Interactivity
previous page
next page
Read more text
view summary
Go to cover
Nº2 October 2017
KUBOTA FARM SOLUTIONS MAGAZINE
KUBOTA FARM SOLUTIONS
How to navigate this magazine
KUBOTA
M7002 NEW
Editorial note Kubota Farm Solutions Magazine. Kubota Farm Solutions Magazine has the purpose to share, internally among employees of the company in Europe, relevant content and news regarding Kubota agricultural business in Europe and worldwide. Publication date: June 2017 Copyright date: June 2017 Editor in chief: European Agricultural Business Unit Joan Surroca, PR Internet and Advertising Manager Co-editors for local contents, on behalf of Kubota European Sales Companies: KE / KNL / KEI: Gérard Danibert, Caterina Prinzivalli, Elisabetta Rivolta KUK: Karen Tipping, Shannon Oconnor KES: Antonio Pérez, Masumi Lavega KDG / KPL / CE: Dagmar Zick, Andrzej Sosinski KTT: Cihan Gürel Distribution: by AGBU, on behalf of the European Sales Companies. Sources: KBT, KvG, EU Sales Companies, AGBU, others. Confidentiality: all European agricultural business related contents are for internal use. It is not allowed to send it to third parties. Please don't hesitate to share with your colleagues.
DEALERSHIP BRANDING
Editorial Note
Did you know...
GLOBAL KUBOTA NEWS
AGRITECHNICA
Implements & Precision Farming
TRACTORS
• M7002 NEW
Kubota Farm Solutions
Europe
News from our subsidiaries
COMMUNICATION GUIDELINES
Interview
Aritsune Masuda President of KDG
SUMMARY
announcement Dai Watanabe
www.kubota-eu.com
Dai Watanabe, President Kubota Holdings Europe B.V.
President and Representative Director Kubota Corporation Mr. Dai Wata
We are very pleased to announce the establishment of our Holding Company in Europe as the Regional Headquarters of our industrial and agricultural machinery business. Kubota Holdings Europe B.V. will drive further business expansion in the European markets by aiming for a Pan-European business management optimization. It has been 43 years since we established our first subsidiary in Europe. After that we have been increasing our sales and manufacturing bases in the European region. In order to grow further, it is necessary to shift our business management from a country to a Pan-European business basis and to optimize our business management in Europe. Therefore, we have decided to establish our European Regional Headquarters based in Nieuw-Vennep, the Netherlands. We will drive our ‘Customer first’ principles further through the activities of Kubota Group in Europe and will contribute to make Kubota a ‘Global Major Brand’ in line with our Pan-European strategy. By our ‘Winning in Europe together’ we want to express our ambition of joint Kubota activities in Europe. Furthermore with the following main starting points: ‘For earth for life’ – We are developing our business in Europe under the Kubota Group corporate principle "Contribute to social development and the conservation of the global environment through products, technology, and services that support both comfortable lifestyles and the foundation of our societies" in an aim at solving the worldwide problems of food, water, and the environment. ‘Valuing other’ – . Kubota’s strength has always been based on respecting and valuing the work of others by combining local market knowledge with its Japanese high-quality R&D and manufacturing expertise. Kubota has been able to expand its business activities by optimizing this approach. However we are shifting our business model to local manufacturing and research and development activities in order to have our business activities closer to the customers. The Pan-European approach initiated with the establishment of our new Regional Headquarters will accelerate customer first activities with respecting the local customer’s voice, valued history, heritage and know-how of each Kubota entity in Europe. ‘Collaboration’- Kubota’s product range includes Tractors, Riding Mowers, Engines and Construction machinery etc. With the agricultural implements of the Kverneland Group, we are now a broad supplier of industrial and agricultural machinery. With our new Regional Headquarters we want to drive further collaboration across borders, entities, and product and service offerings. By doing so we can add value to our product and service offerings, enrich the work of our employees and ultimately grow our business in Europe. As always, we look forward to your continued support to accomplish our ambitions. Kind regards, Dai Watanabe, President Kubota Holdings Europe B.V.
October 2017
announcement
* These are concept images of the Kubota stand in Agritechnica.
By doing so, Kubota will be presented in a much more consistent way to customers – which helps to further build our Brand. For smaller events, the trailers that constitute the building can be reduced to two or just one, since they are independent and can be used separately. This solution fits perfectly with our claim “For Earth, For Life” due to the fact that it’s made of reusable material, which shows our commitment to the environment. This stand concept encompasses the whole equipment in one single transport, enabling cost savings and significantly reducing waste. As for the products and services that are to be displayed, we can find some of Kubota’s tractors and implements: the M7002, the DMC6300 Series, the DSM-W Geospread, the autonomous tractor technology, and the TIM system (Tractor Implement Management), among others.
Our company is sorting out the last details for Agritechnica, one of the world’s largest trade fairs in the sector which hosts around 2,900 exhibitors from 52 countries, and more than 400,000 visitors every two years. For this 2017 edition, that will be held from 12th to 18th of November in Hannover (Germany), Kubota will rely on a whole new show stand concept that suits both big and small fairs. It’s based on three trailers and includes meeting rooms, storage, and a reception area. This structure, designed in collaboration between AGBU and our EU Marketing Managers can be used indoors and outdoors, and is completely adaptable. The new Kubota Farm Solutions concept is present in almost all the elements of our stand, and will be used at other large shows like FIMA, SIMA and EIMA in future. It can be used for both national and local shows.
KUBOTA PREPARES FOR AGRITECHNICA
see gallery
Farmers want to improve their productivity, but not at any cost. With Kubota Finance, they can make their planned investment with ease, convenience, and safety. Whether financing or leasing, producers benefit from professional advice and attractive conditions. Kubota Farm Solutions is all they need to gain the advantages of a technology that drives their success forward. Whether they need machines or services, they have full control of the costs.
