USER EXPERIENCE | W.H. Gittins & Sons: With this machine we can easily take on another 1,000 acres!

Meet Sam Dutton and Steven Forbes from W.H. Gittins & Sons in the United Kingdom. Sam Dutton plays a pivotal role in overseeing the digester, ground source, drying floors, and solar operations. Recently, the integration of the Agrifac Condor Vanguard into their farming operations has yielded remarkable results, demonstrating the innovative strides being made under Sam’s leadership.

Their decision to unify operations on a single platform has streamlined processes. The Agrifac’s seamless communication with the GreenStar system via the Solstar module centralises data, enabling comprehensive yield and spray map analysis. This integration supports informed decision-making and optimises operations at W.H. Gittins & Sons.

Optimizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness

One of their key decisions was opting for 25cm nozzle spacing to enhance spray coverage and incorporate Agrifac’s PWFM system, which offers individual nozzle control. This precision has notably reduced overlap on headlands, leading to significant chemical savings. Additionally, the Condor Vanguard boasts a 15% reduction in fuel consumption per hour compared to their previous equipment, lowering the cost per acre and making the investment economically viable over time.

“From a business perspective, the Condor Vanguard has been a game-changer,” Sam says. The decision has boosted their confidence to manage more acreage without concerns about spraying delays. The machine’s superior performance, coupled with features like operator comfort, speed, power, and boom leveling, sets it apart from competitors.

Steven Forbes, the head sprayer driver at W.H. Gittins & Sons, agrees. Managing about 4,000 acres, he finds the Condor Vanguard exceptional. Since its acquisition a year ago, the machine has been flawless. Handling a variety of cereal and forage crops for the AD plant, Steven highlights the efficiency of the Agrifac, particularly in managing frequent washouts required for different crops.

Boosting efficiency and work-life balance

The decision to invest in Agrifac was influenced by the in-house PWFM system and the proximity of our local dealer, ensuring excellent support and quick issue resolution. Steven’s experience with the machine has been transformative. Previously averaging 250-300 acres a day, he now manages 400 acres by mid-afternoon with the Condor Vanguard, allowing him to balance work with personal time. “I even had time left to play cricket in the evening!” he mentioned.

The Condor Vanguard’s comfort is another standout feature. Despite challenging weather conditions and tough tramlines, the machine operates smoothly, offering a floating-on-air experience. Easy pressure adjustment and effective 25cm nozzle spraying ensure superior crop coverage and cleaner crops.

Transporting the machine over hilly terrain is no longer a struggle, thanks to its 320hp engine, which maintains speed and power even on steep climbs. The intuitive on-screen cleaning system simplifies maintenance, making frequent washouts efficient and hassle-free.