EQ Magazine April 2011

SPECIAL REPORT: Japanese Crisis, Manufacturers Expect Production Delays APRIL 2011

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Contractor’s Profile: Exceptional Caliber and Business Acumen Helps Build a Business

Skid-steer Round-UP Expo Preview: Get Acquainted with Two Great Expos This April INDUSTRY NEWS Follow Us twitter.com/eqbulletin

Construction Equipment Sales Expected to Reach 2007 levels Page13

MAGAZINE

for s ip ing T 0 1 at s v i t Mo loyee Emp

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IN THIS ISSUE

18

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Updated Online Weekly:

Skid-Steer Round-up: SKID STEER - GROWING TO BE THE NUMERO UNO CHOICE FOR CONTRACTORS

340 S. Lemon # 7197 Walnut, CA 91789 Billing & Payments P.O. Box 1184 Venice, FL 34284 Ph. 909. 962. 7321 Fax: 888.261.6014 Email: info@eq-mag.com

7. Advertiser Index 8. Contractor’s Profile: Exceptional Caliber and Business Acumen Helps Build a Business 10. Office Matters: 10 Tips for Motivating Employees 12. Industry News 14. Expo Preview: Get Acquainted with Two Great Expos This April 16. Safety Roundup 22. Product News 27. Construction Marketplace

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: A one year (12 issue) subscription to EQ™ in the United States or Canada is $ 12.95 for qualified subscribers. A qualified subscriber is any individual or company in the United States that partakes in the construction industry. Nonqualified subscriptions are available at a cost of $40 per year in the United States. To qualify visit www.eqmag.com or call 909.962.7321 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: RATE: 50 cents per word, per issue. Minimum charge of $15 for up to 30 words. All classified advertising must be PAID IN ADVANCE. DEADLINE: Classifieds must be received by the 17th of the month for insertion in the next month’s edition. PHONE-IN ADS ARE NOT ACCEPTED. Ads may be faxed only when charging to MasterCard, VISA or Discover. Please supply all credit card information with faxed ads. Be sure to include your phone number (with area code) in your ad. Make checks payable to CFX Network LLC. and mail with the classified ad to the address above. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING APPEARS IN THE PUBLICATION AND ON THE INTERNET. Not responsible for errors beyond first insertion.

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Special Report: Japanese Crisis, Manufacturers Expect Production Delays

Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota call 909.962.7321 and ask for Roberta. Publisher reserves the right to reject advertising, which in its opinion is misleading, unfair or incompatible with the character of the publication.

CIRCULATION: Circulation averages 30,033 cop-

ies per issue. Qualified circulation is 11,166 per issue. Circulation is postal receipt verified and serves primarily the Upper Midwest, including North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Our subscriber list is occasionally made available to carefully selected companies whose products or services may be of interest to you. Your privacy is important to us. If you prefer not to be a part of these lists, please contact Christine at info@CFXNetwork.com. © Copyright 2011 CFX Network LLC No part may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

SERVICE AREA PAGE 4 equipment magazine www.eq-mag.com - APRIL 2011

ADVERTISER INDEX C Central Equipment Sales ..........2 Construction Marketplace.......27 Crawler Welding Roose MFG Weisz Equipment Wisconsin Surplus Online Auction Truck Utilities

Crysteel Truck Equipment......... 6

N Nichelson Oil Inc.....................27

Northstar Truck Sales..............26 P Pioneer Rim & Wheel...............11 R RMS Rentals........................3, 21 S

Kohls - Weelborg Truck Center....28 M Midland Equipent...21

Suburban Chevrolet...................................5 Sidney Manufacturing.........................13 Z Zip's...........................................7

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Contractor's Profile

Exceptional Caliber and Business Acumen Helps Build a Business

W

hat made Shane Ormon a native of Clinton, the name to be reckoned with in the construction business is no secret. From the very beginning Shane Ormon possessed exceptional caliber and business acumen, which helped him to become successful in the construction business. After taking mechanical drawing at Clinton High School, Ormon interest grew in architecture.

That's the reason why after graduation he attended architecture school for two years.

It was in the University of Southern Mississippi he earned his bachelor degree in architectural engineering. Ormon now feels satisfied that he shifted and focused at the construction end at the young age when he was studying.

The high caliber contractor revealed that living in different places and his penchant for making friends easily helped him improve his business performance in the construction business. Shane described construc-

tion business as a people business. His background in drawing came handy which also helped his clients to save their time, as he was able to finish all the projects in time.

After having spent 25 years in the construction industry Ormon is now a veteran in the construction business. He owe the credit of where he is today to his sheer hard work, and perseverance. All the experience and exposure in the field helped Shane Ormon to start his own construction company called Shane Ormon Construction Management & Design Inc. in 1999. The contractor said establishing his own company was his long time cherished goal. But before starting his own company, Ormon worked in various high tech projects and got a lot of exposure. For example, Orman worked at Law's Construction and Rouse Construction. He also spent his 14 fruitful years with Peoples Construction Company and worked on projects like management, estimating and design. Ormon felt that, it was the support of

People's Construction and his unflinching faith which gave him the confidence to start his own company. When Ormon started his company, at that time construction management was the new buzz word. Initially, he undertook turnkey jobs which helped him to get the assignments from architects and engineers.

Shane has described his company as an “owner oriented” general contractor firm having in-depth knowledge within the building industry which offers advanced construction capabilities. Having an “owner oriented” tag line helps people know that all the projects undertaken by the company would be completed within the stipulated period and within the budget. The contractor assures that he completes all the work wholeheartedly and beyond the expectations of the client. With so much experience in the field Shane Ormon CM&D, Inc. touts that whether the work relates to commercial building, renovation, construction manage-

PAGE 8 equipment magazine www.eq-mag.com - APRIL 2011

ment or design, the company has got superior knowledge in this field and can deliver exceptional results.

As of now things are unfolding smoothly in his company located in Clinton, though he usually work within a 60 mile radius of Clinton including in the towns of Jackson, Ridgeland and Canton. Orman now has his own team of construction supervisors who are working diligently so as to get more recognition. Earlier, Ormon had revealed that he has plans for expansion of his business and looks for a turnover of $10 million range for gross sales per year. The first project which Ormon's company completed was that of a day care facility, the Neighborhood Nanny, the project costed around $500,000 to complete.

The contractor takes everything easy and starts working on the assignment as soon as a preliminary plan is chosen. Before starting any work Ormon makes it a point to work with an architect having any project over 5000-square feet only. Ormon says he feels satisfied and it is a rewarding experience and pride to see the landmark building finished in time he was responsible for. It gives him a sense of pride when he passes through the building he constructed with sheer hard work and dedication. The $2.5 million YMCA building in Clinton is one such building, chuckle Ormon.

