Finning has tested and built a Cat® 988 wheel loader 150-metres below ground, enhancing operations for the UK’s biggest salt mine at Compass Minerals in Winsford, Cheshire.  Compass Minerals, a global leader in mineral extraction, has invested in a Cat 988 wheel loader from Finning UK & Ireland, to support demand in its salt mining operation. Sourced from the USA, the machine was assembled and tested by Finning at its Winsford workshop. Jamie Lennon, Mine Mechanical Engineer, at Compass Minerals UK said: “Our rock salt mine is the largest and oldest working mine in the UK, lying approximately 150 meters under the Cheshire countryside. When we were looking for machinery that could meet the demands of these unique working conditions the Cat 988 ticked every box for the level of durability and capability we needed, especially as we approach the uplift in the seasonal demand for salt as we look towards the UK winter season.” Last year, over 2 million tonnes of salt were spread on roads across the country to combat harsh weather conditions, it is essential its machinery can keep up with these demands. However, there were added complexities in the delivery of this machine, as the available access shafts to the Compass Minerals UK mine are only 4 metres by 4 metres. This presented a logistical challenge as the Cat 988 is a 51-tonne machine, with a maximum height of 7455 mm 24.5ft with the bucket raised, and would not be able to access the mine in its entirety.  To address the challenge, the machine was stripped down and each component was carefully lowered through the mine shaft, and then rebuilt underground by a dedicated team of Finning Field Service engineers. Once rebuilt and rigorously tested the machine was commissioned for 24/7 mining operations – where it will remain for the remainder of its life.  Though it is common for heavy machinery in mining applications to be assembled underground, the challenges this presents are numerous and include heightened safety concerns, accessibility restrictions and higher associated costs. Mike McGrady, Area Manager at Finning UK & Ireland said: “The Cat 988 is designed for demanding environments, and is expected to deliver up to 15% fuel savings, as well as achieve multiple lifecycles – essential for Compass Minerals’ 24/7 operation. However, having to perform underground assembly does bring many additional variables to this delivery.  “We were able to mitigate some of these challenges by performing robust testing to ensure the machine will perform to our exact specifications before beginning the meticulous process of dismantling and transporting it underground. “Delivering the parts for safe and efficient assembly by our Field Service engineers was our priority. The underground environment presents complex challenges including the risk of ground instability and accidents to limited visibility and manoeuvrability. However, the expertise and collaboration from both teams ensured a safe delivery and assembly, demonstrating the importance of having a reliable partner to mitigate risks and ensure operations remain safe, efficient, and sustainable.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Construction professionals need versatility, efficiency and maneuverability on the jobsite. Bulldozers and tractors may be too large, so they call on mini excavators for tight spaces. How can you compare mini excavator brands to ensure you get the right equipment? Here’s a guide to navigate the vast market.  How To Compare Mini Excavator Brands The best mini excavator brand depends on your project’s needs, whether trenching, grading or utility installation. Construction professionals may add augers, breakers and thumbs to get the job done. It’s also essential to remember comfort, considering you’ll sit in the machine for a while. You can find these qualities in household-name manufacturers. Here are some of the top mini excavator brands and what they’re known for: Caterpillar Caterpillar’s mini excavators have spacious cabs, ergonomic controls and convenient attachments. Komatsu Komatsu prioritizes multifunctional motions, precise bucket movements and automated technologies. John Deere John Deere mini excavators include auxiliary hydraulics, foldable blades and climate-controlled cabs. Bobcat Bobcat mini excavators are renowned for their digging power and smooth controls. Hitachi Hitachi’s mini excavators are easily adjustable based on the worksite. The lineup includes electric machines to reduce the environmental impact. What to Prioritize in Mini Excavator Brands Searching for mini excavators should include a comprehensive list of priorities. Here’s what you should use in your research: Dealers Selling Top Mini Excavator Brands Once you decide on a brand, it’s time to find a reputable dealership. Here are three businesses with expert guidance and positive buying experiences. 1. Gregory Poole Equipment Company Gregory Poole Equipment Company has been eastern North Carolina’s premier Cat equipment dealer since 1951. It prioritizes customers by supporting them after the sale.   Gregory Poole sells Caterpillar mini excavators in varying sizes and power. For instance, the 310 gets 69.5 horsepower, whereas the 300.9D VPS has 13 horsepower in the engine. Customers benefit from the dealer’s deep knowledge, parts inventory and in-house financing. Key features: 2. Linder Since 1953,Linder has delivered high-quality equipment like mini excavators to the Southeast. For over 70 years, it has implemented strong leadership to meet customer needs. The Florida-based dealer is an authorized Komatsu dealer. Customers can find mini excavators with operating weights up to 12,000 pounds, whether the PC30MR-5 or the PC55MR-5. Choosing this dealership includes diagnostic inspections, oil analysis and planned maintenance programs. Key features: 3. RPM Machinery RPM Machinery finds the right equipment for its customers, whether purchasing a mini excavator or a bulldozer. The family-owned Indiana dealer offers a comprehensive buying process to fulfill your needs. RPM Machinery sells CASE mini excavators with differing operating weights. The CASE CX37C weighs 7,598 pounds and has 28.4 horsepower, whereas the CASE CX80C weighs 18,585 pounds and has 54 horsepower. Key features: Sorting Through Mini Excavator Brands Finding the best mini excavator is critical to navigating your jobsite’s unique challenges. Modern brands like Hitachi and Caterpillar offer unique features and advanced technologies. Search for authorized dealers with post-sales support, flexible solutions and quality equipment.

