At T H WHITE, we know our apprenticeship programme and the apprentices within it are the future of the business- bringing fresh thinking, enthusiasm and a hunger to learn that drives us forward. Last week, we proudly celebrated that future with a two-day event at Hartpury College, bringing together 15 of our apprentices for an event designed to inspire, develop and recognise their achievements so far.

The attendees represented the full breadth of our business- with apprentices from Agriculture, Construction, Dairy, Energy, Fire & Security, and Palfinger UK all taking part. It’s this diversity that gives T H WHITE its strength, and seeing our apprentices from different divisions come together highlighted just how important our apprenticeships are to the group.

Across the two days, apprentices took part in a range of activities- from a knowledge-based skills test to wellbeing sessions, a go on farming simulators, and a standout tour of Hartpury’s state-of-the-art dairy unit.

The tour, led by Chris Newey, VMS Specialist for T H WHITE Dairy and a former apprentice himself, gave the apprentices an up-close look at how dairy technology is transforming the industry. With VMS robotic milking, an OptiDuo feed pusher, and cow monitoring systems– all installed and supported by our T H WHITE Dairy team – it was a real showcase of what our apprentices can go on to be part of. Chris’s journey from apprentice to specialist also showed just how far a T H WHITE apprenticeship can take you.

Simon Holmes, our Technical, Training and Development Manager, oversaw the apprentice test sessions and plays a key role in guiding each apprentice along their career path. As Simon shared: “I always look forward to these two days. It’s a fantastic opportunity for our apprentices to demonstrate their development to senior managers and for them to see how much we value their contribution to our business.”

Following the tests, we’re pleased to announce the top-performing apprentices for each year group:

• Year 3/4 Winner: Charlie Cooper (Marlborough Agriculture)             Runner-up: Toby Smith (Stourport Construction)
• Year 2 Winner: James Farroll (PALFINGER UK)                                Runner-up: Sam Long (Stockbridge Agriculture)
• Year 1 Winner: Ryan Robertson (Frome Dairy)                                  Runner-up: Oliver Miflin (Knockdown Agriculture)

Each winner will receive £200 and each runner-up £100, applied to their staff accounts to support the purchase of tools or equipment. Congratulations to all of you – a brilliant achievement and a reflection of the hard work you’ve put into your apprenticeships.

The value of our apprentices was also strongly echoed by CEO Alex Scott, who gave a presentation and spoke individually with many of the group:
“Spending time with the T H WHITE apprentices was not only enjoyable and insightful but also gives me great confidence for the future. Year-after-year they impress me with their maturity and competence, and it’s a great privilege to play a part in supporting and encouraging their development.”

Alongside the technical elements, our HR team ran sessions focused on wellbeing- reinforcing our commitment to supporting not just the professional, but personal growth of each apprentice.

The atmosphere across the two days was one of pride, positivity and progress. Our apprentices showed real passion for their work and a clear commitment to their futures- and we couldn’t be prouder. Whether in the workshop, on-site, or out in the field, T H WHITE apprentices bring energy, new ideas and real value to everything we do.

Looking to take your first step into the industry? A T H WHITE apprenticeship offers hands-on experience, expert mentoring, and genuine opportunity to grow within a forward-thinking, supportive team. Keep an eye on our careers page for new openings.

Palfinger UK Celebrates the Opening of its New London Depot – Marking a Major Milestone in National Expansion

Palfinger UK London – Unit B Rennie Drive, Dartford, DA1 5FD

London, 14 May 2025 – Palfinger UK, the country’s leading provider of cranes and lifting solutions, proudly announces the official opening of its new London depot, strategically located near the Dartford Crossing and Junction 1A of the M25. This milestone represents a significant step in the company’s growth, extending its service provision across the Southeast and reinforcing its commitment to supporting both new and existing customers in the region.

The new 13,090 sq. ft (1,216 sq. m) facility features eight fully equipped workshop bays, an overhead crane, and crane testing infrastructure, designed to handle breakdowns, servicing, repairs, and inspections. In addition to stylish meeting rooms and office space, the depot offers customer parking, with excellent transport links to all four London airports and major Southeast seaports – each less than an hour away.

The depot will be officially unveiled on Tuesday 14th May at a private launch event attended by the Palfinger UK leadership team, VIP customers, and Gerhard Sturm, SVP Global Sales & Service PALFINGER as well as other representatives from the Austrian PALFINGER headquarters.  This exclusive event will offer guests a behind-the-scenes look at the ultra-modern service centre and an opportunity to meet key stakeholders.

On Wednesday 15th May, Palfinger UK will host a Customer Open Day, inviting visitors to explore the depot, view completed builds, and engage with in-house specialists. The event will showcase the company’s full spectrum of services – from crane sales and parts supply to 24/7 nationwide service coverage and ALLMI-certified training courses in safe crane operation.