Elaborating more about his favorite project of YMCA building, the contractor revealed YMCA's 35,000-sq-ft Clinton Wellness Center has two floors, an indoor track and pool, weight room and cardiovascular facility. The exterior of the building are made of split face block. Other features of the project which set it apart from its counterpart include usage of abundance glass and a recessed porch. Ormon said as he was a former board member of YMCA, so naturally he wanted to do something for this center as a goodwill gesture. On this particular project, 45 workers worked on different phases.

Besides this project also had 16 subcontractors who worked in areas like masonry and electrical. In this particular project Orman used, a Grove TMS 540 which was the largest piece of heavy equipment for this job. He hired this equipment from Jackson, MS based Peoples Construction, who was Ormon's former employer.

Ormon stated that the most challenging aspect of his job at YMCA was that of three pools and the foundation. In an effort to give an exciting look, three pools, an indoor lap pool and two hot tub spas all were to be integrated with the foundation design of the building. However, work related to elecAPRIL 2011

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trical, plumbing and pools made all these things complicated. The unique feature of this facility included the complicated indoor Mondo rubberized track which Ormon solely handled. Chuck Engle, branch manager of the YMCA stated that Mondo is the official provider of all tracks and equipment for the track and field competitions at the upcoming Olympics. The company is also the official surface provider for the volleyball competitions.

Some other imminent projects of the contractor include 17,000-square-foot Homeland Security Building near the airport in Pearl. 10,000-Square-foot medical clinic for Dr. Wayne Woo in Flowood, 58,000-squarefoot retail center, Trace Station on U.S. 51 in Ridgeland, 10,000- Square-foot medical clinic for Dr. Wayne Woo in Flowood, Clinton Family Care Clinic, Taxidermy Clinic, Ridgeland, MS, Cynthia Strip Center, Clinton shopping center and a Mexican restaurant.

Ormon while emphasizing more about the construction business laments that in construction field everything is not smooth

way of life and it badly affects the construction industry. It is a pity sometimes at the end of this all these costs is passed on to consumers, added Ormon. If you compare the cost of material, fuel prices etc., in the recent past you will come to know that how the cost has augmented as far as construction material like steel, concrete, lumber, dirt and other materials is concerned. These are volatile sudden surge in the construction industry which is adding woe not only to the residential community but also to commercial establishments and road builders. Ormon concludes by saying that he tries his best not to dwell on them but moves on.

To counter the construction business problems pointed out by Ormon, a majority of contractors have said these types of problems can be handled in future by making an educated guess of any escalated cost. It’s all about what bidding is anyway.

Bidding is all about educated guess. Making things lucid Reed Nelson, business development manager of White Construction Company said, yes it is true we are locked

Shane Ormon has elaborated more about the work which his company usually undertakes pertaining to office building/warehouse, service facilities, retail shopping centers, tenant build out etc., on his website www.shaneormoncmd-inc.com. there are some problems also. Like some of the hurdles in this business include not getting paid promptly, leaks at odd points which crop up in the building and which are hard to find. Sometimes rain was responsible for delaying various projects. Plumbing system in a building is also a costly affair. A small damage sometimes turns out to be an expensive affair, and therefore it is essential to constantly check the plumbing system even after the final work has been completed and handed over so that a client is satisfied. As in the long run it is the credibility which will count, feels Ormon. Plumbing is another technical job which is usually handled by experienced plumbers; it needs to be monitored on a consistent basis.

Ormon further said that other problems contractors usually face include masonry, for example all building material swells and shrivels due to changes in temperature.

Sometime concrete block cures and water evaporates, due to shrinkage. Clay brick also absorb moisture and expands permanently. Escalating cost of materials like concrete, steel and drywall, equipments and on top of this rising fuel cost has become a equipment magazine

into contracts and are unable to pass on the escalated cost to the clients. After all we treat this as the cost of doing business and won’t take any extra payments for the sake of future contracts.

Shane Ormon has elaborated more about the work which his company usually undertakes pertaining to office building/ warehouse, service facilities, retail shopping centers, tenant build out etc., on his website www.shaneormoncmd-inc.com. Other listing on the website pertains to details about the completed projects design and build concept with photo gallery. Ormon has claimed on his company’s website that their goal is to work with the client in an effort to ensure that the completed building has both the look they inspired for and the functionality they require. Such a bold statement by the contractor would go a long way in building the reputation of the construction work done by Ormon.

After having a look at the Ormon’s website one can say that Shane Ormon is indeed a professional construction contractor whose work would be remembered by one and all in the long run. ☐ PAGE 9

Office Matters

10 Tips

FOR Motivating Employees

Practically every employee expects the same things from their job: interesting work, a good salary and recognition for their contributions. However, most organizations grapple with maintaining the energy and enthusiasm of their work force. You need to create personalized strategies to tap each employee’s full potential.

M

anagers spend a lot of time and energy in trying to figure out how to get the most out of their employees. In an article for HRWorld. com, Margaret Steen has compiled the following list of handy tips to ensure that your employees remain passionate about their job:

Ask What They Want Out of Work One of the easiest ways to boost employee morale is to show that you care about their goals. Ask them specific questions to figure out what they are looking for. Michael Beasley - a career-development and executive coach who owns Career-Crossings in Portola Valley (California) – told Steen that employers should ask workers about former projects which motivated them. It helps if you can figure out which aspects of such projects appealed to your employee and can be repeated.

Consider Each Employee’s Age and Life-Stage Whilst there are exceptions to every generalization, remember that workers nearing the end of their careers are probably less interested in a promotion than those who are just PAGE 10 equipment magazine www.eq-mag.com - APRIL 2011

starting to scale the corporate ladder. Similarly, younger workers might feel more restless than their older counterparts if they are assigned tasks which they find unappealing.

Match Motivators to the Company or Department Culture It has been noticed that people who regularly opt for specific departments or industries have certain traits in common. For instance, an engineer is more likely to be interested in working on a cutting-edge project. Similarly, a person in sales will frequently use monetary indicators to ascertain whether a project deserves their attention.

Pinpoint Each Employee’s Personality While some people enjoy public adulation, others might be mortified by it. Factor in the personality of your employee into your rewarding system. Similarly, match projects with workers whose personalities are best suited for relevant roles.

Use Flexibility Wisely Some jobs cannot be achieved effectively outside an office environment. This is largely because an office eliminates certain distractions and helps to create a marked divide between a person’s personal and professional space. But remember that they are no universal solutions. Allow your employees occasional benefits such as telecommuting or the establishment of customtailored working hours. This makes their lives more manageable apart from telling them that they are a trusted and valued part of your organization.

