Products & Materials : Plant & Machinery News
Komatsu Smart Construction announces compatibility with suite of leading tilt rotator specialists

Komatsu Smart Construction announces compatibility with suite of leading tilt rotator specialists

Komatsu Europe has announced its 3D Machine Guidance system is now fully compatible with industry-leading tilt rotators brands, including Engcon, Steelwrist, Rototilt, and OilQuick. This milestone ensures that companies and their operators can achieve greater efficiency, precision, and versatility on the job site, regardless of their preferred tilt rotator brand.

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Finning give test drives of new Cat® 265

Finning give test drives of new Cat® 265

For a limited time, Finning is offering customers a unique opportunity to get behind the wheel of the all-new, next generation Cat® 265 compact track loader (CTL) at their headquarters in Cannock, Staffordshire. Finning UK & Ireland, the world’s largest dealer of Cat machines, parts and aftermarket services, is bringing

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VisionLink® delivers increase in profitability for Jennings BCE

VisionLink® delivers increase in profitability for Jennings BCE

Finning has used Cat® VisionLink technology to deliver significant reductions in idle time and increased profitability for Jennings BCE. As part of the broader shift towards advanced telematics software in the construction industry, VisionLink is a cloud-based fleet management solution that allows operators and business owners to view data including

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Finning secures multi-million-pound machine investment to meet industry demand

Finning secures multi-million-pound machine investment to meet industry demand

Finning have secured a deal to supply Flannery Plant Hire with £65,000,000 worth of Cat® machinery in 2025. Over the past four years Finning UK & Ireland, the world’s largest dealer of Cat machines and equipment, have supplied long-standing customer Flannery with over £250,000,000 worth of Cat machinery. The company’s most recent multi-million-pound investment includes 100

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Hendrik Veder Group UK Amplifies Partnership with Lift-Tex

Hendrik Veder Group UK Amplifies Partnership with Lift-Tex

To help businesses streamline heavy lifting operations with safer, more efficient, and cost-effective solutions, Hendrik Veder Group UK has strengthened its strategic alliance with Lift-Tex®. This partnership will ensure that industries reliant on heavy lifting across the UK, including maritime, shipping, construction, oil and gas, and renewables, will gain direct

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CW Plant goes with more Trime lighting sets

CW Plant goes with more Trime lighting sets

Charles Wilson Engineers (CW Plant) has expanded their hire fleet of Trime lighting towers with a further investment of sixty X-ECOLED and twenty-four X-ECO LITHIUM HYBRID sets. CW Plant’s site lighting fleet is entirely made up of Trime lighting towers, totalling six hundred and fifty sets all spread throughout their

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Bobcat Wins Major Compressor Order from Speedy Services

Bobcat Wins Major Compressor Order from Speedy Services

Bobcat, a brand of Doosan Bobcat, has won a significant order for 90 PA7.2 portable air compressors from Speedy Services, one of the UK’s leading providers of tools, equipment and plant hire. This latest order underscores Speedy’s confidence in Bobcat’s outstanding service, strong existing relationship and industry-leading reputation. Speedy Services

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King Charles Celebrates JCB’s 80th Anniversary and Hydrogen Innovation

King Charles Celebrates JCB’s 80th Anniversary and Hydrogen Innovation

His Majesty The King visited JCB’s World Headquarters today as part of the company’s 80th anniversary celebrations, getting a first-hand look at the future of hydrogen-powered machinery. During his tour of JCB’s Innovation Centre in Rocester, The King was introduced to the company’s latest breakthrough – a hydrogen-powered internal combustion

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GAP Hire Solutions Expands Hoist Services with 2T GEDA Hoists

GAP Hire Solutions Expands Hoist Services with 2T GEDA Hoists

GAP Hire Solutions, the UK’s largest independent hire company, has launched its new Hoist Services Brochure, showcasing an expanded range of lifting solutions designed to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity on construction sites. With demand for reliable hoisting solutions at an all-time high, GAP has strengthened its offering with a

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Latest Issue
Issue 327 : Apr 2025

Products & Materials : Plant & Machinery News

Komatsu Smart Construction announces compatibility with suite of leading tilt rotator specialists