As the official UK distributor of PALFINGER lorry cranes, hook loaders, skip loaders, and Epsilon cranes for the construction, recycling, and forestry industries, Palfinger UK’s comprehensive offering is backed by innovation and provides end-to-end support throughout the equipment lifecycle. With a nationwide presence and in-house bespoke body-building capabilities, the company serves a diverse client base including local authorities, the construction sector, waste and recycling firms, specialist transport, builder’s merchants, and forestry operations.

Palfinger UK is a trading name of T H WHITE Group, a family and employee-owned engineering services business with a heritage dating back nearly 200 years. With operations across agriculture, construction, energy, dairy, and fire & security, T H WHITE’s engineering excellence continues to shape vital UK industries. Palfinger UK now has depots in Devizes, Bradford, Leicester, Falkirk and London as well as a nationwide fleet of mobile engineers conducting cranes and commercial vehicle body repairs round the clock.  The company holds full ISO 9001 certification and membership in ALLMI, adhering to the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance in lorry crane operations.

“Opening this depot represents a major investment in our infrastructure and our confidence in the opportunities presented in the region,” said Alexander Scott, CEO of the T H WHITE Group. “We’re proud to be delivering even greater service coverage and response capabilities, helping businesses stay operational and safe.”  Palfinger UK’s Managing Director Stuart Todd adds “This network expansion and our continued innovation in both product and service provision further strengthens our premium position in the UK lorry cranes market.”

Gerhard Sturm, SVP PALFINGER AG remarks: “The UK remains a vital market for PALFINGER, and this expansion is a testament to the strong partnership we share with T H WHITE and Palfinger UK. Together, we’re committed to delivering world-class solutions to British customers.”

Whether it’s fitting the right crane to a customer’s vehicle, delivering expert servicing and repairs, or training operators to work safely and effectively, Palfinger UK delivers on its promise: getting the best from innovation and supporting customers at every stage, with expertise that keeps business on the move.

For more information, please visit Palfinger.co.uk

Devizes, Wiltshire – The Rt Hon Kemi Badenoch MP, Leader of HM Official Opposition and the Conservative Party, visited engineering services provider T H WHITE Group in Devizes today as part of her tour of local Wiltshire businesses ahead of the upcoming local elections.

Left to Right: Ian Childs – Palfinger UK Production Director, Cllr Richard Clewer – Leader of Wiltshire Council, Rt. Hon. Kemi Badenoch MP, Rt. Hon. Danny Kruger – MP for East Wiltshire, T H WHITE Group CEO Alex Scott

Joining the Conservative leader were Danny Kruger, MP for East Wiltshire and Councillor Richard Clewer, Leader of Wiltshire Council.

Welcomed by Alexander Scott, CEO of T H WHITE Group, and Ian Childs, Palfinger UK Production Director, Mrs Badenoch was given a guided tour of the Devizes site, home to several of the Group’s businesses: Palfinger UK, T H WHITE Projects, and T H WHITE Energy, Fire & Security, as well as the company’s central functions team.

Rt. Hon. Kemi Badenoch MP talking to Rt. Hon. Danny Kruger – MP for East Wiltshire and Former Managing Director of T H WHITE Group David Scott

During the visit, the delegation met with members of the T H WHITE leadership team from other businesses, including Adrian Lovegrove and Mason Hatton (Divisional Directors), along with Jane Fowler and Joe McTiernan heading up the Finance and HR departments. Discussions focussed on the opportunities and challenges facing Wiltshire businesses, particularly in the engineering and agricultural sectors.

Alexander Scott, CEO of T H WHITE Group, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Kemi Badenoch  to our Devizes site. As a business with deep roots in Wiltshire and a strong national presence, we value the opportunity to share the realities and opportunities we see on the ground. Engaging in open dialogue with political leaders helps ensure that the needs of local businesses and the communities we serve remain firmly on the policy agenda.”

Left to Right: T H WHITE Group CEO Alex Scott, Cllr Richard Clewer – Leader of Wiltshire Council, Rt. Hon. Kemi Badenoch MP, Rt. Hon. Danny Kruger – MP for East Wiltshire, Ian Childs – Palfinger UK Production Director

T H WHITE Group, with a history spanning nearly 200 years, is a major regional and national employer and a key contributor to multiple industries including agriculture, dairy, construction, energy, fire & security. Serving the farming community is also a prominent topic for discussion.  Originally established as an agricultural ironmonger, the company continues to play a vital role in standing beside British farmers and rural communities.  Mrs Badenoch expressed a strong interest in understanding both the barriers and aspirations of local enterprises, emphasising the importance of businesses like T H WHITE in shaping economic growth and informing government policy.

Left: Rt. Hon. Kemi Badenoch MP. Right: Palfinger UK Apprentice George Maddox

Please take note of our revised opening hours during the upcoming holiday period.

