Case Construction Equipment has released its list of 2016 “Diamond Dealer” and “Gold Dealer” award recipients as a part of its North American Construction Equipment Partnership Program.

The awards recognize dealerships across the U.S. and Canada for leadership in growing the CASE dealer network, as well as excellence in five categories: sales performance, marketing and communications, product support, parts support, and training.

The 2016 Diamond Dealer award winners are: ASCO (Texas), Birkey’s Construction Equipment (Ill.), J.R. Brisson Equipment (Ontario), Burris Equipment Company (Ill.), Groff Tractor (Pa., Md., and N.J.), Hills Machinery (N.C. and S.C.), HiTrac (Manitoba), Kucera Farm Supply (Ontario), McKeel Equipment (Ky.), Miller Bradford & Risberg (Wis., Mi., and Ill.), Nueces Power Equipment (Texas), Redhead Equipment (Saskatchewan), and State Equipment (Ky. and W.Va.).

The 2016 Gold Dealer award winners are: Crawler Supply Company (La.), Diamond Equipment (Ill., Ind., Ky., and Tenn.), Eagle Power & Equipment (Pa. and Del.), Hopf Equipment (Ind.), Longus Equipment (Quebec), McCann Industries (Ill. and Ind.), Medico Industries (Pa.), Monroe Tractor (N.Y.), OCT Equipment (Okla.), Potter Equipment (Ark. and Mo.), RPM Machinery (Mich. and Ind.), Scott Equipment (La. and Ark.), Sequoia Equipment (Calif.), Townline Equipment (N.H.), Triebold Implement (Wis.), and Yukon Equipment (Alaska).

“I would like to congratulate these exemplary dealers who have displayed true leadership and dedication in growing the Case brand,” said Scott Harris, vice president of Case Construction Equipment in North America. “These high-performing dealerships live up to the Case brand promise throughout every aspect of their business: hiring the right people, delivering a differentiated level of service in market, and building enduring relationships with customers.”

Case’s Partnership Program is designed to increase dealer performance per the results of a dealer assessment while encouraging them to excel in their role as a “Professional Partner” to customers.

Tractel, Anjou, Quebec, Canada, has introduced an innovative  harness that combines safety, versatility, and comfort for workers who need to wear one for fall arrest, climbing ladders, work positioning, descent, rescue, or rope access.

The harness’ strap configuration allows better fastening to the body and gives the wearer extra mobility when bending. Also, its Y shape includes a simple attachment point for quick and easy hook-up. The many frontal attachment points suit the harness to various applications.

Its unique independent leg-strap and seat support allow complete freedom of movement and flexibility while climbing, walking, and bending, without unwanted tugging and pulling between the thighs. The leg straps feature auto-lock buckles.

The TracX back pad brings extra comfort by minimizing weight on the wearer’s shoulders and back and providing lumbar support. It also helps the harness hold its shape for quick donning. Six-point adjustment allows easy custom fitting.

The result, says Tractel, is a combination of day-long comfort and safety.

Tractel says the new harness simplifies rescue attachment, keeps the work-position centered, gives unrestricted leg movement, and increases mobility.

It complies with major standards, including: ANSI Z359.1-2007, ANSI A10.32-2012, OSHA 1926, and CSA Z259.10-12.

Tractel provides material handling and lifting, load-measurement, suspended-work-platform, and fall-arrest safety equipment in more than 120 countries through more than 8,000 industrial distributors.

Its products include Griphoist, TIRAK, MINIFOR hoists, the Dynafor electronic load indicator, and a complete range of fall-safety equipment.

DICA, manufacturer of SafetyTech outrigger pads, has introduced a new product line designed for the high visibility needed in the electric-utility and tree-care industries.

“Yellow and orange SafetyTech outrigger pads have been available from DICA as a custom option for a number of years. With demand for these models continuing to grow, it’s the right time to add them to our standard SafetyTech line of outrigger pads,” said Kris Koberg, CEO of DICA.

Features and Benefits

The high visibility of yellow and orange provides a clear visual reminder to think and act safely when setting up equipment on outrigger pads.

Further, both yellow and orange contrast with the ground and paved surfaces, reducing the potential for lost pads.

“For years, many tree-care and utility companies have made DICA’s original D1818 and D2424 outrigger pads a standard fleet product because of their unbreakable and reliable performance," said Dick Koberg, founder and president of DICA. "We’re excited customers are taking advantage of the additional benefits our high-visibility options offer.”

Made from DICA’s premium engineered thermoplastic, yellow and orange D1818 and D2424 outrigger pads are designed for the stabilizer-enabled equipment common in electric-utility and tree-care work.

