The general Business Climate Index for the Agricultural Machinery Industry in Europe has improved and is now positive for the first time since mid-2019. In October 2020, the index reached +8 points (on a scale of –100 to +100).

For almost all segments, the business climate indices have improved. A (very) negative exception is the segment of lawn, garden, and municipal equipment. Another outlier is the livestock equipment, which has slipped back into the negative after 3 very positive months.

Overall, turnover and incoming orders from both within and outside the EU have risen significantly in recent weeks. However, in contrast to the turnover, further increases in order intake are not expected. It should also be noted that the business climate has not improved across all production locations in Europe. In comparing the major production locations, a clear majority with positive evaluations can only be found in Germany.

With regard to the market side, the expectations have continued to further improve for several European countries. Only South-Eastern Europe, UK, and the Netherlands are currently facing a negative outlook. Meanwhile, current dealer stock levels with new machines are considered to be below average across almost all markets, except for the UK.