Trade media spanning sports turf, landscaping and amenity recently spent two days at the Kubota UK facility in Thame, Oxfordshire, to learn more about the exciting expansions of two popular mower ranges. Together with getting ‘hands-on’ with the latest additions in both the FC and zero-turn portfolios, press were updated on the ongoing investment and growth of the product offering and wider brand across the globe.
The group were welcomed by Henry Bredin, division manager, who discussed Kubota’s new global leadership changes – including a new CEO, President of Europe, and President of the Tractor Business Unit (TBU), who have all been tasked with steering the company to find solutions to the environmental challenges posed by the modern world. Among these solutions, Henry focused on the exciting developments in the autonomous arena, with Kubota working on auto-steer systems which they hope will go some way to address issues associated with labour shortages and field productivity.
Press were then treated to a tour of Kubota’s UK headquarters. With questions regarding global supply chains, export markets and power sources answered, the day concluded with a ‘battery challenge’ – demonstrating the simplicity and speed of switching between batteries in the field.
Matt Wilson, product manager for groundcare, took charge for day two, focussing on the rationale behind the expansion of Kubota’s mower range which now spans across three power sources: diesel, petrol and electric. He cited changes in operator requirements as the main driver for the new FC and zero-turn models, explaining how the bigger range now offers greater choice, confidence and continuity for customers across all key sectors.
New products include the FC4-441, designed to deliver versatile cut and collect performance on large areas such as parks and sports facilities. A true multi-tasker, the FC4-441 is fully customisable with different attachments and a choice of rotary or flail mower deck, meaning it’s as comfortable leaving a fine cut quality throughout the growing season as it is collecting leaves or shovelling snow.
The FC4-441 formed part of a comprehensive line-up of machines available for the media to ‘test drive’, giving everyone the ability to discover first-hand the comfort, control and outstanding manoeuvrability offered across the Kubota range. Driving skills were put to the test on a zero-turn obstacle course, bringing proceedings to a close with some friendly but ever-competitive rivalry!
Commenting on the event, Matt Wilson extended a big thank you to all of those who attended. “It was a pleasure to present the range evolution in line with the market needs and share exciting changes which ensures that Kubota remain at the forefront of delivering the right solutions for todays turf professionals.”