Put Money in its Place There is no simple, direct correlation between money and motivation. An employee’s demand for a raise might actually be hinting at a lack of satisfaction or sense of worth within the organizational structure. Dee DiPietro - Founder and CEO of Advanced-HR Inc. – described money as a “baseline” to Steen.

While nobody wants to feel that their employer is taking advantage of them, bear in mind that the motivation to work harder rarely depends solely on money. If your workers do not go the extra mile despite being paid competent salaries, then throwing more money at them is not going to solve any problems.

promise long-term employment. Leslie G. Griffen - Managing Partner of Career Management Associates in Overland Park (Kansas) told Steen that youngsters have realized that they need to keep on learning simply to stay employable. They are constantly under pressure to acquire knowledge and their jobs should provide more avenues for the

Dee DiPietro - Founder and CEO of Advanced-HR Inc. – described money as a “baseline” to Steen. While nobody wants to feel that their employer is taking advantage of them, bear in mind that the motivation to work harder rarely depends solely on money. same. One way to achieve this is through organized classes and seminars along with tuition-reimbursement programs. However, in most cases, this is simply a matter of tuning into what skills your employee is interested in acquiring and then giving them an opportunity to work on a project which will develop these skills.

Remember that Motivation isn’t Always the Answer It is important to learn to let go as sometimes your best intentions and efforts will not bear fruit. Not everyone can be motivated to perform a specific job. If your employee would rather be doing something else, then it may be a good idea to encourage them to pursue something new. ☐

Do Not Rely on Stock Options Stock options are even more unreliable motivators than money.

Very few workers are comfortable with the idea that their worth will vary according to their company’s stock price. DiPietro told Steen that stock options should be treated as “retention tools”.

However, most employees club them together with their salaries while ascertaining the amount that they are being paid for their work.

Offer Help with Career Goals While determining the kind of work which an employee enjoys, also try to understand what they envision for their future. Try to offer your worker opportunities which are in tandem with these goals. By allowing them to build the skills and connections they need to advance in their career, you will build loyalty and boost motivation.

Help Employees Learn It is crucial that workers keep on acquiring new skills and competencies through their job. In the contemporary scenario, people switch jobs at the drop of a hat and most companies do not APRIL 2011

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Venezuela Purchases Construction Equipment from China

Rafael Ramírez, the president of state-run oil company Petróleos de Venezuela (Pdvsa), said that under the agreements signed with the Asian country, Venezuela will be able to overcome bottlenecks in the construction of houses. Venezuela's President Hugo Chávez

Frías announced that his government will purchase equipment and machinery from China to build housing solutions.

Chávez signed two agreements with XCMG, a leading construction machinery manufacturer and provider, to purchase equipment

and setup a joint venture for the production of construction machinery.

The Venezuelan Head of State said that "imports of machinery will be made through loans, because the Chinese government has granted us a credit line."

Molson Appointed Official Kubota Construction Equipment Dealer Molson was appointed Kubota dealer for the southwest last September, covering Bristol, Gloucestershire, Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset.

Since then, the Avonmouth-based dealer is reckoned to have sold a new Kubota machine almost every day. This success has resulted in Molson’s additional appointment as the official Kubota Construction Equipment dealer for the South Wales area, with effect from 1 May 2011.

Molson managing director Jonathan Wilson said: “Kubotas are great products and they are also very nice people to work with. So far it has gone extremely well, we have sold products from across the entire range, which is allowing us to increase our share of the mini excavator market in this area”.

Molson, founded in 1996, is one of the largest independent dealers in new and used construction equipment in the UK. It also represents Hyundai, Ammann, Yanmar, Kobelco, Kawasaki and Kato.

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Rapid Growth in Construction Machinery Market of Saudi Arabia Construction projects in Saudi Arabia are expected to be worth around SR237.4 billion ($63.2 billion) in 2012 as the Saudi Government proceeds with its ninth Five-Year Development Plan.

The rapid expansion of the sector is driving parallel growth in the kingdom's construction machinery market, which is expected to expand further by 20 per cent through 2015.

The Saudi 2011 budget is funding construction-intensive, multi-billion-riyal projects ranging from ports and roads to rail networks and communications facilities which will require more heavy-duty machinery and equipment.

The upcoming Saudi Build - The PMV Series 2011, The Second International Exhibition for Construction Equipment, Plant, Machinery and Vehicles, will address the demand by gathering exhibitors from the world to showcase their latest and best products.

Organised by the Riyadh Exhibitions Company, the series will take place from May 29 to June 1, at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre. It will host ex-

hibitors from Germany, China, the UAE, India and an official pavilion from Turkey.

'Over the next five years, infrastructural enhancements will account for a significant portion of Saudi development activities,' said series project manager Kamil Al Jawhari. 'The series offers local, regional and international solutions that can help Saudi Arabia acquire the machinery and equipment it needs to maintain its construction targets. 'The event is also an effective springboard for exhibitors to explore the broader Middle Eastern markets and be involved in some of the region's top construction programmes.'

The series will showcase a premium selection of heavy construction machinery and equipment, including trucks, mining tools and machinery, tower cranes, lathes and industrial workshops' tools and machinery, aluminium profiling and cutting machines and ready-mix concrete plants.

Construction Equipment Sales Expected to Reach 2007 levels Construction equipment sales in China, India, Japan, North America and Western Europe are set to grow +8.5% this year to 807665 machines, according to data from Off-Highway Research.

This figure will take sales back above the volume of 782661 units seen at the previous high point in 2007.

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EXPO PREVIEW

Get Acquainted with Two Great Expos This April

by EQ Conference and webinar TEAM

E

xplaining more details about 2011 Dallas Auto Show, David Thomas, Chairman revealed that for 30 years, everyone in the auto industry be it manufacturers, franchised new car dealers and auto show staff have worked harder to produce a classic world-class Dallas Auto Show. It was in 1982, various local car dealers including Classic BMW’s Lee Maas came into forefront to bring a springtime auto show to the Dallas area. At that time Dallas Market Hall was the first venue of the show with a catch phrase of ‘The Cars are the Stars’.

At that time only one hall was utilized for the show out of the two halls provided. But today due to the enormous popularity of the Auto show, exhibit space has grown 10 times at the Dallas Convention Centre to a half million square feet.

