Business of buying department

May 1, 2004 12:00 PM

More seed treatments in use. MachineryLink rents tractors. eBay financing.

More seed treatments in use

A study released by consulting firm Phillips McDougall shows that the global seed treatment market has grown at an annual rate of 5.8% since 1997. The total market is valued at $930 million. Market share is allocated as follows:

Western Europe: 41.4%
North America: 15.6%
Latin America: 12.4%
East Asia: 9.4%
Eastern Europe: 8.6%
Rest of world: 12.6%

MachineryLink rents tractors

After a small pilot program last season, ag machinery rental specialist MachineryLink has announced that it is making more 180- and 210-hp New Holland tractors available to farmers for the 2004 season. The tractor program offers short- to long-term rental options for the New Holland tractors, as well as the larger Case IH MX 240 and MX 270 tractors. Like the company's combine rental program that started in 2001, the tractor rental program includes maintenance, servicing and transportation.

For more information about tractor or combine rental from MachineryLink, call 888/272-3323 or visit www.machinerylink.com.

eBay financing

EBay is offering a new financing option through Direct Capital Corporation Equipment for farm equipment priced $2,000 or more. As part of its service, Direct Capital provides inspection checks to ensure the quality of the products being sold.

To use the financing option, buyers complete an online application and, once approved, may purchase items up to a specified financing amount. Direct Capital sends the payment to the seller once the transaction is completed. Sellers enroll in the program and include a link to the financing service with their eBay item listings. The equipment financing program can be accessed at www.ebaybusiness.com.