Registrations of new self-propelled forage harvesters have soared by a massive 54% on last year’s figures.

Coincidentally, the number of self-propelled forage harvesters registered so far in 2019 equals the percentage increase on the total numbers registered for all of 2018, at 54. These sales figures are analysed and compiled by the Farm Tractor and Machinery Trade Association (FTMTA).

Despite the tough year to date given the uncertainty within the agricultural industry due to Brexit, deals were still done, with registrations hitting a record high. It is doubtful that many more units will be registered given the fact that the silage season is well under way, but there is talk that one or two more may be registered before the year is out.

The graph below shows a trend of steady sales increases from 2012 right up to 2018, given the exception of a decrease in 2016 and 2018. This leaves us wondering what may have encouraged this year’s spike in forager sales?

Leading brand

When we study the brands Irish contractors are buying, there has been a standout leader going as far back as 2012. German giants Claas lead the markets in terms of sales.

In 2018, Claas had 17 machines registered, followed by 10 from John Deere. Krone took third place with its number of registrations reaching seven, while New Holland came fourth with one new unit registered for the year.