From April 7 – 10, the Dallas Auto Show will provide an important opportunity to spend some time having interaction with product specialists and knowledgeable salesperson that would showcase their modern products and services. During the course of the exhibition various domestic and imported passenger cars, trucks, concept cars, sport utility vehicles and automotive components would be on display. Other products that will be the highlight of the show would be auto accessories, batteries, oil & lubricants, auto components, petrol vending machines, auto products and accessories, automotive lighting, car care equipment, chassis & body parts, garage / service station equipment, coach & auto bodies builders, competition vehicles, antique & collector cars More than 35 major manufactures would participate under one roof revealing their exciting range of products. Some of the manufacturers include: Audi, BMW, Bugatti, Acura, Bentley, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Cadillac, Ferrari, Ford, GMC, Honda, Jaguar, Kia, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Lincoln, Rolls-

About Dallas Convention Center Dallas Convention Center the venue of the Dallas Auto show is located at downtown Dallas, Texas (USA) offers a colossal exhibit area or more than 1 million sq ft. The venue is internationally acclaimed and has the capability to hold international events of any capacity or size. The convention center offers value added features like an arena with a facility with 9,816 seats, a theater having seating capacity of up to 1,750 guests and 96 meeting rooms. Due to its exceptional professional services the Dallas Convention Center is considered one of the most efficiently run centers in America. Parking facility is available at the convention center’s underground parking lot or in lots surrounding the DCC. The average fee at the convention center is between $8-10 depending on the lot. Shuttles to the DCC are available from remote parking lots Friday through Sunday.

How to reach at the show? One of the most convenient ways to get to the show is by taking DART. The DART train station is directly behind the Dallas Convention Center and within easy walking distance to the front door. By taking DART, you will avert all of the traffic and the cost of parking.

Show Information Date: April 7-10, 2011 Time: • Thursday: 4 to 10 p.m.

• Friday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Saturday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Sunday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Ticket Prices: • $12 for adults • $5 for senior citizens • Children 12 and under admitted free

• $1 discount coupon (off regular admission) • Available at participating franchised new car dealerships

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Royce, Saab, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo etc.

The show would provide exporters, manufacturers, traders and importers a common platform to exchange their information to each others. Earlier Blaine Siske, Executive Director for Southwest Automotive Aftermarket Show said, this show is designed to give a boost to existing market channels with aftermarket retailers and installers. It is the place where new relationships are build with new car dealers and building market demand with car, truck, SUV and motor sports enthusiast.

Revealing more about the Dallas Auto Show, Thomas commented that this year the show’s focus would be on “green” vehicles emphasizing hybrids including all-electric and fuelefficient vehicles. Some of the “green” vehicles which will be on display at the event include: the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, Silverado 1500 Hybrid, the Ford Fusion Hybrid etc.

Moreover the concept vehicles would also be on display showcasing the future trend.

Some of the highlights would include displaying of 2012 Volkswagen EOS, 2012 Aston Martin Virage, the 2012 Bentley Continental GT, the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, the Chevrolet Stingray Concept, the 2012 Ford Focus, the Ford C-Max Prototype, the 2012 Hyundai Veloster, the 2012 Mazda Mazda5, the 2012 McLaren MP4-12C etc. The website of the Dallas Auto Show suggests visitors to keep come with their cameras in order to shoot photos of cool cars as a memoir.

The other attractions of the show would include Southwest Automotive Aftermarket Show which will bring together consumers, car dealers and automotive aftermarket companies. A child security/identification system titled Operation kidSafe sponsored by Univision would help taking children’s pictures and capture their fingerprints with the sole record of the visit going home with the family. On Saturday and Sunday, April 9 and 10, experts would discuss the safe installation children’s car safety seats. During the presentation twenty certified safety seats will be provided. Earlier The Southwest Automotive Aftermarket Show (SAAS) would also organize various industry training seminars from April 8-10 at the Dallas Convention Center in conjunction with the show. These seminars have been designed for aftermarket trade and new car dealers. Kelly McDonald will present featured workshops called "How to Market to People Who Are Not Like You: the NEW Market Segmentation". The workshop will focus at the hottest new market segments and how they're shaping culture. Attendees APRIL 2011

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at the seminar will discover the key emotional drivers for important target segments. Other important sessions would cover topics like Maximizing Nitrogen Tire Inflation Revenue", presented by Automotive Equipment Sales and Service, and "Waterborne Paint....For Cars? The Next New Wave", presented by Sherwin-Williams. Sony Mobile Audio would also impart various training sessions covering the latest trends and advancements in mobile electronics. The entry to these sessions is by invitation only.

Northeastern Wisconsin Truck Expo The other event which is the highlight of the month of April is Northeastern Wisconsin Truck Expo which will be held for two days on 14 and 15 April 2011. This event’s hallmark is quality versus quantity. The exhibition is in its 24th year. During this expo exhibitor showcases the latest trends, accessories and equipments prevailing in the trucking industry. In this exhibition trucks of all sizes are displayed. The average attendance to the show is 2000 people in the age ranges from 35 to 54 years. The show attracts operators, owners, mechanics, buyers and instructors.

There would be around 55 vendors including Kenworth, Peterbilt, Mack, International, Freightliner and Isuzu in two buildings the equipments which are showcased in these events include truck equipment, refrigerated trailers, parts and servicing etc. Visitors get a chance to come face to face with various truck dealers and trailer dealers at the event.

Thursday night has been reserved as a VIP equipment magazine

night, entrance to which is by invitation only.

VIP Night is based on Hawaiian theme. This special night would attract around 1200 people. A free pig-roast buffet is available for attendees along with drink tickets that the exhibitors receive. Friday is open to the public and average is 800. During the course of the exhibition, there will be a Job Fair on Friday only. Entrance of the job fair is free for attendees. On Friday there will be an array of seminars.

About the Venue The Brown County Veterans Memorial Arena has been Northeast Wisconsin’s and Upper Michigan’s choice for a wide variety of events for 40 years. ShopKo Hall with an area of 43,680 square feet without pillars or columns has remained the ideal place for trade shows, seminars and conventions since 1986. Earlier this multi-purpose hall had hosted various expos, banquets, regional seminars and national conventions.

