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Shared values lay the groundwork for meaningful and enduring collaborations between businesses. Our partnership with Systematic, a creative business from the Lincolnshire Wolds, has flourished over two decades thanks to our mutual commitment to sustainability, creativity, and excellence.

A Love of Paper

Systematic plays a key role in ensuring our printed monthly statements are securely mailed, helping us leverage the tactile power of paper communication. Working alongside digital communications, paper provides a lasting impression - it’s saved, shared, and cuts through digital noise.

Paper is one of the few truly sustainable products, as wood is a natural and renewable material. Contrary to many greenwashing claims, European forests are growing, by over 1,500 football pitches every day. (Food & Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations data, 2005-2020)

The paper we use is FSC® certified, reflecting the highest standards of responsible forestry. This certification ensures that forests are managed sustainably, natural habitats are protected, and the rights of workers and local communities are respected.

Systematic is a member of Two Sides, a not-for-profit organisation that actively challenges organisations that share misleading anti-paper statements. Their work aligns with growing consumer sentiments; the 2023 Two Sides ‘Trend Tracker’ report found that 55% of European consumers believe companies switch to digital primarily to cut costs, while 76% want the choice to retain paper communications.

As members, our hope is that you value our responsible use of paper in our communications.

Systematic: A Good Business

Systematic’s dedication to people and the planet is evident in their accreditation with the Good Business Charter.

It’s an important backdrop to the creative design, printing, mailing and marketing support that helps their clients to grow and succeed. Within this offer sits oodle, a new design agency brand delivering ‘creativity with oomph’.

Jacqui Vear, Operations Director at Systematic, shared:

“Systematic is an SME with family values, proving that even small actions can create meaningful change. We champion sustainable business practices, especially in light of the climate emergency. Our goal is to operate as a verified carbon-neutral business by 2025, our 50th anniversary.

“This journey involves rigorous measurement of our greenhouse gas emissions (Scopes 1, 2, and 3) using the GHG Protocol methodology. Integrity and independent scrutiny are at the heart of our efforts. The support we receive from like-minded organisations like Woldmarsh keeps us focused and motivated. Together, we’re stronger.”

Shared Goals for a Sustainable Future

Our partnership with Systematic reflects our shared belief that sustainability isn’t just a responsibility—it’s an opportunity to innovate and thrive. By working together, we’re taking meaningful steps to support the environment while creating value for our customers and communities.

Why Purchasing Your Water Through Woldmarsh is Beneficial for Members 

As a Woldmarsh member, you're already part of a group that works to secure the best deals across a range of essential services. When it comes to water, purchasing through Woldmarsh offers significant benefits tailored specifically for members, from cost savings to personalised service and expert support. Here’s why switching your water supply to Woldmarsh could be a great decision for your business: 

Exclusive Group Negotiated Rates 

One of the key advantages of being a Woldmarsh member is access to exclusive group-negotiated rates on utilities, including water. Woldmarsh pools the purchasing power of its entire membership to negotiate favourable terms with our water supplier, ensuring that all members benefit from lower prices than they would typically find on their own. As a result, you can see a noticeable reduction in your water bills, which directly impacts your bottom line. 

Woldmarsh members enjoy the convenience of consolidated billing for all their utilities, including water, electricity, fuel, and more. This simplifies your financial management by reducing the need to track multiple payments and suppliers. With everything handled under one roof, you save time and cut down on administrative work. 

Dedicated Support from the Woldmarsh Utilities Team 

As the water market in the UK is deregulated, Woldmarsh members can switch water suppliers to find the best deals without being tied to a single provider. Woldmarsh navigates this deregulated landscape on your behalf, ensuring that you always receive competitive pricing and superior service. As a member, you get the advantage of a streamlined switching process, managed entirely by Woldmarsh, with no disruption to your water supply. 

When you switch your water supply through Woldmarsh, you gain access to a team of experts who are there to manage your account. The Utilities Team, consisting of Debbie, Francesca, and Tracy, are dedicated to helping members optimise their utility management, ensuring you are always on the most cost-effective tariff. If any issues arise, whether it’s billing questions or operational concerns like leaks, you can rely on the team for prompt and personalised support. 

If you’re interested in switching your water supplier or learning more about the benefits of purchasing water through Woldmarsh, get in touch with the Utilities Team today!

If you would like more information please contact us on 01507 Opt. 2, Opt 2.

WITHAM GROUP LAUNCHES NEW COMPREHENSIVE ANTIFREEZE & COOLANT RANGE

Witham Group, a leading UK lubricant manufacturer, is excited to announce the launch of its new, QualGuard range of antifreeze and coolants, adding the latest Si-OAT technology to two new products. Designed to meet the diverse needs of modern engines, the updated range now offers superior protection, extended lifespan, and enhanced performance to vehicles however old or new.

