Maltby Garden Maintenance is a small company with big ambitions, and a new Kubota L1501 tractor is helping take the business to the next level.
Based near Horncastle in Lincolnshire, Paul Maltby offers grounds maintenance and landscaping services to clients ranging from property owners to holiday parks.
“Grass cutting is our busiest service, but we can also offer renovations such as hollow tining for sports clubs and golf courses and our landscaping arm can undertake all types of garden work,” Mr Maltby explains.
He was in the market for a new tractor last November just as dealer Ireland’s Farm Machinery was branching out into groundcare, and the company worked alongside him to choose the ideal Kubota model for his requirements.
“Some years ago I saw a demonstration of Kubota machines at a hotel where I was working, and their quality and performance left a lasting impression on me,” he recalls.
The L1501 has proved the perfect fit.
“It’s not too big, but has plenty of power and there is the option to add a fore-end loader at a later date if I need one,” Mr Maltby comments.
Its 50hp Kubota engine and 1750kg linkage lift capacity are ideal for pairing with a finishing mower and hollow tine aerator, and he has also specified a trailer from Kubota’s extensive implements range for general haulage.
“The L1501 gives me lots of options for other groundcare implements, and I’m also looking at hiring specialist renovation equipment from Irelands to expand the range of services I can offer,” he says.
An 8×8 mechanical transmission offers a good range of gears and is ideal for grass cutting; while he also finds the clutchless hydraulic pto ‘really smooth’ to engage.
Kubota’s large operator platform offers comfort over a long working day, and Mr Maltby also picks out the excellent all-round visibility for praise.
“I’ve got a great view over rear mounted implements and the mirrors are good with plenty of reach.”
Kubota’s renowned reliability and a two-year warranty offer peace of mind for the busy contractor.
“It’s already proved to be a very robust and dependable tractor, and I know that when I come to replace it in three years or so, second hand values are good. Kubota’s also important for the reputation of my business as everyone knows the brand for its quality,” he comments.
The perfect solution for business clearly on the up.
