Family firm with Whaplode base will become largest UK dealership for AGCO

A family firm will become the largest UK dealership for an agricultural manufacturer thanks to its latest acquisition.

Chandlers Farm Equipment Ltd, which has a base in Whaplode, has doubled the size of its operations and expanded its territory after buying the AGCO division of Lister Wilder.

AGCO, which is a global leader in design, manufacture and distribution, has a network representing more than 4,200 independent dealers and distributors of some of the world’s most innovative agricultural machinery and equipment brands.

Chandlers, which was established in 1935, looks after the supply and aftersales service of new and used agricultural tractors and farm equipment to the farming industry

The deal creates a £125m revenue business for Chandlers operating across the East of England, and also allows Lister Wilder to refocus entirely on the Kubota brand which forms the bedrock of their operations.

“Our acquisition further strengthens our commitment to our customers, and the markets in which we operate” explains managing director Gavin Pell.

“As the largest AGCO dealership in the UK, we are in a very strong position moving forward, least not for the fact we are backed by the world’s largest agricultural machinery company.

“The deal provides a mutually beneficial and pragmatic solution for both parties, and also means we can further enhance the range of products and services that we’ve become renowned for.”

HSBC provided funding to facilitate the acquisition, led by Jack Coley within the East Midlands Corporate Banking Team.