ConstructionWorX - Autumn 2016

THE VOICE OF THE UK CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT INDUSTRY

AUTUMN 2016 

www.constructionworx.co.uk

Switching Focus How the industry is facing up to the inevitability of plant theft

CEA welcomes new members Vital link in the chain Brexit Brief A break with tradition

THE PERFECT MIX

THE NEW BOMAG RS 500 The new BOMAG RS 500 soil stabilizer is the perfect solution for small to medium sized jobs on green and brown-field sites. BOMAG soil stabilizers are highly versatile, safe and productive with a modern design which provides excellent all-round visibility for safety and productivity and makes maintenance easy with ground level access.

•

Up to 20,000 m2 output per day*1

•

CECE operating weight 25,490 kg

•

Mercedes 380 kW stage 4 final engine

•

Hydrostatic 4WD transmission

•

Rotor width 2,250 mm

Impressive engine power, excellent traction and optimal mixing using BOMAG’s unique FLEXMIX technology ensures that even the toughest jobs are completed in the minimum length of time and with maximum quality.

•

Rotor diameter 1,224 mm

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Rotor speed 106-180 rpm

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Max. cutting depth 500 mm

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Max. speed 12 kph

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Max. gradeability up to 40%*2

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Tyre size front 620/75 R32

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Tyre size rear 620/75 R26

BOMAG machines are renowned for their performance, reliability and high residual values and the RS 500 is no exception. Sold and supported by BOMAG (GB) and with competitive end-user finance available from BOMAG Finance the RS 500 makes perfect sense on-site and on your balance sheet.

www.bomag.com

01622 716 611

*1 Output figure is based on BOMAG’s own tests and it refers to improvement with lime working in mixed soils using 200 mm layers over an 8 hour day. *2 Gradeability depends on ground conditions.

ConstructionWorX Contents

CONTENTS On the Cover Switching Focus

AUTUMN 2016

39

WITH EQUIPMENT THEFT NOW CONSIDERED INEVITABLE IN SOME PARTS OF THE UK, THE INDUSTRY IS TAKING A NEW APPROACH

Features 19

PLANTWORX

With 80 percent of stand space sold, PLANTWORX 2017 is set to be HUGE

ON THE CHAIN GANG

24

The latest CEA Conference – focused on the supply chain – was yet another sell-out.

Regulars From the President

Rory Keogh, CEA President

05

Member News

07

In the Lobby

33

The latest news from CEA members A digital future

International News

47

Skills and Training

53

Middle Eastern promise

Engaging with automotive apprenticeships

www.constructionworx.co.uk The Construction Equipment Association (also trading as CEA) Unit 19 Omega Business Village, Thurston Road, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 2NJ United Kingdom T: +44 (0)20 8253 4502 F: +44 (0)20 8253 4510 E: cea@admin.co.uk W: www.thecea.org.uk

BREXIT BRIEF

42

The CEA lays out its post-EU manifesto

YOUR SHOUT

54

EDITOR Mark Anthony E: constructionworx@admin.co.uk

Equipment manufacturers need to do more to combat plant theft

PRODUCTION Lisa Bainbridge E: lisa.bainbridge@admin.co.uk

PUBLISHER Enigma Creative Oakwood Park Business Centre, Fountains Road, Bishop Thornton, Harrogate, HG3 3BF T: 01423 206320 E: info@enigmacreative.co.uk W: www.enigmacreative.co.uk

ADVERTISING SALES Peter Knott E: peter.knott@admin.co.uk

PRINT & MAILING PlatinumHPL Park House, Hookstone Park, Harrogate, HG2 7DB

CEA/PLANTWORX CORRESPONDENT Louise Murphy E: louiseamurphy@aol.com

The Construction Equipment Association (also trading as CEA) is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 04930967. VAT number 243 3858 54. Registered Office: 1 Bickenhall Mansions, Bickenhall Street, London W1U 6BP The secretariat of the CEA, Administration Services Ltd. (www.admin.co.uk) has been awarded accreditation by the AMC Institute (www.amcinstitute.org), the global trade association representing the association management industry. © 2016 The Construction Equipment Association. Although care has been taken in preparing the information supplied in this publication, the CEA does not and cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions and accepts no liability whatsoever for any loss or damage howsoever arising. The views do not necessarily represent those of the CEA.

AUTUMN 2016 03

New industrial

engine range 8.2-597 kW

See our full range of engines at www.perkins.com/products

ConstructionWorX From the President

From the President When Brexit doesn’t mean Brexit

CEA President, Rory Keogh

“B

rexit means Brexit” seems to be the strap line associated with our relatively new government. But if anyone thinks Brexit means that the UK will cut all its institutional ties with the EU, then they are likely to be disappointed.

CEA member companies have played a key role in developing machine and environmental standards to underpin European Directives and regulations, and there is no appetite or commercial reason for devising a set of standards and practices unique to the UK market. The regulatory drivers for a better environment, cleaner air, less machine noise and enhanced safety are the

Index of Advertisers

same in all developed economies.

It makes sense that these requirements are harmonised not just throughout Europe but internationally. The ability to sell the same specification machine to multiple markets – provided it meets internationally recognised norms – makes sense to the manufacturer in minimising design and production costs, and benefits the end user who gets a high spec product at the best price.

Once a year, the Committee for European Construction Equipment (CECE) provides a forum for manufacturers across Europe, supported by its network of national associations in 13 countries, including the CEA. Prague played host to this year’s CECE Congress and British representatives were eagerly questioned in the conference margins on what effect Britain’s withdrawal from the EU is likely to have. In the formal sessions too, the “B word” cropped up in most presentations concerned with the future of construction markets in Europe. Whilst the post referendum fog of uncertainty is beginning to lift, we know now the deadline by when the “Brexit button” on Article 50 will

Construction Plant Hire Association 52

be pressed, it will be a little while yet before the true implications of the leave decision are known.

The CEA is developing its own “Brexit manifesto” which includes a digest of points made by our members on what they would like to see emerge from the withdrawal process. These also include measures to bolster business confidence during that process, such as an immediate and practical escalation of infrastructure projects already in the pipeline.

Business can’t just stop whilst the political processes rumble on and currency markets take fright at speculative talk.

However, what was clear from the CECE event was that our European manufacturers’ organisation has an agenda fully aligned with many of our topics of concern in the UK. These include work streams on the skills shortage, the digital transformation of machine control and communication and the challenge of CO2 emissions. These issues are the kind of things that are going to continue to bind British manufacturers to the community of European manufacturers – so for us Brexit will not mean Brexit but just a different way of playing a role within Europe. ■

CEA Management Council CEA President Rory Keogh Gomaco International Ltd Alan Batty Bomag (GB) Ltd Tim Green Caterpillar (UK) Ltd Nick Ground GKD Technik Ltd Dan Thompstone JCB Sales Ltd Jim Venerus Komatsu UK Ltd Paul Ross Ricardo Plc Andy Bragg Darchem Engineering Ltd Keith Dolbear TriMark Europe Ltd Mussa Mahomed Nylacast Ltd Paul Fennessy Volvo Construction Equipment Ltd

Harford Attachments Ltd

30

Perkins Engines

04

Agcon UK Ltd

22

Conexpo

48

Hill Engineering Ltd

18

Probst Handling Equipment

38

Amber Valley Developments

06

Containex M.B.H

46

HJS Emmission Technology

Strickland Mfg Ltd

34

AMI Group

06

Datatag ID Ltd

16

GmbH & Co. KG

32

Selwood Group Ltd

38

Bill Bowden Event Logistics Ltd

34

DIGBITS Ltd

46

Hyundai Heavy Industries

56

Webtec

38

Bomag (GB) Ltd

02

Engcon UK Ltd

50

Isuzu Truck UK Ltd

12

Brigade Electronics

20

Garden & Hire Spares Ltd

10

JCB Insurance Ltd

32

BSP International Foundations Ltd

20

Gomaco International Ltd

30

Marubeni Komatsu Ltd

55

Bunkabin

20

GKD Technoloiges Ltd

50

Morris Site Machinery

34

CanTrack Global

22

G&M Radiator Mfg Co Ltd

30

Nylacast Ltd

14

FOR ADVERTISING SALES Contact Peter Knott at peter.knott@admin.co.uk

AUTUMN 2016 05

PROTECT YOUR ASSETS

WATCH OVER YOUR FLEET ENSURE YOU ARE NOT THE NEXT VICTIM OF PLANT THEFT

Call AMI to safeguard your assets today

06  AUTUMN 2016

ConstructionWorX Member News

Member News Coming Together Hyundai Heavy Industries has entered into an exclusive strategic alliance agreement with CNH Industrial, one of the world’s largest capital goods companies, for the compact excavator business.

Under the 10-year-long-agreement with renewal option, CNH Industrial will market four mini excavator models that will be supplied as complete products by HHI through OEM production; and ten other mini excavator models in the form of complete knock down kits through License production.

Thanks to the agreement, HHI expects doubled increase in sales of compact excavators, over the next 10 years. Mini excavators to be rolled out under the agreement will hit the global market from early 2017.

The two companies have also taken the cooperation a step further by agreeing to jointly develop new models and upgrade existing models.

“We have noticed that the global demand for the mini-excavator market has been more stable than the bigger-sized construction equipment, and we also expect that the demand continues to increase for years to come. In view of the trend, we come to a conclusion that the alliance with CNH Industrial which has multiple brands including Case Construction Equipment and New Holland

Top Tech

Construction plant tracking specialist AMI Group has been commended for its technological innovation by being shortlisted for the ‘Best Use of Technology’ award Gary Stockton, Group at the Nectar Managing Director of Small Business AMI Group has high hopes for an award win Awards 2016.

AMI Group, which offers a range of tracking devices to help prevent plant machinery from being stolen, is one of four shortlisted companies nominated for the ‘Best Use of Technology’ accolade, a

Hyundai Heavy Industries and CNH Industrial join forces

Construction will bring a win-win solution for both companies,” says HHI’s Construction Equipment Division COO S.G. Rhee. “Moreover, we believe that the partnership will surely lay a solid foundation for the compact and minisized construction machine business of HHI’s Construction Equipment Division.”

This view is echoed by J.C. Jung, CEO of HHI Europe. “This strategic alliance will result in an expansion of our Hyundai compact excavators’ product range; new models will be developed and existing models will be upgraded with additional options,” he concludes. “Naturally, Hyundai dealers in Europe will benefit from this to grow their business and provide even better solutions to their customers.”

new category in the Nectar Small Business Awards this year.

The winner will be announced at an exclusive round table event and awards ceremony in London on 22nd November.

“We feel very proud to have been shortlisted for this award and it is excellent recognition for our staff and the hard work they put in week in, week out in terms of working closely with our customers and helping them recover stolen construction equipment,” says AMI Group managing director Gary Stockton. “It also means a great deal to me personally as it enhances the profile of AMI Group even further and confirms our 100 percent commitment to innovation and providing an exceptional level of customer service.”

CEA’s CESAR Scheme Hits Landmark

BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson gives CESAR the thumbs up The official CESAR Scheme, which is owned by the CEA and delivered by Datatag, passed another landmark as the 225,000th system was fitted to a machine belonging to the popular BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson.

Henson’s New Holland combine harvester was put straight to work after Datatag fitted the security system in September. It’s not the first time that Adam has put his faith in CESAR as many of his other machines are protected by the CESAR Scheme at his Cotswold farm.

Datatag’s Police Liaison and Training Officer Nick Mayell, fitted the Datatag supplied CESAR system to the combine before it started work for the day.

Datatag MD Kevin Howells visited the Gloucestershire Farm in 2010 when Countryfile presenter John Craven investigated equipment theft. “I’m delighted that Adam has chosen to have another of his machines protected with CESAR. It’s vital that we continue to make people aware of the problems associated with machinery theft, which costs millions of pounds a week. I’m particularly pleased that the rural community is taking the threat seriously as recent reports have highlighted that equipment theft is again on the increase,” Howells concludes. “It’s truly remarkable to have hit the 225,000 landmark before CESAR is ten years old.”

AUTUMN 2016 07

Member News ConstructionWorX

Member News Nylacast Aids Parliamentary Review Nylacast has been selected to appear in the 2015/16 edition of The Parliamentary Review. Established by former minister The Rt Hon David Curry shortly after the 2010 general election, The Parliamentary Review’s September release has become a key fixture in the political calendar.

Nylacast features alongside The Chancellor of the Exchequer, The Rt Hon Philip Hammond, and a small number of outstanding organisations in the Engineering edition.

The main aim of The Review is to showcase best practice as a learning tool to the public and private sector, with this edition aimed particularly at leading policymakers and executives within the manufacturing sector.