The high-visibility outrigger pads are available in 18"x18"x1" and 24"x24"x1" sizes. They are medium-duty models with 100,000-lb. capacity.

Like all SafetyTech outrigger pads, the yellow and orange models pads are backed by DICA’s unbreakable guarantee.

The full line of SafetyTech outrigger pads, including heavy duty models, can also be special ordered in high visibility yellow or orange.

Magni, an Italian manufacturer of telescopic handlers, has dealership opportunities available along the western Coasts of the United States and Canada.

Jorge Salas, Magni's managing director for the Americas, announced the dealership opportunities.

The Magni range includes traditional fixed-body telehandlers with maximum capacities from 22,000 lbs. to 99,000 lbs., and maximum lifting heights from 32’10” to 45’11”.

The company's three lines of rotating telehandlers include the Smart Range, whose four models have pivoting stabilizers, offer maximum capacities of 11,000 lbs., deliver maximum lifting heights from 59’0” to 82’0”.

Magni’s four Smart S Range rotating telehandler models have telescopic stabilizers, 11,000-lb. maximum capacity, and maximum lifting heights from 68’11” to 82’0”.

The third group of Magni rotating telehandlers, the S Range, uses telescopic stabilizers. The five models in this group have maximum capacities ranging from 11,000 lbs. to 13,000 lbs., and maximum lifting heights from 78’8” to 131’4”.

Potential dealers interested in West Coast territories for Magni products should contact Jorge Salas at: j.salas@magnith-americas.com, or 786-340-6550.

The new Caterpillar TH3510D telehandler, with a rated load capacity of 7,716 lbs. and maximum lifting height of 32 ft., features a compact design for optimum job site maneuverability and a three-section hydraulic boom with low-pivot mounting for maximum all around visibility.

The new model combines field-proven Cat drive line components with a simple, highly efficient gear-pump hydraulic system to deliver long term durability and reliable performance at low operating costs.

The TH3510D uses a new fuel efficient Cat C3.4B diesel engine that is rated at 100 hp and meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emission standards. A Cat C4.4 ACERT engine that meets Tier 3 emission standards is available for lesser or non-regulated countries.

A Cat four-speed power-shift transmission drives both of the TH3510D axles for permanent four-wheel drive, providing excellent traction in all conditions. A limited-slip differential in the front axle aids traction in wet conditions.

Oil-immersed dual axle disc brakes are used, and a parking brake works in conjunction with the front brakes. The braking system is designed to provide trouble-free performance in the harshest operating conditions.

The TH3510D operator’s station is designed for simplicity and durability, with all hydraulic functions controlled by a single lever joystick with F-N-R, allowing simultaneous drive and boom functions.

Switches are clustered by function, and a new instrument panel and dash allow at a glance monitoring of machine performance. An optional advanced display monitor provides load charts as well as the feed from the rear view camera when activated, and  can be used to set operator preferences and perform diagnostic checks.

Flat glass throughout simplifies window replacement, and the floor design allows quick cleaning with hose.

For added versatility, the TH3510D is fitted with a standard Cat Integrated Tool carrier (IT) quick coupler that is compatible with the entire Cat telehandler range. An optional hydraulically operated coupler is available.

Additional options for the TH3510D include reversing sensors, a load weighing system, and a Load Management Indicator System “LMIS” for regions requiring it.

Easy serviceability helps reduce the TH3510D overall cost of ownership with all routine service points accessible from ground level and daily maintenance limited to fluid-level checks and a walk-around inspection.

According to upcoming changes to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Canadian Standards Association (CSA), only a qualified person should inspect and maintain mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) -- more commonly called aerial work platforms in North America -- in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

To help meet demand for the next generation of aerial lift service technicians in the rental industry, Terex Aerial Work Platforms (AWP) is offering free enrollment in Genie Tech Pro Online Service Training to community colleges and 500 aspiring aerial lift technicians in North America.

Genie Tech Pro classes address service, maintenance, repairs, diagnostics, and troubleshooting for boom lifts, scissor lifts, and telehandlers.

This initiative is part of the Genie brand’s 50th anniversary activities aimed at “Building the Future” by increasing skilled service technicians in the rental profession.

“The need for properly trained service technicians to work on, repair and maintain aerial rental equipment continues to increase as the market demand for this type of equipment grows,” says Bob Bartley, Genie senior director of product support and reconditioning, Terex AWP. “A trained technician not only knows how to read the equipment schematics and how to do the repair correctly but also knows how to get the repair done in the least amount of time, with a minimal amount of parts expense. This results in less downtime for the machine and a higher return on investment for the company. Service technicians trained to work on aerial lift equipment are in high demand and can find meaningful employment opportunities in the aerial and rental industries.”

