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CESAR announces 600,000th protected machine

With beautiful sunshine, Peterborough was the perfect showground for the dazzling debuts of so many vendors, products, anniversaries and more!

CESAR, The Construction Equipment Security and Registration Scheme, was delighted to announce its 600,000th protected machine! The hefty achievement was commemorated with a celebratory plaque. Suneeta Johal had the honour of awarding it to Manitou, the manufacturers of the telehandler that holds the all-important title.

Manitou Pioneer In Sustainability

Manitou remains committed to sustainable development. With an exciting and dynamic product range, helpful staff, and CESAR recognition to boot, Manitou certainly had a fruitful Plantworx. Their dedication to low or even no carbon emissions was proven time and again, particularly with their new machine labelling strategy, ‘Oxygen’, which is all about implementing low emission solutions.

It wasn’t just Oxygen that was the life force of Manitou’s display. They arrived at Plantworx with a host of new and improved products, the most notable being their new 625s, one of their best-sellers. “One thing we’ve done is improved the power supply with on-board chargers. If you’ve got access to a power source, you can charge the machine. We’re passionate about customer autonomy.”

Another of their notable products was the new electrified access platforms. Available in a range of sizes, they endeavour to showcase Manitou’s trademark focus on self-sufficiency, with lead-acid batteries powering these new platforms. Users are reporting a three-day usage after just a single full charge, something the company were understandably proud of:

“We’ll continue to grow our presence in the UK market,” they said when asked about their future. With regards to Manitou’s reputation, the quality speaks for itself, and as always, their mission is to ‘keep getting better.’

It was wonderful seeing Manitou get the recognition they so deserved, not only for their innovative approach to sustainability, but their approach to the world of construction as a whole.

Merlo Approaches 60 years of success

The vibrant lime-green of Merlo’s product range was as attention grabbing as ever and showcased their new DM range to perfection. Plantworx 2023 saw the debut of the new 9-Ton dumper, the DM9. It was the perfect way for the Italian company to return to give into nostalgia, as their first ever product was, in fact, a dumper. Nearly 60 years after Merlo’s first year of operation, it was marvellous to see them take pride in their roots.

Also on-show were products from Merlo’s new Generation Zero range, which aim to bring sustainable energy to the forefront of the industry. Products in this range have several hours of working autonomy and their 2.5-ton telehandler was particularly impressive. “We’re very focused on bringing the customer products they can put total trust in.”

Given that green is so synonymous with the restoration of mother earth, it seems all too right that Merlo’s signature lime was able to fly the flag for sustainability alongside so many other vendors. No wonder then, that Merlo are celebrating 30 years in the UK market, and without a doubt will be here for many years to come.

Mecalac Wins Gold at Plantworx Dinner

The famous Plantworx Innovation Awards Ceremony kicked off the entire event on 12th June, bringing together several major industry players. Hosted by The Chase’s Shaun Wallace, the event certainly did its job in building anticipation for the show.

Mecalac Construction Equipment won gold in the Engineering and Design category, whilst British Steel and Xoerotech landed two Special Recognition Awards. Their brand new REVOTRUCK and its innovative design secured Mecalac their well-deserved win. It was the perfect way to introduce the highly anticipated product before its debut over the following days.

Sponsored by Merlo, The Training & Skills Development category recognised the achievements of Flannery Plant Hire and Leica Geosystems. Their great work attracting and developing talent in the construction equipment world heralded them the award.

A Special Recognition Award was presented to The Plant and Hire Aid Alliance, due to their efforts in providing Ukraine with supplies during the war. It was a privilege and pleasure to see it go to such a deserving, wonderful team.

Magni celebrates 10th anniversary as leading telescopic handler manufacturer

Magni’s telescopic handlers were once again a show highlight as they celebrated their 10th anniversary of being the world’s leading manufacturer for rotary, standard, and heavy-duty ranges. Renowned for their commitment to cutting edge technology, their telescopic handlers proudly showed off their impressive engines and manoeuvrability. Their 3-in-1 machines have been at the peak of quality and performance, and certainly drew attention as they reached for the sky.

Prolectric (literally) Shine

The east of England was blessed with the perfect weather for Prolectric to show off their high-quality solar panels. And in a fortuitous moment of foresight, they brought nearly their entire product range ready for demonstration!

The brand new 3-phrase solar power unit was particularly distinctive. Prolectric’s products clearly have a lot of TLC poured into them, and their strong position on the market is evidence that solar panels really are the way forward. “The quality of build and electrical engineering speak for themselves. We always make sure we never overpromise and underdeliver. Transparency is one of our most important attributes, and we’ll never make claims we can’t back up.”

SMT’s Sleek Stand Impresses

We couldn’t help but get giddy over SMT’s VR headset! This device allowed us to experience their V-360 Expo technology, providing us with the chance to walk around a virtual warehouse and jump into the cabs of various machines. The company spoke about the role of AI in the industry, saying that the technology eliminated hurdles like location, conditions, and weather, whilst also providing real-world training to those in the industry. Their stand itself was totally in line with their use of such technology: sleek, modern and user friendly. Such attributes are also proudly embodied by the company, their ethos for the future spoken about with clear fervour and enthusiasm.

