THE MEMBERSHIP MAGAZINE OF THE BRITISH AGRICULTURAL AND GARDEN MACHINERY ASSOCIATION ISSUE 59 | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026 | £5.50
More than just Machinery BAGMA recently visited Stuart Taylor International, to discover how premium machinery, robotics and fish and chips are driving the future for this Blackburn-based dealership. Dealer Diversification | Cyber Security | GroundsFest
Thank you to our Industry Partners for their ongoing support and commitment to the good work BAGMA does. We will continue to provide the best support, services and information to our members to help develop their businesses.
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ADVANCED TURF TECHNOLOGY
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
Keeping connected in a busy summer all the details can be found on the events Dear fellow Industry Member, I hope section of our website. you are all keeping busy. Nick and the team will also be Well… what a summer we’ve had! exhibiting at GroundsFest The grass is gone, harvest in a couple of weeks, at is nearly over and, at the Stoneleigh Park (or the Old time of writing, the UK is Royal Show Ground as us enduring its 5th heatwave older ones remember it of the year with still no sign as!). Please make a point of any significant rainfall. of stopping by stand 39 to The dry weather was say hello and find out all the useful for one thing at least latest BAGMA news. - helping boost the footfall I also want to encourage at many of the years shows you to think about training and events. The BAGMA – is your team up to date? team and I have attended as It’s easy when you’re busy many events as calendars to put things like training have allowed, and it’s been by off, but in the most extreme fantastic to see so many circumstances, inadequate members and potential Peter Heming training and a failure to meet members out and about. your responsibilities could BAGMA President The highlight for me was leave your business facing certainly the Royal Highland serious legal consequences Show, always a tremendous and could potentially leave day out and a flagship event you exposed to a corporate in the BAGMA diary. manslaughter charge. As a As we enter the autumn, member, you receive 20% off opportunities to network all BAGMA training courses keep on coming – notably including our industry leading with the return of the BAGMA Golf Day Handover & Installation training. at Nailcote Hall on 23rd September, Make the most of this saving and all and our final Connect meeting of the of the services available to you from year – hosted by Kverneland UK - on our Partners to help you in the smooth 21st October. We’ve put together a running of your business. really interesting line-up of speakers, including Andrew Donald from the DVSA, Best wishes to all.
The membership magazine of the British Agricultural & Garden Machinery Association Peter Heming
BAGMA President peter@heming-engineering.co.uk
07831 585476 Nick Darking
BAGMA General Manager
07512 327109
Richard Jenkins
BAGMA Business Development Manager
07432 290605 Kari Hearn
BAGMA Training and Administration Manager
07874 876999
Inside issue 59
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BAGMA News The importance of Load Security, Nick Young Tractor Parts become BAGMA Members
Dealer Diversification Diving into The Good, The Bad & The Agri Podcast by Masons Kings
BAGMA Training Developing the Skills Behind Modern Agricultural AirConditioning
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Expert’s View Check Now discuss driver & vehicle compliance, The Benefits of VoIP according to Utility Options
Member Profile BAGMA paid a visit to Stuart Taylor International for a chat.... and fish and chips!
Hannah Desborough
BAGMA Administrator
07842 431468
For all advertising and media enquiries please email: admin@bagma.com BAGMA Samuelson House 62 Forder Way Hampton Peterborough PE7 8JB 01295 713344 Editorial & Production Pan Publicity Ltd 01493 440047 www.panpublicity.co.uk
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Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the material published in BAGMA Bulletin. BAGMA can accept no responsibility for claims made by manufacturers, advertisers or contributors. Views expressed by advertisers or contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or of BAGMA. Advertisers in BAGMA Bulletin are not agents of BAGMA or any of their associated businesses. Also, BAGMA and its associated businesses never act as agents for any advertisers. Printed in the UK by Stephens & George.
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
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Out & About Tillage-Live Returns, Last Connect of 2026, 500+ brands at GroundsFest 2026, SALTEX celebrates 80 editions
Industry News Kverneland expands baler range; Fendt brings combine upgrades; ATT and GKB Machines appoint; BIGGA launches new podcast
Connecting With Ian Forman, NSTS Manager
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BAGMA NEWS
BULLETIN BOARD BAGMA RELAUN CHES SYMBOL OF SERVICE
We are encouragin g all our members to proudly display the ir BAGMA members hip through the re-lau nch of the BAGMA Symbol of Service. Featurin g the logo on your website and other marketin g materials demo nstrates your commitmen t to professionalis m, high standards and exce llent customer se rvice. The Symbol of Se rvice Banner is av ailable to download from the BAGMA Members Area. If you experience any issues access ing your log in, please conta ct admin@bagma.c om for assistance.
ED FOR RECOGNIS D R O F Y D E AN OF SERVIC 50 Y E A R S
The importance of Load Security Article by Mark Horton DVSA Enforcement Policy Manager
P
oor load security is a major safety issue on UK roads and can lead to serious incidents often resulting in serious injuries and significant delays on the UK road network. In the agricultural context - where loads often include bulky, irregular, or heavy items like small plant, mowers, compact tractors and other farm implements -the risks are particularly acute.
