Ireland has developed a strong agricultural machinery sector, active not only in Ireland but in many other markets around the world. Several Irish manufacturers of farm machinery are world leaders in their specialised niche markets. Products on offer are diverse and range from grass balers, feed systems and cattle grids to dairy equipment and machinery accessories. Some of the equipment has been specifically developed for Irish conditions, such as sugar beet and turf harvesting, but even this highly specialised machinery has found export markets. Recent product diversification has centred around developing products that help to create a ‘green’ image in food production, along with equipment for amenity and groundcare areas, including golf course management.

The agricultural machinery sector comprises many small companies, owner managed, and larger companies developing integrated equipment to meet the demands for bigger machines. One of these companies, located in the West of Ireland, is the largest independent producer in Europe of baling equipment and it diversified recently into the wrapping sector with a combined baler and wrapper. Another company, in the Midlands of Ireland, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of mixer and feeder wagons for cattle, and it also provides farmers with a comprehensive nutritional advice system.

Approximately 1,000 people are employed in the sector and businesses are almost entirely located outside the Dublin region. The exports of farm machinery products are worth over €60m, mainly to the UK and mainland Europe.