Powered Access Report February 2024

A supplement of:

D E R E W O P S S E C C A REPORT PLUS

RENTALTRHEPEORRETNTAL

HOW OOMING B S I R O T SEC IN 2024

E ASE MORE POOWTEERNPTLIAL OF

T HE P M EN T P I U Q E C I ELECTR ER A IN A N E W

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HEST G I H E H T NA DE TO E I R U A G T E L N E B I QUIPM ISPENS E D S N S I E R C U C A O Y N THE I S R E V E I ACVH

MODELS

WORK HEIGHT MAX.

PLATFORM CAPACITY

T20J-H

21.8m

T22J-H

23.8m

300kg

T26J-H

27.9m

RESTRICTED

T28J-H

29.8m

UNRESTRICTED

450kg

Address: No. 2676, Kejia Road, Jinan, Shandong, China Email: sales@lgmg.com.cn Tel: +86 531 6787 9283

1 A supplement of:

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GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5471 MANAGING PARTNER VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5713 EDITORIAL EDITOR STEPHEN WHITE stephen.white@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5496 ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER BRIAN FERNANDES brian.fernandes@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5479 DESIGN ART DIRECTOR SIMON COBON simon.cobon@cpitrademedia.com CIRCULATION & PRODUCTION DATA & PRODUCTION MANAGER PHINSON MATHEW GEORGE phinson.george@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5476 MARKETING & EVENTS EVENTS EXECUTIVE MINARA SALAKHI minara.s@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 433 2856 WEB DEVELOPMENT ABDUL BAEIS UMAIR KHAN FOUNDER DOMINIC DE SOUSA (1959-2015)

PUBLISHED BY

The publisher of this magazine has made every effort to ensure the content is accurate on the date of publication. The opinions and views expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content are published

ABOVE AND BEYOND Welcome to this year’s Access Report where was look at some of the biggest and best machines and namers in the market.

What you have in your hands is a report which identifies the key players in the Middle East access equipment market, their strategies for growth, and how they navigate the challenges presented by this dynamic region. It also provides valuable insights into the future of the market, considering factors such as urbanisation, sustainability initiatives, and the push for smart cities, which are expected to drive demand for access equipment in the years to come.

We want this Report to be an essential resource for stakeholders across the construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors, including equipment manufacturers, rental companies, policymakers, and investors looking to understand the complexities of the Middle East access equipment market. It aims to equip readers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, capitalise on emerging opportunities, and contribute to the sustainable growth and development of the region’s construction and infrastructure.

or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing. Publication licensed by Dubai Development Authority to CPI Trade Publishing FZ LLC. Printed by Masar Printing.

CPI Trade Media. PO Box 13700, cpitrademedia.com © Copyright 2024. All rights reserved.

Stephen White Editor, CMME stephen.white@cpitrademedia.com

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in good faith. No part of this publication

Dubai, UAE. +971 4 375 5470

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FEATURE ACCESS & HANDLING REP ORT 2024

RENTING CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT: YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE

THE TEAM AT RESEARCH NESTER LOOKS AT A GLOBAL RENTAL MARKET WHICH IS SET TO SURPASS $280 BILLION BY 2035

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onstruction sector plays a vital role in our economy and there is a constant demand for equipment. However not all businesses have the means to purchase and maintain their equipment.

That’s where equipment rental comes into play.

By opting for equipment rental companies can save money and enhance their operational efficiency. They don’t need to worry about maintenance or storage concerns. They gain access to

specialised equipment that may be beyond their financial reach otherwise.

This is why the market for renting construction equipment holds significance for contractors, builders and other industry professionals. It enables them to remain competitive and stay up to date with industry trends without having to make investments in purchasing their own equipment.

Why Renting Construction Equipment is the Smart Choice Renting construction equipment is

a smart choice for businesses and contractors aiming to save money and enhance productivity. Opting for rentals of purchasing equipment outright helps avoid the high expenses of ownership and maintenance while also providing access to the latest and most advanced machinery.

Apart from the benefits renting construction equipment also offers flexible rental options that can be customised to meet your specific requirements.

Whether you need equipment, for a short term project or a long term contract renting enables you to select

3 construction equipment rental market will concentrate on important aspects of their generate $280 billion in revenue growing at business. a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6% from 2023 to 2035. In 2022 this market Market challenges already generated $195 billion, in revenue. One of the obstacles faced by the Key players in the construction construction equipment rental market is equipment rental market include the intense competition it encounters. As United Rentals, Sunbelt Rentals, Herc more and more players enter the market companies need to find ways to Rentals, Ashtead Group, and stand out and offer distinctive H&E Equipment Services. value propositions to their These companies have a customers. This can be strong presence in the particularly challenging market and offer a wide the t a for companies that don’t range of equipment th d te c It is proje et will rk a have the same level of rental solutions to meet m l ta n global re 0 billion 8 2 the diverse needs of resources and reach as $ te ra e gen by the their larger counterparts. contractors. in revenue 5 Another hurdle comes in end of 203 Market drivers the form of obligations. The The growth of the construction construction industry is subject equipment rental market is primarily driven to regulations and rental companies must by the increasing level of construction navigate a multitude of rules pertaining to activity. In 2021 the residential construction safety environmental impact and more. sector is projected to have the growth Staying informed about these regulations rate globally estimated at 7.3%. By 2030 and ensuring compliance can impose a it is expected that the overall output burden, on rental companies.

