The latest brand-by-brand analysis of market share information from the Farm Tractor & Machinery Trade Association (FTMTA) shows that the three top selling brands of telescopic loaders in the Republic of Ireland in 2020 were Manitou (44.2%), JCB (22.9%) and Weidemann (7.7%).

The trio accounted for almost 75% of total sales, or numbers wise, a total of 291 of the 389 new units sold.

Kramer came in a close fourth with 6.7% of the market, followed by a three-way tie for fifth spot by Claas, New Holland and Schaffer, all registering a 3.3% share each.

Merlo followed closely at 3.1%. It’s worth outlining that this classification of telescopic machines includes those supplied across all industries, and is not limited to agriculture.

Meanwhile, in terms of new loader sales in the same period, it was JCB (23 machines) that led the pack, followed by Volvo (16 units), New Holland (nine units) and, finally, Komastu (eight units).

In terms of backhoe sales, a total of 32 sales were recorded, with JCB securing 72% of the market

Interestingly, the data supplied by the FTMTA has the anomaly of stating “others” with the highest number of machines at 81 units.

This coincides with the sizeable influx of new loader brands on to the market here over the past number of years.

2021 market share figures won’t be released by such trade bodies until early 2023

In terms of backhoe sales, a total of 32 sales were recorded, with JCB securing 72% of the market.

Macalac, New Holland, Komatsu and Caterpillar also recorded sales.

EU competition law

On competition grounds, trade bodies such as the FTMTA are not allowed to release data on what brands sold X amount of new tractors until a one-year period has passed.

Thus, 2021 market share figures won’t be released by such trade bodies until early 2023.