When the U.S. announced tariffs on imported steel, there was a lot of speculation — and maybe even fear — about what it would mean for farm equipment prices. Now that the dust has settled a bit, we’re starting to get some answers.

Now more than ever, it’s become imperative that dealerships have a strategic digital marketing plan in place. What used to be a walk-in and immediate face-time with a potential client to get to know your business and products has quickly changed to online research and clicking through your “virtual dealership” to get a sense of whether a customer wants to do business with you.

China’s need for agricultural imports remains significant since they are faced with providing food for nearly one-third of the world’s population. The past decade has produced a growing middle class in China that has demonstrated an increased demand for not only basic foods, but also for high quality products that are only available from other parts of the world.

It is never too early to have a plan in place to ensure the continuity or smooth transfer of a business and its assets in the event of the owner’s death. This is especially so if an individual’s family is dependent on the company for income.

We’re getting a fair amount of improving vibes from the dealers these days. Maybe the best of the best is that used equipment inventories are looking better than they have for some time.

A trade war could absolutely have a negative effect on U.S. producers’ income in the future, but are there other circumstances to consider?

“There is a great need for shortlines. The key from a dealer’s perspective is to find a hot product, sell the hell out of it and then know when to stop ordering.”

The ag economy is fragile at best! Interest is creeping up, commodities prices are soft, and the ability to make profit is a struggle day-in-day-out.

Most business owners — and more specifically farm equipment dealers — would likely tell you that customer service and experience are important to the overall success of the business. I’d venture to say every dealer I’ve spoken with has prided themselves on the quality of service they provide the customer.

Tipping points sometimes occur long before their true impact can be totaled, and the recent introduction of MTZ’s new-to-North America diesel-electric farm tractor could rank in that category — especially since the competitively-priced machine will be available for sale in the last quarter of 2018.