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UK AGRICU LT REG – JULY URAL TRACTOR 2026
Month: 934 Units +6.1% change (compared w ith July 2025 ) Year to Date: 6,889 Units +19.8% chan (compared w ge ith JanuaryJuly 2025)
Why load security matters An insecure or poorly secured load can shift during transit, especially under braking, cornering or sudden manoeuvres irrespective of the length of the journey. Even relatively small items of machinery can become dangerous projectiles if they move or fall from a vehicle. Failure to secure a load properly can result in enforcement action including fines, points on a driver’s licence and prohibitions. Every year the DVSA issues around 2,000 prohibitions for insecure loads and, tellingly, over half of these are because there is either no or inadequate load security. In other words, the insecure load would have been obvious to the driver had they undertaken an appropriate walk round check prior to the start of their journey. Who is responsible? Responsibility for load security is shared. The driver holds primary responsibility for ensuring the vehicle is safe on the road. Employers, operators or consignors must provide suitable equipment, training, and safe systems of work. Anyone involved in the transport chain shares responsibility for ensuring loads are positioned and secured correctly. You are not devolved of this responsibility just because the load has left your premises. Risk assessing the load Before any journey, a simple risk assessment should be carried out
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considering weight, size, shape, centre of gravity, friction, securing methods and the type of journey. For example, ride-on mowers may require multiple tie-down points, while loose tools should be contained to prevent movement. Using a solid sided van to transport goods may well be a solution but a loose load will move around if not secured and can affect the stability of the vehicle particularly during sudden manoeuvres. Checking the load Before departure, drivers should check restraints, anchor points and ensure nothing is loose. Loads should be rechecked during the journey, especially after the first few miles or on long trips. Remember, any load security system is only as strong as its weakest link. Ensuring lashing straps are in good condition and replacing them at the first sign of wear is also a requirement. Testing of damaged straps has shown that their effectiveness is significantly reduced and will not be counted as contributing to a secure load when DVSA examiners assess load security.
Load security is a fundamental safety responsibility in the agricultural sector. By understanding your responsibilities, assessing risks, carrying out checks and ensuring the correct records are checked, you can reduce the risk of incidents and protect all road users. DVSA and the HSE have written guidance to help you understand the requirements. To view the guide in full, scan here:
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
BAGMA NEWS
Nick Young Tractor Parts become BAGMA Members BAGMA are pleased to welcome Nick Young Tractor Parts, a family-run agricultural machinery parts supplier based in North Lincolnshire, as new members. Established in 1996, the business supplies a huge range of OEM, aftermarket and specialist tractor parts to farmers, contractors and workshops across the UK and internationally, combining strong technical knowledge with straightforward, reliable customer service. Now led by the next generation, the business continues to invest in stock, people and digital capability, with a major new e-commerce website launching this year and expanded coverage across all makes and models of agricultural machinery. Matt Roberts, Chief Commercial and
Product officer at Nick Young Tractor Parts said: “Joining BAGMA felt like a natural step for us as we continue to grow the business. The association does a huge amount to support and
represent businesses within the agricultural machinery sector, and we’re looking forward to becoming part of that wider network and industry community.”
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BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
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BAGMA NEWS
The weather remains a hot topic... by Nick Darking BAGMA General Manager
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egrettably I am starting another Bulletin introduction by talking about the weather, but I have to mention the relentless hot and dry conditions which have truly tested the farming and groundcare communities and, in some cases, destroyed hard work and livelihoods. The unprecedented number of crop and wildfires demonstrates the fragility of our industry but also serves to highlight the outstanding sense of community. The months without rainfall have also impacted on yields, with spring crops performing poorly and drought conditions making autumn drilling difficult. This will undoubtedly have a knock-on effect for others in the supply chain, with farm finances once again coming under strain. BAGMA are here to support you through these challenging times. Our extensive range of Service Providers are on hand with exclusive discounts and savings, helping you to reduce your outgoings on everyday expenses such as utilities, card processing and insurance. I am also delighted to hear of recent successes
with one of our newest Service Providers, QuoinStone, who have helped several BAGMA members receive significant refunds on their business rates. Be sure to explore what help is available to you on our website. While you’re there, please consider downloading the BAGMA Symbol of Service banner, now available in the members area. We want to help you demonstrate your commitment to professionalism and customer service so, with this new digital badge and a dedicated page on the BAGMA website, your customers can easily see exactly why they should chose you as their trusted equipment supplier. As well as upcoming events including GroundsFest and BAGMA Connect at Kverneland UK, the next few months are also shaping up to be busy on the training front, with Handover & Installation dates available at both Devon Garden Machinery and Kubota UK. Ideal for individuals or small groups to get themselves compliant, you can see the full list of dates on our website.
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
DEALERSHIP DIVERSIFICATION
Dealership Diversification: Diving into “The Good, The Bad & The Agri” Podcast We’ve always believed that our role in Agriculture & Groundscare goes far beyond supplying & repairing machinery. We see firsthand the pace of change affecting our customers, from advances in precision technology and automation, to evolving environmental regulations, labour challenges and changing market conditions. As an industry that thrives on knowledge sharing and strong relationships; there has never been a more important time to discuss the issues shaping it. A consistent hurdle for us was how to get our messages to our community. Especially when they’re working from dawn to dusk. That’s why we tried a new approach and launched our podcast - “The Good, The Bad & The Agri”. A Podcast Built Around Real Industry Conversations Too often, industry discussions feel corporate, scripted and disconnected from the realities faced by the people they are meant to serve. The response comes through independent voices that challenge and reflect on these conversations, with their perspectives echoing across days and weeks as the ripple effects spread throughout the industry. The Good, The Bad & The Agri provides honest conversation where dedicated specialists in our team discuss the topics that matter the most, with real life examples and case studies to relate to. There are no presentations, no sales pitches and no complicated industry jargon (that is not left unexplained), just genuine discussion between people who are passionate about the future of agriculture and groundscare. Each episode focuses on different topic matters, whether it’s artificial intelligence and how it will impact us or the challenges facing modern farming businesses - we make sure each subject is honest and practical, with the hope that we can provide a fresh perspective and plenty of food for thought.
