But where did it all start and how has this event become the Number One show for the global agricultural machinery industry?

 

It was launched 30 years ago by the DLG to highlight the engineering and agricultural expertise of the members of the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) to farmers and that first show in 1985 attracted 551 exhibitors and 124,000 visitors. Ever since what rapidly became famous as Agritechnica has been held every two years – first in Frankfurt, and then moving to Hanover in 1995 after the opening of the borders between east and west Germany, and the DLG required a more central platform to cater for East and West Europe.

 

The move from Frankfurt was also due to the fact that the halls there became too small for the huge machinery, while the sprawling exhibition grounds in Hanover provided a more attractive location for showcasing the machinery as it grew in size.

 

Thanks to the dedication of all exhibitors, visitors and extensive global promotion by the DLG and its international partners over the years, Agritechnica is today seen as the world's leading trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment.

 

Its remarkable success is put down to its exclusive focus on arable farming and product groupings with a clear delineation between tractors, harvesters and other equipment, as well as its extensive technical programme.

The non-profit organisation was launched more than 125 years ago with the aim of creating a knowledge-sharing platform for all in agriculture at home and abroad. It has always looked to expand its international and interpersonal network to do this and today has links with agricultural organisations on all the continents – from Russia to Asia and North America to Africa.

 

The other key element is innovation and this is a watch-word at Agritechnica, which introduced its Gold and Silver Innovation Awards for the best equipment and service products in 1997. Internationally recognised, these awards have proved to be a great attraction for visitors and vital for the growth of the event.

 

Their renown is attributed to the in-house expertise of the DLG, which has Europe's largest independent testing centre. It is used by several leading manufacturers and tests all types of equipment in Europe, including tractors, harvesters, and equipment for irrigation, sowing and fertilizing, as well as the latest electronics gear.

 

“Quality tied to innovation is key to international success, which is further enhanced by close inter-personal contact with all target-groups, from farmers to the industry – and we will continue to build on these core values,” said Freya von Czettritz, Project Manager of Agritechnica.