Our Devizes, Bradford, and Leicester depots (including Parts, Production, and Service departments) will be closed from 12 pm on Tuesday 24th December until Thursday 2nd January 2025.

Our Falkirk depot (including Parts, Production, and Service departments) will be closed from 5 pm on Monday 23rd December until Friday 3rd January 2025.

During this time, our Emergency Roadside Breakdown Cover will be available from the 27^th to the 30^th of December. In case of any issues, please directly contact us at 07836 260479.

Lastly, we would like to take this opportunity to extend our warmest wishes to all our customers. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Palfinger UK Mentoring Scheme Culminates in a Day of Innovation and Teamwork

Yesterday, the Palfinger UK Mentoring Scheme reached its grand finale at The Peppermill in Devizes. The event brought together mentors and mentees from across all UK depots, along with our Leadership Team,  for a day of collaboration, innovation, and team building.

Divided into four groups, participants delved into topics such as innovation, customer focus, culture, and drive. Mentees presented their insightful findings, sparking lively discussions and inspiring new ideas. Breakout sessions allowed teams to explore the practical applications of these topics within their daily work.

To foster a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, the day also included engaging team-building activities and games which concluded with a reflective discussion on the program’s strengths, weaknesses, and lessons learned. MD Stuart Todd closed the session by expressing gratitude for the participants’ hard work and dedication.

To celebrate the successful conclusion of the Mentoring Scheme, a celebratory dinner was held at a local Italian restaurant, providing everyone who presented an opportunity to relax, reflect on the year’s achievements, and strengthen bonds among colleagues they wouldn’t normally get to socialise with from across the country.

The Mentoring Scheme highlights Palfinger UK’s continued commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development and plays a crucial role in providing valuable opportunities for growth and collaboration, empowering individuals, and driving positive change.

New Service Centre in London

16^th October 2024 – Palfinger UK is delighted to announce the signing of a long-term lease for a new Service Centre in London, strategically located to enhance connectivity and support for businesses in central and greater London. The new facility is conveniently situated just a mile from the south side of the Dartford Crossing and J1A of the M25.  It offers easy access from key transport routes, including all four London airports and major South-East seaports, less than an hour away.

The impressive 13,090 sq. ft (1,216 sq. m) service centre will complement Palfinger UK’s existing workshops in Devizes, Bradford, Falkirk and Leicester.  This expansion will further bolster the excellent sales, service, parts and training offered on Palfinger cranes across the UK.  Key operational features of this new facility will include eight dedicated workshop bays with an overhead crane, secure yard space with crane testing facilities, modern office and meeting spaces, and ample parking.

“Adding our new London service centre is an exciting investment which represents a significant milestone in Palfinger UK’s ongoing commitment to representing the Palfinger brand, and deliver world-class support to our customers,” said Stuart Todd, Managing Director of Palfinger UK.  “Our senior leadership team has been working hard to bring this project to fruition for some time, and this step provides a long-awaited presence in this key location.  As the official UK dealer of Palfinger cranes, this strengthens our ability to offer both existing and prospective customers, enhanced after-sale services, as well as improved access to our renowned sales, technical, parts and training portfolios.  It will allow us to better meet the needs of more businesses across the region”.

In the coming months, the team will recruit, brand, and fit out the interior for operation.  Follow Palfinger UK on social media for updates on this development and the official opening date.

For further information please contact:

Daniel Lyons – Marketing Executive

Palfinger UK

daniel.lyons@thwhite.co.uk

We are pleased to announce that Stuart Wilson has been promoted to Senior Area Sales Manager for the South of the United Kingdom.

In a remarkable journey spanning 32 years, Stuart Wilson or Billy as he is known by so many has been a constant pillar of dedication and expertise at Palfinger UK, formerly T H WHITE Lorry Cranes. Starting as an engineer in 1992, Stuart’s early days involved hands-on work servicing, repairing, and installing Palfinger and Hap cranes at our workshops in Devizes, where at the time the Lorry Cranes division had only 16 members of staff.

Stuart’s role expanded in 1995 with the influx of more mobile engineers due to the increased volume of work for customers such as Cable TV, where T H WHITE Lorry Cranes would modify Epsilon cranes to suit that market, which eventually led to working with Palfinger Epsilon directly to develop the Epsilon grabbing cranes we know today.

Transitioning to sales in 2002, Stuart was given the sales area of Wales and the West Midlands, a move that saw him and his growing family relocate from Devizes to the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire where he still resides today. By 2019, his focus shifted more towards fleet accounts, drawn by the complexities of the bespoke builds required and his innate talent for nurturing enduring client partnerships.

Now, in 2024, Stuart’s unwavering commitment and wealth of experience have rightfully propelled him to the position of Senior Area Sales Manager. His journey stands as a testament to passion, persistence, and the impact of fostering lasting connections within sales management.