The document is sent out to tens of thousands of leading policymakers.

The articles in The Review act as both a blueprint for success and a template for reform.

“It’s been an utter privilege to work with a range of organisations from across

Nylacast appears in the 2015/16 edition of The Parliamentary Review

the country in this year’s Review. Without their input, our aims of spreading expert knowledge and raising standards simply would not be achievable,” says Daniel

Yossman, director of The Parliamentary Review. “They’ll be a hard act to follow and next year’s organisations will have to be on the top of their game to meet the challenge.”

Lighting the Way in Dubai Morris Site Machinery has hailed its first major order from Dubai with Al Naboodah Group Enterprises company, Swaidan Trading, for 50 of its lighting towers, as a significant step forward in its growing international export footprint.

It is supplying Swaidan Trading the SMC TL90 LED lighting towers in October for use on construction projects in the lead up to the global Expo in 2020. The fuel-efficient model has been specifically adapted to improve heat reflection and ensure operation in high temperatures – ideal for the Middle East territory.

The deal was sealed when Morris Site Machinery Chief Executive Chris Morris and International Business Director, Phil Winnington flew out to Dubai to meet up with their new customer personally.

“We are delighted to have begun what we hope will become a long standing, mutually beneficial relationship with Al Naboodah Group Enterprises and Swaidan Trading. This is an important order for us as it represents our first sales into Dubai, a territory where we are now looking to build

08 AUTUMN 2016

Morris Site Machinery has hailed its first major order from Dubai

our business. Hot on the heels of this sales success a further order for lighting towers has now been placed for this territory,” Winnington says. “We were highly impressed with the professionalism, size and scale of Al Naboodah Group Enterprises and are proud to be associated with such a prestigious company. The contract demonstrates faith in our great British products and service and the focus we put on quality – both the products we take to market but also the strong

partnerships we build with customers. It’s about understanding each other’s businesses enabling each to serve the other profitably.”

Equally pleased with the deal is Ajit Kumar, CEO, Swaidan Trading. “We wanted the best lighting towers to satisfy the demands of temperature and terrain in Dubai as the momentous plans for Expo 2020 take shape,” he says. “Morris Site Machinery showed it could meet all our requirements for supplying energy-saving, quality and reliable equipment.”

ConstructionWorX Member News

On Your Bike Keith Miller, chairman of earthmoving attachments manufacturer Miller UK, has completed an epic Italian cycling challenge, covering hundreds of kilometres and raising close to £20,000 for charity.

The gruelling 746 km five-day challenge, which was the second stage of this year’s Virgin Strive Challenge, saw Keith ride alongside Richard Branson and hundreds of other riders all pushing themselves to the limit. The challenging route, which started in the Italian Alps and finished in Magliano in Toscana, involved cycling more than 100 miles every day for five days straight and conquering a total elevation of 6,764 metres.

Miller has smashed his initial fundraising target of £12,000, with the total amount raised currently standing at an impressive £19,500 and still counting, which is all going to go to the Big Change charity. The charity, which offers alternative ways of supporting young people and helping them to thrive in life, works

hard to give young people the skills to believe in their own ability to drive change. It also focusses on helping young people to access the opportunities they need to Miller Chairman gets saddle sore for charity and raises almost 20K develop and grow and creates supportive environments for says. “Being part of the Strive Challenge was them to facilitate change. incredible – the intense physical and mental “When I was asked to take part I agreed challenge was like nothing else I’d experienced. without hesitation. The work that the Big I’d like to personally thank every single person Change charity does in helping to give the next who donated to the cause and helped me smash generation the confidence and belief that they my target. Your support meant the world to me can achieve their ambitions in life is something and was what kept me going throughout what which is very close to my heart,” Keith Miller has to be one of the toughest weeks of my life.”

Jacket Required Ongrade has launched the newest addition to its wearable anti-collision technology portfolio. Visijax high-visibility jackets light up to warn the wearer and oncoming vehicles of their proximity to each other.

Visijax smart jackets and vests are manufactured by Visijax, part of the Wearable Technologies group of companies developing solutions for the industrial connected worker of the future.

Visijax and Ongrade have collaborated to integrate Ongrade’s SiteZone Radio-frequency identification (RFID) proximity warning alarm system across the full range of Visijax PPE jackets and vests which embed washable electronics to enhance worker safety.

Like SiteZone, the Visijax garments contain a two-way RFID warning device; transmitters contained in both the vehicle and the worker’s high visibility jacket or vest communicate with each other, providing a full 360-degree detection zone and the ability to see around corners. The vehicle on-board receiver detects the location of

Ongrade launches the newest addition to its wearable anti-collision technology portfolio RFID tag-wearing personnel and alerts the driver and worker to each other’s presence to prevent a collision between the two.

Visijax goes one step further and adds a visual dimension to the proximity warning system so the wearer is instantly warned and identifiable by vibration, sight, and by sound.

“Once again we are pushing the boundary of anti-collision protection by collaborating with Visijax on the new proximity warning

garments,” says Ongrade director Gary Escott. “Through practical need and creative technology, we’ve found yet another way to reduce the risk of pedestrian/vehicle collision across several sectors of operation.”

Perfect for busy sites, depots and lowvisibility conditions wearing Visijax garments will ensure a reduction in collision risk on working sites and depots where there is a lot of vehicle and pedestrian activity.

AUTUMN 2016 09

ConstructionWorX Member News

Member News Terex Tackles Turkey Specialist equipment sales and leasing firm, ASCENDUM Group, has expanded its construction machinery offering across Europe, by adding the Terex compact portfolio to its operations in Turkey.

ASCENDUM TÜRKİYE, which joined the Terex distributor network in 2016, has already announced a sales order of 30 backhoe loaders.

Alongside a number of market-leading backhoe loader models – including the fourwheel-steer TLB990 – ASCENDUM TÜRKİYE will also offer the complete portfolio of Terex site dumpers and compaction rollers to its loyal customer base.

“With a thriving marketplace and considerable product demand – especially for backhoe loaders, we’re delighted to be working with ASCENDUM Group’s operations in Turkey,” says Paul Macpherson, global

Terex talks Turkey and expand European operation sales and marketing director at Terex Construction’s Coventry facility. “Already an established part of our international distributor network via the company’s headquarters in Lisbon, Portugal, ASCENDUM

Group plays a key part in our European equipment supply strategy. With more than 50 years’ experience in the sales and leasing of heavy-duty construction equipment, the business has a loyal and engaged customer base, alongside a reputation for exceptional customer service and an unrivalled equipment offer.”

Mahir Hocaoğlu, CEO at ASCENDUM TÜRKİYE, agrees. “ASCENDUM Group has been part of the Terex Distributor network since May 2016 and, in that time, has experienced noteworthy success,” Hocaoğlu concludes.

“Adding the Terex compact equipment range to ASCENDUM TÜRKİYE’s equipment offer was therefore a simple decision. Our customers demand heavy-duty, hardwearing, rugged and reliable machinery – which is precisely what Terex products offer.”

JCB at the Double JCB Power Systems has been honoured for innovation and sales success. The company was presented with two Queen’s Awards: one for innovation and a second for international trade. The Awards were presented by HM Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire William Tucker.

In total JCB has now won 30 Queen’s Awards – a UK record – since securing its first in 1969.

“It has been a great privilege to present JCB Power Systems with its two Queen’s Awards on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen. Winning two Awards in the same year is almost unique and is a quite magnificent achievement,” Tucker says.

“It is a wonderful acknowledgement of everything JCB has achieved.”

JCB Group Director of Engines, Alan Tolley, is delighted with the awards. “This is a milestone day for the whole JCB Group, but in particular for JCB Power Systems because these awards are the first ever to be won by this business. These Queen’s Awards are testament to the quality and innovation that goes into manufacturing the JCB engine and are an enormous tribute to every employee involved in their design and manufacture.

It’s also remarkable to reflect today, on the

JCB has made around 375,000 engines at its plants in Derbyshire and India 10th anniversary of JCB Dieselmax car’s success, that the world record set that day still remains unbroken.”

Based at Dove Valley Park, Foston, Derbyshire, the company produced the engine that powered the JCB Dieselmax

car to a world diesel land speed record of 350.092 mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats in the USA 10 years ago. Since production started in 2004, JCB has made around 375,000 engines at its plants in Derbyshire and India.

AUTUMN 2016 11

RAMP UP THE PAYLOAD When you move plant and equipment on 7.5 tonners, what you need above all is great payload.

Our 7.5 tonners can carry half a tonne more equipment than many of our competitors.

In fact, depending upon the specification of the body, our beavertails can typically carry around 3800kgs. This is why so many plant and equipment movers turn to Isuzu.

If you’re looking for a truly practical 7.5 tonner, give our team a call on 01707 282930, visit isuzutruck.co.uk or email info@isuzutruck.co.uk

ConstructionWorX New Members

Welcome Aboard ConstructionWorX would like to welcome aboard the latest CEA member companies. In this issue, we talk to new members airBOSS Tyre, McCloskey International, SKM Asset Finance and TJC Plant.

A

irBOSS is a British tyre manufactured in Birmingham and fitted to heavy machinery such as backhoe loaders, skid steers, excavators and dumpers.

According to airBoss the tyre is the preferred brand by the major OEMs including JCB, Caterpillar, Bobcat Doosan, Case, Gehl, Wacker Neuson, Komatsu, Liebherr and Daewoo.

As we know punctures, ripped and damaged tyres are a significant and costly problem for contractors in the construction, demolition, mining, waste management and forestry sectors.

The airBOSS segmented tyre is a simple concept. The wheel comprises a steel rim on to which are bolted separate segments to make up a complete tyre. If any part of the tyre is damaged, ripped or torn you only need to replace the damaged segment. There is never the need to replace a complete tyre. This eliminates downtime and loss of production as the operator of the machine carries spare segments in his/her cab. The

segment can be replaced with a spanner within minutes and the machine does not need to be jacked up, “The price of a segment is a fraction of the cost of a replacement tyre. A trial that was undertaken in 2015 demonstrated a potential saving of £22,188

where in Egypt there is an on-going major infrastructure programme to expand the Suez Canal and extend Cairo. We have developed a close working relationship with an importer of construction machinery in Egypt which has resulted in the signing last year of a ten-year

We joined CEA having read about it on the Association’s website and were impressed with the many advantages which it offers. We are interested in the information and support which is given through the Association’s range of benefits, particularly with international business as we are presently expanding globally into the export market, on one machine over twelve months, which is a considerable saving,” says airBOSS CEO Don Gillanders. “airBOSS is sold within the UK and exported throughout Europe. We have introduced the tyre in the Middle East

supply contract.”

Gillanders says that he is looking forward to becoming part of the Construction Equipment Association. “We joined CEA having read about it on the Association’s website and were

AUTUMN 2016 13

METAL

POLYMERS

ENGINEERING PLASTIC SOLUTIONS

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Noise Maintenance Heavy weight

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1940

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ConstructionWorX New Members

impressed with the many advantages which it offers. We are interested in the information and support which is given through the Association’s range of benefits, particularly with international business as we are presently expanding globally into the export market,” he says. “Similarly, we anticipate that through contact with other CEA member firms we can share our knowledge and experience which will offer a mutual financial and commercial benefit. We also intend to take a stand at PLANTWORX 2017.”

McCloskey International is a leader in the screening and crushing industry with a complete line of equipment including crushers, vibrating screeners, trommels and stacking conveyors. McCloskey says its machines are built with power and durability and every product is field-tested before being deployed in a wide range of industries including construction and demolition, aggregates processing, waste management and recycling, mining, landscaping and wood recycling. McCloskey products are delivered and supported through a worldwide network of dealers on every continent.

“CEA membership will benefit the continued growth of McCloskey in a number of ways. The sharing of expertise in technical and regulatory matters benefits companies

like McCloskey through membership in an organisation like the CEA. Collectively, the CEA offers leadership in developing standards that contribute to a robust, and relevant, industry association,” says Julie Andras, McCloskey International’s international sales development manager. “Participation on committees, in particular, presents the

on target markets, as well as connections with regional representatives to assist with trade initiatives, will be beneficial. Trade shows and customer events are a key marketing priority for McCloskey International. From bauma and CONEXPO, to smaller regional shows, CEA’s status as a UKTI approved organiser is a very important member benefit for our company.

