The manufacturer said that this move marks a significant milestone in Krone UK’s journey, reinforcing the company’s confidence in its trusted independent dealers to deliver exceptional service, support, and sales expertise to customers nationwide.

Dr Marcus Oliver, managing director at Krone UK, said: “Krone Forage Solutions was established to demonstrate our confidence in the Krone brand and ensure a local presence during a key stage in our UK development in the absence of an independent dealer option.

“It has served its purpose extremely well. Today, our national network of dedicated and highly capable dealers is stronger than ever.

“With this in mind, we are now shifting our focus entirely to supporting our independent dealer partners – enabling them to thrive, grow and deliver outstanding value to our shared customers.”

Mr Oliver confirmed that other than the planned closure of KFS, there are no other intended changes to Krone’s distribution model.

‘Seamless transition’

Krone UK said it is actively working with all affected staff and customers to ensure a seamless transition over the coming months to assure continued access to the Krone machinery range, parts, and service support through its dealer network.

Business will continue as normal across all departments until Krone Forage Solutions ceases trading on 30th November 2025.

The company confirmed that there will be no change to any existing formal agreements/commitments already made to customers or suppliers.

A spokesperson for Krone UK added: “The company remains fully committed to the UK market, with plans for further investment in dealer development, customer service, and aftersales support.

“This decision reflects Krone UK’s long-term vision: to empower its independent dealer network, enhance customer experience, and maintain Krone’s position as the leading specialist in grassland and forage machinery.”

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Kuhn explained that the company has a strong presence in the west of the country, and the partnership with HB Machinery fills a gap in its dealer network.

The new dealer’s area begins near its base at Wrea Green, just west of Preston, and extends beyond Lancaster. The outlet will retail Kuhn’s full line of equipment.

HB Machinery founders Harry and Donna Boardman said that the team is excited to work with the manufacturer and offer its product range.

“I wanted to work with a high-quality and respected implement manufacturer that can supply market-leading products for our diverse customer base.

“From feeding and bedding kits for small dairy farmers to high-output grassland machines for contractors and innovative technology and cultivators for our professional root crop customers, Kuhn’s portfolio fits neatly into the requirements of the area,” Mr Boardman added.

‘Passionate and enthusiastic’ dealership

HB Machinery, founded in 2020, specialises in selling quality used tractors for both domestic and export markets. The owners believe that selling and supporting Kuhn machines, alongside the current franchise of Bailey Trailers, will be very appealing to end users.

Karl Ridsdale, area sales manager at Kuhn UK, said that Mr Boardman’s reputation and proactive attitude will be well received by customers.

“Harry and his team are passionate and enthusiastic about the Kuhn brand, which is exactly what we want from our dealers. He has the knowledge and expertise that’s so valuable, and it strengthens our position in the West.

“We’re looking forward to supporting his family business to grow and flourish with the Kuhn brand.”

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This move follows five years of trading in the Ashford area for Ernest Doe and Sons.  

However, with two competing agricultural dealers operating in close proximity, both with the Case IH franchise, it has become clear that a long-term, sustainable presence is not commercially viable, the dealer explained. 

Following a strategic review, a mutual decision has been made to consolidate agricultural operations in the Ashford area within Haynes Bros Ltd’s existing CNH dealer network, which already holds the Case IH franchise in Birchington, East Kent. 

As part of this agreement, the agricultural business currently operated by Ernest Doe Power Ashford, including the agricultural staff, will be integrated into Haynes Bros Ltd’s network, and the Ashford branch will close. 

The dealership confirmed that this change does not affect its construction or groundcare operations, which will continue to operate as usual from Dartford, Esher, Ringmer and Albourne branches. 

‘Valuable part in company’s journey’

Graham Parker, sales director at Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd, said: “Ashford has played a valuable part in our journey over the past five years, and we’re grateful to the team there for their dedication and to our customers for their support.  

“As we continue to focus on long-term strength across our 20-branch network, this move allows us to consolidate our efforts and ensure we’re best placed to serve customers across our trading areas.” 

While day-to-day operations will transfer to Haynes Bros from 25th July 2025, Ernest Doe & Sons will retain responsibility for the sale agreements on units sold to date, including outstanding account balances. 

Haynes will now cover both East and West Kent for Case IH farm machinery, including Case IH manufacturer warranty. Customers are invited to open an account with Haynes Bros Ltd for in-territory parts and service work. 

A spokesperson for Ernest Doe & Sons added: “We would like to take this opportunity to extend our appreciation to the agricultural team at Ernest Doe Power Ashford for their dedication and professionalism throughout their time with us.  