UK Sales Director John Saint commented: “Stuart’s new role involves managing key customer accounts and mentoring his colleagues in the south of England. He’ll be sharing his knowledge and expertise on builds, guiding them in creating the right customer solutions. It’s an exciting opportunity for Stuart to share his wealth of knowledge and experience ensuring the growth and success of our team in the region.

Palfinger UK to Showcase Latest Innovations at RWM Expo.

Palfinger UK is thrilled to announce its participation in the upcoming Resource & Waste Management Expo (RWM) from the 11th to the 12th of September. The exhibition will be held at the NEC Birmingham, where Palfinger UK’s stand, LR72, will be buzzing with cutting-edge technology and industry-leading solutions.

At the heart of Palfinger UK’s showcase will be the brand new ST Skiploader mounted on a Volvo FE chassis and the PHT22 SLD5 Hookloader fitted on a Mercedes AROCS 3240 chassis. These innovative products demonstrate Palfinger’s commitment to quality, efficiency, and sustainability in the waste management sector.

Visitors to the stand will have the opportunity to explore the full range of hookloaders and skiploaders available from Palfinger UK. Our knowledgeable team will be on hand to provide insights, answer questions, and offer future demonstrations of our latest offerings.

For those looking to make an immediate purchase, Palfinger UK will have a selection of hookloaders and skiploaders available for sale on-site. Don’t miss the chance to enquire about our Trucks-2-Go program, designed to streamline the process of acquiring top-of-the-line equipment for your business needs.

Join us at stand LR72 to discover how Palfinger UK is revolutionising the waste management industry with innovative solutions and expertise. See you at the RWM Expo!

Palfinger UK is pleased to announce the appointment of Stuart Todd as the new Managing Director effective May 1st, 2024, following the retirement of Alan Johnson at the end of 2023.

Stuart had been part of the PUK Senior Leadership Team for over 5 years. He joined the business as financial controller following the 2018 acquisition of Palfinger’s Scottish distributor, Outreach Truck Ltd. He was promoted to Commercial Director in January 2021 having not only demonstrated a high level of accounting competency and business acumen, but also an immersed financial understanding of operations at a transactional level. Since that appointment, Stuart has directed the commercial aspects of Palfinger UK and, with the support of an experienced and knowledgeable leadership team, has navigated PUK successfully through the first quarter of 2024.

Alex Scott, CEO, of T H WHITE Group, expressed gratitude towards the interim Palfinger UK Managing Director, stating, “I wish to take this opportunity to thank Stuart for taking on the interim role and leading the team following Alan’s departure. Following a discussion with the Palfinger UK Heads of Department and the Board of Directors of T H WHITE Holdings Ltd, Stuart has been offered the permanent role from 1st May 2024, and he has accepted it. The new Managing Director’s appointment heralds a new chapter for Palfinger UK, and the team is poised to support the leadership as they steer the company towards continued success.”

Stuart Todd, Palfinger UK MD, commented “I am thrilled to be taking on the role of Managing Director within Palfinger UK. We have a talented team and strong brand to be proud of, and I look forward to continuing to drive our existing initiatives and developing some exciting new projects”

For further information or inquiries, please contact:

Palfinger UK

info@palfinger.co.uk

Palfinger UK is the official UK distributor for Palfinger lorry cranes and Epsilon construction, recycling and forestry cranes and branded ancillary equipment. Built on almost 40 years experience of Palfinger lorry crane distribution as part of the T H WHITE group, along with the acquisition of Outreach Truck Ltd in 2018, Palfinger UK is the largest national lorry crane provider that offers in-house assembly, bespoke body-building and servicing for the entire life of your equipment.

Due to essential maintenance, our IT systems will be offline from 1600hrs on Friday 12th April until 0800hrs on Monday 15th April 2024.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this temporary offline period. To minimise disruption to our normal service, we have taken the proactive measure of bringing forward all automated reminders that were due to be sent during this time. Additionally, our Service Control Team will still be available to provide emergency roadside breakdown cover. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 07836 260479 if you require immediate assistance.

Many thanks in anticipation for your understanding.

Kindest regards,

The Palfinger UK Team

When choosing the right skiploader for your business operations it’s essential to invest in a reliable and efficient vehicle that can handle the heaviest of tasks. Whether working in recycling and waste management, local roadworks, or a construction industry setting, the best skiploaders are indispensable. They provide an added layer of operational safety, versatility, and cost saving, potentially giving your workforce a competitive advantage.

When it comes to innovation and performance, Palfinger stands out as a leading manufacturer of skiploaders. The Palfinger Brand represents an unmatched commitment to build quality, with a renowned dedication to engineering excellence that ensures their skiploaders exceed industry standards. With the importance of an effective skiploader in mind, this blog post will explore five compelling reasons why your next skiploader should be a Palfinger.