In addition, the innovative business has also launched a new winterisation anti-freeze, with biodegradable qualities ideal for static caravans, holiday lodges and boats.

Coolants are crucial for maintaining optimal engine temperature, preventing overheating, freezing, and corrosion. With engine technology constantly evolving, innovative coolant solutions are essential. Witham Group's new QualGuard range offers a variety of options to suit different vehicles and driving conditions.

What Is Changing in The Marketplace?

Antifreeze technology has evolved significantly in recent years, especially with advances like Si-OAT offer better corrosion protection and compatibility with modern engines and are formulated to last longer, sometimes up to 10 years or 300,000 miles depending on the type of vehicle and operating conditions. These latest coolants minimise the need for regular flushing and refilling, so reducing ongoing maintenance costs.

Innovations, driven by the need for more efficient thermal management in electric vehicles and environmental concerns, have created new more eco-friendly and efficient coolants. With the rise of electric and hybrid vehicle, coolant technology is also evolving to meet the specific needs of battery packs, electric motors and inverters. Dielectric coolants are being developed which are non-conductive fluids, ensuring that electric components will be protected from short circuit, whilst maintaining vital thermal regulation.

There is also a growing demand for more eco-friendly coolants due to increased regulatory pressure and concerns over the toxicity of traditional (ethylene glycol) anti-freezes. New formulations based on propylene glycol, which is less toxic and more biodegradable than traditional formulations are being adopted. Lower toxicity coolants are also being developed for industries like agriculture and forestry where environmental exposure risks are higher.

Selecting The Correct Coolant Is Crucial

As engines are made from a variety of metals and operate in diverse environments, selecting the right type of coolant is crucial for its performance and longevity. There are three main types: IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology), OAT (Organic Acid Technology), and Si-OAT (Silicate Organic Acid Technology). IAT is typically used in older vehicles, while OAT and Si-OAT are more common in modern engines, especially those with aluminium components. Si-OAT offers superior corrosion protection and extended lifespan, making it a preferred choice for many European car manufacturers. Using the wrong coolant can lead to compatibility issues, reduced performance, and premature wear.

Key Benefits of Witham Group's New Antifreeze and Coolant Range:

Nigel Bottom, MD at Witham Group commented: “Selecting the right coolant for a specific engine application is crucial to ensure optimal performance, prevent damage, and extend the life of the engine. Our range of coolants are designed for the latest engines or the oldest. 

At Witham Group, we're passionate about providing quality products and exceptional service. With our years of technical experience and extensive product range, we're confident that can offer the most effective and efficient products, whatever the need.

Our knowledgeable team is always ready to offer expert advice and guidance, and our online lubricant finder also ensures that customers have quick and easy access to the right recommendations to help them save time and money wherever possible.”

For more information about Witham Group's antifreeze and coolant range, please visit:
www.withamgroup.co.uk/products/workshop-and-cleaning/anti-freeze-coolants

By Mark Coleman, Terravesta customer account manager

Miscanthus is seeing increased interest from farmers looking to grow profits from less productive or flood-prone land. It's a perennial crop offering a long-term income and has huge demand from renewable energy power stations, powering local homes. If you're considering planting it, we've got some commonly asked questions to bust the Miscanthus myths...

1)     Is Miscanthus good for the environment?

Yes, Miscanthus stores more carbon than it releases in its life cycle, and it helps to restore and stabilise damaged soils. It will take in carbon during its growth period and even after it has been cut, baled, driven to the power station, and burnt, it will only release the carbon it has taken in. The below-ground rhizomes will also store an additional 2.35 CO2 equivalent per hectare, per year. This makes the crop “carbon negative”, even if it is burnt to supply our renewable energy needs!

2)     Does it compete with food on UK farmland?

The food versus fuel debate is a common misconception about Miscanthus. The vast majority of Miscanthus crops in the UK are planted on marginal or less productive fields which would struggle to produce sufficient yielding food crops. The Committee on Climate Change identified 700,00 hectares of land in the U.K. suitable for biomass without affecting food production in its sixth carbon budget.

Miscanthus does not affect food production, but it does improve our energy security.

3)     Is Miscanthus difficult to get rid of?

Terravesta Athena Miscanthus is a sterile hybrid. The crop will not spread outside of the planted area, as the only way for it to do so, is to split the rhizome and then replant it elsewhere. With regards to the removal of the crop at the end of its use, Miscanthus is a grass and it can be removed leaving the land available to be reverted to other cropping.

In fact, the soil quality of the field will be greatly improved due to the no-till and organic matter built up over its 20-year lifespan.

4)     Is Miscanthus good for biodiversity and nature?

A little-known fact about Miscanthus is that once it’s established, it requires no additional weed control. The leaf litter that falls naturally from the stems, is left on the ground. This rots down and creates a thriving environment for crawling insects, earthworms, soil-based organisms and micro-organisms. Birds also appreciate the cover miscanthus provides.