Show Information April 14-15, 2011 Location: Shopko Hall at Brown County Memorial Veterans Complex 1901 South Oneida Street Green Bay, WI US 54304 Admission: Adults $5.00 Thursday 3:00 9:00 pm - By invitation only

Friday1:00 - 7:00 pm Contact information PMI Entertainment Group Sara Klemme Sales & Event Coordinator PO Box 10567 Green Bay, WI 54307-0567 sara.klemme @pmiwi.com (920) 405-1199 Office PAGE 15

SAFETY ROUNDUP CRC and ICHC Conferences Following one-day conferences to be held later this month during ConExpo-Con/Agg in Las Vegas and ProMat in Chicago, Maximum Capacity Media announces the dates for the second Crane & Rigging Conference (CRC) and Industrial Crane & Hoist Conference (ICHC) to be held this summer with Reach Expo. The event returns to Houston, Texas, July 19-20. Visit www.reachexpo2011. com for details. Proposed session topics include technical discussions of load charts and rigging; risk management topics addressing how to limit your exposure in an accident. ☐

South Korea to Implement Quake Resistant Construction Codes The Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs announced Friday it will beef up quake-resistance standards for lowstory buildings. As fears about earthquakes are growing amid the on-going disaster in Japan, the Korean government is gravely concerned about the safety of its buildings, and is attempting to adopt construction codes that require a standard design even for one or two-story structures. Under the current laws, only buildings that are over three stories or 13 meters high with a total floor area of 1000-square-meters must be built with an earthquake-proof design. In Korea, however, 84 percent of buildings have less than two stories, which could make the nation more vulnerable to a large scale earthquake. ☐

by EQ SAFETY AND WORKPLACE TEAM

Safety, the Focus of Newly Built EMD Serono 115,000 Square Feet Research Center EMD Serono, Inc., an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, has opened its state-of-the-art research center in Billerica, MA. Jones Lang LaSalle is the project’s Construction Manager. The Billerica facility accommodates over 115,000 square feet (sf) of lab and office space, consisting of: 25,000 sf of chemistry and screening labs; 25,000 sf biology and cell culture labs; 22,000 sf of general lab support space; 20,000 sf of office and conference rooms; and 23,000 sf of mechanical space. EMD Serono is committed to environmental responsibility and the project is working toward Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.

The entire project team also had a strong commitment to safety starting during the design phase right through occupancy and operation. The project kicked off with a program at Harvard University titled “Safety in Design and Construction, A Lifecycle Approach” which was tailored to the EMD Serono project. Using principals discussed during this seminar and developed by the project team the new facility was constructed with no lost time or recorded injuries for a project that took over 370,000 man hours to construct. ☐ EMD Serono Research Center

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Britain’s Ucatt Reviews Safety Regulations Recruitment bosses in Britain are denying union claims that employment agencies are flouting safety laws by requiring workers to provide their own personal protective equipment. Construction union Ucatt raised the issue at a meeting of health and safety body Coniac yesterday. Executive council member Dennis Doody said: “Increasingly Ucatt officials are finding that agencies are forcing workers to supply their own PPE. “This is against safety regulations and given growing concerns about fake and counterfeit PPE, being available in the construction industry, places already vulnerable workers at greater risk of injury.” But leaders of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation said the union had got its facts wrong.

Tom Hadley, the REC’s Director of Policy and Professional Services said: “Claims made by Ucatt today seem to have missed the point that many people working in construction are self-employed and, under the current regulations, would be expected to provide their own PPE along with the tools of their trade. “In a demand-led industry like construction, being selfemployed, for the vast majority of the workforce, is a matter of choice. “Our ongoing work with bodies like the Health and Safety Executive and our members speaks volumes about our commitment to health and safety regulations.“We have never denied that occasionally there are examples of bad practice, which is exactly why the REC sits on committees like Coniac along with Ucatt – to help eliminate these poor practices. “We welcome

Quality and Safety Workshops by NC Military Business Center Record-setting construction expenditures aboard Camp Lejeune and New River have many in the region eager to take advantage of contracting opportunities, and a set of workshops offered at Coastal Carolina Community College by the North Carolina Military Business Center were designed to help them do just that.

On Thursday, professionals from around Eastern North Carolina attended a daylong conference on quality assurance and quality control, the keys to completing a government contract successfully and satisfactorily after receiving the work.

Completing a federal military contract can be daunting, said seminar instructor Paulanne Page, military construction specialist for NCMBC. “With the economy and with the competition, a lot of new APRIL 2011

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complaints from workers and employers through our complaints procedure if they are concerned about the actions of any REC members.

These issues are investigated and action taken if we believe that our Code of Professional Conduct has been broken.

“The REC and its dedicated Construction group are more than happy to meet with UCATT and discuss how to promote health and safety regulations to the industry.”

contractors have chosen to enter the federal arena; and at times, they’ve certainly felt that they’ve been ill-equipped for the transition,” she said.

And the basics of maintaining safety and quality on the job applied to contractors and workers of all sizes, she said.

“They have the same needs for quality control and safety, whether they are working out of a pickup truck or are from a large business,” she said.

Both sides of the spectrum were represented at the seminar, with attendees including primary and sub-contractors, small business owners, architects and entrepreneurs.

Major Williamson, of the landscaping and maintenance company Enviro AgScience, Inc., said he had just moved from Columbia, S.C., to Jacksonville to help his company set up a new office, all in anticipation of ongoing work aboard Camp Lejeune. Enviro AgScience was recently awarded a contract for work on a new detention facility aboard the base, which broke ground on Friday.

Williamson said he hoped the work would create even more jobs for local equipment magazine

businesses. “We’re a big proponent of ‘buy local,’ so we want to be sure that we extend an opportunity for local firms to be involved while we’re building,” he said. The information basics shared at the seminar had been helpful, he said, as were opinions and experiences shared by other attendees who had worked on military contracts in the past.

“There was good sharing, a lot of sharp folks talking about different situations,” he said. “Every contract has its own little quirks, so you got to hear people talk about the different challenges they faced.” Gerald DeVito, a military veteran and managing director of Progressive Land Development Consultants in Wilmington, said he had come to get required safety information for his business, and also to learn about contracting around Camp Lejeune. “We need to learn everything we can about it, since all the work is here,” he said.

DeVito said he has advised others in the field to do the same. “I’m trying to get the engineering community in Wilmington to get into the avenue of military work, since there is work here,” he said. ☐ PAGE 17

SKID STE Skid-Steer Round-up

GROWING TO BE THE NUMERO UNO CHOICE FOR CONTRACTORS Introduction

A skid steer as the name indicates is a vehicle which can be maneuvered by skid steering – a method of steering through braking or engaging the wheels on one side of the vehicle. The wheels cannot be steered and hence the skid steering vehicle is turned by generating differential velocity on opposite sides of the vehicle. Pivot steering is an interesting maneuver, where standing in a single position the vehicle’s direction can be changed without having to drive forward or reverse it.

Skid Steers Uses The early version of the skid-steer loader had a bucket and was typically used for cleanup activities on roads and bridge construction sites. It was a rugged vehicle and had limited use. But those days are gone.

Today the vehicle can handle just about anything and take on almost any activity.

Like a Swiss Army knife its attachments give it absolute flexibility to perform various tasks.

It has, therefore, risen in rank to be the contractor’s number one equipment of choice.

Skid Steer Attachments Used heavily in the construction, farming and demolition businesses, skid steer attachments are designed to make these jobs easier. As maneuver equipment, it has several sterling features that bring great benefits and advantages to the user.