Durability and longevity

Palfinger’s commitment to the quality of skiploaders is evident in the quality that goes into every build. The durable materials and rigorous manufacturing processes ensure that skiploaders are ready for any task no matter the skip weight. This also makes Palfinger the sole skiploader manufacturer to hold an ISO 3834-2 accreditation, an accreditation that ensures every model undergoes standardised and secure welding processes executed by a team of proficient and seasoned welders. Such a license thereby guarantees the utmost safety and quality behind every skiploader crane.

Unlike other skiploaders, Palfinger models like the PS T SLD range are built for the long term as well as the present. They are subjected to exhaustive testing that simulates more than a decade of lifting operations, ensuring the builds are constructed to last. What’s more, thanks to their simple and robust design – manufactured with easily accessible parts, grease-free sliding elements, and self-lubricating bushes – maintaining Palfinger skiploaders is a straightforward and cost-effective process, leading to a lower risk of breakdowns and smoother operations – ultimately an improved bottom line.

Innovative Technology

Palfinger also prides itself on its cutting-edge technology and commitment to continuous improvement. When you choose Palfinger, you’re investing in the best skiploaders that incorporate the latest technological advancements to make your operations more efficient and productive.

Moreover, Palfinger’s skiploaders are designed with the environment in mind. They aim to reduce emissions and increase fuel efficiency, making their vehicles not only beneficial for your business but also for the planet. By choosing a Palfinger skiploader, you can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Customisation Options

Every business has unique requirements and Palfinger understands that a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t optimal for every industry. That’s why Palfinger skiploaders come in various sizes and configurations, allowing you to select the perfect fit for your business. Adding to this is the unique patented Palfinger Bi-Speed system. This allows for controlled low speed – for safe container loading – to seamlessly transition to a rapid motion mode for up to 50% faster unloading time. Whether you need a compact skiploader for urban applications or a heavy-duty model for more demanding tasks, Palfinger has a solution for you.

Exceptional After-Sales Support

Palfinger UK’s commitment to customer satisfaction goes beyond the purchase. They offer exceptional after-sales support that is highly localised. Thanks to strategically located service centres, customers benefit from rapid response times, easy to access maintenance and repair services, ensuring that your investment remains in top condition throughout its lifecycle. Their 50+ dedicated mobile technicians similarly understand the importance of minimising downtime and are readily available to address all your repair needs and provide on-demand servicing when required.

Palfinger UK also provides fully certified and comprehensive training for operators, ensuring that your team can utilise the skiploader to its full potential. Proper training not only enhances safety on the job site but also maximises the efficiency and productivity of your operations.

Proven Expertise and Heritage

Palfinger has a rich heritage of over 40 years in designing and manufacturing lifting and solutions. Their extensive experience has allowed them to fine-tune their products, ensuring they are tailored to operational-specific challenges. This expertise is invaluable; it means that when you invest in a Palfinger skiploader you’re investing in a vehicle that has been perfected over decades to deliver optimal performance and garner trust from customers worldwide. When you invest in a Palfinger skiploader, you’re benefitting from decades of innovation and refinement in the field of hydraulic solutions.

Choosing the best skiploader is a critical decision for the efficiency of your operations. With their extensive expertise, innovative technology, customisation options, durability, and exceptional after-sales support there is a compelling case as to why your next skiploader should be a Palfinger. Make the smart choice for your business – choose a Palfinger skiploader and experience the difference that quality and innovation can make in your operations. With Palfinger, you’re not just buying a skiploader; you’re investing in the future success of your business.

To discuss both your specific operational requirements and how our range of Palfinger UK Skiploaders can benefit your business, contact our team today. We can offer localised support to ensure your operational downtime is kept to a minimum.

In the wake of the climate crisis and heightened environmental awareness, it’s no surprise that the forestry industry has had to undergo a transformative shift in recent years. With over 15% of global greenhouse gases being caused by forestry deforestation but equally providing employment and income as well as products and services, a considered industry balance was needed.

Case in point: Sustainable forestry practices.

Sustainable forestry is all about carefully looking after forests to meet our current resource needs without compromising the environment’s long-term health for future generations. It’s about making sure we use forest resources wisely for things like products and services while also considering how it affects local communities, the diverse wildlife, and how it plays a role in our changing climate crisis.

Our team at Palfinger UK, a leading provider of innovative crane solutions, stands at the forefront of transformation in different industries. The forestry industry is no exception. The cranes we distribute are built with innovative technology with a focus on sustainable forestry practices. As a company, we have always worked with an eco-friendly solutions-first approach. This has enabled us to reshape the industry landscape, ensuring that the delicate balance between economic growth and environmental preservation is maintained. Below are just a few of the ways that the team at Palfinger UK has been innovating its distributed cranes to encourage sustainable forestry practices.