Finance management
You know what it takes to be commercially successful: top performance with every task and top conditions over many years. Once again, Kubota offers solutions that fulfil what they promise. Every Kubota tractor is already protected by a 3-year manufacturer warranty right from the start. The warranty can be extended to protect the value of each investment, avoid expensive downtimes, and remain profitable over the long term.
Value protection
Farmers know exactly how they want to get their work done: efficiently, precisely, and most comfortably. Kubota gives them everything they need to obtain optimal results while remaining at ease. With our ISOBUS technology, precision farming solutions, and automatic steering system, workers can apply seeds, fertilisers, and pesticides with extreme precision. This lowers their costs and reduces their workload.
Optimisation
Farmers want full control over what they are doing. Kubota provides them with perfectly integrated systems to help them achieve that. From machine optimisation to implement monitoring, workers can control the tractor and resources easily from a single terminal. This not only provides them with a better overview of all work processes, but also allows them to work without stress.
Control
Farmers have a clear objective: to get their work done productively and successfully while being relaxed. Kubota offers workers the equipment that can best support them in this endeavour. Whichever tractor or implements they decide on, they can always count on proven quality, excellent performance, and co-ordinated features. In short: intelligent and reliable technology that gets them a decisive step closer to their goal.
Performance
Click on the circles
We understand that farmers need more than a powerful tractor to succeed: namely, an integrated system of products and services to increase their competitiveness and preparation for the future. With Kubota Farm Solutions, we have brought together our solutions in a system— and targeted our proposition to them. From intelligent technology to individual services, the Kubota Farm Solutions advantages complement each other, forming a circle that ends where it begins: with our commitment to support farmers a little better every time, now and in the future.
In the agricultural shows to come, Kubota will display a brand new stand that will embody the Kubota Farm Solutions essence at its best. Introduced at SIMA, Kubota Farm Solutions is one of Kubota’s milestones, and we want it to be present in every product we launch at every fair we attend.
Kubota Farm Solutions: 360° performance for 100% success
• M7001 • M5001 • M5001N • MGX III •
In case you missed Kubota Magazine nº1, press here to see information about
tractors
more text
The main innovation in this M7002 model is the new 6-speed Powershift transmission, under load in 30/15 or 54/27 if equipped with creeper. Some of its specifications have also been improved, such as the increase in maximum permissible weight to 11,500 kg, offering a greater payload, together with efficient engine performance focused on increased power and lower fuel consumption. This all increases the productivity of the tractor, which can be driven at a speed of 50 km/h. The tyre size range has been increased, with the incorporation of 600/60R28 sizes for the front axle and 710/60R38 for the rear axle, minimizing compaction and maximizing traction. Technology is another of the strengths of the new M7002 tractor thanks to improvements in the operation of the main joystick and the increased HMS header memory making work notably easier. Autosteer has been optimized, giving it a new “nudge” function, for example. Thanks to this, the driver can see the distance from the set route in centimetres, and several set routes can be created per field, up to a maximum of 20. High levels of comfort inside and out The Japanese manufacturer knows that working in comfort ensures high productivity, so the new Kubota M7002 adds suspension and low-noise options to the comfort features already recognized in its predecessor, the M7001, as well as other new elements. These include the Deluxe MSG95AL741 seat, for greater comfort during tough working days. Along these lines, it also includes LED working lights for better visibility and a higher quality finish inside the cabin. Finally, to complete the benefits of the new M7002, Kubota has increased the customization options based on the standard model. For example, it is possible to fit electric rear-view mirrors and an internal light for greater visibility.
* Available in 2018
Kubota will present in Agritechnica its new M7002 tractor, successor to the well-known M7001 series. The large-scale upland farming tractor, with up to 170 horsepower, has greatly improved features and is easier to use, with better customization options and manoeuvrability.
Kubota presents its new generation of M7002 tractors*
Kverneland Group’s Implement Kubota DMC6336T wins Machine of the Year 2017 Award at SIMA
Our subsidiary, Kverneland AS, won several awards at SIMA, one of the three biggest international agricultural machinery trade shows in Europe. In this instalment of the show, Kverneland Group’s DMC6336T mower conditioner was selected as Machine of the Year 2017, in recognition of its technical excellence. About 230,000 people attended the Paris International Agribusiness Show, in which 1,770 companies from 42 countries presented their products. The Kubota DMC6336T mower conditioner was awarded the Machine of the Year 2017 prize in the Forage Equipment category. The forage cut by this mower is compacted by the conditioner to facilitate evaporation of its inner moisture, which makes it extremely convenient. It also features a QuattroLink mower conditioner suspension for automatic tracking to follow uneven ground and enable forage cutting to a uniform length. Three other Kverneland products won Innovation Awards. To be precise, Kverneland’s 2500 i-Plough®, an Automatic Feed System for round balers, and a High-Speed Pack for Wrappers. The selection for Machine of the Year 2017 was based on the voting results of 17 mass media groups in Europe (mainly agricultural journals). With the additional encouragement provided by these awards, we are determined to continue contributing to agriculture worldwide through the provision of products, services, and solutions that gain the trust of customers around the world.
08
XMS1 Series – A New Mounted Field Sprayer Range from Kubota
Kubota’s latest mounted field sprayer range XMS1 is added to the existing XMS2. This new mounted field sprayer by Kubota is available with 800, 1000 and 1200 litre tank capacity in combination with two different boom types: the HOSA aluminium spray boom with the advanced Z-folding principle and a complete new generation of the well-known HC steel boom range.
07
Kubota TIM system suitable for the M7002 tractor
Kubota’s TIM system notably reduces the possibility of committing human errors with absolute bilateral communication between the tractor and the implement. This gives the tractor real-time information which means the driver does not have to check the state of the bales or monitor the running direction to complete baling, a job the tractor does autonomously thanks to a sensor on the front of the cab. Once an exact bale size is reached, the tractor stops and discharges it, always maintaining the same compaction level, achieving the highest quality work.
