Auctioneers report above-average machinery sales amid busy year

Crowds gathered at Moorhouse Farm dispersal sale earlier this year.

While farm dispersal sales are usually held in the autumn, Halls has led auctions nearly every month this year as farmers have retired, changed farming policy or, sadly, passed away.

Auctioneer Jonny Dymond, manager of Shrewsbury Auction Centre, said the increased number of dispersal sales and buoyant prices for second-hand farm machinery are the result of a combination of factors.

On the one hand, the high cost of new machinery and supply chain problems have increased demand for genuine, well-maintained second-hand machinery. Inflation, bank interest rates and the rising cost of living are other contributory factors.

The favourable prices have also prompted many farmers to cash in on surplus machinery.

Mr Dymond reflected on the outstanding run of sales at Shrewsbury Auction Centre this year, adding the upturn has helped grow the reputation of the business and attract new clients.

“Traditionally, the autumn is the busiest time of the year for dispersal sales, but we have been busy since January,” he said. “We have more sales booked for August 12 and 18, September 8 and October 21.

“Part of the success is that sales have been held when they have not clashed with other auctions,” Mr Dymond added.

He proceeded to thank clients for supporting the sales and said the company will continue to provide good value and service to buyers.

This year, Halls have organised farm dispersal sales from across the West Midlands to Mid and North Wales, while collective farm machinery auctions are held in Shrewsbury and Kidderminster throughout the year.

Bidders unable to attend the auctions can either bid and purchase online through the MartEye platform or leave telephone bids with the auction team at Halls, which has a network of offices across Shropshire, Powys and Worcestershire.

For more information about the sales, contact Shrewsbury Auction Centre on 01743 462620.