Our conversations don’t shy away from difficult topics and have led to genuine moments we are incredibly proud of. Particularly around mental health, where we know that some listeners have contacted our Charity of the Year, the Farming Community Network (FCN), as a direct result of the podcast. Why We Invested in the Podcast At Masons Kings, our current driver is simple: customer success. The podcast has become an extension of that commitment. By creating a platform, we can support our customers in ways that extend beyond the workshop, the showroom or the field. Alongside sharing information, we believe people are more likely to trust and connect with a business when they get to know the people behind it. Our podcast gives us a platform to showcase their personality, expertise and values, helping listeners gain a more authentic understanding of who we are.
by Elliot Prior Business Development Manager, Masons Kings
The Broadcast Continues The industries we thrive in are entering one of the most exciting periods in their history. Technology is transforming how food is produced. Data is changing & optimising decision making. Electrification, automation and artificial intelligence are creating new opportunities for businesses of every size and capacity. As a John Deere dealer and trusted Industry Partner, we are positioned to help customers navigate these changes with the help from our incredibly experienced team members and harvesting opinions and feedback from our loyal community. As we continue to grow and develop for the future, so will the podcast. We have ambitious plans to bring guests, more industry insights and even more thoughtprovoking discussions to listeners across the UK (and abroad!). We want to ensure that our community voices, which are essential to our industry, are heard. The Good, The Bad & The Agri is more than “a podcast”. It’s a conversation about the future, and we’re proud to help lead that conversation.
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
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CYBER SECURITY
BAGMA re-news Cyber Essentials and gains Cyber Essentials Plus Certifications BAGMA is delighted to announce the successful renewal of its Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus certifications. It’s critically important as an Association representing members’ interests that our systems are as secure as possible for delivering services to you, our Members. It goes without saying that strong cyber security is essential for all of us. Digital technologies play an increasingly significant role across business and our sector. Cyber Essentials Plus certifications enable us to protect our systems and information and also reassure our members and stakeholders that cyber security remains a key organisational priority. Why is it important to my business? From BAGMA’s perspective, we see it as fundamental: Our members place their trust in us to represent their interests, manage sensitive information and deliver services that support the
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industry. Renewing these certifications demonstrates our ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards of cyber security and organisational resilience. A few weeks ago, we had the pleasure of hosting two representatives from Report Fraud Protect Services at our Outdoor Power Equipment Council. Report Fraud (formerly known as Action Fraud) is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. It provides a central point of contact to report scams, receive police crime reference numbers and to find victim support. They had some interesting figures to share with us. Over the last 12 months all business has experienced some sort of attack whether they realise it or not: • Phishing attacks • People impersonating organisation or staff, online or via email • Devices targeted with malware (viruses or spyware) • Hacking or attempted hacking of online bank accounts • Denial of service attacks • Takeovers/attempts to takeover website/social media accounts/email • Devices being targeted with ransomware • Unauthorised accessing of files/networks by staff, even if accidental
In a Cyber Breaches Survey carried out in 2026, of the businesses surveyed: • 43% experienced cybercrime in the past 12 months, yet only 9% of these reported it to Action (or Report) Fraud • 81% carried out no staff cyber awareness training in the last 12 months. • Only 57% had a formal cyber security strategy in place.
92% fewer insurance claims are made by businesses and organisations with the Cyber Essentials controls in place
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
CYBER SECURITY
increasingly being used by businesses to ensure good cyber security in their supply chains. Cyber Essentials also comes with free cyber insurance if your business turnover is less than £20 million. So how do you go about it? Cyber advice and services are out there, many of which are free.
So, what is Cyber Essentials? And what does your business and/or your network of suppliers and distributors have to do to meet the minimum to protect itself?
online security threats. It is suitable for all organisations, of any size, in any sector. And it is exceptionally good value for money.
Cyber Essentials is a set of government and industry backed standard technical controls organisations should have in place to protect themselves against common
The scheme helps protect against almost all cyber threats. It demonstrates your commitment to cyber security to your customers and suppliers and is
There are also plenty of free government and policing resources: • Join your local Cyber Resilience Centre - Regional Centres - National CRC Group • Sign up to Cyber Security Awareness Training - Cyber Griffin • Contact your local Cyber Protect Team • Regional Organised Crime Units (ROCUs) | National Cyber Security Centre • Sign up to Police Cyber Alarm - Police CyberAlarm | Free Cyber Threat Detection Tool
The Cyber Advisor scheme is available for small and medium sized organisations. It offers reliable and cost-effective cyber security advice and practical support. The scheme will help your organisation implement Cyber Essentials and protect you against most commonly experienced cyber-attacks. There is no obligation. If you want to find out more, contact nick.darking@bagma.com who can advise members of where to start and point them to a free 30-minute consultation with a recommended Cyber Advisor.
Scan here to find out how little a Cyber Essentials assessment could cost.