CEA membership will benefit the continued growth of McCloskey in a number of ways. The sharing of expertise in technical and regulatory matters benefits companies like McCloskey through membership in an organization like the CEA. Collectively, the CEA offers leadership in developing standards that contribute to a robust, and relevant, industry association opportunity to share expertise, create consensus and provide leadership for the entire industry. Specifically, access to the Committee for European Construction Equipment will be of high interest and great benefit. As a global company, expansion into new markets is a priority. Partnerships, grants and funding, and other means to exploit new opportunities is a key reason for McCloskey’s membership in the CEA. Access to information

Grants can offset the costs of representation in a show significantly, and allow for broader geographic coverage. Leveraging the presence and power of UK Pavilions around the world will significantly contribute to the marketing program in the future.”

SKM Asset Finance was formed in 1997 by Steve and Jackie Moody with the intention of setting up an asset finance brokerage specialising in the construction industry.

AUTUMN 2016 15

ConstructionWorX New Members

Steve Moody had previously spent 10 years with JCB Credit, and three years with Construction Equipment Finance – so starting up their own finance business seemed like the perfect progression. Jackie Moody’s past experience was with Barclays Mercantile, Construction Equipment Finance and De-Lage-Landen.

The company, based in Ringwood Hampshire, has been providing asset finance solutions to the construction industry for almost 20-years. With over 35 finance companies on their panel the company is able to achieve high approval rates of over 98 percent for sole traders, partnerships, limited companies and PLCs through their national team of home based introducers.

“Having exhibited at SED and Hillhead over the years along with PLANTWORX 2015, we have booked our stand for PLANTWORX 2017. Jackie and I thought that now was an appropriate time to apply for permission to become an associate member of the CEA. Having identified that this was a way we could continue to demonstrate support to the sector and its members,” Steve Moody says. “Hopefully we will be able to offer our services to the members who have asset finance requirements whether that is for themselves or their customers. We

We feel the CEA membership will help us develop our position in the market place and raise awareness of TJC as a company in the construction equipment market place not just locally but nationally. The CEA and PLANTWORX will be a great platform to do this were delighted to receive approval at the beginning of September 2016. We use the latest technology from a market leading mobile finance App to an online proposal system to ensure that our customers, dealers and manufacturer partners get equipment delivered in a time efficient manner.”

The final new member we talk to in this issue is TJC Plant and TJC Sales which combine to form a major plant sales and hire business based in the Home Counties.

Formed in 1986, the family owned business is a major territory dealer for the Wacker Neuson product and has recently been appointed as Southern UK dealer for the Hidromek product.

TJC has also confirmed its presence at PLANTWORX where the company has both a static and a demonstration plot to show the Wacker Neuson and Hidromek brands.

“We decided to join the CEA as members to

highlight our new appointment as Hidromek dealer and to expand our presence in the UK market,” concludes Kim Clipstone, TJC Sales & Group Co-ordinator. “We feel the CEA membership will help us develop our position in the market place and raise awareness of TJC as a company in the construction equipment market place not just locally but nationally. The CEA and PLANTWORX will be a great platform to do this.” ■

ARE YOU A MEMBER? If you are not already a member of the CEA and are interested in finding out more about the benefits of becoming a member, then contact us by email at cea@admin.co.uk or visit www.thecea.org.uk for more information.

AUTUMN 2016 17

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ConstructionWorX PLANTWORX Update

Aerial view of PLANTWORX at Bruntingthorpe.

Bruntingthorpe – To PLANTWORX and Beyond…

There are a number of proving grounds in the UK that provide specialist facilities to support both testing as well as events.

But few are as unique as the Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground, Leicestershire, the home of the PLANTWORX Construction Equipment Exhibition.

O

riginally a WWII air base, and then a USAF nuclear bomber base, it was subsequently converted to a test track by the UK Rootes Group which ran it for 10 years to support its own internal research programmes before changing hands to the Walton family who have since created an interesting and diverse business on their extensive site. The business model now includes services ranging from vehicle testing through to aircraft recycling, vehicle storage through to events such as Asian weddings, the CPA’s Stars of the Future Plant Mechanic Awards in Hanger 42, and of course PLANTWORX – a truly diverse range of activities.

Independent vehicle testing has been possible on the site for over 30 years but few still appreciate the breadth of facilities available on the site. Not only are there three main asphalt tracks, there is both an off-road course and a rough terrain centre for testing vehicles. The facilities include rough roads, hills, stone moving areas, a sand road, a durability tower and a pothole and tie-bar durability course so there are plenty of facilities to truly test a vehicle’s capabilities.

PLANTWORX is due to return to the site in June 2017 (6 – 8 June 2017) to repeat the successful event run in 2015, where over 14,000 people attended to view the latest in plant and construction technology. Events have become an important part of the Bruntingthorpe model, with the company investing millions of pounds over the last two to three years to support events, with specific investments in two new buildings.

Hanger 42 at Bruntingthorpe – CPA have used this for its Stars of the Future Events.

Hangar ’42 is the larger of these two buildings. As the name implies, the building is an ex-aircraft hangar that has just completed a comprehensive rebuild programme and now sits completely refurbished in its own four hectare private plot, separated from the rest of the busy site. It now comes complete with its own large reception, kitchens, toilets, organisers office, wi-fi, heating and huge car park – it’s here that the CPA will hold its Stars of the Future Plant Mechanic Awards in June 2017. The 3,000 m2 building has been designed to offer the maximum flexibility – a blank canvas that can be dressed to suit any type of event. In the short time since its

AUTUMN 2016 19

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ConstructionWorX PLANTWORX Update The Whittle Building – Available for Hire!

opening, it’s already played host to a variety of product launches, conferences, exhibitions, gala dinners and weddings to name but a few. The facilities unique selling point is the chance for clients to have their products indoors as part of their event which offers so many opportunities if you’re considering a product launch, conference or gala dinner.

To cater for smaller events and audiences, Bruntingthorpe has also recently constructed another events facility, The Whittle Building.

Unlike the Hangar ’42 building that can accommodate up to 1,500 people, the Whittle Building is intended for smaller audiences of up to

150 people. Bruntingthorpe’s novel approach to this building was to purchase an ex-Peugeot dealership building, unbolt it, remove it and then reassemble the building on their own site - building recycling at its best. Reassembled and refurbished, the building now offers the opportunity to host seminars, networking events or product launches in an interesting and unique building and setting, with ample space outside of the building to demonstrate products.

The staff at Bruntingthorpe welcome test and event requirements and are waiting to hear about your requirements. Contact Paul Atkin 0116 279 9329 paul.atkin@bruntingthorpe.com for further details. ■

On the Runway to Success With 82 percent of stand space already sold, PLANTWORX 2017 is already set to be the biggest yet. ConstructionWorX reports.

T

he PLANTWORX team is preparing to put on an impressive exhibition when the biennial show returns to Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground, Leicestershire, from 6 – 8 June 2017. The UK’s largest working construction equipment show, hosted by the CEA (Construction Equipment Association) – it will be the biggest event to date where visitors can expect to see the very latest in construction machinery and equipment innovation, which will set future trends.

The show represents the industry for construction machinery in its entirety and is a platform that features an extensive range of brand new products and includes many world-premieres. To date PLANTWORX has over 230 confirmed exhibitors signed up for the event – this equates to over 82 percent sold. Of these, more than 40 exhibitors are brand new to PLANTWORX, which is a firm indication that confidence in the event is high. Returning exhibitors are also confident with many booking larger stands and extra demonstration space. Demonstration space is at a premium for the 2017 show and is almost sold out.

New Exhibitors New exhibitors to the 2017 event include attachment manufacturer Arden Equipment, security tracking company CanTrack Global, plant hire firm CRH Plant, tool manufacturers Hilti (Great Britain) and Husqvarna Construction Products which manufactures demolition robots. Also new is welfare cabin manufacturer Mobile Mini, attachment manufacturer Mount Machinery and tilt-rotator

manufacturer Rototilt – the PLANTWORX team is looking forward to seeing all the new exhibitors at the show.

Construction Plant & Machinery Sales were new to the 2015 event – the company is coming back in 2017 with LiuGong machinery.

The company caused quite a stir in 2015 with its impressive demonstration of its machinery; and the company has once again booked a large demo plot to put the kit through its paces.

A&Y Equipment, Case Construction Equipment, Doosan, Finning-CAT, Hanix Europe, Hyundai Heavy Industries Europe, JCB, Komatsu, Liebherr, Takeuchi and Wacker Neuson are also returning to the show and will be demonstrating a wide range of machinery. Molson Group has also taken a demo plot for 2017 and will be demonstrating JLG Equipment.

Other confirmed exhibitors include BOMAG, demolition robot specialist Brokk UK, Morooka dealers Cautrac, Hydrema, Kubota, Ladybird Cranes, Merlo, Thwaites and Volvo.

Pavilions of Plenty There will also be two undercover pavilions (A & B) at the 2017 show that will house more stands for ancillary and support products and kit that keeps the construction equipment machinery sector on the move. Confirmed exhibitors in pavilion B include AV Industrial Products, brand new exhibitor Garden Hire & Spares, GKD Technologies and Towergate Insurance Brokers.

Pavilion A will be home to the Training and Education Area where colleges and training bodies will exhibit. Ainscough Training Services AUTUMN 2016 21

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ConstructionWorX PLANTWORX Update

is the latest company to sign up to exhibit in the training area alongside NPORS and Mentor Training Solutions.

A full exhibitor list can be found on the PLANTWORX website www.plantworx.co.uk “Trade shows are a great test of business confidence and we are pleased to report that our PLANTWORX exhibitor bookings are even better than 2015. There has been no sign that Brexit, and the uncertainties surrounding it, is affecting the show. In fact, we have had a record amount of engagement with overseas companies keen to explore the UK market. Around 80% of the show space is now allocated – and our roster of new exhibitors is already up to over the 40 mark and counting week by week. Amongst these it is particularly good to see the take up from access and lifting companies,” says CEA chief executive Rob Oliver. “As PLANTWORX is still very much a show ‘for the industry, by the industry’ we are also very open to exhibitors telling us what they would like to see improved at the event. We knew from feedback that we needed a better wi-fi offering for 2017 and, by working with the Bruntingthorpe management, we now believe we have a great solution with the installation of a permanent wi-fi facility.

We are also putting extra resource into on site traffic management to make sure that both exhibitors and visitors get a smooth passage with minimum delay.”

Bigger than Before The 2017 PLANTWORX event will be 20 percent larger than the 2015 show– with an impressive 140,000 m2 of space. More exhibitor stands have been included and there is an increase in demonstration areas to meet the demands of both exhibitors and visitors.

A post-show survey was conducted following the 2015 event which asked visitors their main reasons for attending the show. 55 percent of those asked said that it was to “see something new”; 30 percent said that it was the machine demonstrations that attracted them to the event; and 15 percent said it was to try the machines in real working conditions. Visitors also said that seeing the ‘widest range of products and equipment in one place’ was also important with 27 percent of the respondents selecting this option.

Since the first show PLANTWORX has gained the support of a number of organisations. These include the FMB (Federation of Master Builders), Build UK and CECA (Civil Engineering Contractors

Association). Working with these associations helps PLANTWORX widen its audience reach bringing the industry together.

PLANTWORX also works closely with the CPA (Construction Planthire Association) and its members from the plant hire sector. For exhibitors’ trade visitors with budgets to invest and seeing decisionmakers are key to a successful show.

Accent on Youth On the last day of the show (Thursday 8 June) PLANTWORX will once again open its doors to young plant enthusiasts. The Student Day was introduced in 2015 and is aimed at encouraging children into the construction sector, which is suffering from a major skills shortage.

Parents, grandparents and guardians are invited to bring along young family members to the show and take part in the ‘Student Trail’ to get a taste of what working within the construction machinery industry could be like. In 2015 more than 300 children took part in the Student Trail, making it a real success.

PLANTWORX is also working with the Primary Engineer organisation and head teachers and children from local schools. The students from Leicestershire schools have been invited to take part in a STEM (Science, Technology Engineering and Maths), project and will be building a motor vehicle or a crane as part of their curriculum and presenting their finished projects in a special event at the show (Thursday 8th June). The projects will be judged by engineers and the PLANTWORX and Primary Engineer teams. More information can be found on the PLANTWORX website.

There are just seven months to wait for the construction machinery event of the year – so make sure 6 – 8 June 2017 is in the diary. And be sure to watch this space as news unfolds of other new initiatives happening at the event. ■

FOR MORE DETAILS, SIZES & PRICING FOR STANDS AT PLANTWORX 2017 Please contact Angela Spink, sales manager at angela.spink@plantworx.co.uk or call Angela on 07807 623640.

Visit www.plantworx.co.uk.

AUTUMN 2016 23

Chain Conference Review ConstructionWorX

On the Chain Gang The recent CEA annual conference – The Chain – (27 October – One Great George Street London) was well attended with 150 delegates from across the construction equipment sector.