Genie Tech Pro Online Service Training teaches new service technicians about basic aerial-lift equipment technologies, including electrical systems, hydraulics, machine inspections, and control systems.

It also offers intermediate and advanced courses about servicing boom lifts, scissor lifts, and telehandlers.

Participants who successfully complete Genie Tech Pro training will know how to calibrate, adjust, and troubleshoot with the aid of tools such as schematics, service manuals, laptop or tabletop computer, and connection software.

“The long-term benefit of training service technicians is that these participants are gaining the knowledge they need to be able to work on aerial lift equipment fleets early in their professional careers,” says Bartley. “From a prospective manager's or employer’s perspective, this has a real impact on the rental company’s bottom line — because machines that are properly maintained and in good working order are machines that are making money for the business. This means that trained service technicians will realize an increase of job opportunities in the aerial and rental industries from successfully completing technical training courses, including the Genie Tech Pro program.”

Genie offers fleet customers a wide range of training resources to operate, sell and/or maintain Genie aerial equipment to its full potential. For more information about Genie training programs, including Genie Tech Pro Online Service Training, visit www.genielift.com/en/service-support/training/index.htm.

To register for free access to the Genie Tech Pro Online Service Training program, students, service technicians and institutions can email Genie at AWP.training@terex.com.

IronPlanet, a leading online marketplace for selling and buying used equipment and other durable assets, has announced that buyers on IronPlanet, TruckPlanet and GovPlanet can now take advantage of instant express financing on equipment purchases when they want to bid.

Express, by Currency Capital, along with IronPlanet’s IronClad Assurance equipment condition certification is another way that IronPlanet helps its customers to buy online with confidence.

IronPlanet’s suite of value-added buyer services includes:

Its exclusive IronClad Assurance equipment condition certifications and inspection reports; 
Instant financing with Express and financing options from Cat® Financial;
Warranty programs on eligible equipment from Cat Financial, TruNorthTM, and AmTrust; and
Competitive quotes and state of the art transportation support from VeriTread.

“Express’s ability to provide instant financing gives our buyers more purchasing power and greater transparency in their ability to make equipment purchases,” said Randy Berry senior vice president, operations and services, IronPlanet. “From our IronClad Assurance, to our long-time partnership with VeriTread, and now our multiple warranty and financing options, online buyers have an integrated experience that lets them bid, buy, transport and put to work the used equipment they buy from us – all in one transaction from their office or jobsite.”

Buyers can pre-qualify for financing or get it at the time of purchase by clicking on the Express “power dollar” on IronPlanet equipment pages. IronPlanet buyers can take advantage of fast, competitive options for financing whether they are purchasing a crawler tractor on IronPlanet, a long-haul truck from TruckPlanet, or a Humvee (HMMWV) on GovPlanet.

“Financing heavy equipment can often be a major hurdle for buyers,” said Currency CEO Charles Anderson. “Our partnership with IronPlanet increases buying capacity for business owners, providing them unprecedented access to the financing they need to continue growing their business. Express makes the entire process easy. Together we get money into sellers hands quickly and most importantly get much needed equipment back to work for new owners.”

IronPlanet’s Quick and Easy Value Added Services For Online Buyers

IronClad Assurance
IronPlanet’s IronClad Assurance equipment condition certification and inspection reports are only found on equipment sold on IronPlanet marketplaces. The gold standard in the industry, buyers get to virtually “try before they buy” by viewing photos, video and ratings of key systems like the control station, safety, engine, drivetrain, and hydraulics, among others, plus review fluid analyses. Inspectors use IronPlanet’s proprietary inspection to ensure consistent, quality inspections that buyers can count on.

Instant Financing with Express
Bidders can choose to get pre-approved for financing instantly via Express prior to bidding so they are confident in placing higher bids, or they can choose instant financing via Express after purchasing an item. Cat Financial, a trusted name in the industry, is also a partner with IronPlanet for equipment finance.

Warranty Options and Protection Plans with TruNorth and AmTrust
IronPlanet has partnered with industry leaders to offer warranties on qualified equipment so that they can be confident in their purchases today and down the road. Cat Financial offers Equipment Protection Plans on certain equipment for three to six months on powertrain, hydraulics or both. Truck buyers can choose warranty plans from TruNorth, the leading commercial truck warranty program in the industry. And now, IronPlanet customers have the option of warranties from AmTrust Specialty Equipment on many makes and models of heavy equipment.

