The trip started out with a tour of the original factory and the Kverneland milestones such as the first Kverneland plough model. The dealers got to see the ‘shaker’ machine and Ole Gabriel Kverneland’s smithy where he produced many tools including scissors, knives and even dental tools and handcuffs.
The dealers then had a rare chance to see the end of the carburisation process where the metal is taken out of the heat treatment, which happens only two times per day. The first day concluded with a typical Norwegian meal on a boat in Stavanger Harbour.
The following day commenced with a factory tour, an interesting insight into new projects and innovations, and a workshop on arable concepts. Next the dealers travelled by ferry to the beautiful Flower Island to enjoy a celebratory dinner. Presentations were made to dealers that had achieved 25 years of partnership with Kverneland, as well as a thank you to all for their contribution to the UK’s Sales Company of the Year award for 2014.
For the final day, the UK dealers had the chance to view the beautiful sights that Norway had to offer. The Norwegian oil museum gave a great insight into the history of the oil industry in Norway, and how petroleum is produced. Dealers then travelled up through the mountains, stopping for lunch in a cave restaurant and a snowball fight on the way, even though there was lovely sunny weather (23º). The next stop was the Eagles Nest coffee shop, high up on the mountain, with spectacular views of the Lysefjord below. To top it all off the trip ended with a boat journey down the Fjord and a celebration dinner with a band and a sing along to end the night.
Dealers are already sending such positive feedback:
“It was a certainly one the best trips I have ever been on, which was due to the excellent company, organisation, enthusiasm and wonderful sights. It was encouraging to see that Kverneland is growing so strongly and investing heavily in new products and production facilities, while still being so proud of its past, traditions and culture.” – Richard Nicholl, Rea Valley Tractors.
“It was a fantastic trip, we had great fun, very good food and brilliant hospitality throughout” - Neil Palmer, Bigwoods Agri.
“It was the best trip I have experienced by any company.” – George Blight, Cornwall Farm Machinery.
“It was very well organised and the hospitality was second to none. It was good to see the progress the factory has made due to the substantial investment.” – Robbie Edwards, Edwards Machinery
Many thanks to all those involved with the trip for making it a huge success!
6th July 2015
