Registrations of new tractors are well down on the same period of last year, according to statistics for the first six months of 2017.
Reportedly released by the FTMTA (Farm Tractor and Machinery Trade Association), the figures show that 1,168 new tractors were accounted for by the end of June. This contrasts with a figure of 1,335 for the same period of last year – a drop of 167 units (12.5%).
Somewhat predictably, the most registrations by county was firmly to the south. Cork purportedly led the way for new machines with 153 new tractors; Tipperary was in second place with 105 new units registered. Wexford took third place and was some way behind the other two counties, with 78 new tractors registered to date.
Image source: Shane Casey
In terms of month-on-month sales, this showed an increase of nine, one, and four new tractors registered in Cork, Tipperary and Wexford, respectively, since May.
Also Read: Disappointing trend continues for tractor sales in MayReported figures show farmers and contractors clearly favouring more powerful machines – with just over 86% of new 2017 tractors packing 100hp or higher under the bonnet; more than half (53%) churning out 120hp or greater; and 22% capable of at least 150hp.
Other machines
In terms of harvesters, 37 new self-propelled foragers were registered in the first six months of 2017, according to reports.
Image source: Shane Casey
It was not all bad news machinery-wise in 2017, however. 58 new wheeled loaders were registered so far this year – a jump of 26% on the 46 loaders documented for the same period of last year.
Image source: Shane Casey
Telehandlers have also performed well, with 175 new units registered – a rise of 5% on the same period of 2016.
UK Sales
In direct contrast to fortunes in the Irish machinery market, UK agricultural tractor sales saw an increase of 14.1% in 2017, compared to the first six months of 2016. This equates to 6,142 new tractors to date, according to the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA).
Image source: Shane Casey