06
Kubota SC1000 and SC1000C for simultaneous application of grain and fertiliser
Kubota presentsour innovative seeding combination SC1000, as rigid version in 3m and 4m working widths. These machines are available either as standard drill combinations (SC1000) or as a grain and fertiliser versions (SC1000C). The SC1000 works at high forward speeds, typically 10-18km/h, whilst maintaining a consistent seeding depth.
05
New e-Spreader from Kubota adds higher precision to fertilising
With the new hybrid fertiliser e-Spreader, Kubota takes the application of mineral fertiliser to the next level. The e-Spreader is fitted with a hybrid drive that uses both mechanical and electrical energy. It operates primarily on mechanical power, while a low-voltage motor controls the rotation speed of the spreading discs. The speed of each disc can be set independently, which offers considerable benefits, for example for border spreading or on headlands.
04
Kubota’s innovative e-Power platform
The e-Power platform from Kubota can be easily mounted on the attachment console at the rear of the tractor. Its output is located directly below the PTO connection, simplifying the connection of different implements. The platform is fully ISOBUS-compatible. The implement can switch the additional power supply on and off via TIM (Tractor Implement Control) technology whenever it needs additional capacity.
03
Kubota DSM-W GEOSPREAD – For Guaranteed Profitability
Kubota presents the DSM-W GEOSPREAD weighing spreader with a 1300 – 2800 hopper content and a maximum working width of 33 metres. The ideal model in the medium sized spreader segment for arable, mixed or professional dairy farmers. The GEOSPREAD system makes it possible to manually or automatically adjust the working width very quickly.
02
DMC6300 Mower Conditioner range from Kubota
The new DMC6300 series mower conditioners from Kubota feature the new innovative QuattroLink suspension concept. With its precise ground following ability and flexible working range this suspension, this range offers excellent capacity. Available in two working widths: 3.2m and 3.6m.
01
Kubota introduces autonomous tractor technology to the field
Autonomous driving is now a reality with Kubota tractors. Thanks to a number of innovations and their combination with existing technology, farmers can control up to two current Kubota tractors—such as the L or M7001 series—on the field at the same time. Using remote controls, the driver can steer one unmanned tractor on the field and simultaneously monitor another autonomous tractor, while sitting on yet another autonomous tractor. From a distance he can control all the functions in real time via a monitor.
In our quest to offer the best products and services, we are constantly working to provide our customers with new implements that meet the ever growing requirements of agriculture, as well as the farmer’s demands for comfort and efficiency. Below we present our latest developments.
KUBOTA’S NEW IMPLEMENTS AND INNOVATIONS
We will see for the first time a fully autonomous tractor on the Kubota stand. How important is this new technology for Kubota and when can we expect this kind of technology to be sold on the European market? Yes, we will show an L-Series autonomous tractor at Agritechnica. Clearly, such technologies can enable cost savings for farmers e.g. less labor is required. Kubota plans to allow limited release of this technology in the domestic Japanese market in 2018. Whilst the technology exists for autonomous operation, local laws are not yet fully ready. Common legal frameworks will be required across the EU in order to enable broader commercialization of these technologies. At this stage, industry associations are in close communication with law-makers to accelerate the legal framework.
Which are the major goals in the AG European market for Kubota in 2018? We will continue to focus on Growth via three key pillars: The first one: our products. We will have improved availability of recently introduced products such as M5001 ROPS / Cab and M5001 Narrow ROPS / Cab. Plus, we have an opportunity to gain customers as we transition from M7001 Series to M7002 Series tractors. The second pillar would be constituted by the dealers. We will continue to work closely with existing channel partners to attract and retain more customers in the Kubota family. In particular, we will expand focus beyond tractors and implements, and focus on selling more aftermarket services (e.g. extended warranty and maintenance contracts). These services allow dealers to stay close to customers beyond the day when they deliver a new tractor. These services will enable customers to have more peace-of-mind in managing their total cost of ownership, plus they present an exciting revenue opportunity for dealers. Plus, we will continue to recruit new, additional dealers in order to improve our coverage of the market and be closer to customers. And finally, our brand. In the European AG segment, as we are still a relatively new player, we will continue our Brand Awareness efforts with more consistent communication at Shows & Events, in our PR efforts, as well as in our print advertising and social media communication. It will be another busy year, no doubt!
President of KDG
interview
“The sales and marketing activities constitute my favourite task”
As President of one of Kubota’s most important subsidiaries, which are the challenges that European farmers face nowadays? Certain challenges or risks have always been there, such as extreme weather. For example, producers in Southern Europe suffered extremely dry weather this year which hindered crop yields. Unfortunately, looking at trends in global warming, such challenges may become greater in future. Farmers also face many other challenges such as fluctuating input costs and commodity prices. For these reasons, farmers are constantly motivated to find new ways to operate more effectively (e.g. increase their yields) and efficiently (e.g. reduce their operating costs). This is what we focus on at Kubota. Not only do we strive to deliver high-quality, reliable products, we also increasingly provide Precision Farming solutions e.g. Auto-steer guidance which reduces field passes, saving fuel and labor. We also offer perfect matching of Kubota tractors with Kubota implements; this helps farmers to do their work very efficiently. Personally, I am confident in the future of European farmers. Not only do suppliers, manufacturers, dealers and farmers work ever closer to drive greater productivity, but in addition, governments around Europe will continue to treat Agriculture as a critical component for ensuring ongoing food security and peace in the region.
In November, we will have a new edition of Agritechnica, which is maybe the largest and most international show in the sector. Kubota will be present again at the show. What does Agritechnica mean for Kubota? As the largest show within our industry, Agritechnica is an ideal platform for Kubota to showcase new and innovative solutions which demonstrate our commitment to help farmers do their work in an easy, reliable and cost-effective way. Being the 3rd largest AG manufacturer in the world, our presence at Agritechnica (Hall 7, Stand A36) helps to reinforce Kubota’s brand strength.