The backhoe is a popular attachment.

Used for digging the earth, the skid-steer makes this labor intensive activity extremely management. The skid steer can move or remove materials and it also has the capacity to dig large amounts of materials.

Another attachment is called the `bucket’.

This attachment is used for loading construction material such as asphalt, gravel, logs, PAGE 18 equipment magazine www.eq-mag.com - APRIL 2011

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SKID STEER - THE NUMERO UNO CHOICE FOR CONTRACTORS The skid steer with a bucket used typically for cleanup activities is passé. Today the vehicle can handle just about anything and take on almost any activity. Like a Swiss Army knife its attachments give it absolute flexibility to perform various tasks.

The attachments can be contained to an essential few or can include a mind boggling number. It all depends on the individual’s preference. Today, the skid steer has risen in rank to be the contractor’s number one equipment of choice.

Used heavily in the construction, farming and demolition businesses, skid steer attachments are designed to make these jobs easier. As maneuver equipment, it has several sterling features that bring great benefits and advantages to the user.

For buyers, the best way to decide on a skid steer is to not only assess the reason for purchase in the short term but to also weigh all those possibilities which might crop up in the long term. The number of attachments will continue to grow and while today there are around thirty options available, at least another fifteen are in the offing.

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sand, rocks etc. Loading material is very easy using a skid steer. It groups things that needed to be piled and transfers it from one place to another without manual intervention.

The blade is a preferred skid steer attachment that cuts through snow or soil. As the name indicates the blade is a cutting device and is very useful for clearing sidewalks, pavements piled high with snow.

Grapple rake is another attachment used extensively for farming purposes. It is used for cleaning work and works for all those stuff for which a bucket may not work. For example fallen leaves, branches, hay and other organic material, using the skid steer grapple rake attachment can be piled together.

Last, but not least is the hammer attachment which is used in construction and demolition activities. It can break rocks, concrete into pieces making it easy to be hauled and transferred. This attachment is extremely useful for breaking a wall or a tough structure. While this is a list of some of the more common attachments, there are several more available making the skid steer one of the most versatile of its kind of vehicle. Some of the newer attachments such as rock saws; scrap shears etc require a higher powered unit, the common ones work on most all options of skid steers available in the market.

There are a few attachments which do not perform any function, but enable the better functioning of another attachment. For example, manufacturers offer treads which do not perform any task but slip over skid steer wheels to make the unit work in soft or sandy sites. And on other side you have solid tire attachments used for making skid steers work on hard surfaces. These kinds of add-ons are available in huge numbers and give us a sense of how much is actually available, reinforcing the fact that the skid steer is almost limitless in its potential. Like an old Swiss Army knife, the attachments can be contained to an essential few or can include a mind boggling number. It all depends on the individual’s preference.

The three big names in the skid-steer business are Case Corp, Melroe Co. and New Holland Inc. and these companies together offer an extensive range of attachments. There are other manufacturers too on the market and many of them offer predictable attachments such as back hoes and utility blades but these three companies offer surprising options in the kinds of attachments they come out with like even a cement mixer, for example. However, a skid steer is not meant to provide competition to those units which are actually made for cement

Roundup of New Products Vermeer Vermeer Manufacturing Co.’s S600tx rubber track mini-skid steer features a spring-cushioned platform and two joystick controls to enhance balance.

With a width of 35.75 inches it can be maneuvered into confined areas.

New Holland The LS185.B and LS190.B skid steer loaders from New Holland come with 2500 and 2800 lbs. operating capacity. Spring-applied hydraulic released brakes give it reliable parking, even on slopes.

Compact Power Boxer Brute TRX has a compact footprint of 44 inches by

70 inches and an operating capacity of 900 lbs. It can handle nearly 50 universal compact utility attachments.

Bobcat

Bobcat’s new T140 compact track loader is 56 inches wide and 124 inches long with bucket and has a 1400 lbs. operating capacity.

McLaughlin The McLaughlin Horizontal Boring Attachment is attached to a

mini skid steer loader using a quick –attach system and is powered by the hydraulic of the loader. This versatile attachment installs irrigation pipes, sprinkler systems, CATV and utility lines under landscaped areas, lawns, driveways, sidewalks and bushes without the costly surface damage and restoration.

Toro The Toro Co.'s new trench filler attachment allows operators to fill trenches in a single pass. Developed for use with the Dingo compact utility loader, the trench filler is equipped with two sets of opposing augers that direct the spoils from the sides of the trench back into the hole.

ASV ASV's new rubber track loader, the SR-80, is built on a new ISR-4 undercarriage with 20-in. rubber tracks, a multi-level suspension and four wheel carriages on each side that flex independently.

Power Trac PowerTrac's PT-2425 and PT-425 both have articulated steering and low ground pressure to reduce turf damage. Both are 45-in. wide with 800-lb. lift capacity and 4-wheel hydrostatic drive.

Gehl Gehl Co.'s line of E-Series Skid Loaders includes six new skid loaders, from the compact Model 3640E with a rated operating load of 1,175 lbs. to the Model 6640E with a load of 2,900 lbs.

Ditch Witch

The Ditch Witch SK650's 31.5-hp Kubota diesel engine and hydraulic system give it the muscle to do the jobs of much larger machines.

Finn Corp.

Finn Corp.'s Eagle compact skid steer comes in three models: 204, with 20-hp Kohler Command Pro; 244D, with 23.5 hp Cat diesel; and 252 with 25-hp Kohler Command Pro. Its 3,000 psi parallel hydraulic system provides full power simultaneously to all functions.

Caterpillar The Caterpillar 268B Skid Steer Loader features the high flow XPS hydraulic system, a load sensing, pressure-compensating system that delivers maximum power regardless of work tool speed or load.

Mustang Mustang Manufacturing Co.'s skid steer Model 2026 is designed for access to tight areas at 70.3 in. tall and 48.4 in. wide. It features 1,050 lbs. operating load, 35 hp engine, hands-only steering and hydraulic controls and automatic brake and hydraulic lock system.

Woods Equipment Co. Woods Equipment offers a wide variety of skid steer attachments, including the Model 6500 and 7500 General Purpose, 3-Point Hitch Mounted Backhoes.

Hyundai R110-7 and R110D-7 models have an improved Computer Aided Power Optimization system that allows greater productivity through superior controls.

Some of the other models and Kanga, John Deere, Case IH, Yanmar, Komatsu, Kubota, JCB, Thomas Equipment, Volvo, and Ramrod.

PAGE 20 equipment magazine www.eq-mag.com - APRIL 2011

mixing. These vehicles do have their uses, especially for smaller, quick jobs, contractors can hire or rent a quick skid steer and thus cut down on traditional mixing techniques and speed up jobs at reduced costs.