Supported by Kubota, the conference explored the supply chain from both a suppliers and an OEM’s point of view.

J

ointly hosted by the CEA, PLANTWORX and CESAR the conference moderator was once again broadcaster and journalist Nick Higham.

CEA, chief executive Rob Oliver was the first speaker of the day, and he took the opportunity to the CEA’s agenda for a post-Brexit industry. He also highlighted

24 AUTUMN 2016

key issues upon which the CEA is focussing.

These included skills and the problem members have recruiting and upskilling.

The association is also working on the apprenticeship Trailbazers scheme – setting new training standards for plant maintenance and service engineers. “The government needs to address the growing

skills gap in construction. We can’t just put up walls around the UK and hope we have the skills we need here,” he said. “We need to move the debate on Brexit from the political level to the practical level for business to get a clearer view of what life after the EU will look like. The CEA will be stepping up its efforts in several areas, some

ConstructionWorX Chain Conference Review

The of which now have added urgency and relevance to Brexit. For example, lobbying the government for a clear commitment to investing in the physical infrastructure of the UK, which can contribute to national productivity. Similarly, we need a swift indication from HMG what their strategy will be in supporting British exporters, particularly smaller companies, now that this responsibility is with the new Department of International Trade. The CEA is also planning to hold a number of Brexit-specific forums in 2017.”

of contamination monitoring products, and David Waine, global new business manager, of ground engaging tools producer Con Mech Engineers.

Supply agreements were top of the supplier agenda and the most contentious issue. The panel members shared a similar opinion that supply agreements need to be fair and add ‘value’ to the

Chain

CONFERENCE 27 OCTOBER 2016

One Great George Street, London SW1

Disruptive Technologies Next to take the stage was Jim Angus, commercial director of Cranfield IVHM (Integrated Vehicle Health Management) Centre who spoke about Future Proofing and Disruptive Technologies from an aerospace perspective. Angus told delegates how technologies developed for managing complex systems such as aircraft and other vehicles could be applied effectively to the construction industry. Examples included how data could be used to predict when machine components could fail – prognostics.

Nylacast managing director Mussa Mahomed addressed delegates on the use of the next generation of advanced materials – particularly Polymers. Mahomed explained that with the use of these advanced materials, which possess incredible strength and durability, buildings can be built higher and are getting bigger each year. He gave an example of 100,00 square metres of space in America, which sold for 1 billion dollars because, with new technologies and advanced materials, ‘space can go up’. This principle can be applied to construction machinery where booms get higher and load capacities increase.

Mahomed also said that self-healing materials are the future and with the use of these advanced polymers ‘painting the Forth Bridge’ will be an expression of the past.”

Supplier Panel The Supplier Panel was next up, allowing suppliers to address their issues and concerns with working with OEM’s and how relationships could be improved. The panel comprised, Keith Dolbear, MD TriMark Europe, TriMark is a manufacturer of door and window hardware for the agricultural and construction industry; and Shaun Edwards, MD, AT Global, a global sourcing specialist which supplies a range of components, assemblies and sub-assemblies to key OEM’s.

Also on the panel was Robert Hunt, MD Engcon whose company manufacture tiltrotators, Phil Keep MD of MP Filtri UK which provides a range

The government needs to address the growing skills gap in construction. We can’t just put up walls around the UK and hope we have the skills we need here Rob Oliver, Chief Executive, CEA partnership. The relationship between supplier and client should be clearly defined in the supplier agreement. There should be no misunderstandings regarding supply, delivery, timescales and payments.

Another issue, which was highlighted by Phil Week, MP Filtri was the need to ‘get an agreement to get everyone on board’ within the company on a project – ‘work together’. Better communication is needed with all departments this includes the engineers, R&D divisions – everyone needs to be ‘singing from the same song sheet’. Innovative ideas are often thwarted from lack of communication – the right drivers are needed to move innovation forward.

Week also said that a successful OEM partnership involved building a relationship with the customer.

Above in clockwise direction: James Angus, IVHM, Cranfield University, Rob Oliver, Chief Executive, CEA, Keith Dolbear, TriMark Europe Ltd & Mussa Mahomed, Nylacast Ltd.

AUTUMN 2016 25

Chain Conference Review ConstructionWorX

the overall value of the project. Banks will look at fixed asset costs and lend – asset finance would look at the residual value of asset worth.

The team also said the future was uncertain – but the post ‘Brexit Hangover’ seems to have abated and things are on the up – and not just in construction.

Renewable technology asset finance solutions have also seen an increase and Lombard is keen to help businesses meet the challenge of reducing their carbon footprint. The team said that Lombard Group is currently supporting lobbying the government to accelerate the annual investment allowance when companies invest in energy technology.

Right: Shaun Edwards, AT Global Ltd. Below in clockwise direction: Moazil Miah, Malcolm Kent, CEA, Neil Withey, EEF & David Phillips, Off-Highway Research.

Going Global

Also, working on total efficiency and cost reduction.

Protecting warranties and the aftermarket with branding solutions was also important.

Money Matters

Above: John Matthews, Volvo Construction Equipment

26 AUTUMN 2016

Finance was next on the agenda and taking the stage was Moazil Miah corporate development director, Corporate Asset Finance, Lombard and his colleague Hiten Sonpal, head of specialist sectors Lombard Asset Finance.

The pair explained the benefits of asset finance as opposed to approaching a traditional bank for funds. Both agreed that in most cases there was a premium attached to asset finance, however asset finance provides a more flexible approach. The main advantage is that they allow a company to obtain and use essential equipment, or whatever other assets a business needs, without making a lump sum payment upfront making it easier to manage cash flow. An asset finance company looks at every client by his/her own merit and looks at

David Philips, MD, Off-Highway Research looked at the global construction equipment market. Philips reported that we are facing a ‘most uncertain future’ and market forecasts must continually reflect changing and unpredictable events. These events include political transitions, economic turmoil, Brexit, the Eurozone crisis – but the greatest unknown of them all is Donald Trump.

In terms of global equipment sales, Phillips predicted that total sales would reach US$ 89 billion by 2020 – which is still US$ 9 billion short of the 2007 total. Europe is very weak with a forecast of total sales reaching US$12 billion in 2020 – in 2007 sales were at a high of US$12 billion.

India is the real ‘Body Builder’ in the global equipment market – growth will be stronger and more dependable than in the past however, their attention to bureaucracy is unbelievable.

The government is working hard to overcome corruption and untangling issues and giving the green light to major projects. India’s development in sales from 2011–2015 was 44,423 units – the forecast from 2016 – 2020 is 52,399 units.

Regarding the UK market there remains political and economic uncertainty. Inflation is a problem with the deflation of the pound. In the near future, construction of HS2 will commence and HS3 will be on its way. But the biggest message is that the government must be seen to invest and move more quickly on giving the green light for infrastructure projects. Philips mentioned we could expect a new run-way at Heathrow in the next 15-years at a cost of £18 billion and that China in the next year alone will be building 66 new airports – highlighting the need in the UK for cutting red tape and getting on with it – governments investment is essential as they drive 80 percent of machinery demand.

The Emissions Mission Engine emission control has dominated OEM’s development of machinery in recent years reported Malcolm Kent, CEA technical consultant.

ConstructionWorX Chain Conference Review

“We are coming to the end of frequent change.

This will free-up resources and give machinery manufacturers the opportunity to innovate in other ways. Hopefully Engineers will once again do what engineers do – design and innovate,” Kent said. “I am hoping to see a whole new range of innovative machines at forthcoming exhibitions including Bauma and PLANTWORX 2019.”

Stage V focus on all engine classes- the Stage V emission limits take effect on 1 January 2019.

Engines from 56 –130 kW will have until 1 January 2020. Kent said that it is anticipated that we will be leaving the EU in 2019 – therefore the legislation of Stage V will not apply and it would take an act of parliament to introduce stage V after Brexit.

Kent also spoke about the revision of the machinery directive, which will be the first since 2006. The current machinery directive is in dire need of an update – machinery has evolved considerably over the last 24-years as have health and safety requirements.

Businesses and industry associations can take part in this revision and help shape the revision.

The CEA will be providing a response with member feedback, however, Kent urged individual companies to respond independently. Business and industry association on-line consultation open until 23rd December http://info.technopolis-group. com/machinery.

We are coming to the end of frequent change. This will free-up resources and give machinery manufacturers the opportunity to innovate in other ways … I am hoping to see a whole new range of innovative machines at forthcoming exhibitions including Bauma and Plantworx 2019 Malcom Kent Upskilling and Upscaling Neil Withey, training and development director EEF’s Technology Training Centre Aston, addressed delegates on upskilling the workforce to meet the technology challenges and how action is needed to address current trends.

According to Withey, UK productivity lacks behind other developed economies and employers are investing less in technology. He did say however, there’s a healthy growth in intent for new apprentices and a record number of manufacturers

plan to recruit apprentices in the next 12 months.

79.1 percent of manufacturing and engineering companies plan to recruit in comparison to 66.2 percent in 2013.

Manufacturing has a stubbornly uneven gender balance especially when it comes to apprenticeships with just 3.1 percent of engineering completions are female.

“Up-skilling has many benefits to employers in addition to plugging the skills gap,” Withey said.

“By improving the skills of your existing workforce you increase staff retention and loyalty and benefit from enhanced productivity and effectiveness.”

Withey also shared his top seven tips for developing a skilled workforce – these are – Set your agenda, Keep it simple, Invest in your systems, Listen to those who do the training, Learn what works, Educate and evolve and finally, Demonstrate success. For more information on training, apprenticeships and up-skilling visit www.eef.org.uk

The

Chain

CONFERENCE 27 OCTOBER 2016

One Great George Street, London SW1

OEM Panel The final event of the day was an OEM Panel where John Matthews, vice president, Purchasing & Supplier Management – Europe Volvo Construction Equipment, Wayne Asprey, group purchase manager, JCB and Ian Chapman, supply chain manager, Finning (UK) talked about their expectations of the supply chain.

Asprey wanted to see improved warranty performance for JCB customers and early supplier engagement to get the product right first time.

“Suppliers need to be involved before drawings are done,” he said. “Manufacturers are looking for innovation and JCB invite its suppliers to challenge them.”

Chapman said that the customer was at the heart of it and more and more the end user is specifying what they want. Innovation from suppliers is important – supplier innovating with dealers.

Creating the right relationship with suppliers was at the top of Matthews’ list. He said that excellent supplier relationships lead to a competitive advantage.

A highlight video of the CEA Chain Conference can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/hwezzea Presentations from all the speakers are available to CEA members on the CEA website at www.thecea. org.uk. Non-CEA member delegates please contact louise.murphy@plantworx.co.uk for copies of the presentations.

The CEA would also like to thank the sponsors of the Chain Conference – their continued support of the CEA and its involvement in working with the CE markets is much appreciated. The headline sponsor of the event was Kubota followed by Komatsu, TriMark and JCB. Other sponsors were Volvo, KHL Group, CanTrack, McCloskey and MP Filtri. ■

AUTUMN 2016 27

Chain Conference Review ConstructionWorX

Kubota Targets Scottish Engine Sector Kubota, the globally-renowned manufacturer of world-class oil and water-cooled diesel and dual fuel engines, has announced a new strategic partnership with engine and transmission specialists Mitchell Powersystems.

The agreement will establish Mitchell Powersystems as the official national distributor of Kubota engines in Scotland. Mitchell Powersystems will provide Kubota’s current and future full range of oil and water cooled diesel and dual fuel engine solutions, along with delivering full customer care support services, including the distribution of spare parts to regional engine dealers, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and end user customers across a wide range of industry sectors in this key region.

“This is a major investment programme by both parties specifically designed to increase Kubota’s market share and drive brand awareness in Scotland across a

number of critical market sectors, including construction equipment, power generation, agriculture and materials handling,” says Daniel Grant, Business Development Manager for Kubota’s Engines Division.

“This partnership is all about strengthening our service offering and proposition across Scotland by joining forces with one of the most reputable engine specialists in the country.”

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ConstructionWorX Chain Conference Review

The

Chain

CONFERENCE 27 OCTOBER 2016

One Great George Street, London SW1

engines, employing a team of highly skilled Workshop and Field Service Engineers, backed up by industry leading aftersales support.

Daniel continued: “Mitchell Powersystems has earned an enviable reputation in the diesel powered equipment market, particularly in the 56 to 2,200 kW industrial engines market,” Grant continues. “By working in partnership with Kubota and becoming the national distributor for Scotland, it opens up new market possibilities for them in the sub-56 kW power category with a leading brand. This is an exciting opportunity for both businesses to take advantage of and target significant growth in Scotland with an extremely strong proposition for OEMs to consider.”