5)     How profitable is Miscanthus?

Miscanthus has an economic lifespan of over 20 years as a financially viable crop, giving growers secure, long-term returns. It requires no nitrogen or fertiliser on establishment and no ongoing herbicides once established.

Demand for Miscanthus is very high and can provide you with a long-term, stable, retail index-linked income, that goes up each year. Considering this is on land that is typically more problematic for planting cereals, it is a solid income generator and fits well around other crops in the farming calendar.

Why not contact Terravesta and see what returns you can make?

7)     What are the markets for Miscanthus in the UK?

Now, more than ever, our self-sufficiency regarding our energy supply is vitally important.

Miscanthus is an ideal crop for biomass which is a key part of the solution, demand is very high and more supply is always needed. That’s not all, Miscanthus also has various other uses such as animal bedding, use in composite construction materials, agri-plastics, and chemicals for the bio-pharmaceutical market. This is the beginning of the exciting uses for this wonder crop.

For more information about Miscanthus, please call our Crop Inputs team on 01507 602396 opt. 1.

Revolutionising Fertiliser Procurement

In a groundbreaking move set to reshape the agricultural landscape, Woldmarsh, Fram Farmers, and the AF Group declared an unprecedented alliance in March 2023. This monumental collaboration heralded a visionary endeavour aimed at streamlining purchases, leveraging combined volumes, and driving savings for their respective memberships. The birth of The Agri Procurement Alliance (APA) has been a culmination of tireless efforts over the past 10 months, resulting in a significant milestone: the "go-live" moment on January 5th, 2024, specifically for fertiliser procurement, excluding liquid variants.

This strategic partnership signifies a unified approach wherein the three entities will collectively negotiate preferential terms and conduct joint purchases whenever possible. Despite this huge shift, members can expect minimal disruption in their interactions with the fertiliser team. The familiar touchpoints stay intact – Ben is still the point of contact, orders come through Woldmarsh, and invoicing procedures remain unchanged. APA works as the conduit facilitating joined up negotiations with suppliers.

A notable alteration in the timeline revolves around the dispatch of annual fertiliser requirement forms, now scheduled for March. This adjustment aims to enable all three groups to engage with members, pooling tonnages for enhanced negotiation strength with suppliers. While recognising the early nature
of these inquiries in March, the alliance seeks insights from members regarding their anticipated needs, particularly focusing on nitrogen, nitrogen sulphur, and urea. Members' early input significantly fortifies the alliance's bargaining position, albeit it's a request for trust in this pioneering collaboration.

As the APA Fertiliser Director, with years of experience in the industry, the responsibility rests on me to guide Woldmarsh, Fram Farmers, and The AF Group's fertiliser managers in making well informed decisions. The past year has seen the cultivation of a robust, collaborative relationship among Ben
(Woldmarsh), Josh (AF), and India (Fram Farmers). Their commitment underscores the alliance's success, built on trust and collaboration.

The three CEOs share an unwavering commitment to the alliance's vision – to set an example of innovative success by challenging the fertiliser industry's conventional norms. Your support is pivotal as we embark on this transformative journey together.

Glyphosate was granted an extension to its current approval in Europe at the end of last year. The UK is still to grant an extension, but it is unlikely to be very different to Europe. Glyphosate 360 pricing since October has been stable at the £3.50/litre level with no strong indications that it will move from this pricing point during the coming spring season which will see a period of higher usage. 

New Agchem Products

Bayer have a new fungicide approved for the spring season under the name of iblon. This SDHi active has a broad spectrum of disease control and joins a market that has several well-established alternatives. Early indications point to more competitive pricing compared to the peak of last spring which was driven by the winter 2022 energy market. 

Volume planning will be more difficult this season as the crops sown are showing many different yield potentials which will mean inputs need to be carefully matched. 

Parallels re-approved

Sometime this year there will be new registrations for parallel imported ag chem. They were removed from sale at the end of June 2023, but the decision has now been reversed and there will be a mechanism for the re-approval of products that are identical to UK registrations to come into the UK again. Importers are unlikely to bring in such an extensive offering as before and will only target the higher usage volumes such as Win g P, Terpal, and Signum.  These registrations are unlikely to be available in time for this spring.

Soil Sampling

As many of you will now be aware of the SFI grants available, part of this is the SAM1 action, which is to “Assess soil, produce a soil management plan and test soil organic matter” yielding a payment of £6ha per year of the agreement and £97 per SFI agreement.

Of course, soil sampling is a vital tool in your ammo when making fertiliser decisions and using this input to the best of its ability to benefit your crops and soil health. The advice is soil sampling should be carried out every 3-5 years. Sampling for liming is paramount to ensure crops can access the correct nutrients at the right time, unfortunately, this is something that can often get overlooked.

