Agco product manager for hay and harvest, Will DeFegely, says two main factors contributed to last year’s “massive” 954 unit sales figure.

He attributed the significant increase in combine sales to not only the Federal Government’s investment allowance but also increasing confidence in broadacre markets.

“These days, producers are placing more emphasis on the increased productivity offered by new generation machinery,” Mr DeFegely said.

As well, he made the point modern combines were better able to handle “stop/start” seasons like 2009 which made for lots of small harvesting windows.

On the back of such a prosperous year, Agco remains equally bullish about sales prospects during 2010.

“We’re seeing continued demand well into 2010, with machines for summer crop harvest currently being sold and winter crop farmers looking to lock in the low finance rates and pricing for the 2010 harvest,” Mr DeFegely said.

On the back of such strong interest, there’s a possibility of manufacturers running short of supply by harvest time with producers urged to take advantage of the early order program.

“Based on last year’s supply and demand, we encourage producers to get in early to benefit from current savings, and to ensure they get what they want, when they want,” Mr DeFegely said.

Interestingly, Agco is offering substantial cash discounts on its Massey Ferguson and Gleaner Class Six, Seven and Eight combines, including zero percent finance.

Meanwhile, the company says it has received “positive feedback” from its Harvest Alliance programme which saw its two popular brands backed by a Harvest Support Truck loaded with parts and technical support (pictured), available on a 24 hour/seven day a week basis across Eastern Australia’s harvest corridor.

Mr DeFegely said Agco was looking to expand its infield back-up support during the season ahead by ensuring its combines run smoothly and effectively.