Kubota’s range of oil and water cooled diesel and dual fuel engines are renowned across the globe for their exceptional performance, low noise, cleaner emissions and excellent fuel economy. Used in a wide

range of applications, its products feature either Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) technology or Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) as an after-treatment solution and counter measures in reducing exhaust gas emissions.

“By working in partnership with Kubota it allows us to increase our product and service offering and apply our engines’ expertise into new market sectors,” asserts Allan Mitchell, General Manager for Mitchell Powersystems in Glasgow. “The 0 to 56 kW engine market is an untapped area for Mitchell Powersystems, offering us increased opportunities to diversify into new sectors and grow our market share by working in partnership with the world leader in this power category.

We are delighted to be launching this landmark agreement with Kubota and look forward to strengthening this relationship in the future.”

Jem Engines, Kubota’s previous engine dealer for Scotland will continue to represent the company under the guidance and support of Mitchell Powersystems. ■

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AUTUMN 2016 29

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THE SPONSORS

With kind thanks to our sponsors and conference partners…

SPEAKERS SPONSORED BY:

LUNCH SPONSOR:

www.kubota.co.uk Kubota UK is a market leading manufacturer of high performance machinery solutions, producing a diverse product range for the agricultural, ground care and construction equipment industries.

The company is also a world leader in the production of engines for Original Equipment Manufacturer, all supported by excellent aftersales services.

www.komatsu.com Komatsu construction and utility equipment is built using a commitment to uphold “Quality and Reliability” as the most important policy. Komatsu is resolutely committed to providing safe, innovative products and services that best meet the needs and expectations of its customers around the world.

KUBOTA UK

Komatsu

CONFERENCE MODERATOR SPONSOR: COFFEE BREAKS SPONSOR:

TriMark

www.trimarkeu.com TriMark is a leading designer and manufacturer of door and window hardware components and systems for the construction, agricultural, HGV, materials handling, caravan and enclosure markets. We manufacture a wide variety of latches, handles and related components which are innovative, field-proven and value priced along with mechatronic systems such as immobilisers, ignition switches, remote and keyless entry systems. With operations in USA, UK and China we are well able to support multinational customers.

BACON BUTTIES SPONSOR:

MP Filtri UK

www.mpfiltri.co.uk MP Filtri UK is the fluid condition monitoring wing of the Italian owned MP Filtri group, both designing and manufacturing high quality instrumentation for portable, in-line and laboratory applications.

The group had over 50 years of experience in the hydraulic filtration market; developing, manufacturing & supplying a range of filtration, power transmission and ancillary products worldwide. MP pursues an ambitious programme of product customisation to satisfy even the most specific customer requests.

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AUTUMN 2016 31

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ConstructionWorX In the Lobby

A Digital Future The great and the good of the European construction equipment sector gathered in Prague recently for the latest CECE Congress. And the message emanating from the congress was clear – If the sector is to retain its position in the global economy, it must continue to embrace the digital world. CEA chief executive Rob Oliver reports.

“W

e can only be competitive long-term, sustainably, if we make sure we are the best. The European construction equipment industry is an example of technology leadership. Increasingly, our machines are ‘digitised’ and there is no escape from that. We must, and we are, embracing it. In fact, Europe as a whole must strive to be an engineering and digital powerhouse as well. It’s the right approach for our societies and economies going forward.”

This was the main message from CECE President Bernd Holz, addressing the CECE Congress 2016 in Prague, Czech Republic, gathering close to two hundred leaders from the construction equipment industry in Europe as well as technical experts, sales managers, trade press and international trade association representatives.

Drivers of Success The main theme of this year’s Congress was ‘Industry in Transformation – Drivers of Success’. The two-day programme with dozens of speakers explored a multitude of relevant trends, from the transformational forces in the Central and Eastern European region, to the wave of digitisation currently enveloping industry, to the global economic outlook and the latest technical developments in the field of electrification as well as in the organisation of the construction site of the future. The CECE Congress 2016

In clockwise order: 1. Conference session chaired by Sandy Guthrie (Editor, Construction Europe).

2. Rob Oliver, Dale Camsell, Terex and CECE Technical Commission chair, Malcolm Kent, CEA Senior Technical Consultant.

3. Congress Gala Dinner, Zofin Palace, Prague.

4. Susan Scurlock

AUTUMN 2016 33

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ConstructionWorX In the Lobby

was hosted by the Czech national association member of CECE, SVSS, and made possible with the special support of Doosan Bobcat and Ammann which both maintain substantial production facilities in the country.

The UK provided the second largest visiting delegation – and a number of participating speakers. These included Phil Layton, Chief Engineer at JCB, who stressed the need for the development of common computer protocols to enable machines on site to “talk” to each other and maximise their productivity. In his presentation, Richard Clement (Planning Manager) provided an update on Komatsu’s vision of the jobsite of the future via their Smart Construction solution. The concept of the OEM as being Unique Service Providers offering better on site productivity was theme visited in a number of sessions.

Forward-Looking CEA Chief Executive, Rob Oliver, “This was perhaps one of the most forward looking CECE events I have attended. There was much more emphasis on the possibilities arising from digitisation going beyond just selling machines and expecting the end user to “get on with it”. This was perhaps a benefit of a slow-down in new regulatory initiatives from the European Commission as designers can move from working on offerings for the benefit of the customer rather than the regulators”.

In line with the CEA’s emphasis on skills issues in the last two years, CECE also has embraced the subject which has a pan-European resonance as companies search for engineering and related talent.

The CEA helped sponsor a presentation from Susan Scurlock, the Chief Executive and founder of Primary Engineer on “STEM education by stealth” – showing how the encouragement of an interest in engineering can’t start too early in the education process. This was the first opportunity Primary Engineer has had to promote its education concepts beyond the UK. ■ CECE, the Committee for European Construction Equipment, represents the interests of over one thousand construction equipment manufacturers through national trade associations in 13 European countries: Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Czech Republic, Sweden, Finland, The Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Russia and Turkey. CECE manufacturers employ around 150,000 people directly and 2 to 3 times as many indirectly.

See www.cece.eu for more information.

Euro Brexit Shock ConstructionWorX took the opportunity to quiz trade association representatives on their reaction to the Brexit vote at the recent CECE Congress. Here is a sample of their responses…

Sigrid DeVries, Secretary General of CECE “OK, I think it’s fair to say that ‘Brexit’ has been the talk of town in Brussels since the surprise outcome of the vote in June and that, following the UK prime minister’s speech at the Tory conference, the term ‘May Day’ is gaining ground fast – I saw this term featured in quite a few European newspaper headlines, which normally write in their own languages. Europeans are generally flabbergasted by the referendum’s outcome (although ‘gobsmacked’ is the word more in vogue at the moment) and totally left in the dark as to what the UK really want. For a while, officials reassured themselves thinking that Mrs May made a sensible impression and she might actually have found a clever way of taming the three leading “Brexiteers”. The fact that Great Britain could actually opt for a hard Brexit, however, remains tough to believe. What the debate does in Europe, is help focus minds (at least somewhat) on what actually matters when it comes to ‘Europe’.

But the British, with their phlegmatic approach and all-important flair for finding compromises, that make all around the table feel included, will be dearly missed. For business, any dilution of the Single Market in times of globalisation and failing European competitiveness is unwelcome. It’s a widespread belief, also, that the UK is too small to be better off alone.

But the cost of a crumbling Europe, with its potentially more widespread political as well as security implications and all, goes way beyond the Single Market alone.”

Joachim Schmid, MD, Construction Equipment, Building Materials Machinery and Mining Equipment, VDMA (Germany).

“Germany was taken completely by surprise by the Brexit vote… there could be a backlash by German right wing parties calling for a similar referendum. Brexit will probably not disadvantage German manufacturers selling into the UK, they have a competitive edge and can produce equipment more cheaply than UK competitors”.

Jorge Cuartero, Director General, Anmopyc (Spain).

“The general feeling in Spain was that Brexit will not really happen. The Spanish feel that there will be another referendum and that things will return to normal. Brexit could cause Spanish manufacturers to lose market share – some have already reported a slowing down of orders since (the referendum)…”

Nick Yaksich, AEM VP Government and Industry Relations (USA).

“I was surprised at the result of the Brexit vote as the Washington cognoscenti had been tracking the UK polls and were convinced that Britain would remain in the EU. The uncertainty around Brexit coupled with the ongoing TTIP negotiations may lead to trade barriers between the UK and US. It will take a great deal of time to re-establish equitable trading relationships and tariff agreements”.

AUTUMN 2016 35

CITS ConstructionWorX

Plant Theft Powerhouse

Construction plant tracking and recovery specialist AMI Group has announced major expansion plans that will enhance the company’s development and design capabilities to provide innovative technological solutions in-house.

The firm will be investing in excess of £1 million in additional resource and expertise within the AMI Group and an official deal will be announced within a matter of weeks.

“This is without question the most exciting development for the company since it was first established. It means that we will be able to design new cuttingedge and innovative solutions and manufacture our own tracking devices in the UK to very high specifications and standards using expertise from technological specialists who have many years’ experience of developing products

for the likes of the military and defence sectors,” says AMI Group founder and managing director Gary Stockton. “We will be able to combine our own expertise, products and service technology with that of our new partners to form a real powerhouse within the plant tracking sector. We already provide several of the UK’s leading plant hirers with plant tracking devices and technology and it is without question that the forthcoming expansion will open the doors to new markets. What we are most excited about is the speed with which we will be able to bring innovative new products to market to fulfil customers’ specific requirements.”

AMI Group is already an industry-leader in plant and vehicle tracking devices that are amongst the smallest available and can be concealed almost anywhere on any asset without being detected by thieves.

The new tracking devices currently under development will be six times smaller than AMI’s current devices.

The company’s product range includes the AT5, a self-contained, battery operated tracking device which utilises advanced GPS (Global Positioning System), GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) and RF (Radio Frequency) technology and can be covertly installed on plant machinery such as Excavators and Generators. The AT5 has a battery life of up to 20 years which is claimed to be 30 percent better than competitive products and utilises highly sensitive assisted GPS positioning which is accurate to within one metre.

New Member Combined Industry Theft Solutions (CITS) has welcomed a new member to its swelling ranks.

Trackunit Telematics provides a range of unique features that serve the diverse needs of a wide variety of industries and fleets of all sizes. The company’s fleet management solution solves industry-specific challenges and is dedicated to helping customers improve their businesses.

Trackunit specialises in tracking, telematics, access control and immobilisation for construction equipment. The company reports that both rental and end-users choose Trackunit

36 AUTUMN 2016

as their preferred security solution.

Trackunit has supplied over 200,000 systems to its 6,950 customers across the world and works with over 25 OEM’s.

It has been designing, developing and manufacturing tracking, telematics, immobilisation and access control systems for the construction industry since 2003.

Hammer Time

Attachment theft continues to plague the construction Industry as thieves look to make a fast buck at the expense of legitimate businesses.

Covert theft recovery tracking systems from Automatrics are one plant security measure that has proven successful in fighting back.

A new plant security recovery video clearly demonstrates the power of Automatrics tracking systems and the dedication of their operational staff who just would not give up even when the stolen hammer was hidden not only from GPS view, but also then moved off the mobile network.

The Metropolitan police and CID also played their part to obtain an emergency search warrant from 24/7 duty magistrates, meaning that any future arrest was more likely to result in a conviction at court.

Follow the 12 hour recovery operation conducted on the 14 June this year to see what professional theft recovery services can achieve in the most challenging of situations.

View the video here: http://tinyurl.com/hdt7tdf

ConstructionWorX CITS

Rolling Back

Leading telematics provider CanTrack has maintained its impressive 90 percent plus recovery rate with another stolen tandemroller recovered in just five hours.

CanTrack’s hot-line received a call from a plant hirer at 07.30 reporting the theft of a Volvo tandem-roller from a site in Harrogate. The CanTrack Asset unit fitted in the Volvo had last reported its location the previous night. CanTrack’s investigator, using CanTrack’s web based interface, activated the unit’s tracking and homing beacon.

By 10.00 CanTrack’s investigator was on

the road heading to Leeds, where the Asset unit in the stolen Volvo was reporting its new location.

By 11.20 CanTrack’s investigator had arrived in the reported vicinity of Chapel Allerton. Using the CanTrack Asset’s homing signal he quickly identified that the stolen Volvo was in a parked Ford Transit longwheelbase van. The van was later identified as being on false registration plates and stolen ten days before this event.

