‘Corona virus’, there is no newspaper or talkshow without the topic. It looks like we are on the right path here in the EU, but we have to stay alert. 

We as CLIMMAR have investigated the COVID-19 impact on our European dealers with a short survey in May. The outcome is very clear: the impact of COVID-19 on our business is huge, especially in the agricultural sector concerning sales of new machinery and equipment. I consider myself as a positive man and am convinced that the sector will recover, but I’m realistic as well and I don’t think this will happen overnight. It will require time and for some it’ll be a tough struggle, but in the end we are creative and with good common (business) sense we are able to overcome. 

In the middle of all this, we see other important issues that are still on a continuous and positive path of development. The efforts taken by our sector to ensure high qualified and up-to-date education for our mechanics is a very positive example. And also the further spreading of the Code of Conduct on Agricultural Data Sharing by contractual agreement is an important activity, since we must be aware that data has the biggest impact on our day to day business for the coming decades. All new developments rely on data. If it is the milking equipment or the new crop sensing camera, it cannot work without data. 

So, in order to allow farmers to participate freely in the collection of data, it is necessary that they remain in charge of those figures at all times. We must be aware as dealers that we find agreements with our customers to use the data to help the farmers/contractors to use and service their machines better. Cultivate their soils better, protect their crops better and harvest in exactly the right time. Our customers are changing and we have to change along. We have to help them improve their results. Don’t let data block your cooperation with your customers. 

Smart farming will get smarter and we have to be aware of this. In tough times changes go faster…, don’t miss the train. 

Stay safe and be smart.