FÖRST is on the verge of launching a new product that isn't a woodchipper – marking a significant step for the manufacturer.

Since being formed in 2013, the brand has become well known in arboriculture, overtaking more established brands to sit at the industry's top table. Until now, its offering has only consisted of woodchippers, including the best-selling ST6P and tracked TR6P.

But Doug Ghinn, Först's commercial director, has told essentialARB that is soon all about to change.

While recently giving us an exclusive tour of the firm's Andover base, he said of new product launches: "You will hopefully not be waiting too long.

"I can't say too much, but expect more products that go to the same market (so arb-related products), but not necessarily just woodchippers."

Forestry Journal:

Time will tell what the new product (or products) will be, but Doug says any launch will go hand-in-hand with the development of Först's existing machines.

READ MORE: Först at 10: Woodchipper manufacturer teases of 'big plans'

"2023 for us is all about R&D, investment in engineering and some exciting new products, that we should hopefully be seeing before too long," he added. "Continuous improvement is a big thing. We are always looking to be better. We have a great product, but we can always be better."

Not only has 2023 marked the company's 10th anniversary in its current guise – it previously distributed another brand's woodchippers under a different name – but it also saw it sponsor the ARB Show, which is where Först was officially launched in 2013.

Speaking to EA at the show, Kenny Brock said: “2013 was the launch of Först. 10 years on, we have the biggest stand and are sponsoring the show. It’s been a huge success."

The sales director added: “I’ve only been with the company for six years, so haven’t seen the whole journey. But a lot has happened in that time.

Forestry Journal: Först held its own demonstration area at this year's ARB Show Först held its own demonstration area at this year's ARB Show (Image: EA)

“And a lot more will happen in the next 10, that’s for sure. Going forward we will invest very heavily in the R&D department. We don’t stand still, and never will.”

You'll be able to read our full Först feature in October's edition of essentialARB, and watch exclusive footage on our YouTube channel.