“We are proud of what has been achieved and wish both our colleagues and Haynes Bros every success in this new chapter.” 

‘Another exciting chapter’

Commenting on the expansion, James Broadley, group managing director of Haynes Bros Ltd said: “This move to expand our Case IH agricultural presence throughout Kent is another exciting chapter for our growing agricultural business.

“Both Andrew Haynes, our chairman and CEO, and I, would like to thank CNH and Ernest Doe and Sons’ senior management team for facilitating this move, which further strengthens our agricultural operations in the South of England.”

Adrian Woods, operations director of Haynes Agricultural Ltd, added: “We look forward to welcoming the Ernest Doe staff at Woodchurch into the Haynes fold and to continuing to build a successful future for the Case IH farm machinery brand throughout our new territory in West Kent.”

Read more machinery news. 

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Operating from two of their strategically located depots in Fraddon, Cornwall, and Smithaleigh, South Devon, Vincents will represent the Merlo range across South Devon and Cornwall, further strengthening Merlo’s presence in the South West. 

The family-run business has grown significantly under the direction of Nick and Alec Vincent, offering a comprehensive range of machinery solutions across both the agricultural, construction and ground care sectors. 

Owen Buttle, national sales manager at Merlo UK, said: “We are proud to welcome Vincents to the Merlo network. Their multi-depot footprint, highly capable team, and dedication to customer service make them an ideal partner.  

“This appointment further supports Merlo’s aim to ensure customers across the South West have access to industry-leading telehandlers and expert local support.” 

With a wide-ranging product portfolio that includes Kverneland, Ktwo, Joskin, Marshall Trailers, and Nugent Trailers across agriculture – and Trimax, Grillo, Trilo, Cramer, and Baroness in the ground care sector – the addition of Merlo telehandlers is a key component in Vincent Tractors’ future strategy, the dealership team said. 

‘Key piece of Merlo’s business plan’

Nick Vincent, dealer principal at Vincent Tractors, added: “Merlo is a key piece of our business plan. We want to be the ‘dealer of choice in the South West’, and offering a premium range like Merlo – backed by our own premium service – allows us to meet the needs of a broad and growing customer base.” 

Founded in 1966 and now serving the region from Fraddon as its principal place of business, Vincent Tractors continues to build on its legacy by investing in people, service, and the best equipment on the market, the company confirmed. 

The team said that this new appointment ensures that farmers, contractors, and landowners throughout Devon and Cornwall will have direct access to Merlo’s innovative range of telehandlers, supported by a trusted and locally based dealer. 

READ MORE: Vincent Tractors announced death of its co-founder Esme Vincent

Read more machinery news. 

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Originally planned as a three-man rowing challenge, the event quickly turned into a more memorable and somewhat unpredictable endeavour.  

Setting off from Felixstowe Ferry, the team’s goal was to row to HMS Vale at Melton Boatyard. However, shortly after departure, it became apparent that the boat was taking on water due to a slow leak.  

What began as ‘Three Men in a Boat’ became four, with one team member bailing water for the entire journey to ensure the boat remained afloat. 

The team consisted of Ben Hockley, Simon Pink and John Drake on the oars, with Adrian Brown serving as coxswain and keeping the boat afloat.  

‘Physically demanding but also incredibly rewarding’ challenge

Speaking after the challenge, Simon Pink, service manager at TNS Melton, said that the challenge was “physically demanding but also incredibly rewarding”. 

“Despite the challenges on the day, we stayed focused and completed the row. We are overwhelmed by the generosity of our sponsors and those who supported us and proud to have raised £31,543 for Dementia UK,” he added. 

Thurlow Nunn Standen has extended its sincere thanks to the event’s sponsors: Cheffins, Birketts, Gressingham Foods, Philip Liverton, G W Topham, Tenzing and Treadfirst. Their valued support has been instrumental in making the challenge a success, the company’s team said. 

The River Deben challenge forms part of the Thurlow Nunn Group’s wider initiative to raise £150,000 in support of Dementia UK as the company celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2025.  

The Group, which was established in 1875 in Stowmarket, Suffolk, remains a family-owned and managed business now led by the sixth generation.  

The fundraising campaign is held in memory of the late Chairman, Mr John Thurlow, and his wife, Mrs Peggy Thurlow, both of whom sadly passed away in 2024. 

Join Thurlow Nunn Standen in raising funds to support those impacted by dementia by visiting its JustGiving page.  