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BAGMA TRAINING
Developing the Skills Behind Modern Agricultural Air-Conditioning Air-conditioning has become an essential feature of modern agricultural machinery. Whether operators are working through long harvest days or carrying out routine maintenance, reliable climate control is no longer considered a luxury – it’s an important element in machine performance, operator comfort and productivity. As these systems have become more sophisticated, the need for qualified engineers with the skills to diagnose, service and repair them has grown significantly. BAGMA is collaborating with Service Provider, AP Air Europe Ltd, to deliver mobile air-conditioning training and services to BAGMA members and non-members. Since the beginning of 2026, AP Air Europe has delivered over 120 City & Guilds Refrigerant Handling courses for agricultural engineers throughout the UK and Ireland. Working closely with BAGMA members, the programme helps workshops, dealerships and apprentices develop the practical skills needed to safely service today’s increasingly complex mobile air-conditioning systems. The qualification combines classroom learning with practical workshop sessions, covering refrigeration principles, safe refrigerant handling, refrigerant
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recovery and recharge procedures, leak detection, fault diagnosis and the correct use of servicing equipment. Candidates also learn how to identify common system faults before they develop into more costly repairs. These troubleshooting skills can help to improve workshop efficiency, reduce machine downtime and support customers when they need their equipment most. For workshops and dealerships, the benefits extend well beyond gaining a recognised qualification. Well-trained engineers can diagnose faults more efficiently, work safely
with regulated refrigerants and provide a professional service. As environmental legislation and vehicle technology continue to evolve, ongoing technical training is becoming increasingly important. The programme has given agricultural engineers across the UK and Ireland the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to meet the demands of ever sophisticated mobile air-conditioning systems with confidence. By investing in technician development, the industry is better placed to deliver the high standards of service that modern agriculture depends upon.
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
BAGMA TRAINING
Customer Feedback “AP Air training has helped our technicians develop confidence and competence in air conditioning diagnostics and repair. The practical, well-delivered courses have improved diagnostic capability, repair quality, and technician confidence across our team. Their technical expertise, responsive support, and can-do attitude make AP Air a valued partner to T H WHITE.”
Simon Holmes, T H WHITE
“Having worked with AP Air for a number of years, the training they provide has helped us develop what we can offer our customers in the field through their increased understanding of all A/C systems, from routine maintenance and re-gas, all the way to in-depth diagnostics. The training instructor is clearly passionate about what he does and the subjects he is delivering, a pleasure to work with at every level.”
Patrick Cawley, Sharmans Agricultural
For more information, contact BAGMA’s Training and Administration Manager Kari Hearn on 07874 876999 or via info@bagma.com.
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
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EXPERT’S VIEW
Keeping on top of driver & vehicle compliance For any dealership running demonstrators, hire machines and a yard full of vehicles, compliance quietly carries real weight. Tax, MOT and roadworthiness are not just paperwork. They are legal obligations, and responsibility sits with the operator the moment a vehicle leaves the gate. Dean Lowe of Check Now Ltd explains. The risks of getting it wrong are well understood. An untaxed or unroadworthy vehicle on the road can mean fines, enforcement action and, in serious cases, prosecution. There is also a quieter risk that catches dealers out more often: insurance. Most policies assume a vehicle is road legal and properly maintained. If it is not, a claim can become far more difficult, particularly where the condition of the vehicle
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contributed to an incident. It is not only the vehicle that needs checking. The employer must take reasonable steps to ensure anyone driving for work is properly licensed and competent. That responsibility continues because entitlements and endorsements can change over time. A licence can be revoked, penalty points can mount up and a category can lapse without the employer ever being told. “We assumed it was fine” is no defence if an incorrectly licensed driver is involved in an incident. This duty of care extends beyond financial exposure. Putting someone on the road in a vehicle they are not licensed or competent to drive puts that employee, and other road users, at unnecessary risk. One point is often missed. An MOT certificate does not prove a vehicle is roadworthy every day. It only confirms the vehicle met the required standard on the day of the test. The duty to keep a vehicle safe remains every day it is used, and tyres, brakes and lights can become defective long before the next MOT falls due. The traditional way of keeping track,
whether a spreadsheet, a wall planner, or someone’s memory, works right up until it doesn’t! A renewal date missed by a week, a licence that quietly expired, or a vehicle that slipped off the list when it moved between branches can create serious consequences. The more machines and drivers a business runs, the harder that record becomes to hold in any one person’s head. The principle is simple. Compliance is ongoing, not a one-off exercise. Tax and MOT status change. Vehicle condition changes. Licences change. The obligation to know where you stand does not pause between renewals. Treating compliance as a routine check, rather than an afterthought once a problem surfaces, helps keep a business legal, insured and safe. In a sector where machines and the people who drive them are constantly on the move, the real question is not whether dealers have a system, but whether that system gives them timely, reliable evidence when they need it most. For more information visit www.check-now.co.uk or email dean@check-now.co.uk
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
EXPERT’S VIEW
The Benefits of VoIP V oice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology that allows people to make voice calls using an internet connection instead of traditional telephone lines. Over the past few years, VoIP has become increasingly popular among businesses and individuals due to its affordability, flexibility and advanced features.
Cost savings As traditional line rental costs are rapidly increasing the nearer we get to the copper line switch off, in contrast, VoIP uses existing internet connections. VoIP subscriptions generally have call bundles included, which are significantly cheaper than individual land line calls. This significantly reduces communication costs. Flexibility VoIP supports remote working and helps businesses in their productivity, regardless of location. Using applications, users can make and receive calls from various devices, including smart phones, laptops, tablets and desktop computers. Users in different cities or countries can communicate with each other using a single platform,
with the ability to transfer calls, share directories and access common communication tools as if they were in the same location. There is a wide range of advanced features available with VoIP that are often unavailable or costly with traditional phone systems. These features include call forwarding, voicemail-to-email services, video conferencing, call recording and automated attendants. VoIP platforms can also integrate with business software, such as CRMs and e-mail systems.