Komatsu Smart Construction announces compatibility with suite of leading tilt rotator specialists

Komatsu Europe has announced its 3D Machine Guidance system is now fully compatible with industry-leading tilt rotators brands, including Engcon, Steelwrist, Rototilt, and OilQuick. This milestone ensures that companies and their operators can achieve greater efficiency, precision, and versatility on the job site, regardless of their preferred tilt rotator brand. Komatsu’s Smart Construction 3D Machine Guidance provides real-time 2D and 3D guidance to enhance earthmoving precision, reduce rework, and optimize workflows. The system can be retrofitted on excavators ranging from 13 to 120 tons, including both Komatsu and non-Komatsu equipment. As an IoT solution within the Smart Construction suite, it collects as-built data, which is visualized in a 3D digital twin within the Smart Construction Dashboard. This provides actionable insights into project progress.  Additionally, it includes a free Remote license for the lifetime of the system, allowing seamless remote file transfers and troubleshooting. Finally, payload information is automatically reported to Smart Construction Fleet, improving operational tracking and machine productivity. “This advancement empowers operators to move materials with even greater speed and accuracy,” says Bart Vingerhoets, Senior Commercial Manager at Komatsu Smart Construction. “With over 80 percent of excavators in Northern Europe already equipped with tilt rotators as standard, we are committed to evolving our digital tools in line with market demands, ensuring our customers have access to the best technology available.” Previously, 3D Machine Guidance was only compatible with tilt buckets that swung left to right, however with this breakthrough update, excavator buckets can now rotate a full 360 degrees, unlocking unprecedented control and efficiency on-site. Krister Blomgren, CEO of Engcon, is pleased about the collaboration, recognizing the benefits it will bring to mutual customers. He said: “We are looking forward to seeing how our customers can benefit from the integration of our tilt rotators with Smart Construction 3D Machine Guidance for a more efficient job site.” As technology continues to evolve, compatibility will play an increasingly pivotal role in the digital transformation of the industry, fostering innovation and accelerating the adoption of smart technology. Stefan Stockhaus, CEO of Steelwrist added: “With a tiltrotator on the excavator, the Komatsu customers get a massive efficiency improvement and even more so with the Smart Construction Machine Guidance system.” To find out more, please click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Finning give test drives of new Cat® 265

Finning give test drives of new Cat® 265

For a limited time, Finning is offering customers a unique opportunity to get behind the wheel of the all-new, next generation Cat® 265 compact track loader (CTL) at their headquarters in Cannock, Staffordshire. Finning UK & Ireland, the world’s largest dealer of Cat machines, parts and aftermarket services, is bringing the new Cat265 to the UK market this year. As part of the launch, Finning is offering a unique opportunity for customers, plant hire firms and owner operators to get hands on with this next generation model and experience the performance benefits offered by its innovative vertical lift design. Building on the success of the D3 series, the new Cat 265 compact track loader (CTL) has been redesigned from the ground-up, leveraging Caterpillar’s leading reputation for CTL’s with a host of enhanced performance capabilities. Alongside the recently launched Cat 255 CTL, the Cat 265 has been remodelled with the operator in mind, with customer feedback central to the enhanced performance of the new models. Finning is encouraging customers to reach out for this limited time-only to try out this innovative machine. Helen Day, BCP Product Manager at Finning UK & Ireland said: “We understand that heavy machines are a significant investment for any business, and we want to encourage customers to come and try-out our new CTL to experience the power, quality and performance first-hand, with a no-obligation test drive and demonstration. “We are incredibly excited to bring the new performance standard of this machine to our customers. When customers get behind the wheel, they will immediately feel the power from the Cat C2.8T engine which offers 74.3hp (55.4 kW) and maintains horsepower across a wider RPM, delivering significant torque increases of 43% compared to the previous model. “The test drive is also a good opportunity for customers to speak with the experts here at Finning about their unique needs and applications. The Cat 265 comes with fully integrated technology which allows Cat Smart Attachments to be automatically synchronised for full versatility. This allows operators to switch between applications more efficiently as the machine automatically recognises the attachment and corresponding joystick pattern. Being able to discuss the versatility of the 265 and more, means we can help our customers invest in the right tools, technology and support for their needs.” Day said: “At the heart of this machine is an enhanced operator experience, including a wider cab, lower entry point, advanced joysticks for integrated control, advanced touch screen monitors and new mechanical air-ride suspension seat options.  “To really appreciate the power, performance and comfort of this next generation machine we are encouraging our customers to reach out to their local dealer to arrange a demonstration, so they can see the difference this machine would make to their application first-hand. “The race is on to secure a demonstration of the 265 so we are encouraging customers to get in touch today, so they don’t miss this incredible opportunity.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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VisionLink® delivers increase in profitability for Jennings BCE

