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If exhibitions and summits reveal anything, it’s the speed at which our industry continues to evolve.
That was evident during the World Demolition Summit (WDS) in Nashville, where more than 500 delegates gathered to explore the key challenges and opportunities shaping demolition today.
In my opening speech, I described WDS as a platform where competitors become collaborators, and that spirit was clear throughout the three-day event.
Contractors shared how they’re meeting increasingly stringent regulations and embracing intelligent systems, while manufacturers discussed their efforts to make demolition sites safer and more productive.
These open and constructive conversations made WDS 2025 a real success, and I’d like to thank everyone who helped make that possible. We look forward to welcoming you to Madrid for the 2026 edition.
While on the topic of change, I’d like to share some important updates about Demolition & Recycling International (D&RI).
From 2026, D&RI will move to one annual print issue, timed to coincide with WDS. You may be wondering why.
The answer is simple: our readers’ habits are changing. We’ve seen a significant shift towards our website and newsletters, and it’s clear that digital is where our audience now turns first for news and insight.
That’s why we’re making this positive step to focus on online-first content. What does this mean for you? In short, more depth, more relevance, and more immediacy, with daily updates on the issues that matter most.
You’ll also see more multimedia features, including video interviews and podcasts, which many of you have asked for.
I’m excited to see where this journey takes us, and as ever, thank you for being part of it.
Warm regards,
LEWIS TYLER D&Ri Editor

White House demolition project; IDE President on recruitment; Steelwrist tiltrotator launch.
The biggest ever World Demolition Summit took place in Nashville, with sustainability and technology the watchwords.
The industry came together to celebrate innovation, but who came away with the accolades?

With sentiment for the demolition industry varied depending on geographical location, was 2024 a year of transition? Lewis Tyler reports.

How are the latest advances in equipment making indoor demolition projects safer and more productive?
Why new innovations are designed to help contractors refine material recovery and disposal in challenging times.
Patrick Frye, President of the EDA, reviews 2025 and previews the EDA Annual Convention 2026.
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Demolition crews from Maryland-based contractor Aceco started tearing down part of the White House’s East Wing to make way for a new 999-person ballroom in October. Heavy construction equipment was seen dismantling the facade of the building, which houses the first lady’s offices, a theater, and a visitor entrance for foreign dignitaries. ■ View these stories and more:


Steelwrist has unveiled QuantumConnect, its new tiltrotator control system platform. Developed in partnership with advanced control systems specialist SVAB, the new system is designed to improve operator experience, simplify installation, and maximize excavator efficiency. The company said QuantumConnect builds on previous systems with a modular design, state-of-the-art components, and embedded connectivity.


Institute of Demolition Engineers (IDE) President Adrian McLean has urged the industry to rethink recruitment strategies to attract more young people into handson demolition roles. He argued that too many young people are being pushed into university rather than entering practical roles. ■
Demolition has begun on Komatsu Mining Corp.’s 44-acre former manufacturing complex in West Milwaukee, Wisconsin, marking the next stage in the site’s redevelopment for new uses. The company closed operations at the site in 2022.

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Given the outlook around the world for the demolition industry, one would be forgiven that sentiment in the sector would be one of negativity.
However, the World Demolition Summit (WDS), held in Nashville in November, proved that there is plenty of positivity to be found among the key players.
The Summit itself was a melting pot of contractors, OEMs, consultants and engineers from across the world, and provided a platform for those in attendance to take stock of the here and now, while also providing an in-depth outlook into what the future holds.
Over 500 delegates, a record for the event, descended on Music City Centre. Here are the highlights in pictures. ■


Keynote speaker Michele O’Rourke, CEO of O’Rourke Wrecking Company, discussed how demolition contractors can lead beyond the jobsite by taking a different view to sustainability.

While many focused on the successful projects, Jason Curtsinger, PE Decommissioning Senior Manager for the Tennessee Valley Authority received praise from delegates for his dissection of the successes and failures of one of its projects.

Ray Gallant, VP Sustainability and Productivity Services, Volvo Construction Equipment argued that many industries are focusing their attention on sustainable power, digitalization/AI.

Product Marketing Manager Simon Saunders gave an overview of the company’s current and future approach to alternative power, and outlined its vision to be carbon neutral by 2050.

