Europe Turns to Used Equipment as New Machinery Sales Decline
Used equipment auctions are expanding across Europe as demand for new agricultural machinery continues to weaken. Major markets are not expected to recover before 2027.
Sales of second-hand agricultural equipment are growing in Europe, reflecting the slowdown in new machinery sales.
In the Netherlands, used machinery auctions have increased by 31% year over year, while Belgium has recorded a 20% annual increase.
The supply of tractors and other large agricultural machines has expanded significantly, as dealers and producers adjust to weaker demand for new units.
Key Figures
Netherlands: Used machinery auctions up 31% year over year.
Belgium: Used machinery auctions up 20% year over year.
France: More than 750,000 self-propelled agricultural machines could be electrified in the coming years, according to AXEMA.
Market Drivers
The decline in new machinery sales is linked to economic uncertainty and farmers’ reluctance to make major capital investments.
As a result, inventories are building up at dealerships, increasing financial costs. Manufacturers are also being forced to reschedule deliveries.
Recovery Outlook
AXEMA, the French agricultural machinery industry association, expects the sector to recover only in 2027.
France remains one of Europe’s key agricultural machinery markets and is directly affected by the downturn in major segments such as tractors and combine harvesters.
Looking further ahead, AXEMA identifies machinery electrification as a future growth area. The association estimates that more than 750,000 self-propelled agricultural machines in France could be electrified in the coming years.
The expansion of the used equipment market shows how European buyers are adapting to tighter investment conditions. Until demand for new machinery improves, second-hand equipment is likely to remain an important alternative for farmers and contractors.
