapid and EV charging in The Netherlands.

The company now has over 35 charging stations in the UK and 380 across Europe, but its target for 2030 is to expand to 1,000, with the UK being one of its most signi cant markets.

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