Smart Machines: Oxin gains traction in the US
Marlborough-based agritech company Smart Machines has reached a significant milestone in its mission to revolutionise vineyard management.
Managing director Gayne Carroll told Rural News that it’s been a long journey spanning nearly 30 years.
“From when I led the introduction of the Landini brand to NZ at Motor Holdings, then established the brand countrywide at Power Farming, before finally going it alone, by creating and building AGTEK into a nationwide distributor, based at Te Puke.”
He says during the last 12 years, AGTEK and its dealers have worked hard to make the Landini name the “go to” brand in the horticultural sector, where it held an enviable reputation for no nonsense operation and productivity.
“Unfortunately, since Covid-19, the two Argo brands have battled to remain price competitive for New Zealand farmers, given rising global inflation and shipping costs, leading to the difficult decision to end the agreement.”
Carroll says he understands that a new distributor has recently been appointed, who will initially focus on the Landini brand, with the McCormick product “shelved” at this stage.
“We wish to thank our loyal Landini and McCormick customers for their support over the years and can assure them we will continue to look after their parts needs going forward.”
Carroll adds that he’d also like to thank the independent, locally owned dealers who have supported the company over the years.
“Genuinely believing that these family-owned and local dealerships bring more to New Zealand’s rural communities than their corporate counterparts.”
Looking forward, as one journey ends for AGTEK another is about to begin, with Carroll and his team currently working on some behind-thescenes developments that will emerge over the coming weeks and months.
He says the goal is to further strengthen and complement the portfolio of brands such as Goldoni, TYM and Orizzonti the company currently represent.