Following CanTrack’s investigations procedure the local police were asked to

attend the scene and by 12.00 noon West Yorkshire Police officers had arrived. The Ford Transit van was opened and, as expected, the stolen Volvo was inside, still transmitting its exact location.

By 12.30, just five hours after the initial report, the stolen Volvo and Transit were on a recovery truck and on their way back to their rightful owners.

Once again CanTrack’s tough, compact, self-contained unit had done exactly what was expected of it, as had CanTrack’s experienced investigator.

Pure and Simple

Milton Keynes based Pure Group provides a wide range of services to a diverse customer base that spans the commercial and domestic markets. Organised into five

divisions the group provides on-site customer service as well as a reactive call out service. Pure Group’s mobile technicians carry out emergency repairs and planned maintenance on a range of domestic and commercial plumbing, heating and air conditioning equipment as well as general facilities management and property maintenance services.

Whatever the job, and at whatever the time of day or night, it’s crucial that Pure Group’s managers can track vehicle movements and response times. All vehicles in the fleet are equipped with CanTrack GPS, a comprehensive and lowcost tracking solution for fleet vehicles.

The CanTrack GPS unit is a compact ‘Plug and Play’ unit designed for ease of use and which is easy to swap between vehicles. The easy to use software includes a full suite of reporting tools that includes mileage recording, ‘out-of-hours’ usage

and a driver behaviour module. The system provides managers with an accurate, timely and easy to use view of their vehicle fleet allowing control of this important aspect of the business, saving time and money but of equal importance maximising customer service.

CanTrack GPS also provides benefits for Pure Group’s mobile technicians as it makes completing timesheets simple with recordings of accurate dates, times and mileage, reducing customer queries and wasted time.

“The fact that all of our vehicles are equipped with CanTrack GPS speaks for itself. The system is very affordable and gives us the tools to control costs and monitor driver behaviour,” says Pure Group managing director Robin Riley. “We receive great support from the team at CanTrack and I wouldn’t want to operate without CanTrack GPS.”

AUTUMN 2016 37

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ConstructionWorX Plant Theft Focus

Switching Focus With equipment theft now considered “inevitable” in some parts of the country, the industry is switching its focus from prevention to recovery in the ongoing battle against the plant thieves.

Mark Anthony reports.

I

started writing about equipment theft in the late 1980s. At the time, estimates suggested that plant theft was costing the UK construction industry somewhere in the region of £100 million per year. And there was little to stem the tide. Most equipment was easily started with a universal “one-size-fits-all” key. Plant hirers were unwilling to invest in any kind of equipment protection that didn’t offer an immediate return on their investment. With one or two notable exceptions, the police were largely indifferent to equipment thefts, claiming that they lacked the expertise required to track and identify stolen equipment. And equipment manufacturers – in the midst of a boom – seemed to view the loss of a digger purely as the opportunity to supply a replacement.

Kevin Howells, Datatag

Every time we make a significant step forward in the fight against plant thieves, the criminals find a way around it. We are having to innovate constantly in order to stay one step ahead.

Constant Innovation Fast forward three decades and much has changed in the field of plant theft. Many plant hirers are now differentiating themselves from their competitors by the use of a variety of theft prevention measures.

Police forces across the country have united successfully to address the problem. Many equipment manufacturers are now installing antitheft devices and systems as standard.

And yet the cost of plant and equipment theft – although still estimated – has risen inexorably to a staggering £1 billion per year.

Recent studies suggest that around 92 percent of contractors and plant hirer have been the victim of an equipment theft. Opportunist

thieves seeking a fast buck have been replaced by organised criminals using increasingly sophisticated measures to part man from machine.

Equipment theft has become almost inevitable in certain parts of the country. And the industry has been forced to concede that for all its theft prevention intentions and measures, rapid recovery in the event of a theft is now the default position, a fact that has given rise to an unstoppable tide of devices, systems and gadgets to make stolen machines easier to find and simpler to return to their rightful owners.

And it is a constant battle. “There are criminals out there that can earn in a day what most people might earn in a year. And it’s a problem that is not going away,” says Datatag’s Kevin Howells. “Every time we make a significant step forward in the fight against plant thieves, the criminals find a way around it. We are having to innovate constantly in order to stay one step ahead.”

Fraudulent Hire And they are having to innovate hard! While equipment left unattended overnight or over a weekend by the side of a road remains a soft target for opportunist thieves, organised criminals are taking a more sophisticated and long term view to satisfy their nefarious ends. They are even going as far as creating bogus companies or illegally adopting the identity of an existing company in order to place spurious hire requests to facilitate large-scale thefts.

Leading plant hirer GAP Hire Solutions recently found themselves the victim of a fraudulent hire, the incident taking place at their Thurrock Plant and Tools Hire depot.

The staff at Thurrock received a seemingly normal request from one of their well-established customers in Yorkshire, and the delivery was duly made.

However, upon the production of the first invoice, the customer thought to have placed the order questioned the matter in its entirety. They had never made an order for the kit in the Thurrock area, and a great deal of GAP plant was now missing, the thieves having seemingly stolen the identity of a reputable company.

Thankfully, in this instance, the plant was fitted with the LiveTrak discovery system, meaning it was easily located by the depot.

Manager of the GAP Thurrock Plant and Tools Hire depot, Bill Robinson, visited the location of the plant as according to the tracker and instantly called the police. Inside, the items were found along with the criminals who had attempted to steal them.

Balancing Act But the battle against the parasitic plant thieves is as plagued with peaks and troughs as the construction industry itself. The Combined Industry Theft Solutions (CITS) organisation brings together specialists from the police, insurers, finance companies, equipment

AUTUMN 2016 39

Plant Theft Focus ConstructionWorX

AMI, Nexis report

Peter Thompson, CanTrack

Attachments are easy to steal and easy to sell… In fact, to a plant thief, they are as good as cash. manufacturers and plant hirers and has been instrumental in many of the key anti-theft innovations the sector has seen in recent years.

Similarly, the Plant and Agricultural National Intelligence Unit (PANIU) has been doing its level best to help police forces reduce the theft of construction and agricultural equipment.

Yet, at the same time, the number of specialist stolen vehicle squads appears to be in terminal decline. “When I started in this industry, there were around 60 stolen vehicle squads in police forces across the UK. Those squads knew the equipment, knew where to find VIN numbers and knew how to identify different types of yellow metal,” Howells recalls. “Today, there are just a handful of those squads remaining.”

In the seemingly endless battle against plant theft, it seems that it is a case of one step forward, and one step back.

40 AUTUMN 2016

Peter Stockton, AMI

Attachments Detached However, according to Kevin Howells, use of systems like the CEAowned CESAR scheme, the growth of the Combined Industry Theft Solutions, and greater industry awareness has made equipment theft more challenging to even the most sophisticated thieves.

But equipment thieves are every bit as flexible and dynamic as the equipment manufacturers upon which they prey. They have become adept at homing in on equipment that is easy to steal, difficult to trace and fast and lucrative to sell.

A prime example of this constant shift is the significant upswing in incidence of attachment theft, a fact that has hit sectors like the demolition industry particularly hard. Attachments are easy to unbolt from the carrier machine, relatively easy to transport, and fetch a price of tens of thousands of pounds. “Attachments are easy to steal and easy to sell,” says CanTrack’s Peter Thompson. “In fact, to a plant thief, they are as good as cash.”

But the industry is fighting back. The recently-introduced Compact CESAR system can be used to identify both the attachment and its rightful owner; while tracking devices from the likes of CanTrack and AMI Group are now sufficiently vibration-resistant to withstand the

ConstructionWorX Plant Theft Focus

impact shocks of a harsh demolition environment while providing a precise location tracking signal. Indeed, AMI recently unveiled a new tracking device for hydraulic hammers. “It has always been a challenge to track a pecker, partly because they’re a solid piece of metal and it’s difficult to conceal a tracking device, and partly because of the abuse and vibration they encounter,” says AMI’s Peter Stockton. “But we have devised some new compounds to protect the trackers from vibration and some new covert locations in which to conceal them to ensure that these attachments can be readily tracked and recovered in the event of a theft.”

Much of the latest technology harnessed by these tracking system suppliers has been developed to overcome the widespread use of GPS jammers which – according to CanTrack’s Peter Thompson – is an item of equipment carried by every self-respecting plant thief.

“The CanTrack Asset system detects the use of a GPS jammer and automatically switches to a mobile phone-style quad band GSM signal that provides sufficiently accurate triangulation to allow our team of inspectors to locate a stolen item of equipment,” he says.

“Furthermore, this works even when the equipment is hidden in a shed or a shipping container.”

But if you look on a popular online auction site, it is possible to buy for £40 or £50 a key that will start 80 or 90 percent of the kit on the market.

Helping Ourselves In an age in which we can track equipment and monitor its performance via satellite with nothing more complex than a smartphone, it seems remarkable that one of the biggest hurdles to preventing plant theft remains the use of a universal key. “There are dozens of equipment manufacturers out there that can see the benefit of switching to a unique key starting system but many customers don’t want it. They like the convenience of a single key that allows a driver to collect multiple machines,” Howells explains. “But if you look on a popular online auction site, it is possible to buy for £40 or £50 a key that will start 80 or 90 percent of the kit on the market.”

Furthermore, organised criminals still see equipment theft as a relatively soft target. The theft of a Ford Focus – for example – is wrought with risk. A car is easy to identify, easy to track and easy to trace. A hydraulic hammer, shear or pulveriser can be hauled away inside a container or truck; it’s hard to track and hard to identify. And yet the potential return on the thief’s “investment” is roughly the same.

And, of course, the plant theft business is far more resistant to the peaks and troughs of demands that plague the construction industry upon which it feasts. When the going gets tough for the wider construction sector, there is a ready market for no-questionsasked and low-cost equipment. And when the going is good, there is a surfeit of potentially lucrative “stock” parked unattended by the side of a road just waiting for the thieves to go shopping.

Despite the best efforts of the industry, plant theft is a problem that is not going away any time soon. ■

Protecting the Lone Rangers

CanTrack has launched a new pocket sized device that enables employers to meet their ‘duty of care responsibilities’ to lone-workers.

Developed to provide a new level of safety and security for workers in remote, tough and potentially hazardous environments CanTrack People – a small device no bigger than a car key – delivers continuous and accurate real-time location, an SOS alert to mobile phones, intelligent fall detection and more. The new device will help protect construction workers, plant operators, mobile technicians and other lone-workers.

The construction industry has made progress in reducing accidents but – according to Health and Safety Executive statistics – workers still have 55 percent more accidents than average. With employers having a duty of care to provide a ‘safe working environment’ in all circumstances CanTrack believes that ‘People’ will become a ‘must-have’ safety device.

“We’ve come to expect equipment and vehicles to be monitored through telematics, but workers are often just given a mobile ‘phone and left to get on with it. Working alone is not in itself against the law. However, the law requires employers to consider carefully, and then deal with, any health and safety risks for people working alone. Employers are responsible for the health, safety and welfare of all their workers. These responsibilities cannot be transferred to any other person, including those people who work alone,” says CanTrack’s MD Peter Thompson. “I cannot imagine any responsible employer not wanting to have a simple and cost-effective way of monitoring their staff and sub-contractors.”

For more information, visit www.cantrack.com/people

To view an exclusive video detailing the latest developments in plant theft prevention and recovery, please visit: http://tinyurl.com/hjcstjv

AUTUMN 2016 41

Brexit ConstructionWorX

Brexit Brief While politicians seemingly remain confused and undecided about what Brexit actually means, the Construction Equipment Association (CEA) has set out its far-reaching manifesto to help members prepare for life outside the European Union.

Rob Oliver, CEA Chief Executive, reports.

T

he UK’s withdrawal from the EU has to work for our country – and for our industry. The CEA has identified a series of key principles, arising from discussions with member companies.

The Brexit process will evolve, as will the CEA’s policy – so members are more than welcome to contribute their viewpoints and concerns at any time. In particular your detailed input on the effect the changes could have on your products and companies is welcome.

THE 7 PRINCIPLES

1

Post-Brexit, the main regulations affecting construction equipment should continue to be consistent with those in place in the EU. We do not want tougher regulations.

2

Government should re-energise its support for existing and new exporters – recognising that extra costs in developing new markets come before the benefits of a more competitive exchange rate.

3

Plans to stimulate the UK construction sector should be strengthened and accelerated – to bolster business confidence and deliver the productivity benefits of a world class physical infrastructure.

4

Clear and urgent policy guidance is needed on how skills gaps will be filled in construction and engineering roles – and how companies can continue to recruit workers with key skills.

