CAFRE students visit D.A. Forgie’s dealership

Date published: 5 May 2026

The visit provided students with a valuable insight into the operation of a modern agricultural and construction machinery dealership, including the technical, commercial, and customer-focused aspects of the business.

Managing Director Susan Forgie welcomed the students and delivered an overview of the company, outlining the wide range of products and services offered. She explained the machinery supplied by D.A. Forgie, including Kubota diggers, tractors and RTVs, Merlo telehandlers, Kverneland agricultural machinery, and a variety of horticultural equipment. Students discussed machinery pricing, maintenance, and repair requirements, providing them with an insight into both the technical and business considerations involved.

In the yard, students observed a range of agricultural machinery. A particular highlight was seeing a Kverneland fast bale combi baler, an innovative machine that allows baling and wrapping to take place without stopping, significantly improving efficiency and productivity for contractors and farmers. Students also viewed a new Kubota digger undergoing pre-delivery inspection prior to sale, reinforcing the importance of quality assurance before machinery reaches the customer.

The tour continued through the workshops, where students observed maintenance and repair work being carried out. Students were also introduced to the horticultural equipment range, demonstrating the diversity of machinery supported by the business and the wide range of technical skills required by staff in who service the machinery. Throughout the visit, Susan emphasised the importance of strong customer and staff relationships, explaining how after-sales support, reliability, and trust contribute to the long-term success of the company.

Susan also highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability by showing students the on-site wind turbine, which generates electricity to power the dealership and feeds surplus energy into the national grid. This provided a practical example of how renewable energy can be successfully integrated into a business setting.

Overall, the visit provided students with a comprehensive understanding of machinery sales, servicing, innovation, sustainability, and customer relations within a successful local business, while also highlighting potential career opportunities within the land-based engineering sector.

If you are considering your options after GCSEs, the Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Land‑based Engineering provides students with the technical and engineering expertise needed to begin a career in the sector. The course combines hands‑on practical learning with academic study, equipping students with industry‑recognised skills valued by employers.

CAFRE staff will be attending the Balmoral Show — you can find us in the Eikon Centre (area EK1) and within the Horticulture Hub Pavilion. Come along and chat with us to explore your options and take the next step in your education.