THERE has been a dramatic change in the machinery landscape across Scotland, which has sent shock-waves throughout the industry.

Supersizing dealerships, either by taking on new franchise holders or by merger, seems to be the order of the day, with knock-on effects that do not appear to be the end of the matter.

In Aberdeenshire, tractor dealership, Balgownie, recently lost its franchise for Massey Ferguson equipment, after championing the brand for a considerable number of years.

The company, which has depots in both Inverurie and Turriff, was a victim of Massey Ferguson's 'review of the structure' of its dealer network.

Sales executive at Balgownie, Gordon Lynch, commented that it was 'completely shocking', but added that the company intended to continue doing repairs, while still supplying parts and spares for tractors and machinery, including Massey Ferguson kit. Spares for the MF industrial loaders and diggers, via the company’s Terex agency, will also still be available.

As well as having the new range of Bobcat agricultural telehandlers, this change will allow the company to pursue other agricultural opportunities in new areas. Balgownie's Massey Ferguson contract will come to an end in March, 2017, he said.

Forfar-based, AM Phillip – which was a Case IH dealer – has been appointed by AGCO as the new dealers for its Massey Ferguson brand in the North-east, where they will offer sales and customer service support from its Huntly, Fraserburgh and Forfar branches.

Andrew Connon, of AM Phillip, said the firm were delighted to be awarded the new franchise: "This new development presents us with an exciting partnership and business opportunity, allowing us to offer our customers a quality brand with the highest standards."

A new Case IH dealer for the region has yet to be appointed.

Valtra tractors in Aberdeenshire and Angus have also been given a new home, with AGCO appointing Alan Mackay Machinery as its new distributor. The Forfar-based firm, plans to open a new depot in Aberdeenshire to serve customers within the region.

AGCO's Mark Casement, director and distribution manager UK and Ireland, said: "Valtra is enjoying significant market share growth across Scotland, so we are delighted that Mackay now takes on the challenge to replicate that performance in the north-east region."

In the Central Belt, two well-known MF/AGCO dealers, Hamilton Ross Group and G Reekie Group, have merged as a result of AGCO's 'determination to strengthen sales, customer service and support for its Massey Ferguson, Challenger, Fendt and Valtra brands' within the region.

"The establishment of the new company, Reekie Ltd, as part of the Hamilton Ross Group sees the consolidation of two very experienced, high-performing dealers which will strengthen the future of the business and boost the distribution and support of our leading brands in this important farming area," said Mr Casement.

Reekie will trade through its branches in Cupar and Perth, with the Perth base dedicating its sales focus for MF machinery and the base at Cupar, focusing on sales of Fendt, and Challenger equipment, as well as their new addition of Valtra tractors.

Hamilton Ross is based in Bishopton, with satellites in Lanark, Campbeltown and Tarbolton. Hamilton Brothers and Ross of Lanark will continue to sell, service and provide parts for Massey Ferguson and Valtra agricultural machinery.