MF may add ATVs to UK range
13 August 1999
MF may add ATVs to UK range
ATVs could become part of Massey Fergusons product range for the UK if the current evaluation programme is successful.
Massey Ferguson already sells the American built Arctic Cat ATV range in France through an agreement with Arctic Cats French distribution company, and it is the Arctic Cat range which is being considered by MF to give it a share of the annual 5000 plus ATV market in the UK.
Arctic Cat ATVs are already available in the UK, but the distributor, Suzuki GB, has announced that it will begin selling the Suzuki range of ATVs when the marketing agreement with Arctic Cat terminates later this year. This will leave Arctic Cat without a marketing partner for the UK, and a deal with MF could provide the sales clout the company is clearly looking for.
The Arctic Cat range available in the UK covers five models – all of which feature Suzuki engines and transmissions. Engine sizes are from about 300 to almost 500cc, and the 300 model is available in both two and four-wheel-drive versions.
A spokesman for Suzuki GB confirmed that sales of the Arctic Cat ATV range will cease at the end of the year, although there is an assurance that a full parts and service back-up will continue until alternative distribution arrangements are established.
Massey Ferguson says it will not be making a decision about selling the Arctic Cat range until the evaluation programme is completed. This includes consultation with MF dealers, many of which already have an established franchise for one of the other ATV makes. *