Transportation and Free Estimates from VeriTread
Together VeriTread and IronPlanet work to eliminate the uncertainty that comes with shipping large pieces of equipment. VeriTread is fully integrated with IronPlanet so customers can estimate their transportation costs before they bid or buy. With instant online shipping cost estimates, competitive shipping quotes at checkout, and detailed equipment specifications, IronPlanet’s customers can make smarter, more informed transportation decisions.

“VeriTread and its predecessor company has been working with IronPlanet since 2008, and since then we have been perfecting the business of shipping equipment of all makes, models and sizes to and from multiple locations,” said VeriTread President Jeff Cox. “We knew early on that the online model would change the industry and together, we want our customers to be confident that the items crucial to their business show up as planned, where and when needed.”

Ritchie Bros. has completed acquisition of the outstanding minority interest of Ritchie Bros. Financial Services. It has also invested in Machinio Corp. – a global search engine for finding, buying and selling equipment.

These corporate development initiatives are expected to help position Ritchie Bros. for future growth and further extend the company's involvement in digital innovation of the equipment industry. 

"Ritchie Bros. Financial Services is an important component of our full-service offering, catering to the financing needs of equipment buyers – including those purchasing through Ritchie Bros. auctions and EquipmentOne, where financing permits more customers to bid with the power of cash," said Ravi Saligram, CEO of Ritchie Bros. "As we continue to execute on our financial services growth strategy, we expect to help more customers by further expanding our reach and penetration across all our current and future sales channels,"

Saligman continued, "Our investment in Machinio demonstrates our desire to find even more ways to support the equipment industry and serve the various needs of equipment owners. Machinio's scalable model uses innovative technologies to provide buyers with the widest assortment of equipment listings on the web, while also driving lead generation for equipment sellers."

Acquisition of the Minority Interest of Ritchie Bros. Financial Services
Ritchie Bros. is pleased to confirm that its previously announced acquisition of the outstanding 49% minority interest in Ritchie Bros. Financial Services ("RBFS") has now completed, for cash consideration of CAD$53.9 million (US$41.1 million). Additional compensation may be provided to the former shareholders of the minority interest, contingent upon certain operating performance targets being achieved over the next three years. Jim Case will continue leading the business as it executes its growth strategy. 

In 2015, RBFS received more than US$1 billion of credit applications and facilitated US$222 million in equipment financing for Ritchie Bros. customers – representing 31% growth in funded loans compared to 2014, and 116% growth compared to 2013. RBFS acts as an intermediary with select lending partners to find financing solutions for customers purchasing equipment, including loans and lease-to-own programs. RBFS does not utilize Ritchie Bros. capital in its financing activities.

Investment in Machinio
As part of the Company's strategy of investing in equipment distribution channels, Ritchie Bros. has made a minority investment in Machinio Corp. – a global search engine for finding, buying and selling equipment. With more than one million items listed for sale, Machinio provides equipment buyers with the most comprehensive database of available used machinery covering construction, farming, metal working, processing, packaging, material handling, and woodworking equipment. Machinio receives over three million page views each month from more than 400,000 unique website viewers from 190 countries. Machinio also offers equipment sellers the ability to advertise equipment for sale directly on their site for a fee, and also offers superior ad placements to premium clients. Since May 2015, the company has quadrupled its number of premium clients.

Ritchie Bros. was the lead investor in a Series A round of financing, raising gross proceeds of $3.0 million for Machinio. All other terms of the minority investment are confidential. The investment is not considered to be material to Ritchie Bros.' financial results. Machinio, based in Chicago, continues to operate as an independent business that caters to the needs of all equipment buyers and sellers.

The Danfoss Group has announced its intent to acquire full ownership of privately-held White Drive Products, Inc.

White Drive Products, Hopkinsville, Ky., is a leading manufacturer of hydraulic motors. It represents an ideal match to the Danfoss business segment, Danfoss Power Solutions. Bringing Danfoss Power Solutions and White Drive Products together will create a strong global player in the hydraulic motor market.

“This acquisition confirms our strategic focus on building leading positions in our core businesses. White Drive Products is widely recognized for their excellence in hydraulic drive products and a perfect fit for our mobile hydraulics business," says Niels B. Christiansen, president & CEO, Danfoss. "With White Drive Products as part of our mobile hydraulics business, we stand even stronger, in particular, in North America and China. Together, we will have an even more comprehensive and competitive product offering that our customers will benefit from,” Christiansen said.

Both White Drive Products and Danfoss Power Solutions are well-performing companies, and combined the two businesses will be a significant player in the market with an excellent global footprint.