Focus on Ground-breaking Safety Features of New Develon Series 9 DEVELON, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, has announced that it has conducted a successful field demonstration of the company‘s new DX230LC-9 23 tonne crawler excavator and its smart safety technologies, including the ground-breaking E-STOP system, at a test site in Compiègne in France. The demonstration was organized by OPPBTP (the French professional organization for improving health and safety in Building and Public Works) and took place at the construction site of the Seine–Nord Europe Canal project, operated by Bouygues, a leading global construction company. The OPPBTP is made up of health and safety experts from the industry, who provide daily support to professionals and stakeholders in the construction industry. Its aim is to develop practices to prevent workplace accidents and occupational illnesses to improve the health and safety of workers in the construction industry. Stephane Dieu, Product Manager for Develon Excavators in Europe, said: “It was a great pleasure to accept OPPBTP’s invitation, giving us the opportunity to demonstrate our innovative technology for reducing accident risks on earthmoving sites. Many thanks to Sébastien MARIE from OPPBTP and also to Société du Canal Seine-Nord Europe (SCSNE) for allowing this innovation to be tested on the Canal Seine Nord construction site and Bouygues Travaux Publics for conducting the tests and for their positive feedback on the E-Stop system.” As well as Bouygues, the demonstration event was also attended by representatives from four other major international construction firms – including Eiffage – as well as government representatives, the Chairman of the Board of the Seine Nord Europe Canal Company and the Safety Director of FNTP (Fédération Nationale des Travaux Publics), the French national federation representing the public works and construction industry. E-Stop, the First Safety System of its Kind as Standard on an Excavator Develon’s equipment was deployed to showcase both its core performance and advanced smart safety functions, including E-Stop, the first system from a crawler excavator manufacturer that stops the movement of the machine when a person is detected within 4 m of the excavator. Stephane Dieu continued: “The new Develon DX230LC-9 excavator used in the demonstration was equipped with a range of smart safety technologies such as collision risk warnings and around-view monitoring. Among them, the E-STOP system—similar to automotive emergency braking systems—garnered particular attention from operators and demonstration attendees. Develon plans to further develop the E-Stop system and begin launch in the European market with it installed from January of next year.” The OPPBTP (Organisme Professionnel de Prévention du Bâtiment et des Travaux Publics) was established in 1947 to address high accident rates in the construction sector. Since 2022, it has been operating the joint industry project “Stop Collision” aimed at preventing accidents between equipment and pedestrians. The recent field demonstration and showcase with Develon was conducted as part of this project. Star of the Bauma 2025 Exhibition Presented for the first time at Bauma 2025, Develon’s new Next Generation Series 9 Smart Crawler Excavator range represents the latest stage in a proud legacy at Develon that can be traced back through five generations of excavators that began with the Solar range in the 1980s. With the Series 9 range, Develon is aiming to set a new standard for future products and technologies in construction equipment. Like all Series 9 models, the DX230LC-9 achieves this goal by combining 10 (ten) ground-breaking technologies and will redefine and set new industry levels of Productivity, Safety, Operator Convenience and Sustainability. The Series 9 range not only endorses the company’s forward-thinking vision but also underscores Develon’s unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence in the construction equipment sector. Safety & Smart Features on Series 9 Machines The Smart All-Around Viewing Monitor (SAVM) is an AI-based Object Detection technology to effectively identify both moving and stationary individuals in close proximity to the machine. Upon detection, the system promptly alerts operators through a combination of visual signals and audible alarms on the monitor, ensuring a heightened awareness of the surrounding environment. The innovative E-Stop and Virtual Wall functions prevent accidents the operators are not aware of. To help ensure safety, the area surrounding the machine is clearly defined into specific zones: a yellow warning zone (Zone 2) and a red danger zone (Zone 1). The SAVM and E-Stop system utilize 6 cameras and 3 radars and work in three stages with a detection range of 6 m and 330°. The system is active only for personnel, and is able to make out the difference between people and objects: The E-Stop is an essential safety feature designed to control or halt a machine’s movement, such as driving or swinging, in cautionary or dangerous areas, thereby ensuring operator safety. The Virtual Wall feature significantly enhances operation by allowing users to confine the machine’s movement within predefined areas where the risk of collision may be heightened. For more on Develon, please visit the website: https://eu.develon-ce.com/en/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