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MEMBER PROFILE
Premium brands, and a side of chips! When looking at the striking, flag-lined showroom of Stuart Taylor International in Blackburn, it’s hard to imagine its origins lay in a humble two-car garage. Founded in 2003 by the late Stuart Taylor and joined a year later by his son Tom, the business has grown from an entrepreneurial leap of faith into one of the North West’s most formidable commercial groundcare specialists. Yet, the road hasn’t been without profound challenges. In 2020, the business faced a dual crisis: the tragic passing of Stuart and the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, which completely broke traditional machinery supply chains. Today, Managing Director Tom Taylor and his Mum, Jackie, run a highly streamlined, multi-million-pound operation. Serving an expansive commercial footprint that stretches from local authorities to nationwide specialised hire contracts, the dealership has redefined what it means to be an independent machinery business. We sat down with Tom to talk business transitions, workshop architecture, battery tech, and how a plate of chips managed to sell a £17,000 utility vehicle.. Let’s start with the history. You and your dad originally trained as joiners before launching into the machinery trade. How did that transition happen?
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We started in 2003 from a two-car garage with a tiny workshop, selling used speedboats, lawnmowers and whatever we could get our hands on. From there, we gradually built the business up stepby-step.
brilliant businessman, but he didn’t share his future vision out loud very much. He shared this physical location with us, we put the spade in the ground and dug the foundations together, but he passed away just before it was finished.
The biggest, most disruptive change hit us in April 2020. My dad tragically passed away right at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, the machinery auctions dried up and the supply of used equipment vanished overnight. It forced our hand completely: we had to pivot aggressively away from used machinery and transition into the new machinery sector. It was a massive learning curve, but the business just flowed forward from there.
Following our loss, my mum and I took over the day-to-day running of the operation. In many ways, we’ve had to map out our own trajectory for what his vision would look like in the modern market, especially as we expanded the commercial and hire sides of the business.
Stepping into the leadership role under those circumstances must have been incredibly tough. How did you handle taking over the next generation of the business? It was very difficult. My dad was a
The business originally gained massive momentum through a single used Gianni Ferrari mower. How did that evolve into the premium brand lineup you hold today? Early on, the big corporate players in our area already had the traditional, dominant franchises completely locked up. There wasn’t much left on the bone for us. But we found a used Gianni
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
MEMBER PROFILE
Ferrari machine, realised how good it was and noticed there was very little manufacturer support or parts backup for them in the region. We leaned into it, did incredibly well, and actually became one of the UK’s biggest Gianni Ferrari dealers at one point. Building this modern showroom changed the game entirely. Once manufacturers saw the professional standard of the depot, they started knocking on our door instead of us chasing them. Today, we operate on a strict premium brand structure, focusing heavily on toptier machinery. We’ve deliberately cut ties with high-volume, lower-tier brands that pump out equipment but fail to provide the back-end customer support. Our key clients, like local authorities and estates, demand premium reliability. Your service vans cover a staggering geographic area for a Blackburn-based dealer. What kind of work are your teams doing on the road? People are often surprised by our reach. Our sales territory is wellstructured by area, but our service and hire support is truly nationwide. We follow our commercial customers wherever they need us. We currently have machines operating from Cornwall and Devon out to Wales and the Norfolk coast. Because we specialise in highly technical machinery, we handle
incredibly diverse contracts. We look after specialised machinery tasked with detecting nuclear radiation on beaches, all the way to heavy-duty equipment maintaining vital flood defences in Norfolk. Managing a service department across that kind of distance is a massive logistical challenge. How do you keep the workshop efficient and profitable? It is hard, it genuinely feels like spinning plates every single day. But it comes down to having a brilliant team, distinct parts and workshop managers and setting crystal-clear boundaries with the customer. For example, on our trade counter, we implemented a strict up-front diagnostic fee for all handheld equipment. We found that out of every couple of hundred small machines left for repair across the industry, around 30% are abandoned on shelves because the customer decides they aren’t worth the fix. The dealer ends up completely out of pocket for the technician’s diagnostics time. 98% of customers pay the fee happily. It gives our workshop one hour to inspect the machine and report back with an honest quote within a week, completely removing the pressure of a customer standing over a mechanic demanding an instant answer. You’ve also taken an unconventional approach to communication on the service desk by hiring from outside the
machinery industry, haven’t you? Yes, and it completely transformed our customer service. We recently brought in a service communicator who came from the hospital and healthcare sector, someone who is naturally brilliant at managing expectations and having transparent conversations. In our trade, technicians often hate being on the phone, or often timelines can vary when a job is delayed. Our new coordinator calls clients before their deadline hits, provides clear updates,
“We’ve deliberately cut ties with high-volume, lower-tier brands that pump out equipment but fail to provide the back-end customer support.” BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
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MEMBER PROFILE
and takes the pressure entirely off the workshop team. The volume of frantic incoming phone calls dropped by half almost instantly because the clients are kept entirely in the loop. Your hire division has become a massive pillar of the business since you formalised the fleet around 2021. How does hiring interact with your retail sales? Our hire fleet is strictly commercial and operates on a strict minimum one-week hire policy. From a dealer’s perspective, it is the ultimate sales tool because it completely functions as a ‘try-beforeyou-buy’ avenue. In the old days, dealers would drop off a machine for a free one-week demonstration, and half the time people were just using it to get through a peak workload with no intention of buying. By charging for a minimum week of hire, you immediately weed out the time-wasters. If they are genuine buyers, that hire period almost always converts directly into a sale. Since opening the new showroom five years ago, what kind of shift have you seen in customer demand regarding battery power and robotics? The shift has been massive. We
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went from receiving a couple of casual enquiries about robotic mowers to handling non-stop, daily enquiries. Traditional pedestrian commercial mower sales have noticeably dropped as autonomous tech takes over.
installations and programming.
Because the demand for robotics has escalated so fast, we are currently transitioning a dedicated technical support specialist onto our team specifically to manage autonomous
Yes, Taylor’s Chippy! My mum has always had a background in catering, and after my dad passed away, she wanted a project she could really pour her heart into. It has turned into an absolute
We are intrigued by your site diversification, specifically the fact that you have a functioning fish and chip shop right on your depot yard. Tell us more.