White Drive Products has a strong presence in the U.S. and China; Danfoss Power Solutions has a strong presence in Europe; and the two players join forces with the clear ambition of accelerating growth and becoming market leader in all regions.

“Joining forces is a great step for both Danfoss and White Drive Products, and this is a unique growth opportunity for both organizations" says Rich Maddux, CEO, White Drive Products. "Together, we will have more capacity and investment for greater innovation, market synergies, and most importantly, growth, by using our increased manufacturing footprint to expand market share. We are proud that Danfoss has chosen to build upon Hollis White’s legacy of innovation and entrepreneurship.”

White Drive Products, Inc. was founded in 1976 by Harvey and Hollis White, Jr. The company has more than 700 employees and reported sales of approx. US$100 million in 2015. White Drive Products has manufacturing facilities in Hopkinsville, Ky., and Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China, as well as sales and distribution offices in the U.S., China, and Europe.

The acquisition is subject to necessary approvals by relevant agencies, such as competition authorities. The acquisition is expected to be fully completed during the third quarter 2016.  The parties have not disclosed the purchase price or other conditions of the acquisition.

TVH in the Americas (TVH) has added two new LED flush-mount work lights to its extensive range of LED work lights.

The SY2X3FM lights are versatile and can be used for many applications, including construction machinery, material handling trucks, mining machinery, building projection lights, outdoor commercial lighting, farm equipment, emergency lighting, 4x4 off-road vehicles and other heavy equipment.

The 2X2 series light has four LEDs and is available in either spot or flood beam.

The light output for the 2X2 version of the flush mount work light is 900 lumens. The 2X3 series is also available in either spot or flood beam and has six LEDs. That version of the flush-mount LED work light puts out 1,300 Lumens.

A one-year warranty comes standard with either light.

The new flush mount lights are permanent mount only and have a polycarbonate lens with diecast aluminum alloy housing. Both lights have a 12-24V range and are rated for 30,000 working hours. Each light also comes with EMC, CE, IP67, and RoHS certifications.

For more specifications, search www.tvh.com for:
Y2X2FM-FL
SY2X2FM-SP
SY2X3FM-FL
SY2X3FM-SP

Teletrac Navman, Glenview, Ill., a global leader in GPS tracking and fleet-management solutions, has released the software platform, Teletrac Navman Director.

Now available worldwide, the new fleet-management platform intelligently tracks assets and collects valuable data to meet a range of business needs and to enhance customers' productivity.

"We're very excited to announce the launch of our global product, Director," said Renaat Ver Eecke, president, Teletrac Navman. "The dynamic new platform offers capabilities that cater to a variety of market needs in regions around the world. The data provided in Director empowers businesses with the information they need to efficiently manage their fleets regardless of where their operations are located."

Offering fuel-use tracking, messaging and routing, tools for analyzing driver behavior, and concise reporting features, Director helps businesses fine tune their strategies and reduce operating costs.

Its signature safety module, Safety Analytics, scores driver performance based on company priorities and replays unsafe driving events to aid driver training. Director's dashboards accumulate information to show trends that would otherwise go unseen, giving companies the insight they need to succeed.

"Director brings data about vehicles' location and activity, workflow and forms, real-time maps, maintenance alerts and safety into a single screen to serve as the nerve center for a fleet's operation," said Paresh Nagda, chief technology officer, Teletrac Navman. "This versatility, further enhanced by advanced capabilities such as vehicle diagnostics, visual dashboards and comprehensive reporting empowers businesses with unparalleled information about their assets and work in the field."

Director is a completely web-based application for fleets in a variety of industries, from long-haul transportation to construction in markets from North America to Europe, Australia, and Asia. It can be scaled to regions around the globe.

Teletrac Navman is also developing the electronic logging device (ELD) feature, set to launch in early 2017. It is designed to help businesses easily comply with federal regulations while still allowing them to focus on their core business strategies. The engineering team behind Director took the ELD Final Rule into account when creating the Dashboards feature, which provides comprehensive Hours of Service (HOS) information on an individual and fleet-wide level.

Features and capabilities of the platform include:

* Configurable live alerts with email notifications for unauthorized vehicle use, excessive idle time or speeding;
* Workflow and dashboard features for quick assignment facilitation and easy job completion analysis;
* Live traffic maps powered by Google and comprehensive search capabilities by address, site, latitude and longitude coordinates, or points of interest;
* Professional and enterprise reporting for fleet utilization, delivery schedules, driver based fuel efficiency and safety factors, and maintenance and time management reports; and
* Administrative tools for API support, exporting vehicle summaries, developing configuration templates and managing user access, along with advanced tools for password security, user permissions, logs and activity reports, and Bulk Import Tools for driver and site management.

