Research

Agtech in focus: New implements to provide solutions for farmers’ challenges

3 December 2024 13:26 RaboResearch

Farm implement manufacturers offer solutions for the challenges farmers face. We analyzed 132 product announcements to find out the main performance improvement areas.

Intro

Structural developments are changing European farming. For example, farms are scaling up operations, labor markets are tighter, and sustainability policies are making greater demands. These structural developments shape what farmers need from implements. As a result, implement manufacturers are (re)focusing their product development to address the multitude of challenges that farmers face. Our deep dive into 132 product announcements from 10 European attached equipment manufacturers reveals the main focus areas for the new and improved implements being launched:

    Getting the job done faster and more easily remains the primary focus for new and improved implements; 74% of product announcements highlight productivity features. Improving the quality of work done with implements lies at the center of 45% of product announcements, with a strong focus on upgrading performance characteristics that result in higher yields and/or lower costs. Meeting sustainability requirements is also a key interest. Sustainability-related topics are mentioned in 53% of product announcements, with particular attention paid to improving soil health by reducing soil compaction. Integrating smart technologies into farming practices is becoming increasingly important. Sixty-one percent of product announcements enhance precision, connectivity, and autonomous capabilities.

Improved implements increase productivity and sustainability performance, helping farmers to get the work done and move toward sustainability targets. Improved implements are therefore a key feature of the future of farming.

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