Finally, there is ongoing need for of the construction industry will see a significant increase of 87%. As more and investing in equipment. Rental companies more construction projects are undertaken must consistently invest in equipment to there is a growing demand for high remain competitive and fulfill customer quality equipment. Renting construction needs. This necessitates substantial capital equipment offers contractors a solution to spending, which can put pressure on cash acquire the necessary tools for completing flow and profitability. their projects within budget and on Rent and save money schedule.

Another important factor contributing Renting construction equipment can to the expansion of the construction be a financial choice for businesses and equipment rental market is the rising need contractors. When compared to the costs for equipment. As construction projects of purchasing and upkeeping equipment become more complex contractors renting offers long term savings. Research require access to a range of specialisd in the industry suggests that businesses tools that cater to their specific project that opt for solutions can save up to 50% on requirements. Renting equipment presents expenses compared to those who choose an economical option, for contractors to buy and maintain their own equipment.

Apart from the advantages renting who may not have sufficient resources to purchase and maintain specialised also eliminates the need for storage and machinery themselves. maintenance investments. This not helps Contractors, in the construction industry cut down expenses but also frees up are greatly motivated by cost savings when valuable resources that can be utilised it comes to the rental of construction in other areas of the business. By opting equipment. Opting to rent of buying for options instead of buying, businesses outright enables them to save money on and contractors can allocate more funds, initial expenses, maintenance and storage. towards initiatives focused on growth This smart approach allows contractors and expansion.

One of the benefits of renting to allocate their resources effectively and

$280B

the equipment without committing to a lengthy investment.

Market overview The construction equipment rental market has seen significant growth recently. This growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for construction services and the focus on cost savings by contractors. In 2022, construction spending in the United States reached a $1.79 trillion with over 79% of that spending happening in the private sector. According to Research Nester it is projected that by the end of 2035 the global

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FEATURE ACCESS & HANDLING REP ORT 2024

them to utilise their valuable real estate more effectively while lowering overhead expenses.

construction equipment is the opportunity to access the latest and advanced machinery without the hefty expense of outright purchasing. The construction industry is continuously evolving, with new equipment being developed. By opting for equipment rental businesses and contractors can keep themselves updated with the advancements and capitalise on cutting edge features and capabilities.

This not enhances efficiency and productivity on job sites but also enables businesses to undertake a broader range of projects that require specialised equipment.

Renting also provides businesses with the flexibility to test out equipment before committing to a purchase helping them save money and avoid costly errors.

Fleet flexibility Construction equipment rental provides businesses and contractors with solutions enabling them to select the appropriate equipment for their unique requirements without the need, for a long-term investment.

Short term projects can benefit from the convenience of renting equipment for the duration of the project while long term projects have the option to utilise rental agreements that enable extended equipment usage without the need, for ownership and its associated financial responsibilities.

One of the benefits of using rented construction equipment is that you don’t have to concern yourself with storage or maintenance. When you opt for

renting, the rental company handles all the maintenance and repairs leading to time and cost savings for businesses and contractors. Moreover, storage can pose a challenge for companies that own their equipment. By choosing options there’s no need, for extensive storage spaces allowing

Optimistic on potential In summary, the market for renting construction equipment is experiencing growth and holds great potential for contractors and other stakeholders. It is evident that this market is influenced by factors, including the escalating construction activity a heightened need for specialised equipment and cost-effective solutions, for contractors.

On the hand we’ve also discussed about the difficulties that the market is currently dealing with such as strong competition, regulatory obstacles and ongoing investments required for equipment.

Despite these challenges we hold a view on the future prospects of the market. There are growth opportunities on the horizon that we are optimistic about.

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“Opting for rentals of purchasing equipment outright helps avoid the high expenses of ownership and maintenance while also providing access to the latest and most advanced machinery”

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FEATURE ACCESS & HANDLING REP ORT 2024

THE NEXT LEVEL

CMME LOOKS AT JCB’S EXPANDING REACH WITH THE LAUNCH OF ITS LATEST ARTICULATED BOOM MODELS

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est known for its construction machines, JCB has been diligently and carefully revolutionising the aerial work platform sector over the past few years. Taking its vast experience in developing robust machinery and genuinely innovative solutions, the UK equipment giant has been expanding its reach and influence in this specialised field, consistently introducing cutting-edge technology and setting new benchmarks for performance and safety.

One of the most notable advancements in JCB’s portfolio, these platforms, increasingly known for their reliability and efficiency, are designed to cater to various industrial and construction needs.