Discussing her personal experience with illness, Kate Bester, Contracts Manager, Jet Demolition, delivered a powerful presentation on organisational resilience and how we must adopt a mindset of continuous readiness.

The NDA’s President Ben Hayden opened the Summit.

Kobelco’s Director of Product Development Dan Collins rounded out the inaugural VIP Day with a discussion on the company’s legacy in demolition.

Keynote speaker Steve Farner, International Vice President, LiUNA, outlined the growing workforce crisis.
Chris Dowdell, Senior Remediation Project Manager, Koch, discussed creating vision alignment between owners and contractors.


With regulations high on the agenda, the EDA’s Jose Blanco provided insight into European regulatory changes and the impact they will have on demolition companies.

Vetting of bids was the focus for Dominion Energy’s Director of Generation Projects Rick Boyd, with a particular focus on technical experience, safety, bid evaluation and selection process.
Alex Hadden (left) and Alex Ellison (right) of UK contractor Brown & Mason talked the nuances of the skills shortage, and argued that culture and mentorship are important for the future of the industry.

Connie Clearwater of Priestly Demolition expertly guided delegates through the sessions.


Owner of Metzner Recycling Michael Metzner (right) and Volvo’s Segment Leader Peter Bauer (left) gave an in-depth overview of the world’s first fully electric deconstruction site in Erlangen, Germany.

Collaboration was a key theme of WDS 2025, and Steelwrist CEO Stefan Stockhaus used VIP Day to discuss the benefits of the Open-S industry standard for automatic couplers as well as trends in the demolition sector.

Simon Hébert, Senior Project Director, DelsanAIM Environmental Services, argued that pushing for reuse of material is not always efficient.

RVA Group Managing Director Richard Vann delivered a comprehensive guide to delivering a successful tender package during the bidding process.

Mahesh Bailakanavar, Associate Principal, Thornton Tomasetti, outlined how AI can be used to streamline operations for demolition companies.






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WINNER Milburn Demolition (US) The Thompson Center Redevelopment project in Chicago "hit all the marks”, said the judges, who praised the company’s handling of complex urban constraints. ■

WINNER DDM Demontage (the Netherlands) was recognised for the Rheinbrücke Neuenkamp Bridge project, which was praised for its complexity, imaginative engineering, and technically challenging execution.

WINNER Despe (Italy) was recognised for its exceptional safety planning and communications between stakeholders on its refinery dismantling project. ■

WINNER The judges recognised PDC Explosives Engineering’s (UK) challenging work in demolishing the redundant turbine hall and reinforced concrete turbine bases at the former nuclear power station Sizewell “A”. ■
DDM Demontage, Despe, Brandenburg, Total Controlled Demolition and Laurini were among the winners at the 2025 World Demolition Awards.
Held in Nashville, US, the awards showcased the excellence and innovation within the global demolition industry.
DDM Demontage also took home the prestigious Best of the Best Award for its Rheinbrücke Neuenkamp Bridge project. ■

WINNER Total
Controlled Demolition Services (UK) took home the first award of the evening. ■

WINNER Brandenburg’s (US) abatement and demolition of the historic Ford Rouge Power Plant was described as “exceptionally well managed,” overcoming significant complications from past explosions and salvage challenges. ■

WINNER The SETTANTA Demolition Excavator from Laurini (Italy) was praised for its “compact design, high power and adaptability.” ■

WINNER Judges praised Despe’s Hotel e Autorimessa Demolition project for its strong environmental credentials and execution under strict site requirements. ■

JOINT WINNERS Independence Demolition (US) was recognised for the DTE Trenton Channel Power Plant project, while Veit’s (US) NewRange Copper Nickel Concentrator Plant Demolition was also recognised by the judging panel. ■
WINNER ACDE Europe (Switzerland) was commended for its BEILITE BLTB280-5-W-AC15 Breaker. ■


JOINT WINNERS Mann Group (Australia) was commended for its teamwork and logistical expertise, while Safedem (UK) and partners were recognised for combining explosives with a top-down approach under intense public scrutiny. ■
WINNER DDM Demontage also claimed the top honour for its project in Duisburg. The judges called it “technically difficult, imaginative, and perfectly executed.” ■





































































































































































































