After visiting CTM’s stand at the Royal Norfolk Show, James Wild, MP for North West Norfolk met CTM director, Nigel Mountain at the company’s HQ to learn more about this local innovative firm providing sugar beet and agricultural machinery for the UK and international markets.
Manufacturing since 1950, CTM is a leading local and European manufacturer of sugar beet cleaning and broader agricultural machinery. Based in Harpley, the business prides itself on its history of well-constructed machinery, whilst consistently innovating to keep up with the competitive market both in the UK and abroad.
During James’ visit, Nigel spoke to James about CTM’s role within the sector and their partnership with ROPA, a German based self-driving system manufacturer. By offering both versions of driving system farming equipment to their clients, CTM can maintain their reputation as a leading quality provider of agricultural equipment both in the UK and abroad.
Whilst discussing the company’s history, Nigel guided James through the machinery building process. Constructing machinery onsite, CTM have the facility to laser cut parts, build, and spray machinery before sending equipment to clients as well as servicing equipment. Nigel showed James a machine which was first built in 1990s and after servicing will be returned in working order for a large-scale farm.
Due to the success of CTM’s partnership with ROPA, James also visited CTM’s second site dedicated to the large self-driving ROPA equipment. Whilst at the site, Nigel spoke of the educational opportunities they offer employees through organising work trips to Germany to gain further experience within the ROPA headquarters. Nigel also explained CTM offers apprenticeship opportunities and employs 28 people locally in Harpley.
James’ visit to CTM comes following the Back British Farming initiative, highlighting the importance of supporting British farmers and buying local produce. Whilst discussing the sugar beet industry, Nigel spoke of the importance of British sugar beet locally where the UK produces 1 million tonnes of sugar beet on an annual basis without water supply issues that some other countries, such as Brazil and India, are currently experiencing.
Discussing the visit, James Wild MP said:
“It was great to visit CTM Harpley to talk about the opportunities and challenges facing the manufacturing and sugar beet industry. Through a commitment to innovation and strong partnerships, CTM is successfully delivering high quality equipment and succeeding locally as well as exporting to Egypt and other international markets.”
