John Deere dealer Ben Burgess has submitted plans for a new purpose-built branch around Oakham, Rutland, which is due to open in 2021.

In the meantime, the company has just opened a temporary site at Woodside Farm, Empingham. Supported by the Ellington and Coates branches, the temporary branch will provide sales, service and parts support.

“Since John Deere announced our expansion, we have been working hard to secure a presence in our new area as soon as possible,” says director Ben B Turner, who is leading the Oakham project.

“Although a temporary location, we feel having a base allows us to provide the excellent customer service expected and we are making very good progress in welcoming new members to our Oakham team.”

Oakham branch manager Robert Burdock says the temporary base offers full product support and operates a parts collection point in line with Covid-19 restrictions. “We have highly trained technicians and FarmSight specialists available to provide remote connected support and visit if required,” he adds.

“Our sales team are available for all purchasing and demonstration requests too. We have made a very positive start in building our business from Oakham and our new site is an excellent step in showing our commitment to the local farming community.”

When the new purpose-built facility at Oakham is completed it will be the seventh Ben Burgess branch.