JLG Industries Inc. has doubled the length of its engine-service intervals from 500 to 1,000 hours for JLG and SkyTrak telehandlers in North America that are equipped with Cummins QSF3.8 diesel engines.

“Extending service intervals for these telehandlers underscores our commitment to delivering products that offer a lower total cost of ownership for our customers,” said JLG Industries global product director for telehandlers Brian Boeckman. “By increasing the period between oil changes, we are cutting in half the time customers spend changing oil, oil filters, and fuel filters while doubling the time machines are rental-ready. The result is customers who are more productive and profitable.”

Boeckman attributes the extended service intervals to the use of synthetic oil and newly released filters for oil and fuel.

For additional information about JLG’s new extended service intervals, visit www.jlg.com/en/extended-service-intervals.

Kubota Engine America Corp. recently honored two of its long-standing distributors for decades of dedicated service.

At the company's annual distributor meeting in Lincolnshire, Ill., the company recognized M.G. Bryan Equipment Company, serving Oklahoma and Northern Texas, for 30 years of service, and East Coast Power, with four locations serving Atlantic Canada, for 20 years.

Kubota Canada Sales and Marketing Manager JP Ouellette said, “At Kubota, we are very proud of our award recipients this year. When you have longstanding relationships with distributors like M.G. Bryan and East Coast Power, the ease of doing business while exceeding customer expectations makes for very smooth transitions between our products in Japan and our end users here.”

M.G. Bryan President Matt Bryan said it is an honor to represent Kubota and calls the company a first-class organization. The distributor is aggressive in the construction and oilfield application markets, and has remained a strong Kubota partner since the beginning. “Our relationship with Kubota has been evolving ever since my father first started selling their products when he founded the company back in 1986. In the 30 years since then, we have expanded our product offerings from only four engines to now include multiple lines serving major OEMs across the world. As our company grows, our partnership with Kubota has expanded to keep up,” he said.

East Coast Power, a division of Sansom Equipment, specializes in industrial and marine diesel engines at its four locations throughout Atlantic Canada. Vice President of Sansom Equipment Dale Mallais said the company thanks Kubota for the award and support it has given East Coast Power over the last two decades. “There is nothing more gratifying than recognition from your peers and colleagues,” he said.

Both M.G. Bryan and East Coast Power have big plans for growth with Kubota in the years to come. In return, Kubota will continue investing in training for distributors and advancing product development to remain leaders in an increasing variety of industries. “Working with reliable distributors and developing strong relationships really sets our company apart in the marketplace and gives us confidence and peace of mind that all customers are being well served,” said Ouellette. “We look forward to the next 20 and 30 years of strengthening our partnerships even more.”

The ALL Family of Companies has increased both the size and service capabilities of its facilities in Elk Mound, Wis., and Nitro, W.Va.

ALL Crane & Equipment Rental Corp. of Nitro, W. Va., is an area leader in heavy-haul trucking services and also functions as one of ALL’s major rebuilding centers. The Nitro branch also specializes in repairing and maintaining ALL’s large fleet of crawler cranes.

The Nitro facility acquired approximately 5-1/2 acres of land a mile from its existing location. The property includes five buildings that are being transformed to house a truck and trailer repair shop, a machine shop, a parts warehouse and office, a sandblasting and painting building, and a fabrication and welding shop. Work began last November and is expected to be completed this fall.

“We’ll really be able to increase the level of service we provide as a result of this new space,” said Chad Shamblin, general manager at the Nitro location. “We can do complete rebuilds in-house now, and we’re adding staff to compensate for the increase in business. We are hiring skilled, experienced workers from the area who have become unemployed due to the decline in local mining jobs. So the expansion is a win for us, our customers, and the region.”

Dawes Rigging & Crane Rental, Inc. in Elk Mound, Wis., represents the ALL Family of Companies with full-service rigging and crane rental in western and northern Wisconsin, and in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota.

A seven-month expansion project added 14,400 sq. ft. to the Elk Mound facility, including three drive-through service bays (two to repair cranes and a third for lift equipment), as well as one dedicated wash bay. The new service bays facilitate quicker turnaround on maintenance and repair, which means shorter downtime for customers. The expansion also included conference/classroom space, which will become a training venue for employees and customers.

“Our equipment is very much in demand in this area, so any downtime has an impact on our customers’ timelines and budgets,” said Mike School, Elk Mound branch manager. “The additional space has greatly enhanced our service efficiency and processes.”