... Our colleagues from the Engine BU will also exhibit at Agritechnica (Hall 16, Stand D53). Together, we are really looking forward to welcome farmers, dealers, distributors, press and colleagues at the show. At this year’s show, we will officially roll out Kubota Farm Solutions. This allows farmers to easily navigate around our ever-widening range of tractors, implements and Precision Farming products, as well as our Services offering which includes Kubota Finance and new warranty extension and maintenance agreement options. When using Kubota Farm Solutions, farmers will quickly be able to find the exact product and services solution for their needs. Moreover, once the farmer finds a product and services offering that he likes, he can then verify via our new TCO (i.e. total cost of operation) calculator that our offering will in fact reduce his costs/hour on the farm. In July, Kubota Europe announced the foundation of KHE (Kubota Holdings Europe BV). Which ‘European’ elements will we find in the Kubota stand at Agritechnica? Kubota leadership has been clear that KHE will help us become ‘one European Kubota team‘. I am excited about this because, by taking a more European view, we will be able to better leverage expertise within the organization and drive synergies right across the business. For example, you just asked me about Agritechnica. At this year’s show, we will present a new Show Stand concept which was developed in coordination with Kubota Marketing Managers around Europe. This stand concept will be used at other large shows e.g. FIMA, SIMA and EIMA in future. As the stand concept is modular, we will even be able to adapt it for national and local shows. By using the same stand concept around Europe, we will present Kubota in a much more consistent way to customers – which helps to further build our Brand, and we will also save costs by using stand materials at several shows instead of just once. This is good for business, and by recycling the show stand materials, we demonstrate Kubota’s commitment to the environment. Which are the peculiarities of the German market compared to the rest of Europe? Germany is a very important market for Kubota. For many years, Kubota and our dealer partners have enjoyed a strong position in the German Construction and Ground Care equipment markets. Plus, our engine colleagues have been successful at attracting many local OEM producers. As you may know, the agricultural market in Germany is very mature with many local competitors who are strongly entrenched in terms of channel, product portfolio, aftermarket business and brand awareness. So for sure, as a relative new-comer in the German Agricultural market, we have a challenging job ahead as we strive to recruit and develop our channel and grow sales. Rather than talk about differences between Germany and the rest of Europe, I prefer to consider the things that we have in common with the rest of Europe. For example, if we apply a Customer Focused approach, we quickly see that a German dairy producer shares many of the same needs as a dairy producer based in the UK, France or Poland. In my opinion, by applying a focused approach by customer segment (e.g. dairy, specialty, municipal…), we will be able to find solutions which meet customer needs all over Europe. This will help Kubota to accelerate future growth.
Aritsune Masuda
“Our presence at Agritechnica helps to reinforce Kubota’s brand strength”
ITALY
Video tutorials for farmers
This summer, Kubota Italy published some video tutorials for their Kubota dealers on our Italian Facebook profile. They were meant to provide some advice and hacks for Italian farmers on the functioning and maintenance of Kubota tractors. These tutorials are a good way to bring our customers closer to our products and to enhance their trust.
AGRILEVANTE show in southern Italy
In October this year, our Italian colleagues participated in the AGRILEVANTE Show held in Bari. At the FAIR, two products were officially presented to the Italian final customers: the M5101DTN and M5111DTH. The Agrilevante show is of special important for the Italian market, where our Tractors are very much appreciated for their manoeuvrability and reliability.
FRANCE
Kubota showcases its products at four shows in France
Kubota keeps presenting our products across Europe through agricultural shows such as Salon de L’Herbe, Innov Agri, SPACE, and Sommet de L’Élevage, in France. One of our goals is to provide a unified brand image for customers, and thus our presence at agricultural fairs tends to be uniform. The first one, Salon de L´Herbe, held in Poussay (Lorraine), hosted 24,850 visitors in the 2017 edition. With 30 hectares and a 500 m2 exhibition area, this show was a great opportunity for Kubota to present the new M5001 tractor and XMS1 sprayer. At Innov Agri, Kubota displayed two of its latest products: a cereal seed drill and a fast seeder, which were presented within its 720 m2 exhibition area. At Innov Agri there was a space set up for tractor demonstrations and M7 test drives. As for SPACE, held in Rennes, more than 114,000 visitors attended the show and could see first-hand our latest range of products displayed along the 442 m2 exhibition area. The Sommet de L’Élevage welcomed 93,000 visitors and presented 12 of our machines displayed in our 1,000 m2 exhibition space. At this show held in Cournon d’Auvergne 2,000 animals were presented.
TOTY M5001N event in Assignan
In September 2017, Kubota hosted a Test Drive Event in Assignan (France), for a group of European journalists, who happened to be the members of the TOTY jury. At this event, they were able to see by themselves the advantages of the M5001N through several workshops and test drives. With this event, our company had the opportunity to show the unbeatable quality of our M5001N tractor. At Kubota, we are honoured by the recognition that it has received upon being a finalist of the "Specialized tractors" category of the TOTY Awards. This reward reinforces Kubota’s investment in R&D to offer new and more efficient solutions that meet farmers’ requirements. (Please do not share this information externally before the Agritechnica show.)
Netherlands
Qtrac Organised Kubota’s Xperience Day
Qtrac, our dealer located in the north of Holland organised and delivered the Kubota Xperience day, designed to demonstrate and highlight the advantages of Kubota´s Forage implements such as the mower, tedder and rake. With the help of their service partners in the form of (MCS, ML-Service, Evenhuis, Okken, De Blaauw and Mijno van Dijk mechanisatie), Kubota Europe and Kverneland Group Benelux, Qtrac provided an informative and engaging day for around 200-250 diverse visitors that included contractors, arable and livestock farmers. Such a diverse range of visitors made for a wide variety of conversations at the event. During the Kubota Xperience Day, the premium tractor manufacturer used a selection of products from their large product portfolio for the demonstrations. The products that were utilised include the M7001 series, MGX-II, M5111, M9960 and M7060. Whilst other machines like the chopper, fertilizer spreader and compact machines were also on display.