By integrating the latest technology, JCB has been able to offer solutions that not only enhance operational efficiency but also prioritise operator safety. With the introduction of two new articulated boom models, the A45E and A45EH, JCB once again wants to revolutionise the sector.

These platforms come with the option of full battery electric or diesel/electric

hybrid drivelines, marking a significant advancement in efficiency, operator access, and productivity monitoring.

The A45E, a fully electric model, evolves from the AJ48D, providing zero-emission operation without compromising on performance, height, or reach. Its power comes from eight 6V batteries, forming a robust 48V, 400AH system, offering stability and improved traction due to its low center of gravity. The A45EH, meanwhile, is a hybrid version and ideal for remote work sites. It features a 14.8kW diesel engine paired with a 7.5kWa

7 generator to power its batteries. A 40-liter fuel tank ensures extended operation, and the ability to plug into a mains supply offers additional versatility.

“JCB Access already offered a full range of slab scissors from 15 foot all the way up to 45 foot, either in hydraulic or AC drive (latest technology),” explains Alistair Palacioglu, Regional Manager – Access, Middle East & Turkey. “We have also launched our articulated booms series with 48 foot in diesel, and 45 foot in either electric or hybrid versions with basket unrestricted capacity of 300kg. We will be launching various variations of our boom series in the near future; this will take us up to ultra-boom territory.”

According to Palacioglu, the best way to identify and respond to changing customer demands in equipment is through active engagement and continuous market research. He says JCB regularly gathers feedback from customers to understand their evolving needs and preferences.

This in turn helps shape the offering in the market, such as the latest addition to the growing Access range, the T65D, JCB’s first ever telescopic boom offering and an exciting addition to the JCB Access portfolio.

“This initial offering in the telescopic boom market covers the biggest market sector, 60ft–70ft. The T65D is powered

by JCB’s 4.4 litre 74hp engine, supplying ample power in a package that is familiar to our customers and dealers. The T65D is powered by JCB’s 4.4 litre, 74hp engine which has no Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and requires no Diesel Emissions Fluid (DEF). The machine has a platform height of 65ft 4 inches a restricted platform capacity of 1000lb and an unrestricted capacity of 660lb.”

As the region continues to invest heavily in construction and infrastructure projects, there is a rising demand for advanced technologies and efficient MEWPs. Manufacturers will explore innovation in design, incorporating features such as automation, telematics, improved performance and safety, he says: ”Moreover, offering eco-friendly options, such as Electric-powered MEWPs, aligns with the increasing emphasis on sustainability in the Middle East.”

KEY FEATURES

A45E AND A45EH • Maximum platform height of 13.84m with 7.47m forward reach • Battery electric or diesel/electric hybrid drivelines • Secondary guarding, punctureproof tyres and emergency override • JCB LiveLink real-time remote monitoring

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FEATURE ACCESS & HANDLING REP ORT 2024

RAPID GROWTH

POWERHOUSE RENTAL COMPANY, RAPID ACCESS, TALKS SETTING THE STANDARD IN THE POWERED ACCESS RENTAL SECTOR ACROSS THE MIDDLE EAST

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n the ever changing worlds of construction and maintenance, where safety and efficiency are paramount, Rapid Access stands out as the market leader in the Gulf region for powered access rental. Rapid Access has been revolutionising the industry for over 25 years, offering a comprehensive range of cutting-edge work-at-height solutions that enable clients to achieve their goals while maintaining the highest safety and productivity standards. As part of the Loxam Group, the fourth-largest rental company globally, Rapid Access has established itself as a true powerhouse and an industry leader.

Growing depot network and fleet With an extensive depot network spanning six countries, Rapid Access ensures its services are readily available to customers

across the region. Boasting ten strategically located depots, the company is committed to serving its clients better and closer than ever before. This expansive network is supported by a remarkable fleet of 4,500 machines, all of which undergo rigorous daily inspections to guarantee optimal performance and safety.

Rapid Access takes pride in providing its customers with a diverse range of options, ensuring that every project is equipped with the most suitable and reliable machinery.

Commitment to safety Safety is at the core of Rapid Access’ operations. It holds the prestigious TechX certification, awarded by the Loxam Group, in recognition of its unwavering commitment to engineering excellence and safety standards.

The TechX team conducts planned and unannounced audits across all its depots in the Middle East, evaluating adherence

to the Loxam Group’s required standards.

Rapid Access achieved a significant milestone last year by attaining TechX Platinum certification across all its depots, a testament to its dedication to providing the safest and most reliable hire solutions.

To emphasise the importance of safety, Waleed Isaac, Rapid Access’ Managing Director for Middle East & International, said, “Safety is our compass, and the Four Safety Pillars guide our journey fostering a culture of Intervention, Engagement, Visibility, and Benchmarking. At Rapid Access, we empower our employees to intervene, prioritise safety and drive excellence with Stop Work Authority cards. Our commitment to safety is unwavering, ensuring the wellbeing of our customers and employees.