Precision and Intelligence

One of the key innovations driving sustainable forestry practices within Palfinger UK cranes is the integration of precise and efficient operational technologies. For instance, many of our cranes are equipped with advanced technology, such as intelligent (smart) control that simplifies operation to just a single lever instead of multiple moving control functions. This has the benefit of faster and more precise control, as well as reduced potential damage to the crane. Such a targeted approach subsequently minimises collateral damage to surrounding trees and ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring the area’s regeneration.

Palfinger forestry cranes such as the S-series are also built with extending telescopic arms. This allows for greater operator precision from a further distance away from prominently sought areas, meaning less impact on the surrounding forestry environment. Through selective harvesting enabled by these cranes, forests can regenerate faster, supporting the natural carbon sequestration process and preserving biodiversity hotspots.

Sustainable Crane Builds

Palfinger cranes are designed to operate with minimal environmental impact and improve industry sustainability. Take our Epsilon cranes. These prioritise the use of lightweight and dependable high-strength materials. This firstly reduces energy consumption and subsequently emissions during operation, but also limits the damage to the surrounding soil by minimising ground pressure and compaction. Additionally, the incorporation of efficient hydraulic systems and eco-friendly lubricants further decreases our crane’s ecological footprint.

Epsilon forestry Skidders and Forwarder crane models such as the Epsilon M-Series are also built with high-quality steel materials that are both durable and recyclable. This minimises resource consumption – allowing for reliable crane operation that lasts longer and requires fewer replacements. Such a build feature provides the tool for crane operators to engage in sustainable forestry practices while also saving resources and improving workforce efficiency. It’s also worth noting that in addition to the sustainability integrated into every Palfinger UK forestry crane we only collaborate with suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. This ensures that sustainable forestry is maintained from production, to design, to operation.

Ingrained Training Suitability 

In addition to the forestry cranes we distribute, sustainable practice is also built into the various crane operator training courses that we offer. After close collaboration with forestry experts, just some of our courses consist of safe lorry loader operator training, slinger/signaller training, and crane management training. Each of these is built to reinforce both safe and sustainable crane operation practices.

What’s more, these courses are also fully certified by the Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers. This industry group aims to represent and champion the safety and sustainability of national lorry loaders. These industry values are then ingrained into our Palfinger UK trainers, who must first complete an ALLMI Instructor course to become one of our trainers. All of this allows Palfinger UK to contribute to the long-term health and resilience of forest ecosystems in a way that goes beyond simple crane production.

Sustainable lifecycle commitment

The Palfinger UK commitment to sustainability extends beyond being just the product. Our team instead embraces a lifecycle approach. We ensure that the cranes we distribute are not only efficient during the point of sale but are effective and sustainable throughout their entire lifespan. In addition to our professional training courses and product innovation, this is driven by our expert aftersales services. For instance, should your forestry crane be damaged, we offer fully flexible on-demand servicing, breakdown, and repairs servicing, and routine servicing, as well as a full 5-year guarantee on all Epsilon classic cranes such as the M125LC68.

Looking Ahead

Our commitment to sustainability is continuing to reshape the forestry industry landscape, proving that economic growth and environmental preservation can go hand in hand. Our innovative cranes not only boost productivity but also prioritise the well-being of forests, laying the foundation for a more sustainable future. As we navigate the challenges of a changing climate, we stand as an industry leader in sustainable forestry practices, demonstrating that responsible business practices can lead to a harmonious coexistence between industry and nature.

The economic benefits of these sustainable practices are also undeniable. By optimising harvesting operations, our cranes reduce waste and increase efficiency, resulting in cost savings for forestry businesses. Furthermore, the positive environmental impact of sustainable forestry practices enhances the market value of responsibly sourced timber, creating a win-win situation for both the industry and the environment.

To explore how our sustainable forestry cranes can precisely match your operational requirements, get in touch with our team today. We offer specialised support designed to reduce your operational disruptions by providing quick and effective assistance tailored to your locality.

Please take note of our revised opening hours during the upcoming holiday period.

Our Devizes, Bradford, and Leicester depots (including Parts, Production, and Service departments) will be closed from 1 pm on Friday 22nd December until Tuesday 2nd January 2024.

Our Falkirk depot (including Parts, Production, and Service departments) will be closed from 1 pm on Friday 22nd December until Wednesday 3rd January 2024.

During this time, our Emergency Roadside Breakdown Cover will be available on the 23rd, 24th, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th, and 31st December. In case of any issues, please directly contact us at 07836 260479. However, please note that our Emergency Breakdown Cover will not be operational on the 25th, 26th of December, and 1st of January 2024.

Lastly, we would like to take this opportunity to extend our warmest wishes to all our customers. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Sincerely,

The Palfinger UK Team

Pile driving is a fundamental construction technique that plays a crucial role in supporting structures and foundations. It involves the installation of piles, which are long, slender columns typically made of steel, concrete, or wood, into the ground to provide stability and support for various types of structures. This technique has been employed for centuries and remains a cornerstone in construction and civil engineering projects worldwide. It has many diverse applications across different industries, but what is pile driving?