Photo gallery
KUBOTA’s technology meets high-tech manufacturers
As every year, KUBOTA Europe’s Service Division organised the Dealer’s Service Managers Meeting. This year, the meeting took place in Toulouse, a city known for its high-tech expertise, particularly in aviation. For that reason, dealers were invited to visit the Airbus facilities to see how the assembly process of aircrafts is carried out. One year after launching the M7001 series, the main topic of the meeting was the announcement of a new era for KUBOTA: an era in which technology will reach the highest level. Technology and expertise convened at this meeting in which Service Managers could visit the Airbus A380 assembly lines and experience first-hand the aircraft assembly process. Beyond the Service Manager meeting, in which results and figures were discussed, a brand new service strategy was presented. In a nutshell, it has been a great moment for the Dealer’s Service Managers.
A new face for the Kubota Insight Program (KIP)
This program is relatively new and is aimed to support the new Service Strategy, which consists of increasing dealers’ service profitability with total customer satisfaction. The Insigth Program is profitable for both customers and dealers, and constitutes one of Kubota’s steps towards Service Excellence.
Last October, the 11th edition of KIP took place with a new approach. This year, the program was focused on Pro-Active Service. During the service open days organised by KE, customers were invited to join dealers at this unique event and to bring their own Kubota tractor. The KE Service Staff, along with KBT, offered customers a free in-depth machine check including a dynamometer test, an oil flow and pressure test, driveline settings control, mechanical adjustment, error codes check and maintenance, among other services. KE’s main goal was to increase customers’ confidence on the outstanding performance of their products.
TURKEY
M7001 Demo Activities
After the presentation of the M7001 series at the Konya Fair in March, Kubota Turkey started to organise field demonstrations for the M7001 range. These activities were developed in the West of the country and in Central Anatolia (Konya). The field performance of the M7001 range was outstanding, and pleased all the attendees.
Biggest agricultural fair in Turkey
From the 21st to the 25th of March, Kubota Turkey participated in the biggest trade show in the country. Kubota had the opportunity to show our M7001 series for the very first time in Turkey, and the feedback was exceptional. To present our tractors, Kubota Turkey organised a Japanese Day at the Konya fair. The goal was to let customers know that Kubota is proud to be a Japanese brand. And since Turkish customers trust Japanese products, it was a great opportunity for our company to show the quality of our tractors.
GERMANY
Kubota Global Identity workshop
The 4th phase of the Kubota identity workshop took place around the globe, since it was held at very distant locations. This time, the attendees were encouraged to think about ways to put Kubota Global Identity into practice based on examples of the Kubota Production System. The idea was to extend the principles of the Kubota Global Identity, including divided training workshops for companies with a large number of employees, and adapting the contents of the training to the specific needs of each country.
Kubota’s sneak peak before Agritechnica
The products that we showed to the press included some of our latest tractors and implements such as the M7002, the e-spreader, e-mower or the TIM, which is meant to be used along with the M7002.
Kubota presented a selection of products at the Pre-AgriTechnica press event, held on September. Our colleagues from KDG and AGBU presented our products to the journalists. In this event lead by VDMA, several manufacturers presented their products and innovations to the journalists, who could see the product offer to be displayed by each company 2 months before the actual show. Our brand had a space of its own to present our products, and the journalists who attended the event could get information about all the Kubota products and services to be displayed beforehand.
CE
Kubota´s Central European Distributors Benefit at Marketing Meeting
The first day started with Kubota outlining their strategy for distributor and dealer development, before distributors were given an update on the company´s latest news. The afternoon subsequently saw participants take part in a work shop designed to develop better cooperation between Kubota and the distributor by focusing specifically on communication. Day 2´s highlights included a discussion on communication and PR in the morning and a secondary workshop in the afternoon, which built on the success of Day 1´s work shop by enhancing the cooperation between Kubota and the distributor with an emphasis on branding materials, the Kubota-Shop and trade fairs. With the ideas and knowledge shared over the 2 days, Kubota´s Central Europe distributors are already looking forward to the next event to collaborate and cooperate again.
August is traditionally a time for summer holidays in Europe, but Kubota and their Central Europe distributors were hard at work as they attended the Central Europe Distributors Marketing Meeting in Warsaw, Poland. The event, which was held over 2 days in Poland´s capital saw a wealth of ideas and knowledge shared as distributors took the opportunity to sit down and take an active part in a variety of different marketing discussions, as well as participate in several dynamic workshops.
Visit of Mr. Kitao
In July this year, Mr. Yuichi Kitao, Director and Senior Managing Executive Officer of Kubota visited the facilities of two German dealers. First he visited the Kleine and Kordel facilities, accompanied by Bernhard Jaeger and Alexander Strüver, and later that month he visited Traurig and Wenk in Bavaria with Aritsune Masuda.
Organic Field Days 2017
With the opportunity to demonstrate machines in the field and interact with the end-user, Kubota are already looking forward to participating in the next edition of the show with plans already afoot to bring more products in the future.
Back in the height of summer, from the 21st until the 22nd of June, Kubota exhibited at the first Organic Field Days at a farm centrally located in the heart of Germany. The trade show, which welcomed just under 8,000 visitors and close to 250 exhibitors was the perfect opportunity for Kubota to engage with the market and show off its offerings in a variety of operations and demonstrations. The Kubota booth, which was 150m², showed off one MGX and encompassed one tent, flags and beer garden tables to keep a simple and organized design, which managed to deliver a positive response amongst its visitors. Over two days of near perfect weather, Kubota took part in two different demonstrations. In the first, the company participated with an M7131 Premium, MD1300MP and PH1300 for a seeding operation, before utilizing the M135GXS III and CU3300C to complete a cultivating demonstration the following day. During the show, Kubota received a number of professional, high-quality farmers, who responded positively to the machines on display. An interesting trend, was the request for light-weight tractors for vegetable and grassland use from organic farmers, who were also interested in the M7 tractors.