“With a strong safety culture as our foundation, we invest in inspections, certifications, and continuous training,

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4,500

creating an environment the last 25 years building where everyone feels a legacy of trust and as an h empowered to prioritise quality in the GCC. Our ss e c c A Rapid etwork n safety. Our TechX experienced, rock-solid e v si n a exp by a fleet Platinum certification team knows the ropes supported achines and has fostered enduring is a testament to our of 4,500 m GCC partnerships with our valued dedication to excellence. across the As we push the boundaries customers. The recent surge in of safety and efficiency, we are market activity has led to sky-high confident that our world-class solutions will demand for our top-notch, well-maintained drive our continued growth in the market.” machinery across various industries. But Rapid Access understands the importance what sets us apart is our customer service of efficiency in construction. As a result, — it’s second to none.” it consistently invests in pioneering and “Our customers are so satisfied with what groundbreaking innovations that elevate we deliver they’re taking us with them as productivity and streamline operations. Its they expand into new international markets.

R&D team focuses on material handling It’s a massive shout-out to our workforce and secondary guarding solutions, and the level of service we offer. When our constantly pushing the boundaries of clients win, we win, and that’s a mantra we safety and efficiency. By developing world- take to heart. Listening to our customers class products, the company enables its has consistently been the cornerstone of customers to achieve continued success our success, and this year is no exception. while maintaining a competitive advantage We’ve been building our commitment with through improved productivity and the opening of three new depots in 2023 efficiency. When asked how Rapid Access and adding more on the horizon for 2024. has grown, Gareth Conley, Rapid Access’ “This expansion is about making life easier Regional Director, shares, “We’ve spent for our clients, bringing our services closer

to their operations. But it’s not just about accessibility; it’s about safety, too. We’ve rolled up our sleeves and designed new safety enhancements for our machinery, ensuring our customers’ teams operate in the safest environment possible. In a nutshell, we’re not just growing; we’re evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of the industry and our valued clientele.”

IPAF Training Certification and Facility Rapid Access takes pride in being the largest IPAF Training Certification and Facility in the Middle East. This pioneering initiative allows individuals to reach new heights safely by providing comprehensive training programmes. By empowering workers with the necessary skills and knowledge, Rapid Access ensures that safety remains a top priority across the industry. It continues to set the standard for excellence with a rich history of achievements, a vast depot network, a diverse fleet, and a solid commitment to safety and efficiency. Rapid Access remains at the forefront as the construction industry evolves, driving progress and enabling clients to reach new heights safely.

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FEATURE ACCESS & HANDLING REP ORT 2024

A RAPID RISE

ANTONY CHALISSERY, REGIONAL SALES MANAGER MIDDLE EAST, MEWP INTERNATIONAL MARKETING DIVISION, LGMG CHATS TO CMME ABOUT THE CHINESE FIRM’S RISE

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GMG is one of the top 100 enterprises in the machinery industry and part of one of the top four groups in the construction machinery industry in China. Antony Chalissery tells CMME that LGMG prides itself on delivering a diverse range of products, including wide-body mining trucks, MEWPs, and special machinery. He emphasises LGMG’s leadership from electric scissor lifts to telescopic boom lifts, among others.

“LGMG focuses on a number of business segments such as mining equipment, aerial working platforms, special machinery, key components, etc, of which wide-body

mining truck machinery has achieved the first sales volume in China and abroad for many years. The aerial work platforms are developing rapidly and has become one of the company’s pillar industries,” he says.

To that end, LGMG boasts an advanced range of electric scissor lifts which extend from 4-14m and the most complete 8-20m Rough Terrain Scissor lifts product line in the industry. At the same time, LGMG continues to introduce a series of green energy powered Articulated and Telescopic boom lifts and differentiated Vertical Mast lifts and Crawler Scissor lifts.

These products have helped LGMG earn a reputation for being at forefront

of innovation in the market and its R&D teams continue to roll-out cutting edge tech such as its new all-electric slab scissor lifts, lithium battery-powered MEWPs, and axle drive technologies.

“Sustainability and environmental protection will be the main theme of future development in the industry, and we plan to develop a full range of scissor lifts with lithium battery models, including Rough Terrain products. These products feature zero emissions and no noise; as well as promise longer working hours; and easier for maintenance all powered by lithium batteries. There is no need to add liquid and they are maintenance-free, are capable of

11 large capacities, long ranges, high efficiency, and suitable for long working hours, and can be charged quickly,” he enthuses, adding that the fully AC motors avoid the replacement of carbon brushes and offer the kind of high conversion efficiency that Chinese firms have notably taken a lead in.

But there is more: “They are also equipped with a lithium battery BMS intelligent management system, with functions such as power and voltage detection, data storage, battery fault analysis to prevent over-charging, over-discharging, overcurrent and over-heat protection.”

