A Quick Interview with Owen Buttle, National Sales Manager for Merlo, UK and Ireland
Merlo has just extended its retail finance offer on agricultural telehandlers. Why is now the right time for farmers to upgrade their telehandler?
OB: “Because timing matters — both in farming and in finance. With the tax year ending on 5th April, farmers who finance new equipment now can still take advantage of key tax efficiencies such as capital allowances, helping reduce taxable profit before year‑end. That's why we've extended our retail finance offer to 31st March, 2026”
What do farmers gain by choosing finance rather than paying outright?
OB: “Simple: cash flow & predictable payments. Spreading the cost preserves working capital — money farmers can use for feed, fuel, fertiliser, labour, or unexpected expenses. Predictable monthly payments make planning easier at a time of year when budgets are tight.
How does upgrading affect day‑to‑day operations?
OB: “ A new telehandler boosts productivity immediately — faster loading, better reliability, and less downtime. If your current machine is costing you in repairs or slowing daily tasks, upgrading before the new financial year ensures you go into the busiest farming months with equipment you can trust.
Some farmers wonder whether year‑end is the right moment to invest. What’s your take?
OB: “Year‑end is when businesses naturally take stock — profits, plans, and what the next season demands. If a machine is genuinely needed, waiting rarely helps. You secure the tax benefits now, you secure the cash‑flow advantage now, and you secure the operational gains for the coming year - obviously we would recommend you speak to your accountant and take professional financial advice in the first instance.
And just to confirm — this 0% finance offer is purely for agricultural customers?
OB: “Yes — this is strictly to finance agricultural telehandlers. We're focused on helping farmers upgrade at the smartest possible moment, with finance tailored to the realities of UK agriculture.”
Final message for anyone sitting on the fence?
OB: “If you know a new telehandler will make your farm safer, or more efficient — don’t wait. The combination of extended finance, year‑end tax advantages, and early‑season timing makes this one of the strongest opportunities of the year. Now really is the moment.”
What do I do next?
Explore the Merlo Agricultural Finance Offer for yourself and speak to your local Merlo dealer who will be able to help put the arrangements in place. Alternatively, fill in our 'contact us' form and we'll be in touch.