VisionLink® delivers increase in profitability for Jennings BCE

Finning has used Cat® VisionLink technology to deliver significant reductions in idle time and increased profitability for Jennings BCE. As part of the broader shift towards advanced telematics software in the construction industry, VisionLink is a cloud-based fleet management solution that allows operators and business owners to view data including operating hours, geographical and performance metrics. Having worked with Jennings Building and Civil Engineering Contractors for over 25 years Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Catmachinery, parts and aftermarket services, identified the challenges impacting the company’s operational costs and provided solutions to increase profitability. North Wales based Jennings BCE has over 40 years’ experience in building, civil engineering, groundwork and rock armour, and manages projects across Wales, Northwest England and the Midlands. To remain competitive, profitable and sustainable the company recently invested in the VisionLink technology on the recommendation of experts at Finning. Iwan Jenkins, Sales Representative at Finning UK and Ireland said: “Proper fleet management is key to ensuring efficiency and profitably to companies such as Jennings BCE, and VisionLinkoffers accurate real-time insights to allow businesses to enhance their operations. “For instance, during our work with Jennings BCE we saw that one of their machines was pulling in data demonstrating the machine was idling 71% of the time. We worked with the team at Jennings to reveal how VisionLinkcould tackle things like idle time by sending real-time alerts and performance data to allow their team to address challenges as they occur.” Danny Jones Managing Director at Jennings BCE said: “We have worked with Finning to introduce VisionLink to half of our fleet and are already seeing the benefits of the technology. By identifying and addressing non-productive idle events we have not only cut fuel usage and emissions, but because of the increase in efficiency we have also seen an increase in overall profitability. “VisionLink is designed to optimise a fleet and isn’t just for reducing idle time, we have found it invaluable when it comes to real-time monitoring, fuel efficiency analysis and maintenance scheduling which all work towards ensuring our machines are working to their true capacity. “As a company we are focused on innovation and providing consistent, high-quality service to our customers. We feel the most recent investment with Finning bolsters our innovative offering and has allowed us to maximise fleet efficiency and boost our overall profitability.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Finning secures multi-million-pound machine investment to meet industry demand

