The early signs for the 2016 tractor sales market are positive, according to dealers.

John Deere sales are similar if not better than last January said Pat Costello from TFM, although exact numbers weren’t available at such an early stage. Liam Hayde from New Holland told a similar story, with around 75 units leaving dealers in January. Deutz-Fahr has been seeing a steady growth in the 120hp to 180hp range of around 3% to 5%. Massey Ferguson is confident that 2016 is set to be better than 2015, as a busy December period has seen increased orders. However, exact figures are not yet available. Patrick Ryan from D&S machinery, the main importers for Landini and McCormick, said the company also had a very good December, but again figures are not available.

Karol Duignan from Claas said that over 60 units have been sold for the new year, with most in the 100hp to 140hp range.

One of the main driving forces behind the increase sales is the option of subsidised finance packages offered by all main dealers. However, this can lead to the problem of increased secondhand stock levels, with little to no market for them.