UK
Kubota extends Hardwick’s offer
Our wide range of tractors will broaden the offer provided by Hardwick Agricultural Engineers Ltd, as it becomes part of Kubota’s extensive UK network. Hardwick Agricultural Engineers will initially stock Kubota’s M60, M5001, MGX-III and M7001 tractor ranges from 60HP to 175HP, allowing Hardwick to expand its customer base further than ever before. Hardwick was first established in 1980, and after 30 years, it has become one of the largest agricultural dealerships in the region, employing a sales team and highly skilled engineers who serve farms all across Scarborough, Middlesbrough and Whitby. This partnership will benefit both brands, since they’ll be able to bring our products even closer to customers and thus increase their benefits.
Kubota UK made a major announcement at Royal Highland Show
The company announced that they were joining forces with A M PHILLIP Agritech Ltd, a leading supplier of farming solutions in Scotland, in an exciting new partnership that further expanded Kubota UK’s agricultural dealer network. The deal allowed Kubota’s full range of agricultural solutions to be available to farmers and contractors from three of A M PHILLIP Agritech’s depots. This included Kubota’s M7001 Series, M5001 Series, MGX-III Series and the L Series, along with the company’s market leading RTV utility vehicles and Kubota grassland implements. A M PHILLIP Agritech Ltd has been serving the Scottish farming market since 1955, with six branches across the North and East of the country. Additionally, the company has enjoyed a long relationship with the Kubota brand, with Gammies Groundcare (a division within A M PHILLIP), being the independent dealer for Kubota’s market leading groundcare equipment for decades.
Machinery manufacturer expands and strengthens its agricultural dealer network across Scotland At this year´s Royal Highland Show, Kubota UK made a major announcement to the market that saw the agricultural machinery manufacturer significantly strengthen its presence across Scotland.
SPAIN
Opening of talleres Corycas in Lucena
Kubota recently celebrated the opening of a new Talleres Corycas centre in Lucena (Cordoba), attended by nearly 350 people who wanted to visit the new facilities and meet the team of professionals working there while taking a look at our range of products. Talleres Corycas has its headquarters in El Arahal (Seville), so this second centre in Western Andalusia consolidates its development. The event was attended by several members representing Kubota España, and of course Germán Martínez, its highest representative, who dedicated some words of gratitude to the audience, highlighting the commitment, professionalism, and responsibility of all the people working at Talleres Corycas, and the importance of the professional team that constitutes the company. To celebrate it, Talleres Corycas offered a 5 year warranty without extra cost as a special offer for any customer interested in buying Kubota’s products. After the opening, a meal made with local products was provided in the premises.
Kubota’s enhanced presence at Demoagro
ANSEMAT, the Spanish organization for farming machinery, organised this agricultural machinery demonstration meant to bring farmers the technical options available for an effective farm production. At this fair, ANSEMAT received the backing of manufacturers and importers, as well as different associations and sector professionals. At Demoagro, Kubota showed off its growing range of tractors and implements in two areas: Demorrecolección and Demoviña. For the Demorrecolección area, our company chose the M7171 KVT model, the M7151 Advance, the most powerful tractor developed by Kubota, along with two products of the MGXIII range: M105 GX-IIIS and M135GX-III S, both featuring front axle suspension. Regarding the Demoviña area, Kubota showed some of its most successful models, such as the M5111 NQ, a narrow model for vineyards featuring a Tier 3B engine and 36-speed Hi-Lo transmission, and the M5091 N, a similar version that includes a platform. The next edition of the show will be held on 2019.
A wide variety of Kubota products was displayed at Demoagro, one of the most relevant agricultural shows in Spain. The company presented its latest products in two display areas: ‘Demorrecolección’ and ‘Demoviña’. The third edition of Demoagro was held on 9th, 10th, and 11th of May in Cuenca. Organised every two years, this show hosted more than 100 companies which showed their products in three display areas: Demorrecolección, Demosuelo, and Demoviña. Despite the bad weather, nearly 800 farm machines were shown for visitors to see and try. At Demoagro, the latest technology and developments in farming machinery were displayed, and more than 15,000 people could see all the products that the companies offered on the spot.
We have a winner of the RTVX900 model
Yesterday, a RTVX900 unit was presented to the winner of the raffle that took place during the Demoagro exhibition and the Kubota Orange Days. The Orange Days constitute a branding initiative lauched in cooperation with our dealer network to organise the most relevant demonstration event for Kubota. This event is meant to coincide with the Demoagro exhibition, which takes place every two years. Thanks to a close collaboration with Kubota’s Official Dealer Network, this promotional event brought people closer to our attractive range of products. All the attendees were encouraged to participate in the raffle of a RTVX900 unit, and to try these all-road vehicles by themseves. During the event, more than 3,000 people participated in the raffle, supervised by a public notary. The winner is Carmelo Martínez, who received the prize at the Kubota Centro Motor dealership facility from Antonio Pérez, Sales and Marketing Director at Kubota España, and the General Manager of the dealership. Finally, this interesting promotional event organised by Kubota and our Official Dealer Network attracted the farmers’ attention and culminated in the presentation of the prize to its winner.
Global Identity workshop
Full Line DepoT Opening
tutorials for farmers
CORYCAS IN LUCENA
AGRILEVANTE
key Kubota shows
TOTY M5001N field event
Demoagro
KE / KEI / KNL
KUBOTA’s technology
Kubota’s Xperience Day
KUBOTA INSIght PROGRAM
KUK
HARDWICK’S OFFER
Royal Highland Show
KDG / KPL / CE
KTT
KES
Click to see the news
CE EuropeAN Distributors
Visit OF Mr. Kitao
M7001 DEMO ACTIVITIES
BIGGEST AGRICULTURAL FAIR
RTVX900 model
EUROPE
In September, Kubota participated in the opening of Romeo Company´s new outlet in Castel di Iudica, Italy. The dealer "ROMEO Macchine Agricole" held the inauguration that was attended by both customers and representatives of the industry, who could see first hand a full range of Kubota tractors, while enjoying the typical Sicilian specialties that were served for the occasion. Amongst all the Kubota products that this dealer distributes, we find the M7001 and M9960 tractors, among other agricultural machines, such as the utility vehicle RTV-X900. Thanks to this new dealer, Sicilian farmers will have a wide range of Kubota’s products and services developed to meet the needs of modern agriculture.