Plant Planet also spoke with them about their EcoOperator course, which aims to make operators’ lives more efficient and productive. It perfectly encapsulates SMT’s mission – to make the highest-quality equipment and provide the best customer support they possibly can. “The business is always evolving and Plantworx is a great platform to teach new and existing customers what we’re working on.”

Avant Unveils New Generation of Products

Avant’s 600 series was on-show at Plantworx, and the new loader has a much-increased hydraulic flow, making it the best all-rounder in the range. “They’re the most powerful compact machines ever produced,” they told us, as they walked us through the stand.

Avant’s technological output gets more and more impressive every year, as does the efficacy of their loaders. “We never cut corners during our design process,’’ they said, before adding that the ‘sky is the limit’ when it comes to Avant’s potential.

“We look to deliver the best quality products whilst knowing our customers’ day to day struggles.” Avant’s standing in the market is strong and we can only eagerly await their dynamic approach to loaders and all that they do for the construction world.

ABAX Aims for Longevity

ABAX used Plantworx to launch the Smart Inventory System, the app dedicated to site safety and organisation. With over 40,000 customers across the world and over half a million tracked assets, ABAX’s products help workplaces to not only be safer, but more productive too.

They demonstrated this to maximum effect at Plantworx 2023, showing off how simple it could be to track an entire fleet all from one portable device. The user-friendly system proved to save time, money and stress, all in one go!

ABAX said it best themselves through their managing director, Craig Allan: “If we can make plant, machinery, tools, and assets last longer, then we’ll know that we’re doing our job.”

Develon’s Debut a Delight

Develon will forever remember Plantworx 2023, as the company scooped up the Best Live Demonstration Award by the event’s organisers. This award is given to the company who was judged to have made the best use of the outdoor show ground demo space, as well as the overall quality of the stand itself.

Judged by Earthmovers’ Nick Drew (Earthmovers) and Peter Haddock (Content With Media) both were in agreement that Develon’s stand had the X-factor required to win. Their debut of the DX250WMH-7 material handler was a resounding triumph. Both judges were correct, as Develon’s stand possessed a level of polish and sophistication that was unmatched.

Alongside the new kid on the block, we were delighted to see the DX225LC-7 Crawler, the DX55R-7 Mini-Excavator, the DL807 Compact Loader and the DL420CVT-7 Wheel loader.

Kevin Lynch, Develon’s marketing communications manager was utterly thrilled to have scooped up such a coveted prize, praising operators Nigel Horton and Alex Humpage for their efforts.

SANY UK Impresses

Tucked away at the bottom of the Peterborough show ground was equipment giant, SANY, who showcased their New SW305 and SW405 wheel loaders in full force. They even had a live demonstration zone, where visitors could try their hand at driving one of the company’s excavators.

SANY, who were founded in 1989, have been long known as a trusted and reliable manufacturer. When asked about their brand, SANY stated: “You see our products in China and in America, and if you can break those markets, you know you’re doing something right.”

The company has only been trading in the UK since 2020, but they’ve made serious headway in the British market thanks to their strong reputation overseas, dedicated staff, and penchant for envelope-pushing products. Their mission is to continue to evolve their product catalogue whilst enhancing the customer experience – a philosophy they’ve been perfecting abroad for over 30 years and will continue to do so right here in the UK.

A Show With More to Boast Than Vendors Alone!

Of course, people flocked to Plantworx to see the incredible machinery on display and take the opportunity to meet the people behind their conception, but the show offered far more than just knowledge.

As with previous years, the Peterborough showground was teaming with fun activities, award opportunities and much, much more!

The Operator Challenge

Right at the epicentre of the outdoor show ground, stood the perfectly popular Awesome Earthmovers Operator Challenge. Visitors had the chance to test their skills against the clock for a chance to win prizes as well as glory.

Many high-profile social media influencers were in attendance, including Amy Underwood, more commonly known by her online handle, Digger Girl. Other influencers included Tracklass1, Lord Muck and Ben ‘The Operator’ Wade.

But it was the showdown between Bearded Excavation and Connor the Digger Driver that pulled in the crowds. This ‘rumble in the jungle’ made it all the way to TikTok and saw Bearded Excavation scoop up the gold!

The primary sponsor for this exciting opportunity was Hyundai Construction Equipment Europe, who kindly provided contestants with the excavators for the individual challenges.

Simulation Zone

After its astounding debut at Plantworx 2019, the Simulation Zone once again dazzled construction professionals with its pioneering training platform.

Operators of every calibre were able to develop their skills and learn even more about the control systems in the world of construction. As in 2019, it was a unique and fun filled opportunity that certainly entertained the wide variety of spectators and users alike.

One of the most notable aspects of the Simulation Zone was MachineMax, who showcased their latest collaboration with PLINX, a top safety equipment supplier in the ‘Get Connected Zone’.