The Basics of Pile Driving

Pile driving is a method used to embed piles into the ground to create a stable foundation for structures such as buildings, bridges, and offshore platforms. The process typically involves the use of a pile driver, a specialised machine designed to lift and drop a heavy weight (the hammer) onto the head of the pile, driving it into the ground. The impact of the hammer transfers energy to the pile, allowing it to penetrate the soil or bedrock.

Types of Piles

Various types of piles are used in pile driving, each selected based on the specific soil conditions and structural requirements of the project. Common types include:

Concrete Piles

Made of reinforced concrete, these piles are durable and suitable for a wide range of soil conditions.

Steel Piles

These piles are often used in marine environments or where high strength and corrosion resistance are required.

Timber Piles

Typically used in coastal and waterfront structures, timber piles are cost-effective and offer good load-bearing capacity.

Composite Piles

Comprising a combination of materials, such as steel and concrete, composite piles are designed to capitalise on the strengths of each material.

Applications in Various Industries:

Construction Industry

Pile driving is extensively used in the construction of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. It provides a solid foundation by transferring the load of the structure to deeper, more stable soil layers, preventing settling and ensuring structural integrity.

Marine and Offshore Industry

In marine and offshore applications, pile driving is essential for constructing foundations for piers, docks, and oil platforms. Steel or concrete piles are commonly used to withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater environments.

Transportation Sector

Pile driving is employed in the construction of bridges and overpasses to create stable foundations that can support the weight of heavy traffic. This ensures the longevity and safety of transportation infrastructure.

Renewable Energy Projects

Wind farms and solar installations often require deep foundations to support the weight and vibrations of turbines and solar panels. Pile driving is instrumental in creating stable foundations for these renewable energy structures.

Civil Engineering and Infrastructure

Pile driving is widely used in the construction of retaining walls, sound barriers, and other civil engineering structures. It provides stability in areas with challenging soil conditions.
Pile driving stands as a testament to the ingenuity of construction and engineering disciplines, providing a robust solution for creating stable foundations in diverse environments. Its applications across various industries showcase its adaptability and importance in ensuring the durability and safety of structures worldwide. As technology continues to advance, pile driving techniques are likely to evolve, further enhancing their efficiency and sustainability in construction practices.

Palfinger UK are one of the top suppliers of pile driving equipment in the country, and are the sole distributor of Orteco lorry and crawler mounted pile drivers. To find out more, visit our pile driving page today.

We are thrilled to share that we have made a few cosmetic changes to our Palfinger Leicester depot, adding new Palfinger UK signage to the front of our building, making it easier for you to locate us. Additionally, we have revamped our reception area and waiting room to provide a more comfortable and pleasant environment for those awaiting their lorries.

Since the acquisition of Truck Hydraulic Services back in April, everyone at Palfinger UK has been busy ensuring a smooth transition for all customers, whilst continuing to offer the highest level of service. The addition of the Leicester site has been great for our existing customers in the Midlands, whilst new customers brought on board due to the acquisition have seen the benefit and support of Palfinger UK’s National Coverage.

Palfinger UK Managing Director, Alan Johnson adds “The original Truck Hydraulics Team and their various Palfinger UK colleagues have blended together quickly and worked hard to ensure we maintain service levels to existing Customers whilst broadening our offer on a number of other fronts under the Palfinger UK brand. Strategically in terms of our portfolio of products and services, and operationally in terms of service levels and financial performance, we are very happy with how the first few months have gone and I would like to thank all colleagues concerned for their significant efforts.”

With effect from the 1st April 2023 Palfinger UK has acquired Truck Hydraulic Services Ltd in Bardon.

Palfinger UK is the official UK distributor for Palfinger lorry cranes and Epsilon construction, recycling and forestry cranes. With over 30 years of experience, Palfinger UK is the largest national lorry crane provider that offers in-house assembly, bespoke body-building and servicing for the entire life of the equipment.

Having been in discussions with THS Managing Director Greg Wykes for a number of months both parties believe the transition is a good fit for all stakeholders concerned. Palfinger UK is pleased to confirm that all of the THS staff have become Palfinger UK employees, and will therefore remain the familiar faces trusted by their many customers.

Alan Johnson, Palfinger UK MD adds “The acquisition of Truck Hydraulic Services Ltd aligns with Palfinger UK’s strategic aspirations to bolster its support of field service operation and workshop capabilities throughout the Midlands. Bridging the gap between depots in Devizes and Bradford creates an even more accessible business with scale to meet our customer’s needs”.

If you have any questions relating to the transfer, please contact Alan.johnson@thwhite.co.uk.