Manulift EMI, the Canadian distributor for Merlo telehandlers, has opened a new facility for telehandlers at its head office in St-Augustin-de-Desmaures.

With an investment of $10 million, the recently modernized building will enable the company to devote itself entirely to telehandlers.

Manulift says that offering telehandlers which feature cutting-edge technology, promote efficiency, and maximize productivity ensures that client needs are met.

The company cites Merlo telehandlers' operational speed, large bucket capacity, sturdiness, and compactness as key reasons they outperform all other brands.

Manulift says that Merlo's other key features include 360° view, hydrostatic transmission, an extra-large pressurized cab, and low fuel consumption.

Manulift imports Merlo products into Canada and has a nationwide network of 25 dealers serving Canada from coast to coast.

Manitou has added Briggs Equipment Inc. to the Manitou dealer network.

Briggs Equipment is selling Manitou's heavy-capacity telescopic handlers and rotating telescopic handlers at Briggs facilities in Dothan, Ala.; Mobile, Ala.; Jacksonville, Fla.; Miami, Fla.; Orlando, Fla.; Tampa, Fla.; Atlanta, Ga.; Baton Rouge, La.; Lafayette, La.; Lake Charles, La.; and New Orleans, La.;

"We are proud to have Briggs Equipment, Inc. join our Manitou dealer network," said Eric Burkhammer, Manitou Americas vice president of sales and marketing.  "Briggs Equipment is one of North America's largest dealers in industrial and construction equipment, and we are confident that given their track record in the market, they will provide expert sales, service and parts for Manitou equipment." 

Chris Meinecke, president and COO of Briggs Equipment said, "We are proud to represent Manitou's MRT and MHT product lines, which often times replace two or three pieces of equipment  on-site and offer unmatched precision and safety in moving materials, thereby delivering on our customer promise."

Hugg & Hall Equipment Company, a leading industrial and construction equipment provider in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, and Missouri, has acquired RPM Services & Rentals, L.L.C., one of the largest independent equipment rental companies in the Southeast.

Headquartered in Houma, La., RPM Services & Rentals has additional locations in Broussard and Baton Rouge, La.

The majority of its revenue comes from the region’s onshore commercial and construction markets. Other revenue is related directly to the offshore oil & gas industry that includes skid-mounted air compressors and tools for painting, blasting, coating, and other maintenance.

The company, founded in 2008 by Terry Gold, has approximately 30 employees. The acquisition will increase Hugg & Hall Equipment’s footprint to 15 stores and position the company to capitalize on favorable industry and regional trends.

“The acquisition of RPM fully supports our strategic objectives in South Louisiana, where we see significant growth and demand for equipment rental solutions,” said Rick Vollmer, vce president of Rental at Hugg & Hall. “Under Terry Gold’s direction, RPM has become a highly valued and reliable partner to industrial and construction companies. We are excited to build upon Terry’s success and to further the good work of RPM’s fantastic team of rental professionals.

“We are thrilled to join the Hugg & Hall team. This transaction presents fantastic synergies for both companies. Hugg & Hall will bring tremendous resources to our employees and loyal customers and together we will execute a smart growth strategy for South Louisiana.” said RPM’s owner and founder, Terry Gold.

Added Robert Hall, Hugg & Hall Co-Owner and Vice President of Sales, “With this acquisition, we continue to deliver on our commitment to provide our customers with the right breadth of products and services in the regions important to their operations. We look forward to working closely with Terry and his team to bring the Hugg & Hall value proposition into this promising market.”

Stephens Inc. served as Hugg and Hall’s advisor in the transaction, while Craft Partners, LLC advised RPM.

About Hugg & Hall Equipment Company

Hugg & Hall Equipment Company, headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, has been family owned and managed since 1956 and is one of the largest materials and personnel handling equipment dealers in the Mid-south. With 12 full service locations Hugg & Hall is an authorized dealer for Bobcat, Combilift, Crown, Doosan, Enersys, Extreme, Genie, JLG, Manitou, Sellick, Skyjack, Taylor, Terex, Toyota, and Volvo. Hugg & Hall sells new and used equipment, has a rental fleet of 5000 pieces of equipment, and services all makes of industrial and construction equipment with over 6 million dollars of replacement parts in stock and a team of 190 trained ASE certified mechanics. The company recently started a Utilities Services division which focuses on the rental, sales and service of a broad range of generators, air compressors, lighting equipment, and portable cooling and heating equipment. Hugg & Hall is committed to being the total equipment solution provider.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Cindy Hugg

Marketing Director

Hugg & Hall Equipment Company

479.361.1262 / cindy.hugg@hugghall.com

JekkoUSA, exclusive U.S. distributor of Jekko mini-cranes, has added four new orientation videos to its You Tube channel.