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
MEMBER PROFILE
monster, especially on Fridays. While it sounds unconventional for a machinery dealership, it’s a brilliant asset. It breaks down the rigid, tradeonly intimidation factor of a commercial machinery yard. We get a completely eclectic mix of normal public foot traffic coming onto the site who otherwise would never have stepped foot in a dealer depot. It’s also the ultimate icebreaker. Just recently, a local businessman was sitting outside eating his fish and chips, looked over at a utility buggy on display, and assumed it belonged to another customer. He wandered into the showroom, asked about it, and ended up spending £17,000 on the buggy right then and there. There aren’t many deals here that aren’t done over a bag of chips! You’ve been BAGMA member since around 2018. How does the association fit into your business structure? We’ve heavily utilised BAGMA for our independent safety inspections since 2020. As an independent dealer navigating complex commercial contracts, having BAGMA there as a safety blanket and a source of regulatory peace of mind is valuable. If we ever face an industry regulation shift or a complex operational hurdle, knowing we can pick up the phone and speak to an expert is vital.
Looking ahead, what does the future hold for Stuart Taylor International? This past year has been operationally challenging across the whole industry, but our vision is focused purely on growth. Our immediate plan is to expand our physical workshop space here in Blackburn, allowing us to merge our two current operating sites into one streamlined depot. Long-term, over the next five to ten years, the goal is to take everything
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
we’ve learned from this build and establish a second premier depot further out. I have a son and a daughter; there’s absolutely no pressure on them to join the trade, but my ultimate goal as a Managing Director is to build the architecture of this business so robustly that it can run flawlessly even without me here.
www.stuarttaylors.com
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OUT & ABOUT
Last Connect meeting of 2026 We’re looking forward to our final BAGMA Connect meeting of 2026, taking place on Wednesday 21 October at Kverneland Group (UK) Ltd in Saint Helens.
Tillage-Live Returns
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illage-Live 2026 returns on Thursday 17 September, at Chrishall Grange in Cambridgeshire, by kind permission of host farm Law Farming. A standout fixture in the agricultural calendar, Tillage-Live brings together machinery manufacturers, regional dealers and technical specialists to showcase the very best in crop establishment and cultivation technology. Live field demonstrations remain at the heart of Tillage-Live, while the line-up of confirmed working exhibitors already features major industry names including
John Deere, Väderstad, KUHN Farm Machinery and PÖTTINGER UK plus many more. Beyond the demonstration plots, a dedicated static exhibition area will host local machinery dealerships and industry experts. For those looking to keep their professional qualifications up to date, the Knowledge Trail returns this year. Designed to deliver practical, field-level advice, the trail allows attendees to collect BASIS and NRoSO CPD points as they move around the site. For more information or to buy a ticket visit www.tillage-live.uk.com
Members, guests and non-members are all welcome to join us for a day of industry updates, expert insight, discussion and networking. BAGMA Connect is an important part of BAGMA’s wider commitment to keeping the industry connected and informed. We’ll be joined by a range of experts, including Mike Cullen who will cover training and education, Stephen Howarth from the AEA and Andrew Donald from the DVSA. There will also be updates from WorkNest, BAGMA’s HR and legal experts, as well as Dan Winter from Check Now. For more information or to reserve your free ticket visit www.bagma.com/events
Discover over 500 brands at GroundsFest 2026 GroundsFest 2026 is set to bring the biggest collection of brands ever seen at a UK trade event for the groundscare and landscaping industry, with more than 500 brands confirmed to appear across the two-day event. Taking place on 16 and 17 September at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, GroundsFest offers visitors the chance to discover the latest machinery, equipment, products and services from leading names across the industry, all in one place and across more than 40,000sqm of exhibition space. But GroundsFest is about more than simply looking at products. Visitors can get hands-on with the latest machinery through the extensive outdoor demonstration areas, giving them the opportunity to see equipment working in real conditions and, in many cases, try it for themselves. Inside the halls, hundreds of exhibitors will be showcasing everything from turf and landscaping products to machinery, tools, technology, irrigation, seed,
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arboriculture and business services. With more than 500 brands represented, there will be plenty to discover whether you are looking for the latest innovations, comparing products or simply keeping up to date with what is new across the industry. The event also features a packed programme of free education and CPD opportunities, with expert-led sessions covering some of the key issues currently facing the industry. Visitors can also experience Machinery Nation LIVE, the Landscape Zone supported by BALI
and a range of other attractions. And when the working day is done, GroundsFest has a festival atmosphere to enjoy, with live music on the Wednesday evening. Best of all, GroundsFest is completely free to attend, with free parking included. With more brands, more machinery and more opportunities to discover what is next for the industry, GroundsFest 2026 is an event not to be missed. Register for your free ticket now at www.groundsfest.com
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
OUT & ABOUT
SALTEX celebrates 80 editions SALTEX returns to the NEC Birmingham on 11–12 November, bringing the grounds management industry together for two days of learning, networking and discovery. Celebrating its landmark 80th edition under the theme ‘Rooted in History. Driving Progress’, SALTEX 2026 will reflect on the people, machinery and innovation that have shaped the profession while looking ahead to its future. Visitors will be able to meet leading suppliers, discover the latest machinery, products and technology, and gain
practical insight from experts working across professional and community sport, education, landscaping, local authorities, estates and the wider amenity sector. The show will also feature more than 30 hours of free education through Learning LIVE, alongside live demonstrations, interactive features and valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the industry. With free parking available for all visitors, SALTEX 2026 promises to be an unmissable gathering for everyone involved in creating and maintaining quality outdoor spaces. Register at saltex.org.uk for your FREE tickets and be in with a chance to win a Cramer bundle worth over £4,500.