Finning secures multi-million-pound machine investment to meet industry demand

Finning have secured a deal to supply Flannery Plant Hire with £65,000,000 worth of Cat® machinery in 2025. Over the past four years Finning UK & Ireland, the world’s largest dealer of Cat machines and equipment, have supplied long-standing customer Flannery with over £250,000,000 worth of Cat machinery. The company’s most recent multi-million-pound investment includes 100 Catexcavators, 70 Cat Bulldozers, 86 CatADT Trucks and 20 Cat Rollers, demonstrating that demand for plant hire shows no signs of slowing down. Similarly, demand in the construction industry itself shows no signs of waning as Glenigans Construction industry Forecast predicts a growth of 8% by the end of 2025. The industry is poised for progression, with government initiatives, housing market recovery and improved economic conditions all set to drive further need for hard-working heavy machinery. Their 15-year partnership with Finning has seen the company make significant investments in Cat machinery, technology and support services, to ensure quality, efficiency and sustainability in their fleet. Patrick Flannery, Managing Director at Flannery Plant Hire said: “As a result of the growth in the industry we are seeing increasing demands for efficient, sustainable and reliable plant machinery that can service the breadth of the industry. “The Cat XE models in particular have shown us a significant return on investment, not only are they hard-working machines, but they are incredibly efficient, saving up to 35% on fuel compared to other models. We are committed to achieving our sustainability goals and having machines with lower fuel consumption helps us reduce our carbon footprint as well as save money in the long-term. “We know from our relationship with Finning that Cat machines are more than capable of tackling the challenges of modern construction. We service the whole industry and need machines to be robust for work in a variety of heavy-duty applications. “Our recent investment shows our commitment to servicing the industry with versatile and innovative plant hire options but also represents our assurance to customers that we will continue to provide efficient and sustainable machines to suit their needs.” As the government continues to invest in large-scale infrastructure projects and housing developments, access to a variety of plant equipment is integral to the industry’s success this year. Rory Gregory, Key Account Manager at Finning UK & Ireland says: “It is vital companies keep up with industry demand and Flannery have a long history of providing a reliable, efficient and robust selection of Cat machinery for their customers. “Along with the machines themselves, which were delivered with comprehensive technology to increase efficiency, we are providing full service and warranty packages to safeguard Flannery’s investment long-term. We are thrilled to not only have the opportunity to continue to work with Flannery but to provide them with such a significant investment to help continue their legacy for many years to come.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Bobcat Introduces New Lithium Batteries, Forklifts and Warehouse Equipment at LogiMAT

Bobcat Introduces New Lithium Batteries, Forklifts and Warehouse Equipment at LogiMAT

Bobcat is presenting several new developments at LogiMAT 2025 as part of a comprehensive display of the company’s material handling product lines, including diesel, LPG and electric forklifts, reach trucks and warehouse equipment such as pallet trucks and stackers. Bobcat is showing three new developments in the range including: Introducing Bobcat Lithium (Li-ION) Batteries At LogiMAT 2025, Bobcat is announcing the upcoming launch of the company’s new Li-ION battery range, available in various capacity options. This reliable, high-quality battery technology has been developed by Bobcat and will be installed in each series. With a lifespan 2–3 times longer than lead-acid batteries – plus fast, efficient charging – lithium battery power can ensure that work can be kept flowing more flexibly. Moreover, with a 5-year/10,000 hour warranty and seamless forklift integration, Bobcat’s lithium batteries deliver lasting value for any application. Key specifications include: •           400 and 600 Ah available for each voltage •           Integrated with truck CANBUS, no need for a separate display •           Cell chemistry: LiFePO4 (LFP) = Lithium iron (ferro) phosphate •           Heat management system applied •           Monitoring and diagnostics app available New Bobcat Li-ION Chargers The battery range is complemented by new Li-ION Chargers from Bobcat. The chargers are optimised for quick and reliable charging, ensuring equipment is powered and running efficiently. Where the customer needs a rapid stand-alone charger, Bobcat Li-ION Chargers provide the flexibility and performance to keep operations running smoothly. New Warehouse Equipment (Class 3) Bobcat is updating its warehouse equipment portfolio with three new product series. In addition, the company’s current LSM12N-7 and BSL12/16N-7 stackers are now available in initial lift versions. The new warehouse products will also be available with Li-ION batteries from production. New warehouse product series: •           BPM16/20N-7: pedestrian powered pallet trucks: 1.6 & 2 t capacity •           BPR20/25N-7: powered pallet trucks with platform: 2 & 2.5 t capacity •           BSR12/16N-7: powered platform stacker trucks: 1.2 & 1.6 t capacity •           BSR16N-7i: powered platform stacker truck with initial lift: 1.6 t capacity The new BPM16/20N-7 pallet trucks are the perfect match for all kinds of applications in and around SMEs, manufacturing and warehousing. The long tiller arm provides optimal, highly ergonomic operation. It requires less effort, and the operator maintains an optimal distance from the truck. Top-quality components, robust construction, a travel speed up to 6 km/h, and simplified maintenance make the pallet trucks in this series reliable partners for every task.  The BPR20/25N-7 powered platform pallet trucks feature a travel speed of up to 8 km/h, ensuring the trucks are built for optimal horizontal transportation over extended distances. Equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS), these trucks offer ergonomic and safe operation. The suspension flip-down platform minimizes body vibrations, and the sideways protective arms provide additional stability and protect the operator during turns. In walking operation mode, the platform and arms are folded compactly within the truck’s outline, conserving space. The 1.2 and 1.6 t capacity BSR12/16N-7 powered platform stacker trucks are designed for high efficiency, excelling in storage and picking operations involving heavy weights. The ergonomic, suspension flip-down platform – paired with protective arms – greatly enhances operational efficiency. These trucks are capable of reaching lift heights up to 5.5 m and they are also perfect for tasks over extended distances. Thanks to the robust 8 mm metal skirt, strong chassis, durable mast and metal battery cover – along with premium components from leading suppliers – these models lower service costs and ensure constant readiness for professional use. The EPS system, coupled with the proportional lifting function, enables smooth and effortless stacking operations. Bobcat’s First Li-ION 3-wheel Forklifts The company is introducing the BNT series, Bobcat’s first Li-ION 3-wheel forklifts, designed for light to medium-duty applications. These models — B16NT, B18NT and B20NT — offer a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution tailored to the growing electric forklift market. The new range extends Bobcat’s electric counterbalanced line-up. Manoeuvrability is the key aspect in the design of these forklifts, making them ideal for use in tight environments. Despite their compact size, these forklifts boast an ergonomic design that ensures large leg room and exceptional operating comfort for the operator. Setting a new standard in confined space material handling, these forklifts provide a smooth ride and high stability in every job. Three different load capacity models are available: •           B16NT – 1.6 t load capacity at 500 mm •           B18NT – 1.8 t load capacity at 500 mm •           B20NT – 2.0 t load capacity at 500 mm Key Highlights •           Dual Drive: equipped with 4.5 kW dual-drive motors to boost productivity •           Maintenance-free 51.2V 300 Ah Li-ION (LFP) battery and 150A charger (380V) •    Comfortable dimensions: designed for compact environments, while still offering comfortable spacious dimensions for the operator Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Hendrik Veder Group UK Amplifies Partnership with Lift-Tex

Hendrik Veder Group UK Amplifies Partnership with Lift-Tex

To help businesses streamline heavy lifting operations with safer, more efficient, and cost-effective solutions, Hendrik Veder Group UK has strengthened its strategic alliance with Lift-Tex®. This partnership will ensure that industries reliant on heavy lifting across the UK, including maritime, shipping, construction, oil and gas, and renewables, will gain direct access to the Lift-Tex® advanced Extreema® round sling product line, known for its superior strength, flexibility, and ease of use. As a key supplier of Lift-Tex® Extreema round slings in the UK, Hendrik Veder Group UK has reinforced its position as a provider of premium heavy lifting solutions. This collaboration is particularly valuable for the growing renewable sector, where the slings play a critical role in handling and transporting the blades used in offshore wind farm foundations. Manufactured in the Netherlands, the Extreema® slings incorporate cutting-edge ‘parallel laid fibre technology,’ making them up to eight times stronger than steel on a weight-for-weight basis. They also reduce overall weight by up to 80% compared to wire rope, making lifting operations safer, more flexible, and more cost-efficient. By integrating these high-performance slings into its offering, Hendrik Veder Group UK enhances its ability to support businesses in achieving safer and more efficient lifting operations. Bertwin Zonneveld, Managing Director of Hendrik Veder Group UK, commented: “This collaboration is a strategic step forward for our customers. By bringing Lift-Tex®’s innovative Extreema® slings to the UK market, we provide industries with a lifting solution that is lighter, safer, and more durable than traditional alternatives. Whether for long-standing marine and shipping clients or those developing the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure, this partnership ensures that our customers receive the best lifting technologies available. We look forward to connecting Lift-Tex® products to our loyal customers.” Bert Snel, Director of Lift-Tex added: “We are committed to supporting lifting requirements worldwide, and the long-term partnership with Hendrik Veder Group allows us to do just that. Our Extreema® slings have already proven their value across Europe, and through Hendrik Veder Group UK’s strong network, we are confident they will make a difference to UK industries, particularly in the fast-growing renewables sector.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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CW Plant goes with more Trime lighting sets

CW Plant goes with more Trime lighting sets

Charles Wilson Engineers (CW Plant) has expanded their hire fleet of Trime lighting towers with a further investment of sixty X-ECOLED and twenty-four X-ECO LITHIUM HYBRID sets. CW Plant’s site lighting fleet is entirely made up of Trime lighting towers, totalling six hundred and fifty sets all spread throughout their nationwide network of twenty-nine depots. Graham Pollard, CW Plant Director, said, “We made this new investment to top up our existing fleet of X-ECOs and to continue to grow a sustainable hybrid fleet. Trime products are tried and tested. They are the market leader and, in our opinion, the most reliable tower light in the hire industry and that’s also agreed by our customers.” The Trime X-ECO HYBRID LITHIUM is an LED lighting tower that is powered by a combination of a lithium battery and a small fuel-efficient diesel engine. X-ECO Hybrid Lithium can be fully recharged in less than 3.5 hours. This means that for 80% of operation, the X- ECO HYBRID LITHIUM is powered exclusively by its batteries and therefore emits zero noise and zero carbon emissions. Noise-sensitive areas will profit from the X-ECO HYBRID LITHIUM as it operates silently for up to 11.5 hours. The Trime X-ECO LED features 6 no. 160W, 48V multi-directionally adjustable LED lights floodlights, with safe 48V power between the generator and the lights. The vertical hydraulic mast has seven sections, rising to a maximum height of 8.5m with 340° rotation and wind stability up to 110 km/h. Easy lifting is via a central lifting eye with longitudinal and transversal forklift pockets for safe handling and transportation. Charles Wilson Engineers began trading in Harpenden, Hertfordshire in 1979 and the company remains a privately owned rental business. They offer a plant hire and tool hire service in London and all across the South East, South West, the Midlands, and North West, and in the North East. CW Plant also provides PASMA and IPAF training, alongside a comprehensive line of forklift and manual handling courses. Full details can be found at www.cwplant.co.uk   Trime is regarded as the leading manufacturer and supplier of sustainable lighting towers to the UK and Ireland construction rentals markets. Their UK offices are based in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, and their production facility is near Milan, Italy. Aside from its lighting tower range, the company also manufactures a wide range of water-recycling wash bays and dust suppression products. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Bobcat Wins Major Compressor Order from Speedy Services

Bobcat Wins Major Compressor Order from Speedy Services

Bobcat, a brand of Doosan Bobcat, has won a significant order for 90 PA7.2 portable air compressors from Speedy Services, one of the UK’s leading providers of tools, equipment and plant hire. This latest order underscores Speedy’s confidence in Bobcat’s outstanding service, strong existing relationship and industry-leading reputation. Speedy Services has been a long-term partner of Bobcat, choosing the brand not only for its high-quality products but also for its commitment to reliability, innovation and sustainability. The PA7.2 compressor from Bobcat provides a free air delivery of 2.0 m³/min (70 cfm) and is built for high performance and durability. The compressors at Speedy Services have been supplied with fully bunded bases to ensure complete spill protection and compliance with the latest environmental regulations. This latest deal highlights Bobcat’s position as a trusted supplier in the equipment hire industry, providing market-leading products backed by exceptional service and environmental responsibility. In addition to this order, Speedy Services has also chosen to incorporate Bobcat’s ECOmizer technology into its fleet, ensuring that all new compatible models it purchases in the future from Bobcat will feature this fuel-saving innovation. The Bobcat ECOmizer system automatically adjusts engine speed during periods of low demand, significantly reducing fuel consumption, emissions and operating costs. Depending on the idle time of the machine, the ECOmizer system can deliver fuel savings of up to 70%, helping Speedy Services further enhance its environmental and cost-efficiency goals. By making ECOmizer a standard across its fleet where compatible, Speedy is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable operations and smart fleet management. Nick Kealy, UK Sales Manager for the Bobcat Portable Power range, expressed his enthusiasm about the deal, stating: “We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with Speedy Services through this major order. Their continued trust in our brand reflects our reputation for delivering high-quality, reliable and environmentally responsible equipment. Speedy’s decision to implement ECOmizer across all compatible models further demonstrates their commitment to sustainability, and we look forward to supporting their operational needs in the future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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King Charles Celebrates JCB’s 80th Anniversary and Hydrogen Innovation

King Charles Celebrates JCB’s 80th Anniversary and Hydrogen Innovation

His Majesty The King visited JCB’s World Headquarters today as part of the company’s 80th anniversary celebrations, getting a first-hand look at the future of hydrogen-powered machinery. During his tour of JCB’s Innovation Centre in Rocester, The King was introduced to the company’s latest breakthrough – a hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine. Chairman Anthony Bamford showcased one of the first JCB diggers to run on hydrogen, demonstrating how the machine can be refuelled in just minutes. The visit also marked another milestone for JCB – the production of its one-millionth backhoe loader. This iconic machine revolutionised construction worldwide by replacing manual labour with mechanised earthmoving. Lord Bamford expressed his gratitude for the royal visit, stating: “It is a real honour for us all that The King has visited JCB to help us celebrate 80 years in business. It was also a great pleasure to show The King the progress we are making with hydrogen-powered machines. Today was an occasion that will live long in the memories of everyone who was present.” The King was welcomed by Lord and Lady Bamford, George Bamford, and JCB CEO Graeme Macdonald before touring the backhoe loader production line, where he even helped fit a wheel to a JCB digger. During the tour, His Majesty met several JCB apprentices, including Eleanor Pitt, only the second female welding apprentice at the company. He also spoke with long-serving employees, including Richard Williams, who has worked at JCB for 38 years, following in his father’s footsteps. Richard’s wife Sarah, son Josh, and daughter Kaitlan – all JCB employees – were also introduced to The King. The visit concluded in JCB’s main reception, where His Majesty was shown the one-millionth backhoe loader and greeted by over 60 guests. Among them were members of two families with nearly 1,000 years of combined service to JCB. Bill Boot, who started working at JCB in 1949, was joined by nine current Boot family employees, including his great-grandson Leigh. Ken Harrison, aged 100, one of the last surviving members of the 1953 team that built the first backhoe loader, was also in attendance with his family. Former JCB Academy student Rhys Bradbury, now JCB’s Regional Sales Manager for Central Europe, Austria, and Switzerland, reflected on the visit: “It was fantastic to be involved in today’s visit and a great start to JCB’s 80th anniversary year.” Olympic silver medallist Adam Burgess, a JCB-sponsored athlete, also attended the event. Before departing, The King unveiled a plaque to commemorate his visit and was met by thousands of JCB employees, who lined the route waving flags and cheering in celebration of this historic occasion. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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GAP Hire Solutions Expands Hoist Services with 2T GEDA Hoists

GAP Hire Solutions Expands Hoist Services with 2T GEDA Hoists

GAP Hire Solutions, the UK’s largest independent hire company, has launched its new Hoist Services Brochure, showcasing an expanded range of lifting solutions designed to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity on construction sites. With demand for reliable hoisting solutions at an all-time high, GAP has strengthened its offering with a comprehensive selection of GEDA construction hoists capable of lifting up to two tonnes or transporting up to seven people. These high-performance hoists provide construction teams with the power, precision, and reliability needed for modern projects, ensuring seamless vertical transportation while reducing downtime and enhancing site safety. GAP’s specialist hoisting division operates nationwide, providing full installation, maintenance, and expert support to meet the varied demands of construction sites across the UK. Karen Greenshields, Managing Director – Technical and Environmental Services, commented, “This is another exciting development for GAP Hire Solutions. We own more than 100 of our depots nationally and remain family-owned. This allows us to plan for the long term with the flexibility to continue to diversify and meet our customers’ demands, which is unique in our industry. Hoist Services is the latest example of GAP’s commitment to investment in people, premises and products. We have been delivering lifting and up to 850kg hoisting solutions for over 10 years, so bringing a fleet of new Goods and Passenger Hoists up to 2T into the market is exciting for both our customers and our expanding Hoist Services Team.” Explore GAP’s brand-new Hoist Services Brochure here. For more details, contact GAP on 03330 094 096 or email hoist.services@gap-group.co.uk.   Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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