"ROMEO Macchine Agricole"
See video
Lister Machinery recently opened its new depot in Ashford. The 20,000 sq ft Ashford full line depot, represents a dealer investment of £1.6m and is now a flagship dealer for Kubota’s complete range of machinery solutions in UK. During the opening, hundreds of customers and special guests attended to the event to officially launch the Lister Machinery´s branch and showcase Kubota’s new concept in dealership branding. This dept became the first example of the European Dealership Branding guidelines project implementation, which has been launched in 2017 and that aims to cover all of the European dealer network within the period of the next two years.
KUK full line flagship depot
Land Purchase of 203 Acres and Plans for Two New Logistics Buildings Solidify the Company’s Investment to the Region
Kubota Tractor Corporation officially confirmed today its plans to plant solid roots in Kansas for its North American Distribution Center (NADC) by announcing the details of its letter of intent to purchase 203 acres near the company’s current leased facility in Edgerton, Kansas. The company plans to design and build two, one million square foot, facilities to expand their distribution capacity and streamline logistics processes for the timely delivery of Kubota branded service parts and equipment to its increasing customer base in the U.S. “After more than two years of operating in Kansas with such positive results, we are now confident about building more infrastructure here,” said Masato Yoshikawa, president and CEO of Kubota Tractor Corporation. “We’ve had access to an excellent workforce in the area and we’ve built a quality team; together, we’ve achieved operational efficiencies to better serve our dealers and customers and we remain committed to growing and expanding to ensure we are equipped to support Kubota’s continued Midwest growth and overall North American expansion.” In addition to the logistics facilities, Kubota also announced an additional commitment to its Midwest dealers and customers by establishing a fifth operational division and sales office in Edgerton. The new Midwest Division office will reside within the same complex as the parts and whole-good operations and provide an essential sales presence for Kubota in the heartland of America. Mike Jacobson, a 17-year Kubota veteran, will be appointed as director and division manager of this new division effective January 1, 2018, and will lead the company’s efforts to expand its product offerings and markets in the Midwest. “This expansion is a promising opportunity for Johnson County and the entire state. Kubota’s decision to expand so significantly here demonstrates firsthand that Kansas is a state that makes investment dollars worthwhile,” said Governor Brownback. “Kubota already employs 150 Kansans in Edgerton, and the expansion could add another 150-200 on top of that. I’m so pleased about the growth and opportunity for Kansans this will bring.” Kubota’s NADC will continue to receive and process shipments from Asia and Europe, in addition to a number of daily truckloads of goods from suppliers in North America. It will continue to be the worldwide source for many Kubota parts, which will be exported globally. In late 2016, the company announced the 617,000 square foot expansion of its National Distribution Center (NDC) in Jefferson, Georgia. Jointly, the NADC in Kansas and NDC facility, located near Kubota’s manufacturing operations and their Southeast Division in Georgia, strengthen Kubota’s distribution capacity and infrastructure in North America to support its aggressive business growth. Like the NDC, the new Kansas facilities will increase the company’s capabilities to deliver the right products to Kubota dealers at the right time. The new Midwest Division is an extension to the company’s existing divisional operation structure. The existing division offices are located in Suwanee, Ga.; Fort Worth, Texas; Columbus, Ohio; and, Lodi, Calif., and will continue to provide regional support to Kubota dealers.
KTC announces plans for 87$ Million Expansion in Kansas
more info
For the six months ended June 30, 2017, revenues of Kubota Corporation and its subsidiaries increased by ¥49.9 billion [6.3%] from the corresponding period in the prior year to ¥846.0 billion.
*Reference exchange rate (dated May 31st) : 118.6828 JPY/EUR
Domestic revenues decreased by ¥1.6 billion [0.6%] to ¥280.6 billion from the corresponding period in the prior year due to lower sales related to public works projects including ductile iron pipes, while revenues in Farm & Industrial Machinery increased. Overseas revenues increased by ¥51.4 billion [10.0%] to ¥565.4 billion from the corresponding period in the prior year. Revenues in Farm & Industrial Machinery rose owing to an increase in sales in each region, including North America, Europe, and Asia outside Japan, as well as the positive effect of a business acquisition in the prior year while revenues in Water & Environment fell due to decreased sales of ductile iron pipes and industrial castings.
Kubota´s results for the first semester 2017
Our company donated $1 million in relief funds to include monetary contributions and Kubota equipment to several national and local charitable organizations to aid in the Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.
Kubota has also been committed to helping in the cleanup and restoration efforts by using our construction and tractor equipment where needed in the affected areas. “Kubota has a long-standing history of providing natural disaster assistance to those in need with financial and volunteer support, and with the use of donated Kubota equipment,” said Masatoshi Kimata, President and Representative Director. After confirming that all of our dealers and their families and employees are safe, Kubota proceeded to safely visit their locations to survey the damage in hopes of being able to quickly mobilise around relief efforts to be of service to their local communities.
Kubota donated $1 million to help hurricane Harvey victims
Going forward, the company will stay close to customers in the North American market and contribute to economic and social development. In 1972, the company established Kubota Tractor Corporation (KTC), a tractor sales company, in the United States and began exploiting the North American market with products exported from Japan, expanding its business with a product lineup that initially included mowers and equipment for light construction applications, and was expanded to include equipment for such agricultural applications as grassland management and hay transport. With the expansion of the business, the company embarked on local production and, through KMA in Georgia, produces compact tractors, zero-turn mowers, and UVs for global markets. To date, KMA has undertaken to expand production capacity through expansion of existing plants and other means. In September 2015, to provide manufacturing support for further expansion of its UV business, the company began construction of a new UV plant, which has now begun full-scale operation. With Plant 4 on line, UV production capacity has greatly increased, and to aggressively promote further expansion of the company’s North American business, coordination will be strengthened with such US entities as KTC, which has moved its headquarters from California to Texas, and Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. (GP), a Kansas manufacturer of agricultural equipment that the company acquired last year.