LGMG’s electric progress reflects China’s commitment to the “3060” carbon emission target which has helped drive the rapid development and adoption of electric and hybrid equipment in the market;’ “China will be the fastest country to adopt electric/ hybrid equipment. There is a high demand for MEWPs in the market, and the supporting electrical equipment at construction sites is becoming more and more complete.”

While China is taking a lead in electric and hybrid equipment, it remains a highly competitive market which is sharpening its exporters’ ability to take on other rivals from across the globe. LGMG’s own competitive edge comes from product stability, quality assurance, differentiated products, responsive customer service, and a deep understanding of industry trends, Chalissery emphasises. It has also established an expansive service network to help ensure it is attentive to customer needs.

“A good reputation in the industry is the best business card,” he says. “The stability of our products, and our high quality assurance, allows LGMG to win more customers and ensure the continuous purchasing of old customers. LGMG has also launched a series of differentiated products to meet individual needs in the market. We also respond quickly to and realises the problems and demands of our customers. As part of this approach, LGMG continues to build the brand advantage of “service wins”, and has established multiple parts storage warehouses around the world, including Europe, the United States, South Korea, Australia, Mexico, etc. Meanwhile, LGMG owns more than 40 service outlets, which ensures that it can provide 24-hour rapid response to the needs of customers.”

Wherever you are LGMG is determined to offer comprehensive support, including spare parts, technical support, and training programmes: “We want to ensure a tailored and effective service and LGMG provides parts availability, brochures, risk assessments, manuals and technical support to all our customers,” he says. “But we are also prepared to assist with all the training requirements of customers, and service personnel can be trained online or on-site.”

The evolution of its service and support infrastructure has led to many successful collaborations with major leasing companies and partners globally. In turn this has enhanced the firm’s prowess in local markets and raised the profile of its products: “After

years of market expansion and product feedback, LGMG has been recognised by a number of large-scale leasing companies and partners in different regions. This means the continuous purchase and use and local promotion of LGMG products,” he explains, adding that a focus on innovation, quality, sustainability, and customer-centricity will position LGMG as a key player wherever its products are deployed. “By paying attention to the industry trends and dynamics, we are constantly improving our products, service and training programmes. LGMG is targeting further international expansion, and fully committing itself to this growing market. We want to become the leading manufacturer of aerial work products globally.”

“LGMG always keep machine quality and customer’s safety as a priority, and employ quality staff to ensure the quality”

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FEATURE ACCESS & HANDLING REP ORT 2024

THE SKY ISN’T THE LIMIT

MALCOLM EARLY OF ACCESS AND MATERIAL HANDLING POWERHOUSE SKYJACK TALKS UTILISATION AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE MIDDLE EAST MARKET

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kyjack has been active in the market since the mid-1980s, when a number of UK based rental companies set up operations in the Middle East. Those relationships have since developed and today it offers a full range of aerial work platforms for the Middle Eastern market.

Skyjack’s VP of Marketing Malcolm Early tells CMME that as infrastructure projects continue to grow in both volume and scale, the access and material handling firm has seen an increase in the use of the full range of aerial work platforms that specialist firms like it can offer. As such, she says, the product developments that have been available in other regions for some time are now generally reflected in the Middle East.

What are the major challenges currently facing access equipment in the Middle East?

Environmentally, the Middle East provides challenges in terms of heat and dust for machine operation. Regular maintenance is the solution for this and we work diligently with our partners in this regard. The labour force means that our machines need to be easy to use. We design specifically for rental and pride our-

selves on providing machines that are straightforward and simply reliable.

What opportunities do you see for growth and innovation here?

Continued infrastructure projects offer significant opportunities for contractors and rental companies. Equally, the desire for Middle Eastern governments to diversify provide opportunities for new technologies and techniques..

How do you identify and respond to changing customer demands?

We always strive to incorporate newer technologies in a meaningful way, avoiding “cool for cool’s sake.”

The utilisation of newer technologies allows us to provide our customers with machines that enhance sustainability efforts and overall machine efficiency.

Our latest models show how we bridge practicality with sustainable efficiency by decreasing the overall carbon footprint for our customers. Adoption thus far has been successful, especially when considering the overall benefits such newer technologies can provide.

What trends have you observed in preferences for Skyjack gear in the region?

Machines need to be reliable and easy to use, particularly when looking at the labour market right now. Skyjack’s ELEVATE Live was developed specifically to address this consumer preference. ELEVATE Live provides operators with access to critical machine information such as pre-use inspection guides and familiarisation material, all through a simple QR code. Putting this information into the operators’ hands gives them more resources than ever before and reduces the workload for rental companies.

What are the recent innovations in Skyjack equipment that you have developed?