BAGMA to host SALTEX Seminar
Electric technology is no longer the future of the ground care industry—it’s here today. As batteries replace fuel tanks and high-voltage systems become commonplace, understanding how to work safely with this new technology is essential. The seminar, hosted by BAGMA’s Nick Darking and MPC Landbased’s Mike Cullen will examine the unique risks and safety requirements associated with electric off-highway and outdoor power equipment, and will give a practical insight into EV systems, the control measures required, the unique hazards involved, emergency planning and the skills required to support the next generation of equipment. Whether you’re selling, servicing or operating electric machinery, this session will equip you with the knowledge to embrace electrification safely and confidently. The free to attend session will take place in Wednesday 11 November, 14:00 - 14:45 on the Community Sports Stage.
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BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
*T &Cs Apply, Exclusive to SXG 324 & 327 models
www.iseki.co.uk
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Kverneland range expands with round balers
Kverneland has extended its portfolio with a range of fixed and variable chamber round balers. Built at the Group’s Ravenna production facility in Italy, models include the heavy duty Kverneland 6500F fixed chamber baler, the Kverneland Densus 7060 and 7090 variable chamber balers, and the Kverneland FastBale - a non-stop fixed chamber, baler wrapper combination.
“Adding balers to the portfolio gives the Kverneland dealer network a more complete range of forage products, alongside mowers, rakes, tedders and mergers,” explains David Perry, Kverneland product manager for grass equipment. “Dealers and customers have been asking for Kverneland balers, and we’ve responded, to increase those options to suit grass and straw crops.” The 18-roller 6500F uses 1.25in chains that are tensions using springs held under compression, and a 2.3m wide pickup complete with internal driveline enables the pickup wheels to sit within the overall width of the baler on 500/50 R17 tyres. This keeps overall width manageable in narrower lanes. A parallelogram drop floor extends clearance under the front and rear of the intake rotor when lowered, simplifying unblocking, and bales are tied using a PowerBind net injection system that places the tail of the net directly into the bale chamber.
The introduction of Kverneland balers also coincides with the introduction of a new heavy-duty variable chamber baler model, called Densus. Available in two models – Densus 7060 and Densus 7090 – offering bale sizes up to 1.65m and 1.85m respectively, this new model features a 2.3m pickup with internal drive, and can be configured with either a rotor feed, or chop feed intake, with the latter comprising 15 knives. Its four bale formation belts are constructed from three plies bonded together, to create a belt thickness of 8mm – the toughest on the market - boosting baler longevity and reliability. In addition, vertical storage for rolls of net has been incorporated, providing easier access for loading, and resulting in a cleaner machine compared to horizontally stored rolls that can carry a build-up of dust and debris. Prices start from £51,404 for the Kverneland 6500F fixed chamber baler with rotor feed.
Jeremy Vincent joins ATT
Fendt brings combine upgrades
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endt has further updated its IDEAL combine range to build on the success of the MY26 developments. The latest MY27 will feature increased cleaning capacity, a greater separation area and a lower total cost of ownership for UK and Irish operators. Reflecting on the performance of IDEAL machines during the 2026 harvest, Fendt’s Ed Dennett says: “The new CyclonePlus cleaning system, that was implemented for MY26, has performed well this harvest. The system features a redesigned pre-sieve with 1.0 m² of concave area, 8% wider sieves and a revised airflow concept. Together, these changes increase cleaning capacity by approximately 25%.” Fendt has also reduced the number of IDEAL balance cleaning configurations from five to one, which simplifies crop conversion to enable switching from grain to maize with only a sieve change. “Customers using this new cleaning system have reported even better grain quality, with lower losses across
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a wide range of settings. An optional slope performance kit optimises crop distribution on the top sieve when harvesting on side slopes,” adds Mr Dennett. Fendt has removed all blanking plates from the Helix processor on the IDEAL 8 and IDEAL 9, replacing them with finger separation grates. This increases the total separation area by 27% on the Fendt IDEAL 8 and 12% on the Fendt IDEAL 9. All four Fendt IDEAL models now share the same rotor configuration. The Fendt IDEAL also comes with a redesigned mounting system for wear plates on the front rotor scrapers. Finally, a new standard radiator for the MotionShift transmission improves oil cooling performance, maintaining optimum temperatures during long road journeys and on steep gradients. “These updates reflect what our customers and operators tell us matters most; keeping grain quality consistent, reducing the time spent on machine adjustments, and lowering the cost of running the combine over its working life.”
Advanced Turf Technology (ATT) has significantly strengthened its UK team with the appointment of Jeremy Vincent as Sales Manager. A familiar face to many, Jeremy has previously held roles at both dealership and manufacturer level. He is also no stranger to the INFINICUT® and TMSystem™ ranges, having distributed the products previously, meaning he is well placed to hit the ground running – providing support to customers and the wider Advanced Turf Technology team. Jeremy added, “With the recent reacquisition of the company back to its original ownership, it’s an exciting time to be coming on board and I’m very pleased to be back working alongside John Coleman and the rest of the ATT team. The company has an incredible reputation for innovative and industryleading products, which we can now back up with equally important customer support.” “I look forward to getting out and meeting owners and operators old and new over the coming weeks, and catching up with lots of familiar faces on our stand at SALTEX this November.”
