Tractor, harvester IT comes of age
Over the last halfdecade, digital technology has appeared to be the “must-have” for tractor and machinery companies, who believe that bringing IT to tractors and farming will offer its customers huge benefits.
“A 75-year anniversary is an incredible achievement for any business and the support of our staff and customers has helped us reach this milestone,” says Tim Myers, Norwood chief executive.
Back in 1948, the first shipment of Ferguson TEA20 tractors and implements were assembled in the Palmerston North A&P Showgrounds and a retail network was established.
In 1958, the business became the sole NZ distributor for Massey Ferguson. Then in 1960 it expanded into industrial and construction machinery. A decade later, the Norwood network has expanded to 10 retail dealerships, two assembly plants and encompassed 44 independently owned dealerships – including the locations in the Cook Islands.
After its acquisition by Dalgety Ltd in 1978, the business moved its head office from Lower Hutt to Palmerston North. Over the ensuing years, it added the Kubota and Sperry New Holland brands to it expanding portfolio. In 1987, the Norwood business was purchased by the European Zuellig Group and in 1993, relinquished the MF franchise and added FiatAgri to its offerings.
In the late 1990s, the Agricultural Equipment Division was formed, bringing on board brands such as Vaderstad, Sulky, and Breviglieri, followed by Ferrari in 2000 and Kuhn Farm Machinery in 2007.
Other key events included the launch of the Precision Ag Division, to focus on technological advances in 2013; and during 2018-19, the bringing together of the previously separate wholesale and retail parts of the business.
At around the same time, Norwood was one of the first companies to sign the Biosecurity Pledge, helping to play a bigger role in protecting agriculture in New Zealand.
In 2023, Norwood relinquished the New Holland and Horsch brands and expanded its KUHN distribution network.
“This is certainly a time for reflection. It is also a time for looking ahead to opportunities that Sir Charles and Sir Walter Norwood could never have imagined 75 years ago,” Myer says.
“Norwood’s commitment to New Zealand farmers and growers is one thing that has remained the same in a constantly changing industry.
“Our focus on doing everything we can to keep farmers moving has stood the test of time and will see us here for years to come.”