5

International investment has played a significant role in the success of the construction equipment industry in the UK. Government policies should be tuned to ensuring that this can continue.

6

The interests of business are served by trading in free and fair home and international markets. Government policy should prioritise these principles in all negotiations on trade relations.

7

Manufacturing, and engineering expertise, should be a keystone of the post-Brexit economy – a principle reflected in the formulation of Government policy in pursuit of a balanced economy.

The manufacturers’ organisation – the EEF – stated in its Brexit report that, “The Government should develop its Brexit negotiation strategy in close consultation with business to ensure the UK’s long term economic interests are not harmed.” Seldom, if ever, have the interests of British business been more in need of a strong and constructive voice to government. Both the process leading to the UK’s exit from the EU and what happens after that is uncharted territory.

Making Sense The “7 principles” set out in this article are an attempt to make some sense of what the key issues are for our sector. It has been estimated

42 AUTUMN 2016

that some 70 percent of our industry’s R&D spend has gone on ensuring that our machines meet EU regulations. The process of defining the directives from which those requirements spring has also been a tortuous process. I know from first-hand experience.

Often political expedience has triumphed over practical science, but to continue to trade product into the EU we will have to continue to meet those regulations. Where these concern environmental standards (noise, emissions etc.) then it makes sense to have a common agenda. Our members know the high cost of designing and producing machines for differing country requirements. Supporting common international standards, including the EU and US, remains the best pathway, with or without Brexit.

The devaluation of sterling is seen as a boon to exporters. True, but it is not that simple. A 15 percent devaluation does not deliver a 15 percent cost saving. It makes imported components more expensive, stokes up inflation (and wage demands?) and makes overseas market entry costs more expensive. This “market entry premium” will affect many of our smaller would be exporting companies. The CEA’s British pavilion at next year’s Conexpo trade show, in Las Vegas, has not been an easy sell, despite a relatively healthy US economy. If government thinks that record exports will just happen then they could be in for a shock – they need to get a grip of their export support services which have the prospect of becoming increasingly marginalised with the removal of the old UKTI set up.

Shackles of Austerity Government signals that spending on infrastructure projects may be freed to an extent from the shackles of austerity budgeting are welcome for two reasons. First, it is well proven that expenditure on construction delivers a general economic boost (via the multiplier effect) that is good for jobs and GDP. Second, we know that Britain must improve its productivity – the CEA’s Construction Productivity Forum in the summer highlighted what we could do to support that aim. Good physical infrastructure, roads, rail and much else, should be a given in any modern economy. At our Forum, the interim chair of the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC), Lord Adonis, set out some of the priorities as he saw them. However, more recently it has been announced that the NIC will become an agency of government, without Andrew Adonis at the helm. This falls short of the statutory body which was promised, which would have given government the duty to consider the Commission’s recommendations. Perhaps this means that the long term planning commitment which the construction sector has craved for so long remains an idle dream.

Whilst economic stimulus should be welcome at any time, we know that job creation in itself is not the end point. Prospective employees, with the right skills (or trainable in those skills), must come forward

ConstructionWorX Brexit

The Government should develop its Brexit negotiation strategy in close consultation with business to ensure the UK’s long term economic interests are not harmed. to take those jobs. The UK’s official unemployment rate is around 4.9 percent. Even if this figure is augmented by those that don’t appear in the statistics but would take work if offered, there is a central problem.

Skills Mismatch Traditional economic theory has it that five percent is around the “natural” unemployment rate. It includes those who are between jobs, those who can’t or won’t move to where the jobs are or where there is a skills mis-match. The high participation rates in full and part-time higher education (around 40 percent) exacerbate the skills mis-match – as university graduates are unlikely to take up many of the trades that are in short supply in the construction sector. This is why the government’s initiative on apprenticeships cannot afford to fail. Fuelled by the Apprenticeship Levy, the objective is to facilitate training on an unparalleled scale. The CEA’ support for a Trailblazer Standard to enhance the career pathway for plant service and maintenance technicians is a small, but welcome, initiative. Where skilled personnel are not available, and where upskilling is not an option, there should still be the opportunity to recruit the best skills internationally or this will be a block to efficient business.

The very nature of the construction equipment business today is international. British companies have factories not only in the UK, but in the USA, India, China and beyond. Similarly, American, Japanese, Indian and, more recently, Chinese enterprises have made significant stakes in the UK. This investment supports the home supply chain, with their components in turn exported in the finished machines. This inter-dependency has been a feature of our industry and government must ensure that it can continue in ensuring that the UK is “open for business”. Policies in the area of energy pricing reform and business rating changes are practical areas which can reinforce this message.

Manufacturing Champion The EU cannot exist as a protectionist entity, any more than the UK can pull up the drawbridge to our EU partners. The most delicate negotiations in the Brexit process will be around the issue of market access, whilst at the same time initiating or sharpening new trade agreements world-wide. The principle of free and fair trade will be tested as never before – but the end goal for CEA members is being able to continue to support UK, European and international markets with the best products at competitive prices.

It is easy to forget that the Cameron government made a commitment to foster a balanced economy – where the services, financial and manufacturing sectors were equally treasured.

In today’s post-Osborne world we need to continue to promote that aspiration and champion the cause of manufacturing. The 2014 Sector Report, commissioned by the CEA and BIS, was unequivocal about the multi-billion pound contribution the construction equipment sector makes to our economy. Post-Brexit and the years to come we need to be able to continue to make that claim with confidence. ■

AUTUMN 2016 43

Break with Tradition ConstructionWorX

A Break with Tradition Jacqui Miller of Miller UK was one of the first women to break the construction equipment industry’s glass ceiling to become not just a woman in a man’s world but a recognised leader in her field.

In this exclusive article, Miller calls for a brand makeover to make the sector more attractive to young women seeking an exciting and dynamic career path.

Some of the much needed answers to the issues we face in these areas lie within our nation’s largest firms which – in the 21st century – should accept that it is part of their responsibility to force through the very necessary change.

To reach the top of your profession – whatever sector you’ve chosen to work in – brings with it a different set of challenges depending upon what it is that your particular business is trying to achieve.

Not Sexy…?

C

onstruction is a sector that has typically been associated with men and which today is still considered to be one of the most challenging if you’re a woman. As one of the industry’s first females who broke that glass ceiling in an era where male chauvinists were a’plenty and rude gestures and comments were very much ‘par for the course’ I’m very often asked for my opinion on why this sector appears to remain stubbornly archaic in its views toward female talent.

Tough Industry Let me start by saying to any woman reading this that industry in general is a tough environment in which to work, but I dare say no more so than what appears to me to be the very cut-throat and ruthless business of politics, fashion, makeup, modelling, hairdressing etc. To reach the top of your profession – whatever sector you’ve chosen to work in – brings with it a different set of challenges depending upon what it is that your particular business is trying to achieve.

Hard work, the right attitude and determination are some of the attributes you will need to succeed in any career path. It is my belief that although much still needs to be done in order to meet the equality and diversity challenges throughout our industries across the UK we can, as a nation, help ourselves by changing how we view work and gender prejudice towards career choices.

44 AUTUMN 2016

They must lead the way in revolutionising our thinking if we are to see not only the construction sector but industry in general considered as a career of choice for our country’s future female talent.

“It’s not exactly a sexy industry Jacqui” is a comment I’ve heard often and of course I fully appreciate that may be some people’s view. But I can state through first-hand experience that if you work hard and deliver on the promises you make – then as a woman – it’s probably still one of the most fulfilling and rewarding career choices to make.

In an environment fraught with daily challenges it’s an exciting and fast paced sector. Very rarely are any two days the same. If you’re able to offer well-thought-through solutions (which in my experience I’ve often found the female gender to be particularly good at) then without doubt you will be recognised and rewarded accordingly.

I am also of the view that, within the construction industry particularly, a “brand makeover” is also required so that younger girls can look at a career within this area as a serious option and a real opportunity for career advancement.

• We need to start within schools and stop segregating career options by gender • We need much improved career advice that captures the imagination of girls at a much younger age • We need to dispel the myths that the industry is “not a place for girls” and we need a nationwide movement by the industries top firms to make a pledge to actively promote the sector as a great career choice for women

ConstructionWorX Break with Tradition

Skills Shortfall As we exited the recession of 2009 to 2011 and construction began to recover there was a significant shortfall of industry talent that held the skill sets necessary for the sector to flourish. Lots of talent had retrained and forged a new career path elsewhere when they were laid off through lack of work. When I joined the CEA’s (Construction Equipment Association) Skills Advisory Board set up to act upon the issues surrounding this fallout we identified a number of areas we needed to improve upon, one being our ability to encourage more women into industry.

We need to show today’s talent that the construction industry can be a truly exhilarating career choice, an opportunity to progress up the career ladder and a satisfying work experience that leaves you feeling a valued part of your organisation. I read with disappointment of the difficulties that some of our graduates of 2015 are experiencing in their attempts to secure a decent job with career prospects that will enable them to earn enough for them to live comfortably whilst repaying their debt to government as a result of them funding their further education. I wonder if any of these no doubt intelligent and talented individuals have considered construction and the associated sectors as a career possibility?

Dual-Thinking It is my belief that if we were to look at ways in which we can engage our up and coming young ladies to look beyond stereotypical,

We need to show today’s talent that the construction industry can be a truly exhilarating career choice, an opportunity to progress up the career ladder and a satisfying work experience that leaves you feeling a valued part of your organisation. gender-based career paths and consider alternatives within what have to date been recognised as male dominated working environments then the prize for such a movement to our national economy would be quite considerable. Other traditionally maledominated industries would without doubt benefit from the type of thinking that women have to offer.

Imagine being the First Nation to export ‘dual thinking’ within previously one gender industries like construction? Could this lead to the UK securing many large infrastructure projects on a global scale as a result?

As the old adage goes ‘he (or in this case SHE) who dares wins’, so to girls who want a career challenge and to our nationwide industry giants my question is, simply: “what are you waiting for?” ■

AUTUMN 2016 45

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ConstructionWorX International

(Middle) Eastern Promise The lifting of UN sanctions and a greater openness under Hassan Rouhani is seeing Iran open up for business following years as a pariah state under Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. It is a country with enormous natural resources and it offers great potential for construction equipment sales, according to a new report by specialist market intelligence company Off-Highway Research.

I

f you were handing out prizes for the most resource-rich countries in the world, Iran would be in with a shout for the gold medal. It has the largest natural gas reserves in the world, the fourth largest proven oil reserves, and is bristling with metallic and chemical minerals, not to mention significant amounts of coal.

This of course all counted for nothing under President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who held power from 2005 to 2013 and steered the country down a road of international isolation and provoked international sanctions with a programme to enrich nuclear materials. However, the election of Hassan Rouhani just over three years ago has seen a softening of this line, and the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear programme saw the lifting of the UN’s sanctions in January 2016.

It is still a complex area as other bilateral sanctions remain in place, most notably from the US. Nonetheless, the lifting of UN sanctions paves the way for construction equipment sales and component supply to Iran.

Domestic Production

And that leads on to the first point about the market in Iran which might surprise some – that it has significant domestic production. About half of the 3,500 construction machines sold in Iran in 2015 were produced within the country. These were split between a handful of genuine manufacturers – most notably Hepco and Snow Pars, which conduct their own R&D and design their own machines – and more the numerous assemblers, which build machines from completely knocked-down (CKD) kits supplied largely from Chinese manufacturers.

Domestic production takes a particularly significant slice of the backhoe loader, skid-steer loader, motor grader, compaction equipment and mobile compressor markets. Meanwhile, international suppliers are strong in the excavator segment and other demanding

product areas such as mobile cranes and asphalt finishers.

The routes to market in Iran are numerous, with international OEMs using a mixture of direct sales, the marketing of used equipment and sales through dealers (both exclusive and non-exclusive) for the their own machines, as well as establishing licensing agreements with local manufacturers and supplying kits for assembly.

But the concept of retail sales does not exist in Iran in the same sense that it does in the UK. Many machine sales from primary dealers and distributors are made to what are locally described as ‘investor customers’, which could be thought of as a kind of sub-dealer middle man. It is they who will go on to make sales to end-users.

Growth Potential Off-Highway Research believes the Iranian market could double in size in a few years and approach 7,000 unit sales in 2020. The market is at a low ebb at the moment, with weak global commodity prices reducing equipment demand linked to the areas where Iran is so richly endowed. On top of this a previous major government tender to equip municipalities with backhoe loaders and skid steer loaders has now run its course.