We have several agreements with different suppliers to facilitate soil sampling, such as SOYL, NRM & Assured Agronomy Ltd. Enquire with the Crop Inputs team today on 01507 602396 Opt. 1, Opt. 1 or email agchem@woldmarsh.com.

Spring Broadacre Crops

The availability of spring seed is extremely limited. Many suppliers are all ‘sold out subject to outturn’. This is due to many factors that have come together to result in the difficult position the industry finds itself in today. 

Looking back, Autumn 2022 was an open sowing season which presented good future prices resulting in an increased winter crop area and a reduced spring area available for seed production.

Fast-forward to Spring 2023 and it was by all counts a difficult growing season. This resulted in lower yields and poorer germination standards further reducing the tonnage of available seed to sell.

Autumn 2023 was a predictably difficult season, leading to an unprecedented demand for spring seed. Suppliers were understandably nervous about overselling their availability book and went ‘sold out’ very early. 

All cereal seed is virtually sold out for the season, there could be the option to purchase imported cereal seed. Spring beans and peas are virtually sold out. Maize, linseed and OSR are still available options for this spring. 

Sustainable Farming - Incentive Seeds

The interest in SFI actions that require seed inputs has increased following an exceedingly difficult autumn for establishing OSR and cereals. Legume fallows and winter bird food options are under consideration on a greater
number of farms. There is a finite limit to the availability of small seeds that are used to make up the mixtures for these actions.

Most of this seed is grown abroad in suitable climates and imported into the UK but has not been
grown in enough quantity to satisfy the new demand from UK farmers. If you are entering into SFI agreements,
please order seed as soon as possible.

Autumn's Aftermath

There's no denying that autumn 2023’s difficult conditions will have a knock-on effect on the availability of seed for autumn 2024 sowing. This includes both wheat and barley and it particularly affects the new varieties that were added to the recommended list in November. If any of the new varieties including LG Beowulf, Bamford, Blackstone and SY Cheer are of interest for next season, seed needs booking now.

According to data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS), the number of vehicles stolen in England and Wales rose from 104,435 in 2021 to 130,389 in 2022, an increase of just under 25%.

Having recently been a victim of car crime, Phae Bryant talks about the importance of vehicle safety awareness and how insurers can work to offer discounted premiums on certain agricultural vehicles when they are fitted with approved, additional tracking and security devices...

A car purchase is a relatively expensive investment, and we make some assumptions as to the factory-fitted security measures and how they will protect the vehicle from thieves. However, despite these in-built measures, sadly thieves seem to always be one step ahead.

Having recently been a victim of car crime, I confess I was naïve as to just how easy it is to steal keyless cars, which are particularly vulnerable. Figures I have seen online suggest that the latest data reveals that now 93% of thefts are carried out without the keys. The vehicle stolen in my case was a Toyota RAV4 Petrol Hybrid and the increase in sales of these lower-emission vehicles is reflected in the numbers stolen. However, any keyless car is susceptible to theft by two particular methods.

Relay Theft

Relay theft is a technique used by thieves to steal cars with keyless entry systems. It involves using a device to amplify the signal from a key fob inside a home or when you have it in your bag or pocket, to a second device held near the car. This tricks the car into thinking that the key is nearby, allowing the thief to unlock and start the car. The whole process can take as little as a few seconds, making it a very quick and efficient way to steal a car. 

Sometimes the perpetrators will wait for you to walk away to take your vehicle, others follow you home and return later to take the vehicle from your property. To protect your keyless car from relay theft, there are a few steps you can take. 

One relatively cheap option is to use a Faraday pouch or box to store your key fob when you're not using it. This will block the signal and prevent it from being amplified by a thief. You could also use a good old-fashioned steering wheel lock or other physical security device to make your car more difficult to steal.

CAN Injection Theft

Another method used to steal a keyless car is via what's known as a CAN Injection, where the vehicle's CAN (or Controller Area Network) is tricked into thinking that a key is present by bridging some of the wiring loom connections. 

This can be done in a matter of minutes and the thieves gain access to the computers that control the car's engine through the headlight or under the wheel arch. The engine control unit stores a copy of the wireless key code, and thieves can clone this to a blank key fob to use to start the car. Ultimately, the best way to protect yourself from car theft is to remain vigilant and take extra steps to secure your vehicle.

We have personally added another immobiliser that prevents a thief from driving away if they bypass the CAN and have installed an app that provides vehicle status updates in the event of it being tampered with. Some insurers will offer discounted premiums on certain agricultural vehicles if they are fitted with approved (not factory-fitted) tracking and security devices which is worth looking into.

With the right precautions, you can greatly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of relay or any other form of car theft, preventing a great deal of stress, cost, and inconvenience. Hindsight is indeed a wonderful thing, and I won’t be so complacent in the future!