Our History
The Origins
Ibbetts was founded in 1851 by Thomas Ibbett. Thomas worked as a labourer on the Great North Railway as it was built in the late 1840’s. It was this work which enabled him to save enough money to start up his own blacksmiths shop in Bells Yard, South Street, St Neots.
Throughout the late 1800’s our business prospered as general agricultural engineers, blacksmiths and implement makers. In 1904 Thomas Ibbett died and his 3rd son Arthur succeeded him in running the family business. The company took on Arthur’s name and to this day we are still called Arthur Ibbett Ltd, or Ibbetts for short.
Post war years
As agriculture became more mechanised Arthur introduced engineering into the business. This included steam engine repairs, millwrighting and lawn mower sharpening. The First World War provided the impetus for increased land cultivation and Arthur began to import farm machinery from the USA.
After the war Arthur’s son Cyril became involved in expanding the business further as new larger American farm machinery was being introduced into the country. As a result, Ibbetts started importing and selling John Deere, Allis Chalmers and International Harvester tractors into the U.K. agricultural market.
Ibbetts Great Paxton move
Cyril was succeeded by his son Val who saw the company move to its present 2.6 acre Great Paxton site in 1968. The move provided increased capacity for agricultural and garden machinery sales and service. In the 1970’s Ibbetts sold one of the first Mercedes-Benz Unimog’s in the country.
Ibbetts are still Mercedes Benz Unimog dealers, making us the longest serving dealership in the country. As well as new vehicle sales we still run a successful agricultural workshop.
At over 170 years in business in the local area we are still going strong and looking forward to the next 170 years of serving the local community.
The business continues to prosper under the management of Tim Ibbett who is the fifth generation of the family to head the company.
To this day Ibbetts is still run from our Great Paxton site. Here we have the largest range of garden machinery and equipment on display in the area. We also have an extensive countryside and hardware store for all your garden and workshop needs. Our staff are extremely knowledgeable, friendly and will be happy to assist with any questions you may have.
Our mission is to serve our community with high-quality products and expert advice, ensuring that every customer has what they need to tackle any project, large or small. We’re here to provide friendly, knowledgeable assistance to help you succeed, whether you’re a homeowner, a local business, or a tradesperson.
Our Values
Why Choose Us?
Family run Local Business
Ibbetts is a small, family-run business based in Great Paxton, Cambridgeshire. We take pride in offering excellent service to the local community.
Dedicated Service Department
Our responsibility doesn’t end at the checkout. Our reliable Service Department assembles, inspects, and tests all products before sale, with delivery available to your home or workplace if needed.
Expert Guidance
Our friendly team is always ready to help you find the right product, whether it’s a lawnmower for your garden or tools for your garage. Visit our Great Paxton store to explore the largest selection of Garden Machinery in the area.
We’ve Got You Covered
Commercial, Industrial, Domestic, or Leisure – whatever your needs, we’re here to assist. Get in touch by email, phone, or visit our Great Paxton store.
Meet The Team
Since 1851 our team at Ibbetts have adapted and grown throughout the years but what remains is that it is still family run.
We take pride in specialising in many areas of expertise to give the best level of service to our customers.
Whatever your needs, Agricultural or Horticultural our team will do their best to help.
To find out what department you require; please use the contact us page.
Brands we proudly stock
Need help choosing the perfect product?
We’re here to guide you every step of the way! Whether you have specific questions or need expert advice, let us help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
