Kuhn Group Sales Dip 9% in 2025 but Orders Signal Recovery
Kuhn Group recorded net sales of NZ$2.27 billion in 2025, finishing around 9% lower than in 2024.
French machinery manufacturer Kuhn has expanded its range of mower-conditioners fitted with rollertype conditioners, with the addition of the new trailed FC 3155 TLR and FC 3555 TLR models.
These have working widths of 3.10m and 3.50m respectively.
The side-pull drawbar units, with hydraulically offset mowing elements, feature Kuhn’s SquareFlex roller conditioners that incorporate mechanically driven 240mm diameter rollers that are claimed to be synchronized for life.
The unique profile of the polyurethane rollers ensures that plants and stalks are crimped, irrespective of the direction the crop is presented.
Driven by a gearbox to rotate at 780rpm, the pressure exerted by the rollers is easily adjusted, while also allowing them to move apart to allow foreign objects to pass through.
The layout is said to be suited to dealing with crops such as alfalfa, clover and lucerne or any crops where there is a risk of leaf shatter or those with thicker stems.
Both models are fitted with the Opti- Disc Elite cutter bar, fitted with the Protecta- Drive safety system that, when an impact occurs, sees the shaft above the bearing “shear” through a pre-determined groove to allow the disc to freewheel and protect the gear train.
The “sealed for life” cutter-bar requires no maintenance and is equipped with large diameter gear assemblies and double-row angular contact ball bearings for robustness and durability.
Equipped as standard with the Fast- Fit quick knife release system, a leaf spring layout ensures that there is constant pressure on the blade securing pin, with rapid change of any blunt or damaged blades.
A spring suspension system ensures efficient ground pressure reduction of the mower unit while also ensuring positive ground contour adaptation.
The clever Gyrodine headstock ensures that the PTO input shaft remains straight when undertaking tight turns, allowing the machine to manoeuvre tightly in narrow plots or irregularshaped paddocks.
As we move into the second half of 2026, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that Year-to-Date figures ending June 30 saw new tractor deliveries hitting 1,386 units or 10.7% ahead of the same period in 2025.
The avocado sector is entering the new season with a larger crop and positive market opportunities.
New Zealand growers have always adapted to changing conditions, but one challenge is steadily gaining ground across the horticulture sector: resistance.
Blueberries have the potential to become a major horticultural export, earning up to $150 million within the next three to five years.
Twenty five secondary school students from around New Zealand recently completed a three day residential programme designed to explore career opportunities across the food and fibre production supply chain.
Conversions of sheep and beef farms to forestry have slowed, however new research from Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) suggests land of value for food production remains at risk.
OPINION: The Irish dairy sector is facing a new dilemma - maintaining year-round fresh milk supplies.
OPINION: Could beef cows play an increasingly important role in improving profitability and resilience on hill country farms?