Every donation will help Dementia UK continue its essential work, providing life-changing support to individuals and families affected by dementia. 

READ MORE: Thurlow Nunn Group fundraises £16k during classic car treasure hunt

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R W Crawford Agricultural Machinery Ltd. was founded by Bob Crawford in October 1980 and initially focused on the buying and selling of used farm machinery in Essex.

Over the years, the business has grown into Crawfords Group, a multi-branch business specialising in the sales, servicing, and parts support of machinery and 4×4 vehicles across the South and South East England.

Crawfords Group has just announced the retirement of its founder and chairman, Bob Crawford.

Managing director Wes Crawford said: “On behalf of the Crawford family and the entire Crawfords team, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to my father for his years of dedication, vision, and support.

“Bob’s leadership has shaped the culture of the business from day one – grounded in passion, trust, family and respect. With a strong customer focus and a genuine passion for the land-based sectors that we serve.

“His mentorship has left a lasting legacy that will continue to guide the business for years to come.”

‘More than just a business’

Commenting on his retirement, Bob Crawford said: “What started as a small venture from a yard in Essex has grown into something I’m incredibly proud of.

“Crawfords has always been more than just a business to me – it’s been a family, a team, and a way of life. I’m grateful to everyone who’s been part of the journey, past and present, from loyal customers and suppliers to the dedicated team who continue to drive the business forward.

“It’s now time for me to step back, knowing the company is in safe hands with a bright future.”

The company’s team said that Mr Crawford’s retirement marks the “end of an era”, but his values and vision remain deeply rooted in the Crawfords Group as it continues to grow and evolve in the years ahead.

Mr Crawford plans to have his last day within the business on Friday, 11th July.

READ MORE: Crawfords Group becomes distributor of Komatsu equipment

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The Crawfords team said that Komatsu is a construction equipment manufacturer, known for its innovation, reliability, and performance.

This strategic partnership enables Crawfords Group to represent Komatsu’s full compact range, including excavators up to 10 tonnes, wheeled loaders, skid steers, and backhoe loaders.

“Komatsu is a renowned and respected brand, and we are delighted to bring their compact range to our customers.

“This partnership reflects our continued commitment to providing high-quality solutions across multiple industries, including construction, landscaping, and utilities,” said Nunzio Rio, group sales director of Crawfords Group.

‘Local knowledge and established network’

As a key partner, Crawfords will have stock available from all depots, ensuring equipment is available for immediate delivery. This will be supported by their dedicated team offering expert advice, product demonstrations, and aftersales support.

“We are excited to appoint the Crawfords Group, a long-established business, as our Komatsu compact dealer for the South East of England.

“We look forward to working with them and are confident their local knowledge and established network will provide exceptional service to those using the innovative range of Komatsu Utility machinery in the South East,” Brian Graham, managing director at Marubeni-Komatsu Ltd, said.

The Komatsu compact range made its public debut at the Essex Young Farmers Show, followed by the Crawfords Billingshurst Open Day, and will be showcased at further events throughout the year.

To ensure seamless integration and support, all Crawfords departments – sales, service, and parts – will receive in-depth Komatsu training over the coming months, the company confirmed.  

In addition, Crawfords will be appointing a dedicated group construction sales manager with significant construction industry experience to lead this new division. 

Crawfords added that this appointment strengthens its position as a trusted machinery partner, delivering exceptional service and industry-leading brands to professionals across the South and South East. 

Selected Komatsu products were recently displayed at the Billingshurst open day, generating considerable interest from prospective customers.

Crawfords Group business director, Alan Haynes, said: “There was huge interest in the Komatsu loaders. The Komatsu name is renowned in the construction industry but appointing us to sell and look after the range across such a large trading area introduces these machines to a much wider variety of potential customers.

“For us, it adds a new customer demographic for our other brands too.”

‘Introducing Crawfords brand to even more customers’

Crawfords Group has also recently announced a significant expansion of its AGCO sales and aftersales territory, now extending across North Hampshire, and Berkshire, including the key M4 and A34 corridor.  

In addition to this, Crawfords have also been awarded the Massey Ferguson franchise for sales and after-sales across West Sussex and South Hampshire. The company’s team said that this development marks another important milestone in the group’s continued growth and commitment to serving the agricultural industry with premium machinery sales and aftersales services.  

Operating from its established depots in Ropley and Billingshurst, Crawfords will now offer full-line support across all AGCO brands, including Fendt, Valtra, and Massey Ferguson, throughout the expanded region.