Setting aside skeptics raised eyebrows on `skid-steer? Cement mixing??’ - The fact remains that these vehicles are outperforming themselves in versatility. An important point to be noted is that, most times, it is not the skid steer manufacturers themselves who bring out the attachments. The cement mixer offered by Case dealers is actually a Palm Mixer. However, in spite of a secondparty involvement, the quality of the product is vouched for by the company.

One of the disadvantages of this second party involvement is that all attachments may not work on one model of skid steer. To explain, if a person has invested in an older model of a Melroe Bobcat, and decides to upgrade it with a new attachment, there is no guarantee that the attachment will work on the older model, and might require a coupler, which is probably why Melroe says they offer 35-plus different attachments and that many of them are universal but some may require couplers to be swapped! As of today there really is no universal coupler available

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How to choose the right Skid Steer?

For buyers, the best way to decide on a skid steer is to not only assess the reason for purchase in the short term but to also weigh all those possibilities which might crop up in the long term. While a hydraulic-hammer attachment is one of the more popular attachments today, it requires a high flow hydraulic and will this be required in the future is a point to be carefully considered.

Many skid-steer manufacturers believe that the number of attachments will continue to grow. While today there are around thirty options available, there are at least another fifteen waiting to be released.

in the market. While it appears that attachment manufacturers would prefer to have an industry standard coupler, skid-steer manufacturers are still steering towards offering one universal style and another which is the `house brand’ outfitted to suit the skid-steer brand identity.

But the good news is that the trend is slowly slanting towards universality and the

equipment magazine

industry is leaning towards industry market leader Melroe. However, even if the time comes when there will be one universal coupler, even then it does not mean that this coupler will work on all attachments. For some attachments, high-flow hydraulics is required and sometimes the cost of the skid-steer is determined by the performance level of its hydraulics. ☐

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Product NEWS IAWP-7.3 AERIAL WORK PLATFORM FROM ABSOLUTE E-Z UP With a zero inside and 39-in. outside turning radius, the compact, 965-lb. IAWP-7.3 selfpropelled industrial aerial work platform easily maneuvers within tight quarters. It measures 43"L x 30"W x 59" with a 397-lb. maximum capacity. It can be driven at its full working height of 14 ft. The direct drive system provides 270 complete duty cycles (lift up and down) or the ability to drive over 12 miles on a single charge. It has 35% gradeability and a maximum drive speed of 1.9 mph. and fully proportional lift and drive joystick controls.

843/388-2556; www. absolutee-zup.com

ROADVISTA MODEL 922 FROM PROFESSIONAL PAVEMENT PRODUCTS INC. The model 922 handheld sign retroreflectometer is designed to measure the retroreflection of road signs and other materials.

The 922 measures observation angles of 0.2 and 0.5 degrees simultaneously, with and entrance angle of -4 degrees and can store more than 4,500 measurements. An internal GPS and barcode reader is standard. Meets ASTM, CIE, and DIN specifications. It measures all types of retroreflective materials with a single measurement,it meets ASTM, CIE, BS, EN, and DIN specification. It has built-in GPS and barcode reader and LCD touch screen. It stores 4,500 measurements and data-logging software included.

904/733-2121; www.pppcatalog.com

WIRELESS REMOTE WELDING CONTROLS FROM MILLER ELECTRIC MGF. Co. These wireless remote welding controls improve p r o d u c t i v i t y, eliminate clutter, cord tangles and cord failures and extend the operator's welding range without adding cord extensions. The Wireless Remote Hand Control for Stick, TIG, MIG and Flux Cored welding allows parameters to be adjusted for different joint configurations, electrodes and wire types/sizes at the point of use and the other one, Wireless Remote Foot Control, allows amperage adjustment at the point of use, and is designed for TIG welding in manufacturing, fabrication and plant applications. The CONEXPO/ CON-AGG Booth No. is G-254 920/734-9821; www.millerwelds.com

ROTELLA ENERGIZED PROTECTION PRODUCTS FROM SHELL LUBRICANTS Shell Lubricants introduces new Rotella Energized Protection products.

The Rotella Energized Protection product portfolio is led by three premium heavy-duty engine oils that are part of a tiered, easy to understand, ladder of protection.

The Rotella T5 10W-30 Synthetic Blend Technology delivers better fuel economy; the updated Rotella T6 Full Synthetic offers improved viscosity protection; Rotella T Triple Protection features an enhanced engine wear claim. Rotella T5 and T6 are also available.

They can meet requirements of on- and off-highway equipment, including the latest vehicles fitted with diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and catalysts.

713/241-6161; www.shell.us

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BID-WELL 5000 AUTOMATIC ROLLER SP SERIES ENGINES FROM SUBARU ROBIN Subaru Robin introduces the 5.7-hp, 169cc SP170 engine and 7-hp, 211cc SP210 air-cooled engines which provide more power and easier starts, while minimizing noise and emissions. The new SP engines feature chain-driven OHC technology and a hemispherical combustion chamber. The engines intake and exhaust valves positioned to lower resistance for the air/fuel mixture. They have easy one-pull starts, with no perceptible kickback. The cooling technology forces air over large, slanted cooling fins cast into the mounting base, cylinder and interior and exterior crankcase.

They incorporate cast-iron cylinder liners, dual ball bearings and high-quality piston rings.

PAVER FROM TEREX ROADBUILDING The Bid-Well 5000 Automatic Roller Paver is designed for highperformance concrete paving on projects ranging from airport runways, taxiways and aprons to highways. It has self-widening leg design, standard 15-ft. frame insert for up to 12-ft. leg travel, truss construction with 48-in. truss depth, pave widths from 8 to 68 ft., truss inserts in 3-, 6-, 12-, 15- and 18-ft. or customized sizes. It can set crown points at any hinge on the frame or standard power crown adjustment at the primary crown point. It has 35-hp engine, dual vibration system to consolidate pavements up to 32 in. thick; Rota-Vibe vibration system reconsolidates the top 2.5 in. of concrete for a denser, uniform surface; dual 6-ft.-long paving rollers for surface smoothness.

405/787-6020; www.terexrb.com

847/540-7300; www.subarupower.com

LIFTPOD FS60 FROM JLG INDUSTRIES, INC. JLG Industries, Inc., has just added the FS60 to the LiftPod line of aerial work platforms. It is ANSI A92.3-2006/ CSA B354.1-04 compliant, and the new liftpod has casters on the back wheels.

The unit has a 30-in. base which allows it to fit through small hallways, doorways and even larger elevators.