While global markets continue to shift, the d&ri100 2025 reveals a sector that navigated rising costs, regulatory pressures, and uneven construction activity in 2024. Lewis Tyler reports.
While global markets continue to shift, the 2025 d&ri100, reporting 2024 turnover, shows that the world’s leading demolition contractors collectively grew their revenues to $8.98 billion, up 8.2% from $8.29 billion in 2023.
This growth came despite rising costs, inflationary pressures, and uneven construction activity, highlighting the sector’s resilience, operational adaptability, and ability to respond to evolving demands though performance varied across individual companies.
The near $690 million increase in combined turnover demonstrates how top demolition firms have successfully leveraged strategic opportunities despite broader market challenges.
renewal, urban redevelopment, and sustainable construction practices.
North American contractors continued to benefit from strong public-sector spending, although it remains to be seen if this will hold up.
Meanwhile, European firms continue to adapt to stricter environmental regulations and sustainability mandates.
Emerging markets in Asia and South America also showed rising demand, driven by industrial expansion and urbanisation.
Europe remains the largest regional contributor, accounting for 50.22% of total 2024 turnover, although it should be pointed out that this figure has fluctuated in recent years and is at its lowest since 2023.
Firms such as Ferraro Group (Germany), Hagedorn Unternehmensgruppe (Germany), and Max Wild (Germany) highlight the region’s focus on technologically advanced, environmentally conscious demolition.
While global construction activity slowed in key regions, the sector’s overall growth reflects its essential role in infrastructure >14
Investments in material recycling, low-emission machinery, and structural analysis services have positioned European contractors as leaders in sustainable

demolition practices. Meanwhile, the lack of regulations in North America means their counterparts are not as far down the road.
North America has remained largely stable in terms of representation in the top 100 in recent years, and that is what we find here.
Companies in the region contribute 42.53% of the 2024 total, supported by federal infrastructure programmes and large-scale public projects.
U.S. firms such as North Star, Penhall, and Brandenburg Industrial Service Co exemplify the sector’s focus on both large industrial demolitions and governmentbacked work.
There is also a new entry from California-based Integrated Demolition, which goes straight in at 25.
Canadian contractors, including Priestly Demolition and Murray Demolition, also maintained solid performance despite regional market fluctuations.
The rest of the world accounted for 7.27% of total turnover, reflecting emerging opportunities in markets including South America and Asia.
Companies such as Chile’s Flesan and Brazil’s Fabio Bruno Construcoes are capitalising on industrial closures and urban expansion, often integrating advanced safety and asbestos detection technology into their operations.
Argentina-based Grupo Mitre is also a new entry for the region, placing inside the top 80.
Elsewhere, there are two new Russiabased firms on the list, with Volgaspectory (35) and Likvidator (68) both posting strong 2024 results.
2024 saw several companies achieve remarkable growth. Max Wild surged




CONVERSION: Exchange rates used to convert domestic currencies to US dollars are from a rolling five-year average between 2020 and 2024.
SOURCING THE DATA: D&Ri invites and welcomes all demolition contractors worldwide to supply turnover data for the d&ri100 and most of the figures quoted are sourced by this method. Others are from reasonable estimates derived from company or financial websites or other online coverage of the demolition industry.
WANT TO BE INCLUDED? Even though this year’s top list has now been published, D&Ri would like to encourage contractors from all over the world to send us their 2024 turnover figures, to help us to build a bigger and more detailed picture of the global demolition market so that we can provide greater insight for contractors everywhere. To receive an entry form for the d&ri100, please contact lewis.tyler@khl.com.
While for obvious reasons we will not be able to add entries to the list in our printed D&Ri magazine, we are happy to edit our online version. Please also feel free to let us know if your company’s figures are inaccurate, and we will update them online.
a 60.8% increase, reflecting strategic diversification and fleet modernisation.
Dickson Company in the U.S. pivoted successfully towards federal and state-funded contracts, posting a 66.4% rise in turnover.
Conversely, some firms faced headwinds from project delays or higher operating costs. Notable declines included Keltbray (-9.5%) and Brandenburg Industrial Service Co (-10.8%), highlighting the continuing challenges of balancing operational scale with market volatility.
However, some results should be treated as anecdotal due to lack of data, meaning estimations were required.
Despite pressures, contractors managed to maintain or improve profitability through strategic project selection, operational efficiency, and adoption of sustainable demolition techniques.
The sector’s continued growth signals a robust underlying demand for demolition services, particularly in infrastructure renewal, urban redevelopment, and environmentally conscious construction.
Looking ahead, contractors are expected to further diversify project portfolios, invest in fleet modernisation, and expand into emerging markets.
As urbanisation accelerates in Asia and South America, and sustainability regulations tighten in Europe, the sector is well positioned to combine technical expertise with environmental stewardship, ensuring its critical role in the global construction ecosystem.
However, as recent lists have shown, an increase in revenues could be more a sign of resilience than prosperity. Nevertheless, the sector delivered a strong performance in 2024, with prospects for continued growth in the year ahead.