However, there are more government tenders in the pipeline and a programme of infrastructure investment focussed on the oil, gas and mining sectors which could stimulate significant demand for equipment. The government is targeting GDP growth in excess of 5% per year from 2017, and increasing oil and gas production will be essential to drive that. Certainly the larger construction and construction equipment opportunities in Iran are linked to resources, but there are also significant transport infrastructure projects planned, particularly around roads and airports.

There is no denying that Iran can be an unpredictable country, and that of course carries risks and is a barrier to investment. However, there is also no denying the country’s huge potential. In terms of construction equipment sales, Iran could certainly rise to be on a par with other major markets in the region such as Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

Off-Highway Research’s new 160-page Multi-Client Study, The Construction Equipment Industry in Iran, can be bought directly form the company’s on-line store, www.offhighway-store.com. It includes analysis of the market for 14 equipment types, across the earthmoving, utility, lifting and road building sectors, and five year sales forecasts. There is also forensic analysis of the market’s structure, including production data, manufacturer profiles and distributor profiles. ■ More information on all of Off-Highway Research’s products and services is available at www.offhighway.co.uk

AUTUMN 2016 47

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The Voice of the UK Construction Equipment Industry For more information contact Gill Stirk. * POD package £2,450 + VAT, however £2,000 UKTI grants are available for eligible companies. A £250 + VAT Management fee is chargeable to non CEA members. ** Exhibitor pass is included in POD package only.

48 AUTUMN 2016

For more information: Visit www.thecea.org.uk Email cea@admin.co.uk

ConstructionWorX Hard Data

CEA Market Information Portal is open for business The Construction Equipment Association has opened up a new information portal to provide members with greater access to market intelligence. CEA Market Information Manager Paul Lyons reports.

T

he new portal was opened for CEA members in August (thecea.org.uk/market-information-portal). Members need to login to use the new service, or register on the login page, if they haven’t registered previously. Market information is available on both equipment markets and the UK construction market, with the intention of providing easy access to a “single source” for key market information and updates.

Since the portal went live, Paul Lyons has been sending CEA members regular alerts when updates have been added to the new portal.

Equipment MARKETS Information on equipment markets consists of both published reports captured from a range of sources, as well as new reports generated by the CEA. Published reports are available from sources such as KHL and Parker Bay, as well as CECE (Committee for European Construction Equipment), and key member associations such as the VDMA (Germany), UNACEA (Italy) and CISMA (France).

New reports from the CEA have been generated from a range of statistical sources. This includes quarterly updates on UK exports and imports of construction equipment and components and parts, using trade data from HMRC. Data has also been captured from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on monthly output of machinery and equipment, to provide an indicator of activity/production levels of UK manufacturers in the construction equipment sector.

The CEA is also looking at possible new initiatives and statistics to help track the UK equipment market. Further news on this should be available in the coming months.

Construction MARKETS Information on the UK construction market is captured from existing sources and reports. This includes updates on construction orders and output, as well as a range of surveys and forecasts. The main purpose of this part of the portal is to provide members with a “single source” for key market updates.

However, a key feature of market information on this part of the portal consists of updates from construction industry experts Glenigan. In particular, this includes updates on the “Glenigan Index” which is considered a leading indicator for the industry, and provides monthly updates on new project starts in the UK market. The portal also includes regional updates and other market analysis from Glenigan.

The market information portal has been up and running for a couple of months now. Some CEA members have provided some useful comments on how they have found the service.

Feedback is always welcome from members.

Please contact paul.lyons@admin.co.uk if you have any comments.

www.thecea.org.uk Your finger on the industry’s pulse...

The website of the Construction Equipment Association is updated regularly with news, views and comments from the construction equipment business. Make sure you visit the site regularly to keep abreast of developments in this fast-paced and constantly-changing business.

AUTUMN 2016 49

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ConstructionWorX Hard Data

Do you see the results of the CECE Barometer survey ?

This is a survey conducted by the European Committee for Construction Equipment. It is considered a leading indicator for the construction equipment market, but full results are only available for participants. To take part, you need to be a CEA member.

T

he survey is conducted every month across an average of 60 equipment and component manufacturers across Europe. Regular participants in the UK say it takes no more than 10 minutes or so every month to complete the survey.

The survey covers: • The general business climate • Order book levels • Sales levels and sales expectations • Plans for workforce levels.

This is achieved by asking seven regular questions each month.

In addition, there are between one and three additional questions most months, covering areas such as employment levels, capacity utilisation, stock levels and future sales forecasts.

Members who participate in the survey say that the results act as a leading indicator of market sentiment within the industry. This is ahead of what official statistics or the media may publish.

If you are interested in taking part in the survey in future: contact Paul Lyons at the CEA. Paul.lyons@admin.co.uk

For more information about taking part in the survey contact Paul Lyons on Paul.lyons@admin.co.uk

CECE Business Barometer Results of Survey September 2016 C E C E

B u s i n e s s

R e s u l t s o f S e p t e m b e r

t h e

B a r o m e t e r S u r v e y

2 0 1 6

Recognised by Government, Valued by our Members The CEA represents over 120 companies in the construction equipment industry...

Figure 1: Total sales expectations for the next 6 months 12 10 8 6 4

2.6 0.0

0 -2

2.9

2.8

2.1

2

-0.7

2.5

2.0

1.4

1.7

1.4

-0.4

Se p1 6

Au g1 6

Ju l1 6

Ju n1 6

M ay 16

Ap r1 6

M ar 16

Fe b1 6

Ja n1 6

De c1 5

No v1 5

Oc t1 5

Se p1 5

-4

September recorded only a very slight decline of business optimism.

Source: CECE Business Barometer September 2016

ARE YOU A MEMBER? If you are not already a member of the CEA and are interested in finding out more about the benefits of becoming a member, then contact us by email at cea@admin.co.uk or visit www.thecea.org.uk for more information.

For more information, visit our website – www.thecea.org.uk AUTUMN 2016 51

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ConstructionWorX Skills & Training

Blazing the Training Trail The construction sector can learn from the agricultural industry in its fight to plug the skills gap.

I

n the Spring issue of Construction WorX, we reported our intention for CEA to work in partnership with the agricultural sector to find a way of amending the approved Landbased Engineering (LBE) Trailblazer apprenticeship standards such that they accommodate the training needs of construction plant manufacturers, their dealers and distributors and their customers. Specifically, the primary requirements of the construction equipment industry were identified as being the provision of construction plant servicing and maintenance apprenticeships at levels 2 and 3 within the Trailblazer framework, and it was recognised that the LBE Trailblazer already went a long way towards providing these requirements.

Discussions during the summer with the agricultural equipment sector’s Landbased Engineering Training & Education Committee (LE-TEC) demonstrated that construction plant is very closely aligned to land-based engineering and shares most of the generic underpinning knowledge and skills required. The LBE Trailblazer standards already cater for different pathways for apprentices working in specific parts of the agriculture industry so the principle of adding a further pathway for construction plant was readily accepted by LE-TEC.

Discussions during the summer … demonstrated that construction plant is very closely aligned to land-based engineering and shares most of the generic underpinning knowledge and skills required.

More recently, CEA convened a technical working group comprising construction plant OEMs, their dealers and distributors to define the further ‘Construction Plant’ pathway that would deliver the right level of foundation knowledge training, along with the additional training modules that are needed to support it. This was achieved by reviewing the units specified within the LBE Trailblazer and supplementing them with units from the existing Construction Plant Maintenance Apprenticeship plus two newly prepared units on Earthmoving/Material Handling Equipment and Construction Plant Equipment.

The outcome of this work was a submission to the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) in late September of amended LBE Trailblazer standards – one at Level 2 for ‘Service Engineers’ and another at Level 3 for ‘Technicians’ – accompanied by letters of support from Construction Plant employers.

Acceptance of these amended standards by the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) is anticipated in early November.

The working group, which also receives helpful advisory input from training providers and awarding bodies, is now turning its attention to the detail of the assessment strategy that is required to enable the amended LBE Trailblazer to run and in this regard LE-TEC, with CEA support, continues to argue that the qualifications-based LBE Trailblazer must not be prejudiced by the DfE’s keenness for end-point assessments for Trailblazer apprenticeships.

In pursuing this work the working group is conscious that the policy and framework for Trailblazer apprenticeships remains a moving picture following the significant governmental changes in Westminster and Whitehall during the summer months. The Departments for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) is no more and Trailblazer Policy has moved to the Department for Education (DfE) and a close watching brief is being maintained across the whole Trailblazer policy piece. One particular point of interest will be the outcome of the recent SFA consultation on proposals for apprenticeship funding in England from May 2017.

Nevertheless, the government’s Trailblazer framework for apprenticeships will be introduced in 2017 and, as a result of the work detailed above, we are on track to ensure that manufacturers, dealers, distributors and owners of construction plant will have access to the right level of foundation knowledge training that is essential for their employees through the amended Landbased Engineering Trailblazer. ■

Are you reaping the full benefits of CEA Membership?

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AUTUMN 2016 53

Your Shout ConstructionWorX

Your Shout Equipment manufacturers need to do more to safeguard plant from increasingly sophisticated thieves according to DC Julian Crabb, PANIU National Liaison Manager

T DC Julian Crabb PANIU National Liaison Manager.

54 AUTUMN 2016

he CESAR system introduced in 2007 has dramatically changed the face of plant crime over the last decade. It has been embraced by manufacturers of plant and agricultural equipment not only within the United Kingdom but also across some parts of Europe. PANIU will always advocate any form of security system that will deter criminals. We believe that a multi-layer approach such as CESAR together with telematics, alarms, and keypads offer the best protection available.

As a police investigatory unit it is often frustrating that some manufacturers choose not to invest in making their products as secure as possible and this position is clearly reflected in the theft statistics. The most targeted items of plant machinery are still small dumpers, rollers and mini excavators, and these particular items often have no viable security features. PANIU data shows that criminals target unprotected machinery as the risk of detection is low. Protected machinery is also much more difficult to dispose of as buyers have more options available to complete security checks. With the development of security systems for machinery, buyers do have the power to insist manufacturers take steps to ensure there investment is protected. PANIU are always willing to speak to manufacturers and stakeholders in order to advise on the most suitable methods to protect their product.

I have now dealt with several industry victims who did not report their machinery as stolen, and this can cause serious problems when the machine is found.

If the victim does not report the item as stolen and there is no crime report then the situation can turn into a civil dispute with a negative outcome for initial victim. It is imperative that any item of machinery that is stolen is reported to police, and crime reference number is obtained. Reporting the crime will assist the police in the progression of an investigation and potentially recovering your property.

Organised criminal groups have ventured into new arenas such as the hire industry. They either invent bogus companies or they assume the identity of a legitimate company in order to secure deliveries of multiple pieces of equipment, often to the value of hundreds of thousands of pounds which are subsequently disposed of at the suspect’s leisure.

PANIU are advising hire companies on practical measures to try and combat this type of crime.

PANIU are the only national dedicated police unit

that takes ownership of plant and agricultural crime investigations from inception to completion of trial. We understand that being arrested and potentially convicted is an occupational hazard for career criminals, however PANIU will always where possible look to seize criminal assets such as cash, houses and vehicles from those convicted.

The seizing of personal assets of convicted criminals greatly helps to make the theft of plant and agricultural crime less attractive, however we need to be mindful that offenders may turn their attention to alternative crime such as fraud.

PANIU are actively investigating organised criminal groups, and have seized multiple machines over the past few months, disrupting activity, whilst restoring confidence within the industry. We cannot give any specific detail with regard to our investigations as they are ongoing, however PANIU do publish success stories regarding police prosecutions in our quarterly reports when appropriate.

PANIU have been very busy over the last year raising awareness amongst police services across the United Kingdom in order to show officers what to look for whilst dealing with suspect machinery, and how to advise end users on how to protect their equipment.

PANIU continues to gather intelligence and update police forces nationally of crime trends within their geographical areas. With contacts in every force area we are able to recognise emerging trends and take action to stop them developing any further. If you have any information regarding criminal activity then please contact PANIU. Our success is in no small part due to the effective partnership work we do within the industry such as CEA, AEA, HAE, CPA, Datatag, and Clancy Dowcra, to name a few.

PANIU are fully funded by the insurance industry, and without their support we would not exist. I am very grateful that our donors continue to contribute to PANIU not just financially but also by being able to provide us with an insight into how the insurance industry deals with claims and the effects of crime upon their businesses.

I would like to close this article with a clear message that PANIU takes crime seriously and we appreciate that plant and agricultural crime is not a victimless crime. The long lasting effects of crime have a direct impact on the livelihood of thousands of workers and companies across the United Kingdom and Europe.

PANIU are here to make a difference, and we will always strive to reduce crime and bring offenders to justice. ■

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