With an enclosed platform, 12-ft. working height and 6-ft. standing height, the unit allows workers to move hands-free in a 360° range of motion. The FS60 consists of three components weighing about 50 lbs. and is powered by an 18-v drill.

717/ 485-6417; www.jlg.com APRIL 2011

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FD4000 FRONT DISCHARGE MIXER FROM TEREX ROADBUILDING FD4000 Front Discharge Mixer is powered by 2010 EPAcompliant Detroit Diesel/ MTU Series 1300 engine.

There are three power package options: 350 hp at 1,350-ft.-lb. torque; 380 hp at 1,450-ft-lb. torque; or 450 hp at 1,550-ft.-lb. torque. It is for Terex 3-, 4-, 5-, 6- and 7-axle front discharge trucks. It has electronic control module automatically senses if truck is carrying a load of concrete and drives the loadbased shift scheduling to match shift patterns to truck's load. The Allison RDS4500 transmission automatically eases engine torque when shifting to reduce stress on the transmission. CONEXPOCON/AGG Booth No. 140.

405/787-6020; www.terexrb.com equipment magazine

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SPECIAL REPORT

Japanese Crisis

Manufacturers Expect Production Delays In separate reports, both Caterpillar Inc. and Deere & Co. have warned of production and delivery delays as a result of the devastating earthquake and tsunami that ravaged parts of Japan

A

ccording to MarketWatch.com, Caterpillar Inc. – the world’s largest manufacturer of construction equipment - warned of probable global production delays apart from the ones registered at its facilities in Japan following the recent earthquake.

Till recently, Caterpillar Inc. had been expected to be a key player in the reconstruction efforts in Japan and had been claiming that supply-chain disruptions in Japan had not influenced production outside the country. The Illinois-based Caterpillar also said that its plants in Japan were not damaged by the March 11 quake which had led to a partial meltdown at a nuclear facility north of Tokyo. However, a statement released by the company admitted that factories around the world “…may be sporadically impacted as a result of the situation in Japan…” The company has 110 plants around the world. It is also important to note that Caterpillar had shifted its regional headquarters from Tokyo to Beijing more than four years ago.

Caterpillar’s Akashi and Sagami plants build hydraulic excavators, while the Tokyo office serves as headquarters for Caterpillar Japan. MarketWatch.com also revealed that the company employs approximately 5,000 workers in the country.

The company is also actively trying to develop alternate sources for parts supplied out of Japan to ensure that it is prepared for the worst-case scenario. MarketWatch.com stated that Caterpillar’s shares

had risen 1.9% to finish at $105.48 as part of a broad market rebound on 18th March, 2011. The stock - a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA 11,859, +83.93, +0.71%) - had already surged 76% in the past year.

While the Dow was still lingering in overall negative territory since the disaster, Caterpillar had managed to rise 7%. Forexpros.com added that Caterpillar’s machinery sales had accelerated in the threemonth period through February through dealers. This had been led by a significantly stronger demand in Latin America.

Marketwatch.com reported that global industrial firms were still assessing the impact of the devastation in Japan. However, the impact of supply-chain disruptions was beginning to make its presence felt worldwide. General Motors Co. (GM 31.85, +0.41, +1.30%) announced on 17th March, 2011 that it would suspend production at its Shreveport, La. assembly plant.

AllHeadlineNews.com revealed that the plant employs more than 900 workers who build Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks.

A day earlier, Standard & Poor’s Equity Research analyst Michael Jaffe had claimed that Caterpillar was expected to be one of the primary companies to capitalize on Japan’s reconstruction efforts.

Jaffe opined that the major rebuilding effort “…should eventually benefit companies that make building materials and construction equipment…” He also noted that Cat-

erpillar had the largest footprint in the AsiaPacific region amongst all the stocks that he covered.

Caterpillar's dealer-reported retail sales were up 59 percent from a year earlier in the three months ended in February, an acceleration from the 49 percent pace reported for the three months ended in January.

It was the 10th straight month of improving sales.

Caterpillar's monthly dealer statistics showed 19 consecutive months of declines before a recovery took root in May 2010.

In some months during the downturn, including much of 2009, sales were down 50 percent or more. Caterpillar's increase in the three months through February was led by a 76 percent jump in Latin America, well above the sales growth in that region in the three months through January.

Forexpros.com revealed that the 55 percent increase in North America was down slightly from the prior period's pace, possibly reflecting weather disruptions.

North America was the only region to show a sequential dip, according to a regulatory filing. Sales rose 57 percent in Asia/Pacific and were up 53 percent in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, both regions marking a faster pace than in the prior period, reflecting continued strength among emerging markets. Sales of reciprocating and turbine engines were up 31 percent, the fifth consecutive sequential increase, helped by demand for engines used in petroleum production. Analysts have said sales increases

PAGE 24 equipment magazine www.eq-mag.com - APRIL 2011

are likely to moderate in coming months.

According to AllHeadlineNews.com, Caterpillar’s admission of a potential crisis was the second from a U.S.-based company, and the latest from several manufacturers including Fuji Heavy Industries and Toyota.

Toyota has already stopped production at all its plants in Japan but has assured customers and dealerships in the United States that the impact of the quake and nuclear crisis on North American operations is "limited."

However, there are growing fears that there is going to be a shortage of the Japanese car maker's Prius - the world's most popular hybrid.

Toyota had claimed that battery production plans in Japan were "to be determined" and that every effort was being made to "minimize any long-term impact on Prius availability." Fuji Heavy Industries has likewise halted production at all its Subaru plants, citing its supply chain and issues in the power supply.

In a separate report on online.wsj.com, Deere & Co. (DE) claimed that it expected delivery delays for some construction excavators built under a joint venture with Japanese equipment manufacturer Hitachi. The company – which is the world's largest manufacturer of farm machinery – averred that it was still assessing the effects of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami on the Japanese suppliers that provided components for Deere and Hitachi-branded excavators and Hitachi mining equipment.

In a written statement, the company opined that because of the uncertain situation in Japan, it was too early to assess the impact on “…Deere's overall business…” and “…the supply chain…”

The Moline (Illinois) company said that some of its Japanese suppliers were recovering from disruptions caused by the disaster which leveled coastal towns, killed thousands of people and triggered a crisis at a nuclear power plant that has yet to be resolved.

Under Deere and Hitachi's manufacturing and marketing agreement, Deere is responsible for marketing and selling excavators, mining equipment and compact construction equipment for both brands in North and South Americas.

The joint venture, Deere-Hitachi Construction Machinery Corp., operates an excavator assembly plant in Kernersville, N.C. Deere’s stock closed the regular trading session by rising up by 0.81% at $90.13 a share on 18th March, 2011. The stock was flat in after-hours trading. ☐ APRIL 2011

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