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Methven-based contractors Phil and Tim May have built a successful business around a modern fleet of machinery, leveraging technology to boost productivity and maintain their reputation for reliable service.

Having grown May Brothers Contracting from humble beginnings to a 30-strong fleet of John Deere equipment over 17 years, the brothers service Canterbury’s grain, forage, and grass seed sectors while also cultivating potatoes for a major global company.

Phil attributes their ability to deliver a cost-effective service to the efficiency gains provided by John Deere’s JDLink™ and Operations Center™ technology. These platforms offer real-time insights into machine performance, fuel consumption, and operational hours, enabling the Mays to optimize their operations and pricing.

“We’ve moved from manually transferring data to a world where everything is at your fingertips,” Phil says. “Yield maps, for instance, used to be a complex process; now, they’re instantly accessible.”

The brothers' long-standing relationship with local John Deere dealership Drummond & Etheridge has been instrumental in their success. Phil highlights the dealership’s proactive support, often anticipating their needs through remote machine diagnostics.

The recent addition of a JD X9 1100 combine harvester has significantly boosted the May Brothers’ harvesting capacity, doubling output compared to previous models.

By embracing technology and building strong partnerships, Phil and Tim May have positioned their business for continued growth and success in the competitive agricultural contracting market.