Business Rural Summer 2022

| 107 Jon’s parents bought the business in 2013, with Jon and wife Anna (above and opposite below) joining the business a year later. RURAL SERVICES » Jackson Spreading “I worked with Pastoral Robotics to innovate the technology to meet groundspreader demands.” agricultural contractors. Along with this specific the award recognises year’s of interest in adding value for contractors by sharing ideas and innovations with them. “I worked with Pastoral Robotics to innovate the technology to meet groundspreader demands.” Jon could see the direct benefits that would come from using the new increased capacity Spikey for his business and bought one. Today, Spikey 3.0 is a stronger version of the original technology and been a valuable addition to the fleet. It has a storage capacity of 2 tonne of water. Ashlee Poulter, known as “Spikey Queen” operates Spikey and at this year’s awards Jon nominated Ashlee in the young achiever category where she gained equal runner-up. “Ashlee came to me when she was working in retail and asked me if she got her licence would I be prepared to employ her. She did just that and now she’s a highly skilled operator with a strong future in front of her.” Today, Jon is an ambassador for Spikey, educating farmers and fellow contractors on the benefits from its use. Currently the reach is an 8m span but plans are to increase this to 12m for even greater efficiency. Without doubt Jon’s contribution to the sector beyond the gates of his own business deserved recognition this year. He has established a reputation based on respect by his peers and clients. “I believe in this industry and want to do my part to ensure its growth and success.” Jackson Spreading conducts business out of its base just out of Tinwald where a Ravensdown Fertiliser store also operates.

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