There is some positive news for the machinery dealers of Ireland. It is reported that 129 new tractors were sold in August 2017 – an increase of 41 tractors or 46% on the corresponding month of 2016.
A total of 1,535 new tractors were sold between January and August 2017, according to data reportedly released by the FTMTA (Farm Tractor and Machinery Trade Association).
However, there has been an 8% drop in the number of new tractors sold during the first eight months of 2017, when compared with figures from the same period in 2016.
Image source: Shane Casey
Munster counties continue to lead the way in relation to the highest number of registrations so far this year. Cork was on top with 174 new registrations; followed by Tipperary in second place with 120 and Clare with 75.
Galway and Wexford sit side by side, with 88 and 86 new registrations respectively.
According to figures released by the FTMTA, farmers and contractors continue to favour the 101-120hp segment, with 34% of all new tractors registered falling into this bracket.
The 121-150hp range follows as the next most popular, accounting for 30% of all new tractors registered.
Image source: Shane Casey
Popular machines
Registrations of teleporters (telescopic handlers), backhoe loaders and wheeled loaders have reportedly improved, when compared to the first eight months of 2016. This, again, suggests an improvement in the construction sector in Ireland.
Image source: Shane Casey
Teleporter sales reportedly increased from 209 up to 216 (units) for January-to-August 2017 – an increase of 3.3%. Backhoe loaders also performed well; 34 units were sold during the period, compared to 31 in 2016.
There was a significant reported increase in the number of wheeled loaders registered in the first eight months of this year. 68 new machines were sold – an increase of 16 on 2016 figures.
UK tractor sales
According to figures from the AEA (Agricultural Engineers Association) the total number of tractors sold in the first six months of 2017 in the UK increased by 17% against the same period in 2016.
Most regions of the UK recorded increased registrations of agricultural tractors, with the exception of north-east England, where there was a decrease.
The south-east, Home Counties and East Midlands, reported little change.
Among the biggest increases were those in the south-west and eastern England, which are the two leading regions for tractor registrations.