Kubota has begun full-scale operation of its new production plant (Plant 4) for utility vehicles (UV: multi-purpose four-wheel drive vehicles) through Kubota Manufacturing of America (KMA). A plant opening ceremony was held on April, with attendees that included the governor of Georgia, Georgia congressional representatives, and the Japanese consul-general in Atlanta. Kubota President Masatoshi Kimata greeted the attendees, stating “KMA’s Plant 4 will be the first international production site to use the Kubota Production System (KPS). I look forward to your support as we work to become a global major brand and make this an inspiring plant that will set a new international standard in terms of quality, cost, and delivery.”
New us utility vehicle plant begins full-scale operation
The engine division combines knowledge and technology to create the most efficient and environmentally friendly engines. At Kubota, we offer several options for fuel flexibility: diesel, gasoline, natural gas, and LPG. 80% of the engines produced in Tsukuba are exported to nearly 50 countries, and the demands for both tractors and engines keep growing.
Kubota’s Tsukuba factory achieved a total of 5 million engines produced. With a total ground area of 341,000m2, this factory employs 620 people and its main production consists of vertical type diesel engines. This plant relies almost entirely on robots to carry out the casting processes, and is one of the few factories in the world that produce engines from scratch. Its state-of-the-art robots and the precision of the manufacturing process allow for a fast, efficient production. At Tsukuba, precision and speed are key, its machining, assembly, and casting lines allow for fast and efficient production of powerful engines.
Kubota reaches 5 million engines
Kubota’s sales were down 0.6% for the quarter, with a net income decrease of around 24%. Whilst net income decreased, the net income/sales ratio was approximately 6.8%, which is currently stronger than our key competition so far in 2017. For the full year, Kubota maintains the Original Plan forecast for both net sales and net income.
For the three months ended March 31, 2017, revenues of Kubota Corporation and its subsidiaries decreased by ¥2.5 billion (∼21 million euros) about 0.6% from the corresponding period in the prior year to ¥402.8 billion (∼3,3 billion euros). However, European sales rose 9% compared to the prior year due to strong sales of tractors, construction equipment, engines and AG implements in Europe, despite the negative FX impact. North America also recorded some growth thanks to the inclusion of sales from last year’s acquisition of Great Plains. Revenues in Japan decreased by ¥9.2 billion (∼77,5 million euros), around 5.8% to ¥149.8 billion (∼1,26 billion euros) from the corresponding period in the prior year due to lower revenues in all segments of Farm & Industrial Machinery, Water & Environment, and Other. Sales in the Japanese market dropped 2.6% due to slow market activity as a result of forward-buying prior to the intro of new emission standards. On the other hand, overseas sales rose 4.8% despite ongoing FX issues caused by strong Yen appreciation. Nonetheless the overseas revenues increased by ¥6.7 billion (∼56,4 million euros) [2.7%] to ¥253.0 billion (∼2,13 billion euros) from the corresponding period in the prior year. While revenues in Water & Environment fell due to a decrease in sales of ductile iron pipes, revenues in Farm & Industrial Machinery rose owing to strong sales of rice transplanters, construction equipment and engines in China and the positive effect of a business acquisition in the prior year. Operating income decreased by ¥18.1 billion (∼152 million euros) [31.5%] from the corresponding period in the prior year to ¥39.4 billion (∼ 331,9 million euros) because of significantly increased provisions for sales promotion expenses and the negative effect of the fluctuation in unrealized profits on inventories held by sales subsidiaries. Income before income taxes and equity in net income of affiliated companies decreased by ¥13.4 billion (∼112,9 million euros) [24.7%] from the corresponding period in the prior year to ¥40.9 billion (∼344,6 million euros) since an improvement in other income could not compensate for a decrease in operating income. Income taxes were ¥11.5 billion (∼96,8 million euros) and net income decreased by ¥9.1 billion (∼76,6 million euros) [23.5%] to ¥29.7 billion (∼250,2 million euros) from the corresponding period in the prior year. Net income attributable to Kubota Corporation decreased by ¥8.8 billion (∼74,1 million euros) [24.1%] from the corresponding period in the prior year to ¥27.6 billion (∼232,5 million euros).
Kubota Corporation is pleased to announce the establishment of a Holding Company in Europe as the Regional Headquarters of our industrial machinery business. Kubota Holdings Europe B.V. will drive further business expansion in the European markets by aiming a Pan-European business management optimization.
Purpose and background It has been 43 years since we established a first subsidiary in Europe. After that we have been increasing our sales and manufacturing bases in the European region. We have succeeded expanding our business by developing markets in each country. In order to grow further, we think it is necessary to shift our business management from a country basis to a Pan-European business basis and to optimize our business management in Europe. Therefore, we have decided to establish our European Regional Headquarters in Nieuw-Vennep, the Netherlands. We will drive our ‘Customer first’ and ‘Dealer first’ principles further through the activities of Kubota Holdings Europe B.V. and will continue to make Kubota Group a ‘Global Major Brand’.
(July 2017)
KHE: Moving Kubota to the next level
Kubota’s 2017 Financial Results for the First-Quarter
KTC Expansion in Kansas
Kubota’s results for the first SEMESTER 2017
Kubota Europe SAS and Kubota España entered 2017 under new leadership
KUBOTA DONATED $1 MILLION
Communication guidelineS
In these guidelines, you will find all the information about Kubota's logos and colours to use but also some templates for business cards or powerpoint presentations. In September this year, a Guideline box containing all the relevant information was sent to all our Sales Companies. A special version for dealers and distributors is also available as well as an Advertising guideline. Don't hesitate to ask your Marketing contacts for more information.
The Communication guidelines of Kubota are now available!
Did you know…
That in 2016 Kubota invested over 350,000,000 EUR in R&D?
That Kubota is the inventor of ISOBUS?
If you want to know more about Kubota Corporation and our products, check out our new corporate video.
That 1 hectare of farmland is needed to feed 4 people?