Both companies are changing the game when it comes to on-site analytics, and their operator-focused hardware aims to bring the industry to the next level. MachineMax’s innovative solution helps businesses manage their heavy equipment more efficiently. The solution combines IoT sensors, machine learning algorithms, and a cloud-based platform to provide real-time insights into machine utilisation, maintenance, and performance. It goes without saying that with MachineMax, businesses are able to reduce downtime, optimise fuel consumption, and control the risk of breakdowns; something that they showcased to full effect at the event.

A Final Goodbye

It may have taken four years for Plantworx to return, but the show didn’t miss a beat and it certainly delivered on all fronts. Plant Planet was ecstatic to meet with and talk to so many fascinating industry professionals, as well as showcase our June edition which was our biggest issue yet!

It was sad to wave goodbye to the East of England Showground after the rip-roaring success of the show, but we can all expect Plantworx to be back with a vengeance at a new venue in 2025.

GGR Group is a leading provider of an extensive range of innovative lifting equipment for hire in the UK. Starting with just £5000 of initial funding, this small family run business has transformed itself into a £28 million global success over the last 28 years.

GGR has a reputation for offering best in class service, equipment, and technical expertise, working on notable signature projects including HS2 and The Shard, whilst boasting the largest fleet and widest range of equipment in the UK.

GGR Group’s success has been built through sourcing new, innovative, groundbreaking products for the construction industry from a wide range of global suppliers. As a result, the company now offers over 500 different types of lifting equipment to both UK and European markets.

Over 500 Different Types Of Lifting Equipment

Recent examples include the unique Sky Robot 1500, the first of its kind, a 100% battery-powered boom-lift glass installation robot. Also, GGR helped to launch the world’s first electric telehandler the F6.26 E, which beat all the odds to launch in the UK in February 2020, prior to lockdown and is now a wellestablished eco-friendly product within UK construction.

Past products include mini spider cranes, overhang beams, mini crawler cranes, pick and carry cranes, vacuum lifters and glazing robots. These extensive product ranges were successfully pioneered and launched into UK and European markets by GGR Group.

An appetite for innovation, sourcing products from overseas manufacturers, introducing them to the UK market for testing and feedback, developing appropriate operator training and a commitment to carrying stock has been at the core of GGR

Group’s growth for the last 28 years. An approach that has seen the business overcome the challenges faced in today’s market and has enabled the company to champion green initiatives and a commitment to product sustainability.

In today’s environmentally conscious climate, the market is calling for zero emissions lifting machinery, which has been backed by government legislation in the form of carbon net zero and ultra-low emissions zones. GGR Group has been at the forefront of this innovation in the industry, though providing a product range that is now over 90% battery powered or mechanically powered. The company has also subscribed to popular initiatives such as the move to HVO fuel, the introduction of electric staff vehicles and membership of the Supply Chain Sustainability School, demonstrating further commitment to supporting construction companies with their carbon net zero goals.

Telehandlers

As part of this commitment to innovation and green initiatives, one of the latest products to be added to the company’s portfolio is the range of battery powered electric telehandlers.

Developed by Italian manufacturer Faresin, GGR launched the first telehandler of its kind in the UK in February 2020, prior to lockdown and is now a well-established eco-friendly product within UK construction.

This initial innovation of the 6m electric telehandler has led to the successful innovation and launch of the 17m electric telehandler. Built around the same chassis platform and featuring a 45kW/h (105Ah) battery, these electric machines offer run times of up to 8 hours non-intensive use and up to 3.5 hours intensive use.

The work that has been done on the battery technology is best-in-class

Further innovation sees an onboard charger as standard, offering 0-80% charge in 4 hours and 0-100% charge in 6 hours. There is also a universal charging socket, identical to the type used on motor vehicles, which also features intelligent charging to ensure that the machines can be charged with whatever power source is available on site, including single or three-phase options.

GGR’s Marketing & Special Products Director, Daniel Ezzatvar, said:

“The work that has been done on the battery technology is best-in-class at the moment and the developments that have been made truly lend themselves to making the machines better suited to the practicalities of electric infrastructure on today’s construction sites.”

Multi Loaders

Following the innovation of the battery powered electric telehandler, GGR Group have recently launched their Multi Loader product range to the UK market. The Multi Loader range of tracked carriers is renowned for its versatility, power, and agility.

These machines are specifically designed to operate on challenging terrains, including rough surfaces, slopes and narrow spaces. With their robust tracks and compact design, coupled with fixed chassis or bi-levelling options, they can manoeuvre through confined areas with ease, making them ideal for various applications.

One of the key features of the Multi Loader range is its impressive lifting capacities, ranging from 1.5 to 6.0t.

These machines are equipped with powerful hydraulic systems and lifting mechanisms that allow them to handle and transport heavy loads efficiently, reducing the need for manual handling.

There are a range of electric, diesel and hybrid options and these machines come with a range of interchangeable attachments, including buckets, a-frames, lifting kits and cranes. This versatility enables them to perform a wide array of tasks, from material handling to lifting and placing objects at height. Overall, the Multi Loader range stands as a reliable and versatile solution for various industries, combining power, agility, adaptability and safety to meet the demands of modern construction and industrial projects. The Multi Loader range is proven in the field and is becoming increasingly popular on modern construction sites.