“This includes comprehensive sales, parts supply, and aftersales service for all machines, delivered with the professionalism and farmer-first approach that Crawfords is known for. 

 “This expansion is a fantastic opportunity to build on the momentum we’ve created across our existing areas.

“We’re excited to introduce the Crawfords brand to even more customers – delivering premium brands, trusted service, and expert advice that our current customers know and value,” Wes Crawford, managing director of Crawfords Group, concluded. 

READ MORE: Agwood ceases operations and merges with Crawfords

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Russells has nine New Holland depots across Yorkshire, Derbyshire, and Nottinghamshire.  

The business will now also retain Webster’s depots at Owstwick near Hull, and Hutton Cranswick near Driffield, integrating them into Russell’s successful agricultural business.  

Many of Webster’s staff will join Russells, ensuring continuity for existing customers, the company confirmed. 

Paul Russell, CEO of Russells Ltd, said: “We are delighted to welcome the teams from Owstwick and Hutton Cranswick, along with the challenges and opportunities that the new territory provides.  

“This expansion aligns with our focus on local staff serving local customers. We look forward to working with all our new staff and customers in the area, and wish them a warm welcome to Russells, as we develop our business in the area together with New Holland.” 

David Rapkins, CNH business director UK & ROI, added: “Congratulations to Russells on their continued growth, demonstrating the strength of our dealer network.  

“We would like to thank Jackie Thompson, Robert Webster and all their team for their longstanding service and look forward to supporting Russells and all New Holland customers in the area.” 

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Due to the sad closure of Malpas Tractors, RVW Pugh Ltd has expanded into the Lancashire area for Merlo, Sumo, Hi-Spec, Vaderstad and AVR customers.  

The company confirmed that it has a dedicated area sales manager for this region, as well as a depot for parts sales, warranty enquiries, repairs and maintenance work in Lathom.  

RVW Pugh Ltd said that the business has been the main dealer for Merlo, Sumo, Hi-Spec, Vaderstad and AVR in its current areas for many years, and its employees have a wealth of knowledge of these machinery and accessory ranges.  

The company has retained the employment of former Malpas Tractors staff members, who have understanding of the local area and the market.  

READ MORE: Welsh farm machinery dealer Malpas Tractors has gone into administration

READ MORE: Malpas Tractors announced death of its managing director Paul Reeves

Lancashire depot

RVW Pugh Ltd will also be taking on the warranty commitments for the Merlo, Sumo, Hi-Spec and Vaderstad branded machinery.    

The depot is open for AGCO parts, along with a wide range of tools, wearing parts and other merchandise for day-to-day farming jobs.  

Robert Pugh, managing director of RVW Pugh Ltd, said: “We are delighted to be able to take on the Lancashire area for the Merlo, Sumo, Hi-Spec, Vaderstad and AVR brands, as well as welcoming our new team members to the company.”  

Emma Pugh, business manager for RVW Pugh Ltd, added: “We have a new depot for the Lancashire area and would encourage any former customers of Malpas Tractors with outstanding warranties with the Merlo, Sumo, Hi-Spec and Vaderstad brands to contact us with any queries they have.”

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Kuhn brand is set to grow across West Yorkshire thanks to Clapham Agricultural that is run by Ed and Debbie Clapham at Ripponden, near Halifax. 

Mr Clapham said: “Kuhn machinery is well-respected and popular, and I think there’s great potential to get more machines onto farms. Kuhn’s bedding and feeding lines, alongside its extensive grassland kit, should be of interest to users.” 

Karl Ridsdale, Kuhn’s area sales manager for northern England, added: “I’ve known Ed for several years and his dedication to providing a first-class service, with particular focus on aftersales, fits well with Kuhn’s vision for its dealer network.  

“The area Clapham Agricultural will cover is predominately livestock, so our product range will dovetail nicely with what farmers are requiring.” 

‘Farmers will want to see how Kuhn machines’ 

Alongside Clapham Agricultural, Mrs and Mr Clapham run Harry Travis, a dairy engineering and supplies business from the same Ripponden site. The couple believes that many dairy producers will already be familiar with the service they receive from this business. 

They said: “Customers using our dairy business will know the service and proactive attitude we have. We take this ethos into our agricultural work and I’m confident that farmers will want to see how Kuhn machines, sold and supported through our dealership, can help them. This partnership means we can now provide support from grass through to milk.” 

READ MORE: Cereals Event 2025: Discover sprayer technology at Fendt’s stand

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