Skyjack recently updated their award-winning ELEVATE Live telematics system with the launch of ELEVATE Live 2.0. The mobile-first solution was originally launched in 2018 to provide operators access to critical machine information including the machine’s current state of health, pre-use inspection guides, and familiarisation materials through a simple QR code to empower both operators and rental companies. Updated navigation in ELEVATE Live 2.0 allows straightforward access to features in seven different languages, including live metrics as they pertain to the machines, such as battery details, engine faults, and controller alarms. ELEVATE Live 2.0’s new user interface includes an additional two screens so that now live metrics, documentation and technical information

13 feeds are available alongside model information, serial number and operational status.

These updates provide clear guidance to operators; encouraging safe operation, and saving rental houses time spent answering questions. Furthermore, the insight into each machine allows for straightforward, efficient fleet management.

How do you balance innovation with maintaining the reliability and safety of your products?

Skyjack became an industry-leader by providing machine features that combine durability, quality, and serviceability. Our products use common components across all models to maintain a certain uniformity throughout our product line. Keeping the design simple, and using intuitive design features help make Skyjack products some of the most simply reliable and sought after on the market. As such, we always aim to introduce newer technologies in a meaningful way to enhance sustainability and efficiency while avoiding “cool for cool’s sake.”

What strategies do you use to differentiate your products in a competitive market?

Designed for rental, Skyjack’s machine features are developed with an eye towards what the rental industry needs – machines that combine durability, quality and serviceability. Furthermore,

235%

nsion lobal expa Skyjack’s g l a potentia represents y it c capa global unit f 235% o se a re inc pared when com 2 2 0 2 to

our team understands the importance of maximum uptime, so our equipment is designed to optimise uptime.

To facilitate ease of maintenance, all major service points are easily accessible, enabling straightforward troubleshooting and repairs, while our in-house network of sales, service, and support spans the globe.

Our team understands the importance of maximised uptime, so our machines designed to provide just that. All major service points are easily accessible on Skyjack products, making for straightforward troubleshooting and repairs. The off-highway rental industry is a demanding space and our products are designed to withstand even the harshest conditions.

Furthermore, Skyjack recognises that having user-friendly equipment that can withstand the harsh demands of the rental

industry is critical to increasing our customers’ utilisation rates.

How do you manage your supply chain to ensure timely delivery of equipment?

In North America and Europe fleet aging has increased during COVID and the rental industry is keen to improve that situation.

While the market grew in 2022 there were some supply constraints that held back that fleet age improvement objective. In 2024 we expect those constraints to lessen and for the fleet age renewal progress to grow the market.

In 2022, Skyjack took big steps to expand their manufacturing footprint for an “in the market, for the market” approach. In taking the number of manufacturing plants from two in Canada to five globally – with new facilities in China, Europe (Hungary) and Mexico – this transformation is set to represent a potential global unit capacity increase of 235% globally when compared to 2022 capacity.

What measures are you taking to ensure environmental sustainability in your product lines?

Sustainability is a key value for Skyjack, in fact the large majority of our MEWP fleet is, and long has been, electric in the form of DC scissors and vertical masts. We continue to take steps towards even more sustainable machines. Our ECO Label marks products that deliver benefits in environmental performance and long-term sustainability. Each product that carries the ECO Label’s improved sustainability characteristics include an ECO matrix detailing those environmental benefits.

In terms of product lines, our updated vertical mast line for example, SJ12/16/20 E, offers 15% operational carbon savings compared to the previous model, up to 30% improvement in duty cycle and zero emissions while being 90% recyclable by weight. Our updated boom line, SJ45 AJ+ and SJ60 AJ+, uses 28% and 62% less fuel respectively, while being 85% recyclable by weight.

How do you incorporate eco-friendly practices?

As part of our parent company Linamar, we are aligned with their commitment to being a net zero emissions organisation, inclusive of the operation of our facilities, our supply base and the products we supply to by 2050.

Our official corporate environmental policy statement, the Linamar Green Commitment, mandates our global facilities certify to the internationally recognised ISO14000 environmental standard, while also encouraging energy conservation and reduced consumption of natural resources within each facility.

Rental companies and major contractors face increasing demands for sustainability information. Skyjack has introduced its ECO mark to support our customers by providing products that deliver benefits in environmental performance and long-term sustainability.

Each product that carries the ECO labels improved and detailed sustainable characteristics include an ECO matrix that outlines environmental performance benefits.

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FEATURE ACCESS & HANDLING REP ORT 2024

STRETCHING OUT SPIDER PLUS’ JOE DUFFY TALKS TO CMME ABOUT COMBINING ITS UNIQUE CRANE FLEET WITH HIGH LEVELS OF SERVICE AND RESPONSIVENESS

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ompact and lightweight, spider cranes are ideal for indoor use or in environments where space is limited, such as narrow streets, inside buildings, or on construction sites with limited access. With their ability to be quickly deployed and easily transported from one site to another, they are proving their worth in a region where construction

timelines are often tight, and efficiency is paramount. Moreover, these cranes require minimal setup time, further enhancing productivity on construction sites.

