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With increased demand for quality potatoes, rising buyout prices and healthy prospects for growers with good stock, Scottish potato merchant, A.J. Allan decided to invest in a new grading line from Tong Peal Engineering to ensure flexible and efficient handling of bulk crop.

Based at Brechin, Angus in Scotland, potato merchant, A.J. Allan grows over 20 varieties of seed potatoes on 450 acres. These are distributed to farmers in the south, exported worldwide or on contract to some of the major seed houses.

Potato varieties include: Maris Piper, King Edward, Marfona, Desiree, Rooster and most recently Purple Majesty.“Since 1996, our production has more than doubled,” said Mr Melrose. “We regularly now process over 11,000 tonnes of potatoes per season, from our own acreage and through our work with local safe haven accredited farmers.  “We have a progressive approach and a commitment to new technology and efficiency, and with increasing amounts of potatoes to be graded, we decided to invest in new handling equipment. I chose Tong Peal for our new grading lines as I knew they could provide me with a flexible and individual solution. We had a number of parameters to overcome, including shed sizes and space restrictions, but they created a bespoke solution which exceeded our expectations.

“We purchased a complete grading line, capable of sorting differing crop type and processing up to 25 tonnes of potato crop per hour. The system features twin box tippers on the infeed, a 2m wide belt, a forward conveyor, soil extraction, an inspection table, three screen sizes, Easy Fill box fillers and a high capacity 2520 twin head weighing machine,” added Mr Melrose.

Nick Woodcock, agricultural sales manager for Tong Peal Engineering said: “Through our agent in Scotland, Alan Mackay Machinery, we were able to offer Mr Melrose the complete solution; from taking the initial brief, to creating the bespoke machinery, to managing the installation and providing aftercare. “Customers often come to us with specific requirements, and we work with them to create a solution to suit their individual needs. To be able to work closely with one local agent, with local knowledge and understanding, through the complete process, gives customers complete piece of mind and confidence in our product.

“We’ve ensured that A.J. Allan are able to effectively process an increasing acreage of crop, ensuring economy of buyout price and helping to meet customers’ demands.”