To mark the 100th anniversary of Caterpillar®, Finning has launched its biggest ever competition, giving customers the chance to win a Cat genset or machine – plus more exclusive prizes throughout the year. The first-of-its kind giveaway is free to enter via the Finning website where; to be in with a chance of winning, participants must answer the following question: ‘How would winning a Cat machine or generator help you build something that lasts?’  Entrants have up to the 31st December 2025 to answer and the winner will be given the choice between a Cat DE110E2 genset or a Cat 301.6 excavator and will also be automatically enrolled in a set of monthly prize draws – including a trip to Malaga. Tim Ballard, General Manager Retail and Marketing at Finning UK & Ireland, said: “For 92 years, Finning has been connecting customers with Cat machinery. To celebrate the impact of our combined history, and Caterpillar’s centennial year, we are offering everyone the opportunity to own a part of its heritage, whether by integrating the Cat 301.6 excavator into their operations or utilising a Cat DE110E2 genset to power essential infrastructure. “We are encouraging customers old and new to enter the competition, as well as those that have always admired Cat machines from afar, but have not had the chance to own one yet. The Cat 301.6 excavator is designed for use in a wide range of applications, such as utility installations, residential construction and demolition and will make a versatile asset to someone looking to enhance their operations in construction, landscaping or material handling. “The Cat DE110E2 gensets ensure a reliable power supply across a variety of applications: remote job sites, healthcare and commercial operations, to name a few. The robust design makes it well-suited for standby and prime power needs, and again, would be an incredible asset to the lucky winner of the centennial celebration competition.” Throughout the last century, Caterpillar has had a significant impact on UK industry, establishing major manufacturing facilities, employing thousands, and supplying machines to support multiple sectors including construction, mining and power generation. To commemorate this milestone, Finning is not only reflecting on Caterpillar’s past contributions but also looking ahead to the next century. This forward-looking approach begins with their largest-ever giveaway, designed to make a significant impact on one business. Tim added: “We hope this prize will make a real, tangible difference to a person or business, and we urge those from all backgrounds and applications to enter the competition and become part of Caterpillar’s legacy and reputation for industrial excellence as we step into the next 100 years of our combined history.”  Visit http://www.finning.com/winbig to enter for free and share how winning a Cat machine or generator would help you build something that lasts?  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Cutting-edge innovation and historic achievements will be celebrated by Caterpillar® dealer Finning as it marks the iconic brand’s centenary year at flagship machinery exhibition PlantWorx. An outdoor cinema will form the centrepiece of the Finning UK & Ireland stand, showcasing the story of construction equipment manufacturer Caterpillar and its future developments. There will also be an impressive array of Cat machines on display along with the chance to win an excavator or genset as part of Finning’s year-long milestone celebration. PlantWorx is the largest working construction equipment show, bringing industry experts together to champion the latest machinery, systems and technology. Running from September 23 to 25 at Newark Showground, Finning will use the opportunity to mark a century of success for Caterpillar, and its own 92-year partnership with the brand. Tim Ballard, General Manager Retail and Marketing at Finning UK & Ireland, said: “While acknowledging 100 years of advances in the field of construction equipment, power and technology, we want to embrace the future with Caterpillar too. “At the heart of our stand will be the customer area, viewing platform and Finning cinema where visitors can watch a commemorative film produced as part of the Caterpillar Next 100 Years campaign. It will take viewers back to Caterpillar’s origins, tracking its role in major global infrastructure projects like Palm Island in Dubai and the Trans-Amazonian Highway, before looking ahead to the future of autonomous sites, remote control, and advanced technology.” The star of the show will be the Cat 444 Centennial Backhoe Loader. The special edition machine, painted Centennial Grey to reflect the original Caterpillar branding, is one of only 10 limited edition models produced globally. It has been on display outside of Finning’s Staffordshire HQ, commemorating their shared history over the decades as well as 40 years of backhoe loader production in Leicester. The strong line-up of equipment on display also includes the Cat 285 compact track loader (CTL). The CTL is new to the UK, offering 50 per cent more torque than the Cat 299D3 model, greater lift height and a roomier cab. A rebuilt Cat D6 Dozer will give visitors the chance to explore the Finning workshop