In this series of articles, we will be sharing exclusive coverage from APF 2024. 

IT is a brand that newbies to British forestry might not have recognised on first glance. But Novotny and its range of thinning-focused machines were once a viable option for smaller-scale tasks. Now, it is hoping to get back into the conversation. 

Without a UK dealer since the closure of Caledonian Forestry Services, the Czech Republic-based manufacturer is eyeing up a return to the market as it bids to outdo its rivals and make up for lost time. 

Sales manager Petr Sladek said: “We have been active in the UK market many years ago. 

“We had a nice partner but he retired, and then we had some problem situations due to Brexit and COVID. We have not been active in the UK market for four years and we would like to back and return. 

“We want to show to UK customers that we are here and have very good machines for the thinning. 

“We would like to find a good dealer for us. I hope we will find someone.” 

As well as producing forestry machines, Novotny also builds construction machinery and chassis at its two factories. On its stand it was displaying its LVS 520 forwarder and H521 harvester. 

Petr added: “We have been on the market for more than 20 years with thinning machines, so we have a huge knowledge of how to make the good machines.” 

Head to our YouTube channel to watch a full version of this interview, which will be published in the coming weeks.