Electric drives, compact footprints, and intelligent controls are redefining how contractors approach interior demolition projects. Lewis Tyler reports.
While demolition projects can bring up a variety of risks, interior projects can amplify safety challenges for contractors.
Tight spaces, confined site access, and the need to protect surrounding structures demand equipment that performs efficiently and safely, often in ways traditional machines cannot.
For this reason, it is essential that the equipment used not only matches up to the performance of larger equipment, but does so in a safe and efficient manner.
In short, machines that combine reach, power, and maneuverability are now essential for tackling these confined environments.
To meet demand for material handling at height and operability in tight spaces, Toro introduced the electric high-lift Ultra Buggy e2500-THL.
It offers a carrying capacity of 1.2 tonnes at a full 76-inch dump height, with a 12.8-cubic-foot volume capacity. This allows materials to be transferred directly into large containers, reducing additional handling and minimizing physical strain on operators.
Powered by Toro’s HyperCell Battery System, the Ultra Buggy e2500-THL delivers up to eight hours of runtime while producing zero engine exhaust emissions, making it well-suited for interior job sites where ventilation can be limited.
Toro says the maximum speed of 3.5 mph and smooth electric drive enable precise positioning, even on ramps or uneven surfaces.
The machine’s low ground pressure helps protect delicate floors, while its narrow 31.5inch width and tight turning radius allow it to navigate corridors, stairwells, and other confined areas.
Toro added that this combination of electric power, ergonomic design, and compact form reduces repetitive lifting and motion, allowing crews to maintain productivity safely.
Meanwhile, Brokk, a manufacturer of remote-controlled demolition robots, has introduced the Brokk 130+, a new machine engineered to deliver heavy-duty demolition performance in confined environments.
The Brokk 130+ combines a redesigned hydraulic powertrain with a newly developed BHB 175 breaker, providing 20% more hitting force and a 40% higher impact frequency than its predecessor. This allows contractors to tackle demanding demolition tasks with greater efficiency and precision.
The machine is powered by Brokk
SmartPower+ technology, which optimizes energy distribution to deliver maximum output while minimizing strain on critical components.
This, according to Brokk, improves reliability, extends service life, and ensures consistent performance even during extended operations.
Remote-controlled operation enhances safety by allowing operators to manage demolition tasks from a distance, reducing exposure to dust, debris, and other hazards.
Described as compact yet powerful, the Brokk 130+ is designed for interior and confined-site applications where traditional equipment may be too large or unwieldy. Its versatility and increased impact and precision allows it to handle a wide range of materials while maintaining productivity in tight or hazardous environments.

“With the Brokk 130+, we are taking demolition power and efficiency to the next level,” said Martin Krupicka, CEO of Brokk Group.
“By reengineering the powertrain and introducing a brand-new breaker, we’ve developed a robot that delivers greater hitting force, a higher impact frequency, and unmatched performance—all without increasing its size. This marks a significant leap forward in the capabilities of remote-controlled demolition.” ■



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Today’s material handlers combine brute strength and intelligence, with electrification, purpose-built attachments, and operatorfocused design leading the way. Lewis Tyler reports.

