Sell smarter this spring: record buyer demand across industrial and ag markets

As spring 2025 unfolds, Ritchie Bros. is sending a clear message to equipment owners across industries: there’s never been a better time to sell. The global marketplace is seeing a surge in demand for both heavy machinery and agricultural equipment. With tight supply and strong buyer competition, sellers stand to gain optimal returns—if they act now.

2025 off to a hot start

Across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Ritchie Bros. has witnessed skyrocketing participation at the start of the year. Whether it’s a hydraulic excavator in Spain or a combine harvester in Germany, the appetite for quality used equipment is heating up.

• Industrial Market Highlights:
  • Over 20,000 assets sold in Q1, up 17% year-over-year.
  • More than 17,300 bidders joined the auctions—a 21% increase.
  • Most in-demand items: Hydraulic Excavators, Wheel Loaders, Telescopic Forklifts, and Articulated Dump Trucks.

• Agricultural Market Highlights:
  • Over 1,300 farm machines sold in Europe, up 40%.
  • More than 4,100 bidders participated, marking a 50% increase.
  • Top categories: Agricultural Tractors, Combines, Cultivators, Sprayers, and Headers.
  • Used agricultural tractor prices rose 31% year-over-year, reaching a median of €26,800.

“These numbers aren’t just strong—they’re game-changing,” says Duncan Ainscough, Head of International Sales at Ritchie Bros. “Whether you’re clearing out unused construction equipment or updating your farm fleet, this is the perfect window to sell.”

Trusted by sellers, powered by data

Behind the surge in performance is Ritchie Bros.’ unmatched platform reach, marketing power, and commitment to transparency. Sellers benefit from multiple formats, including online auctions and the always-on Marketplace-E platform. These platforms bring together global buyers with zero seller buy-backs, no re-lists, and fair pricing.

Strategic marketing has also played a key role. From targeted campaigns to tailored sales strategies—like the one that helped Walters Group UK optimize their asset disposal—Ritchie Bros. delivers custom solutions that match seller needs.

Spring auction opportunities you won’t want to miss

As Q2 ramps up, the opportunities continue to bloom. Ritchie Bros. has a full calendar of international events that promise strong exposure for sellers and great finds for buyers:

Equipment for saleSponsored2023 New Holland T7.315HD 4WD TractorMaltby, United Kingdom 28 daysView listing

• Maltby, UK – 14-15 May
• Caorso, Italy – 22-23 May
• Ocaña, Spain – 11-12 June
• Meppen, Germany – 12-13 June
• France online auction – 24-26 June
• Dubai, UAE – 17-18 June
• Australia National Auction – 18-19 June
• Maltby, UK – 25-26 June
• Marketplace-E – Always open, always global

Plus, a special off-site auction in Melrand, Brittany (France) on 15 May that will feature equipment from the ETA LE GARFF estate.

Sell smarter and unlock better returns

From large-scale contractors to family-run farms, more sellers are turning to Ritchie Bros. to unlock value from idle equipment. With global demand at an all-time high, spring 2025 is the season to make a move.

Want to sell smarter? Ritchie Bros. is here to help—every step of the way.

See also

Finishing strong: why your equipment fleet deserves a year-end look