David’s on the Case with growing family firm

G. Marshall (Tractors) Ltd was founded in the 1970s by George and Sheila Marshall, but their 26-year-old son David has now joined at an exciting time for the firm.

A significant investment has been made in taking on a Case IH franchise, with the company becoming the new dealership for the Borders and north Northumberland, and new staff also recruited to provide a sales, service and parts back-up.

The introduction of David, a former Hawick High School PE teacher, and associated succession plan will enable him to become a shareholder and director, eventually taking over the business.

He told The Southern: “Joining the business was always a possibility, but my parents let me do what I wanted. But when the opportunity arose I thought it was too good to turn down. I have always been around the business and worked here when I was home from university or when my dad needed a hand.”

David added: “It is a logical time to come into the business and we have an exciting time ahead, but if you excuse the pun, every day is like a school day for me just now.

“It is a case of learning the ins and outs and getting to know people and building relationships, but the guys here are vastly experienced in the trade, so I’ve got some good teachers.”

On the new franchise, George Marshall said: “We are delighted to have been appointed by Case IH.

“In this area we have a strong base of farmers who understand the value of investing in new technology, where knowledgeable dealers with the right advice and products play an important role. The farming area is one of the best stock areas of the country and we also have some of the best arable land in the UK, mainly operated by larger farming units.

“This represents a very strong base of existing and potential customers who will benefit from the fact that we now handle the full range of Case IH products.”