The videos help an operator “pre-flight” any of seven Jekko models. They highlight key indicators to insure a better, safer understanding of each crane.

JekkoUSA created the videos to give its 65 dealers across the U.S. a standardized way of communicating basic crane knowledge to their customers and provide that information via computer, smart phone, or tablet.

“We wanted to show Jekko operators how to set up these machines, and operate them without hurting themselves or the equipment,” said Rich Caudill, JekkoUSA’s product manager. “These videos provide a concise, easily accessible ‘walk through’ of Jekko basics: initial setup, safety features, start-up processes, radio remote control  features and more,” Caudill said.

The videos cover Jekko models SPD 360; SPX models 312, 424, 527, 1040 and 1275; and MPK 20.

Caudill says that operators will require more operating instruction than these videos alone, but adds that viewing the videos will give a solid orientation to each model.  

Jekko mini-cranes have been used in a range of interior and exterior applications including glass installation, HVAC, infrastructure repair, utilities, motion picture production, plant maintenance, museum and gallery support, restoration and others.

The new orientation videos can be seen here.

Mobile Ag & Industrial Supply Inc., headquartered in Bakersfield, Calif., has joined JCB’s North American dealer network as Mobile JCB.

The dealership now offers JCB’s industry-leading articulated telehandlers, wheel loaders, rough-terrain forklifts, Fastrac high-speed agricultural tractors, skid steers, and compact track loaders.

Founded in 2001, Mobile Ag & Industrial Supply is a certified California small business and Kern County’s leading supplier for farm equipment.

In addition to its large equipment showroom, the company has a parts department, equipment service department and the largest in-stock inventory of safety and industrial supplies in the area.

“The heart of Mobile Ag & Industrial Supply is service, and our customers are our number one asset,” said Kari Mitchell, president of Mobile Ag & Industrial Supply. “The addition of JCB’s world-famous agricultural equipment will help us broaden our customer base and offer the best equipment available.”

Mobile JCB has adopted JCB’s overall look and brand, and the dealership will be utilizing advertising and marketing to further communicate the availability of JCB equipment within Kern County.  

“Mobile Ag & Industrial Supply is large enough to be the leading farm equipment supplier in its area, yet small enough to greet its customers by name,” said Richard Fox-Marrs, JCB North America’s President of Agriculture. “JCB is proud to have Mobile JCB join its dealer network. We look forward to working together to offer customers the best products and service possible.”

The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association’s (ELFA) Monthly Leasing and Finance Index (MLFI-25), which reports economic activity from 25 companies representing a cross section of the $1-trillion equipment finance sector, showed their overall new business volume for June was $10.0 billion, up 3% year over year from new business volume in June 2015.

Volume was up 47% month to month from $6.8 billion in May. Year to date, cumulative new business volume decreased 7% compared to 2015.

Receivables over 30 days were 1.4%, an increase from the previous month and up from 1.02% in the same period in 2015. Charge-offs were 0.65%, up from 0.33% the previous month.

Credit approvals totaled 78.1% in June, up from 76.5% in May. Total headcount for equipment finance companies was up 3.0% year over year.

Separately, the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation’s Monthly Confidence Index (MCI-EFI) for July is 52.5, steady with the June index of 52.3.
 
ELFA President and CEO Ralph Petta said, “New business volume experienced a healthy increase in June, eclipsing a similarly strong year-ago month. In fact, June’s originations were the largest since end-of-year 2015, when business activity in the equipment finance sector typically spikes upward. However, volume for the year thus far is still down when compared to last year at this time. This uneven performance appears to reflect the trend toward continued slow economic growth and volatile equity markets in the U.S., as well as troubling international events that are causing business owners to approach capital investment decisions with a wary eye. A decline in portfolio quality contributes to a narrative of an equipment finance market trying to gain its footing in the face of a volatile economy amidst a recent period of uncertain political and social unrest.”

Alan Sikora, CEO, First American Equipment Finance, a City National Bank Company, said, “After several challenging months, the U.S. equipment leasing and finance industry experienced growth in June. At First American Equipment Finance, we saw strong year-over-year growth in June and in the first six months of 2016. More and more clients are concluding that equipment leasing is an efficient, cost-effective and convenient way to acquire the equipment they need. From an industry perspective, it is encouraging to see U.S. businesses increase their investments in capital equipment and software, despite political uncertainty and global macroeconomic events.”