For over a decade, Spider Plus has been supporting high-profile construction projects across the Middle East, demonstrating the small but powerful machines’ effectiveness in a range of applications, from residential and commercial buildings to infrastructure

development. Unlike traditional cranes, which are often large and require significant space for operation, the cranes from Spider Plus are designed to navigate through tight spaces and challenging terrains, making them ideal for urban construction environments where space is at a premium.

Talking to CMME, Joe Duffy explains why Spider Plus cranes are emerging as a gamechanging technology in the Middle Eastern construction industry. Their unique design,

15 our stocking strategies to minimise any negative effects.

mobility, versatility, and commitment to safety and environmental sustainability make them an invaluable asset in the region’s ongoing quest for innovative and efficient construction solutions. As the Middle East continues to push the boundaries of architectural achievement, Spider Plus cranes is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future skyline.

Please share an overview of Spider Plus’ year in the Middle East, and its outlook for 2024?

The year has been good overall, we have witnessed a change in the market in the UAE in terms of the types of projects we are doing, with more short-term work currently as there are fewer active major projects. There has of course been a significant uptick in project activity in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We are very excited with what 2024 has to offer.

types of equipment. Ensuring the correct equipment is where it needs to be, and being able to look ahead in order to do this is probably the biggest challenge. Globally equipment lead times of certain equipment is very high, as a result a significant amount of forward planning is needed.

We have experienced longer lead times of spare parts and new equipment.

Both with local suppliers and overseas.

Thankfully we have been able to adjust

What opportunities do you see for growth and innovation in this market?

The change we have seen in the UAE from longer term projects to more shorter-term projects resulted in more hours being needed for our day-to-day operations as well as on the sales side.

The same amount of time can be spent working with customers on solutions, planning jobs and delivering/executing for a single day hire or a month-long hire.

Optimising procedures and systems, along with and bolstering our personnel allowed us to continue to provide the high level of service and responsiveness that our customers have come to expect.

The complexity of many up-andcoming projects means there are a lot of opportunities to develop and offer unique solutions tailored to these needs.

Can you describe your experience in the equipment market in the Middle East?

Like any market, the equipment market here has its challenges, but it has been an overall positive one. The rapid change and growth in the region have resulted in a general open-mindedness to new solutions and ideas, which helps when offering unique and innovative solutions.

A solutions-based approach ensures that we always offer the right equipment for the job.

What are the major challenges currently facing the equipment market in the Middle East as we look ahead?

The Middle East market is very varied currently, with oversupply in some areas and shortages in other, this applies in the geographical sense as well as in terms of

“The complexity of many up-andcoming projects means there are a lot of opportunities to develop and offer unique solutions tailored to these needs”

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FEATURE ACCESS & HANDLING REP ORT 2024

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As well as an emergence of demand for new products. Value added services such as training and solution engineering are increasingly popular and offer an opportunity to develop our in-house capabilities. Keeping a step ahead with innovative products always helps.

We’ve also seen an increase in demand for manned equipment across the board, particularly in the UAE. Shorter term jobs and contract lifts are becoming more popular as well. We have recently developed some key equipment for customer projects both for rental and sale.

These have been done because there was no availability of off-the-shelf solutions.

In particular, we have bolstered our fleet’s quantity of manipulators and their abilities.

How do you identify and respond to changing customer demands in equipment?

We like to maintain close relationships with our customers and frequently will get involved in projects before they begin.

This helps us offer them the best solutions from the ground up, and ensure that we have availability when needed.

How do you balance innovation with maintaining the reliability and safety of your products?

Stringent in-house testing is the solution to ensure reliability and safety of any product. Along with end-user training.

We have extensive capabilities and purpose-built equipment at our facilities to rigourously test all of our products, alongside being able to facilitiate comprehensive training.

How do you maintain a competitive edge in the equipment industry?

Leading the way with the latest equipment rather than following the crowd. We work closely with our suppliers overseas to ensure we are always aware of the latest products before they are public. In depth knowledge allows us to provide first rate support in the use of our products, from planning to execution. This optimses the customer experience.

How do you manage your supply chain to ensure timely delivery of equipment?

We ensure our equipment is kept in a state of readiness through proactive

maintenance routines and forward planning for equipment certifications. This allows us to operate with very short lead times on delivery of equipment from our hire fleet. Careful management of fleet size and equipment variety support this to ensure we have equipment availability for upcoming work.

What measures are you taking to ensure environmental sustainability in your product lines?

We ensure all our equipment is properly maintained in order to reduce emissions and we are expanding our offerings of electrically powered equipment. Where possible we use recyclable materials and minimise disposable packaging. We employ stringent recycling practices in our workshops and offices.

How do you see the equipment industry evolving in the region?

The equipment industry will likely continue to improve on efficiency and reliability of its offerings, along with a continued move towards zero emissions equipment when the time is right.