expertise as well as its engineering, parts, service and maintenance offer, and a Cat M315 Wheeled Excavator with Tilt Rotator will shine a light on Caterpillar’s distinct ability to deliver high performance alongside ease of use. In addition, a Cat Generator and Cat C3.6 industrial diesel engine will display just some of the power range capabilities on offer from Caterpillar. The Finning ‘Win Big’ giveaway is aimed at giving more people the chance to benefit from the Finning combination of technology and expertise. Visitors to PlantWorx can enter the first-of-its kind giveaway for free at the show or via the Finning website where, to be in with a chance of winning a 301.6 Mini Excavator or DE110E2 generator, participants must answer the following question: ‘How would winning a Cat machine or generator help you build something that lasts?’ Tim said: “We are encouraging customers old and new to enter the competition, as well as those that have always admired Caterpillar equipment from afar, but have not had the chance to own one yet. “Throughout the last century, Caterpillar has had a significant impact on UK industry, establishing major manufacturing facilities, employing thousands, and supplying machines to support multiple sectors including construction, mining and power generation. “At Finning we are looking ahead to the next century of Caterpillar and urging those from all backgrounds and applications to enter the competition and become part of our legacy and reputation for industrial excellence.” Entrants have untilDecember 31, 2025 to enter. In addition to being entered into the Win Big prize draw, all participants will be automatically included in monthly prize draws for a chance to win branded merchandise, parts vouchers, and even an exclusive trip to Malaga. Visit http://www.finning.com/winbig to enter for free and share how winning a Cat machine or generator would help you build something that lasts. Highlighting its impact on the UK construction equipment industry, Finning are proud to be the headline sponsor of The PlantWorx Innovation Awards Dinner, which takes place on 23rd September and celebrates the brightest, and boldest minds in construction innovation. Find out more here: https://plantworx.co.uk/awards Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Nationwide Platforms, the UK’s leading provider of powered access solutions, has entered into a new multi-year partnership with WS Specialist Logistics to oversee its haulage operations across the North of England and Scotland. Effective from October 2025, the agreement will see Nationwide Platforms’ existing HGV fleet and drivers from nine depots across the two regions transfer to WS Specialist Logistics. These vehicles will be dedicated solely to Nationwide Platforms’ operations, operating under dual branding and continuing to run from existing Nationwide Platforms locations to ensure a seamless transition. Nationwide Platforms’ haulage operation in the remaining regions will continue to be managed internally as they currently are. As part of the partnership, Nationwide Platforms will continue to oversee the full end-to-end order management process internally. WS Specialist Logistics, headquartered in the North, will provide dedicated fleet management and driver support, working closely with Nationwide Platforms to maintain high safety and reliability standards. WS Specialist Logistics, a specialist in construction logistics, was selected for its ability to offer operational excellence in complex logistics environments. The partnership will enable Nationwide Platforms to focus on its core powered access rental and service offering. “This new partnership with WS Specialist Logistics is a logical step for Nationwide Platforms,” said Dan Smith, UK Chief Operating Officer for Nationwide Platforms. “It allows us to invest more in our core business and prioritise customer needs as we enter a period of anticipated growth. WS Specialist Logistics’ experience, infrastructure and track record in our sector make them an ideal logistics partner for this next phase of our development.” Nigel McMullan, CEO of WS Specialist Group, added, “Our team is excited to bring our expertise in specialist haulage to support Nationwide Platforms’ operations in the North and Scotland. We look forward to building a successful long-term relationship, delivering great service and supporting their future growth.” This strategic collaboration is the latest move by Nationwide Platforms to strengthen its position as the market leader in powered access solutions. For more information on Nationwide Platforms please visit: https://www.nationwideplatforms.