Background

This fourth-generation family farm spans across 580 hectares (1,433 acres) across North Nottinghamshire, operating across a mix of medium and light sandy soils. The business has a strong focus on root crop production, growing potatoes, onions, carrots and sugar beet alongside growing cereals and maize.

With over 40 years of farming experience, Andrew took over responsibilities as soon as he left college. Today, the farm continues to evolve while maintaining its long-standing family legacy.

A Long-Standing Relationship with John Deere

The farm has been running John Deere machinery for nearly 30 years. The current fleet consists of six John Deere 6R Series tractors, two Kramer KT457 telehandlers  and a new John Deere 550R self-propelled sprayer due for delivery later on this year. John Deere unveiled its flagship sprayer back in June 2025. Designed to deliver top-tier performance with exceptional precision which will fit nicely into Andrews farming operation.

Andrew’s decision to invest in John Deere was driven by several key factors: proven reliability, supportive and knowledgeable members of staff from the Retford depot, and machines that consistently “do the job” without fuss.

As Andrew explains…

"With a large team to manage, breakdowns are simply not an option! Breakdowns lead to costly delays, so dependable equipment is critical. Therefore, I am willing to invest more upfront for machines that deliver consistent performance all year round!"

What Sets Ripon Farm Services and John Deere Apart?

When we asked Andrew what set us apart from our competitors, he emphasised the expectational reliability of the machines and team at The Ripon Group.

 "The aftersales support was professional and consistent with every purchase we have made with Ripon Farm Services."

John Deere Precision Technology

The John Deere Precision Technology has played a massive part in Andrew's business running day to day. While it wasn't the initial reason for choosing John Deere, it has become a valuable part of the operation. Until 2023, Andrew ran a competitor precision technology system on his John Deere's and then made the change to running the fleet through John Deere Precision Technology utilizing features such as AutoTrack, Section Control, Passive Implement Guidance, Active Implement Guidance and John Deeres Operation Center.  

The John Deere Operations Center has been very impactful, allowing Andrew to monitor the machines and the teams locations in real time, increasing the efficiency when it comes to refuelling the machines,  automatic documentation of operations, improving agronomic decisions and most importantly making sure the team are safe and where they should be.

One of the biggest changes that John Deere Precision Technology has enabled is within the farm’s root crop production system. Andrew’s ultimate goal was to make root crop harvesting GPS-guided, reducing harvester damage while allowing the operator to focus on the harvester rather than steering.

Previously, this wasn’t possible due to implement drift caused by changing slopes and varying soil conditions.

However, with the introduction of Passive and Active Implement Guidance on ridgers, destoners, drills, and planters, every operation can now be carried out exactly where it needs to be. The result is a more accurate system and a slightly less stressful harvest.

Cost Effectiveness & Business Return

Although the farm has limited experience comparing other brands, the reduced need for repairs and parts, highlights the cost effectiveness of John Deere machinery. Overall, the focus is simple, reliable machines that consistently get the job done alongside the strong backup support from Ripon Farm Services, this delivers confidence and efficiency across the business.

With reduced breakdowns, lower labour costs due to less idle time and improved workflow visibility and coordination Andrew has been very impressed with the John Deere Technology and the machines themselves.

How have you found the Customer Support from Ripon Farm Services?

Andrew was very complimentary about the friendly, knowledgeable staff from the Retford depot and the Technology Team.

While acknowledging that “nothing is ever perfect,” he emphasised that the team is consistently supportive, approachable, and easy to work with.!

Conclusion

For this long-established farming business, John Deere machinery remains a cornerstone of daily operations. Reliability, efficiency, and strong support have enabled the farm to maintain productivity across generations.

As the business continues to adopt new technologies, it is clear that both John Deere and Ripon Farm Services will remain key partners in its future success.

“Keep doing what you’re doing, it works for us.”