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REACHING FOR SUSTAINABILITY

JOHNSON ARABIA PUTS SUSTAINABILITY FIRST AS IT SHOWCASES WORLD’S FIRST HYDROGEN-POWERED ACCESS PLATFORM

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s COP28 brought ogether the world’s governments, organisations and experts to showcase global commitment to sustainability, Johnson Arabia demonstrated its own commitment to sustainability with a Visitor Day to demonstrate the latest green technologies in cranes and AWPs. Recognising the challenge for regional construction’s Net-Zero targets by 2050, Johnson Arabia has committed to enabling UN sustainable development goals with investment in a wide range of areas, including people, environment, and the community. The Visitors Day promoted innovations including the UAE’s widest range of all-electric construction equipment, ad-

vances in bio-diesel fuel, and introduced the world’s first hydrogen-powered access platform. The day also promoted products to help with efficiency and safety, including Maeda Spider cranes which are suitable for a wide range of applications from malls and airports to outdoor and congested spaces.

The MC 285C and 305C are also eco-friendly battery options for closed indoor environments and LEED-certified projects.

“The Maeda Spider Mini cranes mark a significant step toward enhancing operational efficiency and achieving sustainability in the lifting industry. These cranes boast a unique feature of electrical operation, offering versatility for indoor and outdoor applications. The range, varying from 1t-4t in capacity, also offer adaptability

across diverse operational needs. This forward-looking approach demonstrates our intention to embrace larger electrical cranes in the future, setting a precedent for innovation and eco-friendly solutions within the crane industry,” says Mohammad Fareed, Executive Manager for Cranes at Johnson Arabia.

The Sinoboom AB22EJ all electric access platform and range of JLG Electric Construction booms were the first allelectric machines introduced to the region in 2022. Most recently, the Niftylift HR15 Hydrogen-Electric, the first of its kind in the world, was added to the fleet. With advanced hydrogen-fuel cell capabilities, it offers unparalleled efficiency with its only emissions being a light water vapor.

Joe Keely, Executive Manager for AWP added: “We have been making significant AWP purchases since 2021 in line with our ESG philosophy and aligned ourselves with multiple UN SDG goals for our customers, as well as helping them to navigate their targets for scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.

This is demonstrated by industry-leading investment in products which are first of their kind in the region, and in some cases the world”.

The visitor’s day successfully enabled the team to demonstrate its commitment in front of key clients and contractors including teams from ADNOC, NEOM, and Red Sea projects. Johnson Arabia plans a range of events to demonstrate and educate the advances in lifting solutions regionally.

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FEATURE ACCESS & HANDLING REP ORT 2024

FROM THE GROUND UP

ON THE GROUND TECHNICAL SUPPORT AND DESIGN KNOW-HOW SUPERCHARGES DINGLI’S GROWTH

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ingli Middle East has continued its expansion across the region, with substantial growth in all product ranges.

The launch of the telescopic 36m, 41m, and 44m booms, featuring cutting-edge innovation, has been particularly well-received. These models uniquely fit a 40ft container, and the company’s patented Automatic Axle Extender system is a notable feature that enhances efficiency.

Articulated 36m, 41m, and 44m booms are on the way with customers eagerly anticipating the first deliveries by early 2024.

Peter Ellis, General Manager of Dingli Middle East, emphasises the company’s dedication to excellent after-sales support to complement their sales expansion. This commitment involves on-ground technical support through regional engineers and readily available in-country spare parts, ensuring minimal downtime for customers.

“We have worked hard to back up our successful expansion with excellent after sales support. Our goal is to offer the best after sales support in our region,” says Ellis. “This will be achieved with on-theground technical support from engineers stationed in key regional areas and quickly despatched, in-country spare parts.”

Dingli’s range now includes boom lifts from 11m to 44m, available in both telescopic and articulated models, with three power options: Diesel, Battery, and Hybrid. The industry’s shift away from diesel-powered

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MEWPs is evident, with the major challenge being the availability of charging facilities and the perception of reduced power. The hybrid option, which combines Lithium batteries with a backup generator, is seen as a bridge to full electric power, offering users confidence in battery electric power.

The new Hybrid Modular Range, Extended Series, is a significant leap in sustainable technology. It includes a ‘mobile charger’ – a small combustion engine – added to electric boom lifts. With working heights from 16m to 44m, a maximum load of 454kg, and an 80V (420Ah) lithium battery pack, this range is designed for optimal efficiency and sustainability. The built-in universal range

extender can run the machine for up to 30 days on site without charging.

Dingli prides itself on offering the most comprehensive product range in the industry, from 6m to 32m in the scissor range and 11m to 44m in both articulated and telescopic boom lifts, with varied power sources.

Dingli ensures competitive pricing, great availability, and exceptional local after-sales support and plans to continue its trajectory of innovation in 2024 with the introduction of rough terrain scissor lifts featuring the hybrid power option (expected Q1 2024).

This reflects a commitment to evolving technology and customer satisfaction in an ever-changing industry landscape.

SIMPLY RELIABLE MOBILE ELEVATING WORK PLATFORMS

ELECTRIC DRIVE

ALL TERRAIN

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