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Hiab, a leading provider of smart and sustainable on-road load handling solutions, has signed a EUR 23.5 million three-year frame agreement to supply advanced loader cranes for offshore wind parks, extending into 2028. The agreement is expected to be booked as order intake starting from Q4 2025, split between quarters until Q3 of 2028. The deliveries of the first cranes are planned to commence in early 2026 and last until early 2029, depending on the completion of the customer’s projects. The agreement is a continuation of a longstanding relationship and follows an existing agreement. The agreement consists of the supply of HIAB SWP cranes. This crane model is custom-designed for the service operations of offshore wind turbines and excels even in difficult conditions. The cranes will be strategically placed within the nacelles of wind turbines to facilitate essential maintenance, service, and component supply, ensuring continuous operation of the wind farms. “This landmark agreement underscores Hiab’s commitment to creating pioneering solutions that power the future of sustainable energy. They are specifically engineered for unmatched performance in the toughest offshore environments, empowering our customers to maintain critical infrastructure and accelerate the global transition to renewable power with confidence,” said Alexander Gelis, Vice President, Sales & Product Management at Hiab.   The wind parks currently benefiting from this partnership are located across the UK, Taiwan, and the United States, with  further expansion plans for Germany and Denmark. This collaboration underscores Hiab’s commitment to supporting the global renewable energy sector with reliable and efficient lifting solutions. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Temporary power distribution specialist IDE Systems has installed a customised Cat® DE110E2 diesel generator, supplied by Finning UK & Ireland, at its manufacturing centre in Cannock. The standby generator will provide resilience against power outages and ensure seamless operations in producing power distribution equipment for critical sectors, including data centres, healthcare and infrastructure projects. The installation ensures that in the event of a mains failure, IDE Systems’ manufacturing operations can continue without interruption, protecting customer delivery timelines and production schedules. Matt Collins, Head of Power Distribution at IDE Systems, said: “Our facility produces a full range of power distribution panels, including everything from small dual 16 A sockets to 4,000 A generator connections. Any disruption on site doesn’t just impact us, it can delay critical deployments for customers. This new standby system from Finning gives us the resilience we need to operate with confidence, even during unexpected outages.” Customised at Finning’s Cannock site, the generator was tailored to IDE Systems’ requirements with fuel system upgrades and a branded enclosure. The unit delivers 110 kVA at 50 Hz and is powered by a Cat C4.4 engine. With a 250-litre tank and fuel consumption of 23.8 L/hr at full load, the system provides up to 10.5 hours of continuous runtime, enough to cover most outages without the need for immediate refuelling. Martyn Drinkwater, Senior Sales Manager of Electric Power UK & Ireland at Finning, said: “The DE110E2 is engineered for fast response in environments where downtime isn’t an option. It meets ISO 8528-5 transient response standards and can accept 100% block load in a single step. This means power is restored instantly without any phased ramp-up. “It meets EU Stage II emissions standards and is housed in a sound-attenuated enclosure suitable for installation near offices or testing bays. With its 50°C ambient capability, it’s well suited to real-world UK site conditions, including the kind of summer extremes we’ve seen in recent years.” Finning UK & Ireland is the exclusive distributor for Cat equipment and power systems across the region. With in-house engineering, service, and customisation capabilities, the company supports customers in construction, manufacturing, energy, and other critical sectors with power solutions. For more information please visit: https://www.finning.com/en_GB Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

AER Rents has placed a significant order with Chinese construction equipment manufacturer SANY, securing 50 new machines for its UK and Irish operations. The deal will see a mix of telehandlers and excavators delivered over the summer to support AER-owned businesses: MPH Hire & Sales, DHS Complete Hire, and Chippindale Hire & Sales. Prior to placing the order, AER Rents executives travelled to SANY’s manufacturing facility in China to assess the company’s quality management processes first-hand. “This is more than just a fleet refresh – it’s a clear signal of our ambition,” said Gavin Pitt, Chief Executive of AER Rents. “We’re expanding, partnering with the best, and placing performance, safety, and sustainability at the core of everything we deliver to our customers.” Distribution of the equipment will be handled by SANY’s regional dealer network. Banner Equipment will supply the majority of the order to Chippindale Hire & Sales. SANY UK’s direct sales team will deliver to MPH Hire & Sales in the southeast, while Sleator Plant will manage deliveries to DHS Complete Hire in Ireland. Rob Gowling, General Manager of Banner Equipment, commented: “This fleet expansion is fantastic news for all parties involved. It’s especially rewarding to see our long-standing relationship with Chippindale Hire & Sales extend across the wider AER Rents Group and into the broader SANY UK & Ireland network. SANY has firmly established itself in the construction sector, and this partnership strengthens that reputation further.” AER Rents Group, part of Ireland’s O’Flaherty Holdings, acquired Mr Plant Hire (now MPH) in 2014 and Chippindale Plant in 2022. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals