Quinn Building Products opts for tippers from Mercedes-Benz

QUINN BUILDING PRODUCTS CHOOSES 14 EFFICIENT OFF-ROAD TIPPERS FROM MERCEDES-BENZ

Quinn Building Products is enjoying peak performance from a new fleet of Mercedes-Benz ‘mountain’ trucks. The 14 tippers were supplied to Derrylin-based Quinn by Northern Ireland Dealer MBNI Truck & Van.

All are 8x4 Arocs 4148 models with 12.8-litre straight-six engines rated at 350 kW (476 hp), and ClassicSpace cabs. Each truck is capable of carrying a 33-tonne payload. They transport loads of aggregate from the operator’s Doon and Swanlinbar quarries to its Quinn Cement plant at Ballyconnell. The journey entails a fully-laden run down the long, steep descent known locally as ‘the mountain’ – optional equipment includes powerful water retarders which enhance safety, while reducing wear and tear on brakes and drivelines. “It’s an extremely demanding task and requires vehicles built to the very highest standards,” said Transport Manager Brian McManus. “You can’t cut corners on specification for a job like this.” The rugged Arocs range is purpose-designed for construction-related applications, while Greater Safety is one of the three pillars of Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ all-encompassing RoadEfficiency strategy, the others being Low Total Costs and Maximised Use. “We’ve been buying Mercedes-Benz trucks since 1988 and they’ve proved over the years to provide outstanding quality and solid reliability,” Brian continued. “We know we’ll get great value for money, and that we can depend not only on the vehicles themselves, but also on the Dealer’s back-up. “We have developed a strong relationship with MBNI Truck & Van, as well as the manufacturer, and it’s because we’ve been so well served that Mercedes-Benz vehicles now account for the greater part of our 150-strong fleet.” Over the last year Quinn has also taken delivery of 24 Actros 2445 StreamSpace tractor units with small, 17.5-in wheels on the mid-lift axles, which save weight and free up useful space on the chassis. Powered by 330 kW (450 hp) engines, the Actros transport bagged and bulk cement powder, as well as a range of building products. Quinn has recently commissioned three road-going 32-tonne Arocs 3240s, too – one has an insulated tar-specification tipping body, the other two with mixer drums for concrete deliveries. Most of Quinn’s recent Mercedes-Benz trucks are are backed by ExtendPlus Contracts, which supplement the standard vehicle warranties. Cover is extended to four years and takes in mechanical, electronic and electrical components. The operator undertakes routine maintenance in its own workshop, for which MBNI Truck & Van maintains an imprest parts stock and provides technical advice and assistance if required. “The introduction of our new tippers represents a major step in our fleet renewal programme,” added Brian. “By the end of 2020 we will have replaced all of the older trucks on our fleet, as well as ageing plant machinery. “These investments will reduce our environmental impact, boost efficiency, and allow us to meet ever-increasing demand, while continuing to provide the top-quality services that our customers have come to expect.”

news Buoyant construction market drives backhoe sales for Mecalac

According to insight from Systematics International, 2018 was a successful year for UK construction equipment sales. More than 24,000 units were registered demonstrating year-on-year growth of more than 4%.

Mecalac Construction Equipment UK Ltd, a global leader in the design and manufacture of compact plant solutions, has experienced this success firsthand – in particular, for its highlyacclaimed backhoe loader range. According to the company’s latest sales figures, UK registrations increased by 34% year-on-year (2017-2018), while export volumes similarly continued to rise. The company credits this hike to a strong national infrastructure project pipeline, driving market demand for rental-tough, mobile excavating equipment. Mecalac’s sideshift backhoe range, comprising three models (TLB870, TLB890, TLB990), is perfectly placed to meet fleet requirements. Designed from the ground-up to deliver class-leading power, performance and productivity, each model achieves an outstanding dig-depth, reach and dipper tear-out force. Featuring the latest in emissions-compliant engine technology, fuel-saving measures and intelligent user features, the range is already a firm favourite for construction professionals worldwide. Paul Macpherson, UK Sales and Marketing Director at Mecalac CEUK, commented: “Since the 2008 slump, construction equipment sales have continued to recover. The latest insight from Systematics predicts further growth over the coming months, with the long-term outlook looking ‘encouraging’. “At Mecalac, we’ve noticed this impact, especially in the context of backhoe loader sales. A yearon-year increase of more than 34% is a considerable success, while rising export sales against the background of a weak global market highlights the suitability of our product portfolio. “With a number of product updates and technology additions planned for 2019, we’re committed to further developing the range and providing added value to construction professionals worldwide.”

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Sole Distributor Granco Trucks Limited 60 Tandragee Road, Newry, Co. Down BT35 6QF Tel: +44 (0) 28 3082 1115 Fax: +44 (0) 28 3082 1050 Website: www.grancotrucks.com

Kinshofer acquires Hammer

Kinshofer and Hammer have signed a definite agreement to merge; under the terms of the agreement Kinshofer has acquired a majority shareholding of Hammer.

The acquisition is significant for Kinshofer in two ways; first it adds additional product segments, such as a full range of hydraulic breakers and other demolition tools to Kinshofer’s already very comprehensive offering. And secondly, it improves Kinshofer’s distribution channel in markets Hammer is very strong. But not only that, Kinshofer has now enhanced local manufacturing in Italy, with its Molfetta based fully vertically and very advanced manufacturing facilities, customers will be served much quicker and with a much larger product range.