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
INDUSTRY NEWS
BIGGA launches greenkeeping podcast
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he British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) have announced the launch of a new podcast taking listeners behind the scenes of greenkeeping and golf course management. Produced in partnership with golfspecialist creative agency 18Players, The BIGGA Podcast will share insight and inspiration from the people shaping the future of the profession, from apprentices to course managers, industry leaders and innovators. The podcast series will guide conversations exploring the people, decisions and ideas that make great golf courses possible. Each episode will cover subjects including career development, leadership, agronomy, technology, sustainability, wellbeing and the changing demands of golf course maintenance. Future guests will be drawn from across BIGGA’s UK and international membership, as well as the wider golf and turf industries. BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said: “Greenkeepers are highly skilled professionals whose expertise is
fundamental to every round of golf, but much of their work takes place away from public view. “The BIGGA Podcast will shine a light on our members and the wider profession, giving people a platform to share their knowledge, experiences and achievements. From apprentices beginning their careers to course managers preparing venues for the game’s biggest championships, greenkeeping is full of remarkable people and stories.” Listen to the first episode of The BIGGA Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
GKB Strengthens Sales Team To cope with a rapid period of growth, GKB Machines are pleased to announce Dougie Archibald as their new UK & Ireland National Sales Manager. Working alongside UK Operations Manager Tom Shinkins, Dougie brings over 30 years of experience to the role. Starting his career with the Scottish Rugby Union, Dougie then moved into machinery sales, working in both manufacturer and dealership environments. “I’m incredibly excited to be joining GKB Machines at a time when the product range and brand as a whole is going from strength to strength. Having distributed GKB equipment for the last seven years, I understand exactly what makes these machines so popular with the end users – namely their robust build quality and reliable in-field performance. Between Tom and I, we look forward to supporting our dealers and customers nationwide and representing the brand at events around the country.”
THE TRUSTED NAME IN PROFESSIONAL SPORTS TURF CARE For 40 years Campey have introduced industry defining machinery that has changed the way natural and hybrid pitches are maintained and provided customers with honest, practical turf care advice. We’re always seeking ways to innovate turf maintenance, and finding solutions to common issues faced by every turf care professional is a vital part of the Campey operation. Whether you’re tackling localised compaction or carrying out a full pitch renovation, Campey strives to provide industry leading machinery to meet specific requirements at every level of sports turf management. Talk to Campey today about the machinery turf care specialists around the world trust.
Call +44 (0)1260 224568
visit campeyturfcare.com
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
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CONNECTING WITH
Ian Forman, NSTS Manager
discusses the advances in precision spray technology, the benefits of sprayer and spreader testing and the challenges of raising awareness of legal obligations in the amenity sector. promote best practice across the industry? There are around 270 NSTS Test Centres across the UK, from independent engineers to machinery dealers and sprayer specialists, all providing a first class service and advice for their customers. Having a stand at some of the major shows helps raise awareness of the requirements but also to assist operators in getting more out of their equipment, such as using our operator check sheets as best practice measures. NSTS recently introduced fertiliser spreader testing. What was the driver for this initiative, and how have you found the industry’s response? The AEA introduced a fertiliser spreader testing scheme in 2016 to compliment the other protocols for PPP application equipment, where accurate application is paramount to get the most out of the products applied. Add to this the need to protect the environment and waterways made good sense to offer this to land managers to help mitigate the effects of mis-application. What is the significance of BAGMA in supporting you and the wider industry? Tell us about your background and how you got into your current role within NSTS? My career has always been in agriculture. Since leaving agricultural college I worked on a farm in Oxfordshire before spending a year working and travelling in Australia. On my return I progressed into farm management with my last role as manager on a large estate in North Norfolk. A large part of my work has been working with sprayers and when the position arose at NSTS decided it was time for a change. What are the major changes you’ve witnessed in the industry in that time? Technological advances in spray applications has really moved on rapidly in recent years. Precision application is at the forefront of this and we have worked closely with a number of manufacturers to help ensure the equipment meets the correct specification when presented for testing. The need to reduce the quantity of plant protection products applied and the rapid development of technology such as camera systems on sprayers in recent years will help achieve this.
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During your twelve years with NSTS, how have you seen awareness and understanding of sprayer testing evolve? Are there any noticeable differences between the agriculture and amenity sectors in terms of recognition of responsibilities? With assurance schemes in place in the agriculture sector, equipment testing has become part of the requirements and operators really see the benefits of regular testing. For other sectors, especially in amenity and horticulture, it is more of a challenge - one, to make machine owners aware of the requirements, but also to ensure they have their equipment tested. An example is that in 2025 NSTS tested around 350 golf course sprayers but with around 2,500 courses in the UK, a huge majority of them are currently not meeting the requirements. My concern is if something goes wrong, where could it leave the company when they haven’t met all of their legal obligations? How have you worked with manufacturers and dealers to raise awareness of sprayer testing and
Many NSTS Test Centres are BAGMA members and realise the benefits of having the association to support them, especially in these challenging times within the industry in all sectors. Since the AEA acquired BAGMA in 2021 they have gone from strength to strength which has enabled closer collaboration with NSTS.
“...in 2025 NSTS tested around 350 golf course sprayers butwith around 2,500 courses in the UK, a huge majority of them are not currently meeting the requirements.
BAGMA BULLETIN - SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026
“We recently used one of BAGMA’s Service Providers – QuoinStone - who were able to get us a nice refund on our business rates at one of our sites. Access to this support and these savings just highlights the benefits of BAGMA membership.” Campey Turf Care Systems
ARE YOU MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR MEMBERSHIP? BAGMA Members gain access to a range of exclusive discounts and services designed especially for your business. Join other members already saving time and money with our approved Service Providers.
Don’t forget, BAGMA Members also receive 20% discount on BAGMA technical courses!
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