Material handlers are no longer defined by size or lifting capacity.
Machines are built around efficiency, sustainability, and intelligence.
Take for example Sennebogen with its G-series Electro Battery material handlers. Debuted at Bauma, the 824 and 826 Electro Battery machines offer electric operation with modular lithium-ion battery packs.
Customers can choose between one and four packs, each delivering around 98 kWh, providing up to seven hours of continuous work depending on operational needs.
Both machines feature a 90 kW electric motor, long reaches of 12 and 13 m, and high load capacities, combining power and precision for recycling and demolition tasks.
The machines are also equipped with SENcon control system, which allows intuitive operation, customized settings, and cost-saving remote maintenance.
The company said that not only do the machines operate completely free of CO₂ emissions, but they also reduce service requirements, fuel costs, and noise levels.
Dual Power Management enables the handlers to operate autonomously on battery power or connected to the mains, allowing the uppercarriage to swivel 360° during stationary work while recharging the batteries.
For compact, high-efficiency tasks, Liebherr’s LH 18 M Industry demonstrates how material handlers can be tailored specifically for recycling applications.
With an operating mass of 17–18 tonnes and a 105 kW Stage V-compliant engine, the LH 18 M Industry is a compact machine said to be ideal for sorting and handling waste paper, wood, and other materials.
Its compact footprint, combined with a 5.20 m straight boom and 3.70 m stick with tilt kinematics, allows it to operate efficiently in tight spaces, while maintaining high stability thanks to its 2,550 mm wide undercarriage with front and rear outriggers.
A key feature is its integration with


the SG 20B sorting grab, available in a perforated version with a 0.40 m³ capacity.
This attachment is purpose-built for recycling tasks, enabling operators to grip, lift, and sort materials with precision.
For operator comfort and intuitive controls, the cab is equipped with clearly arranged touchscreen displays.
Joysticks and proportional control ensure sensitive handling, allowing operators to manage delicate materials without damage while maintaining high throughput.
Caterpillar, meanwhile, has focused on heavy-duty, long-reach applications with its Cat MH3295.
The MH3295 offers a reach of up to 18 m, making it ideal for and a variety of long-reach operations.
Powered by a 405 kW Cat C18 engine, it can operate at altitudes up to 3,000 m, with an operating weight of around 100,700 kg. Its retractable undercarriage ensures stability while simplifying site access.
Advanced technologies enhance efficiency and safety: Cat Payload tracks material loads in real time, Swing Assist improves upper-structure rotation consistency, and the 2D E-Fence keeps the machine within defined work zones.
Remote services like Remote Troubleshoot and Remote Flash allow maintenance and software updates without onsite technicians.
The cab prioritizes visibility and comfort, with a fixed riser, floor windows, integrated cameras, an adjustable seat, climate control, and a 10-inch touchscreen.
SmartBoom technology allows the boom to float freely, reducing hydraulic load and enabling precise control.
Compatible with a wide range of Cat attachments, the MH3295 combines power, reach, and precision for large-scale industrial, recycling, and port operations. ■

It was a real pleasure to meet many of our members there (at WDS), to exchange ideas, share perspectives, and celebrate together.

The European Demolition Association (EDA) was founded in 1978 and is the European platform for national demolition associations, demolition contractors and suppliers. It organises annual events to bring together the demolition industry from all over Europe. The most important one is the Annual Convention, a meeting that includes technical presentations about key topics as well as optional leisure activities. The EDA represents thousands of companies through its national associations and direct memberships. Demolition & Recycling International is the international media partner of the EDA.
■ For more details, please visit: www.europeandemolition.org
Dear colleagues and friends, Some weeks ago, we were all in Nashville, Tennessee, at the World Demolition Summit 2025, and now I want to extend my sincere gratitude to KHL for counting on EDA as a collaborator of the event.
It was a real pleasure to meet many of our members there, to exchange ideas, share perspectives, and celebrate together. I was especially proud to witness the remarkable achievements of EDA members at the World Demolition Awards 2025, because their success reflects the innovation, safety, and spirit of collaboration that continue to drive our industry forward.
During the Summit, EDA also launched the EDA Yearbook 2025, our annual publication that captures the key moments and insights of the past year. This edition features technical articles, a rich discussion on Nuclear Decommissioning, detailed reports on the Study Tour and the Convention, as well as contributions from our National Associations, and much more.
Now, looking into the future, we must think about what is around the corner, the projects that will mark 2026, prepare ourselves for them, to embrace what is going to happen in the industry and be ready for the change.
One major event shines on the calendar: the EDA Annual Convention 2026, which will take place in Dublin from June 10th to 12th. The vibrant Irish city will be the perfect scenario for our Annual Meeting, and we will be happy to count on you again in this edition. The Call for Papers is now open, and I encourage you all to share with us your conference proposals.
The registrations will be opened soon, so stay tuned!
With best regards, Patrick Frye, EDA President






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