3rd April 2023

We are delighted to be exhibiting again at exhibitions across the UK following the lifting of Covid restrictions.

Our AGRICULTURE Division will be at the Kenilworth Show

Saturday 4 June 2022, Stoneleigh Road, Warwickshire CV8 3AY.

Our MACHINERY IMPORTS Division will be at the Royal Highland Show

23-26 June 2022, Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh, EH28 8NB.

PALFINGER UK will be at Road Transport Expo with the latest lorry cranes

30 June – 2 July 2022, NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire CV8 2LH.

We are excited to announce that Palfinger UK will be exhibiting at Road Transport Expo 2022, at NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire on the 30^th June – 2^nd July. This exciting new industry event is bursting on to the scene this summer with HGVs at the heart of everything the show has to offer, from the latest models on display and available to ‘ride and drive’, through to informative seminars and live demonstrations. Whether you are a company owner, transport manager, HGV driver or fulfil any essential role within the road haulage sector, there will be plenty for you do see and experience at RTX.

Visit us at our indoor stand in Hall 2, stand number E1, where our friendly and knowledgeable team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. Alternatively, venture over to our large outdoor demonstration area located at RB141, where we will be showcasing our first ever PCC115.002 Crawler Crane with its demounting crawler power unit, all-terrain stabilizers, and overstretching knuckle boom. You’ll also find the Palfinger BM26 specifically designed for builders merchants, combining all the features needed for straightforward ‘lift and place’ tasks, as well as the Palfinger Hookloaders and Skiploaders will be on display during the event.

Palfinger UK Sales Director, Ian Valentine has been co-ordinating the organisation of the show and is excited at the opportunity the show will bring. “It’s been several years now since a show of this calibre has been staged and we are all delighted to have the opportunity to meet our customers again in person. This new show also gives us the ideal platform to showcase our premium equipment ranges into the UK marketplace, many seen for the very first time”.

For more information about the show or to visit us register via the link below, it quick, easy, and completely free to attend. We hope to see you there.

Register here 

In a typical month, Palfinger UK completes 1,600 service-repair jobs for Customers across the UK. It’s a sad fact that usually, the very small number jobs which don’t go to plan are the ones we get to hear about. We know we’re not perfect, but when we get it right….it’s really great to hear!

We recently received the following feedback from Westley Eabor, at Kier Highways Limited. Westley is a Transport Technician and Service Scheduler for the Birmingham PFI and BHISC contract run by Amey and Kier, and has looked after their Hitachi/Novuna vehicles over the last few years.

Westley wrote: “It has been an absolute pleasure working with the Palfinger UK team. I have found all the staff to be very professional, knowledgeable, and approachable and the service to be nothing short of exceptional.”

He continues: “The booking system and options available are professional, and flexible. The level of communication has been almost flawless across all channels, resulting in maintenance and repairs being completed on-time and to a very high standard, reducing the downtime of our vehicles. Furthermore, the documentation we receive is fantastic as it is highly structured, coordinated, and user friendly. We have not seen anything of this level within the industry and both internal and external auditors have been highly impressed with these reports. Please pass on my gratitude and appreciation to everyone for all their hard work and professional service.”

Thank you, Westley! Feedback like that makes our significant investment in our colleagues, processes and systems worthwhile, and we are grateful to you for getting in touch.

If you would like to know more about how Palfinger UK can add this level of value and support to your business, please call on 01380 733513 or via our website www.palfinger.co.uk

Palfinger UK are pleased to announce the arrival of our first ever PCC115.002 Crawler Crane in Devizes. With features like a demounting crawler power unit, all-terrain stabilizers, and overstretching knuckle boom this crane has already drawn a crowd as staff from across the business take a sneak peek.

This all-rounder excels in a variety of different areas of operation, with key features such as Pick + Carry functionality to move loads around site, 360 degree stability with 100% lifting capacity, and a max. lifting torque of 104.4 mt/1023.9 kNm.

Over the next few weeks, the team will be undertaking extensive operations training, whilst arranging demonstrations with customers who have already expressed their interest.

Contact us if you would like to find out more or to arrange a demonstration.

• John Farmer becomes Aftersales Director
• Ian Valentine becomes Sales Director
• Ian Childs’ role is expanded to become Production & Engineering Director
• Stuart Todd’s role is expanded to become Commercial Director
• Scott Reid retains responsibility for our Scottish site based in Falkirk and is responsible for continuing the integration of all activities there into the Palfinger UK business model.

In addition to being one of the UK’s leading suppliers of Lorry Loader equipment, did you know that Palfinger UK also offers a range of aftersales opportunities, including accredited training?

Our dedicated training department delivers high quality training to customers across the country. With a team of experienced instructors covering the whole of the UK, our training is ALLMI accredited and recognised by HSE, so you know you’re receiving the very best standard of tuition from industry experts.

We can also register you for seven hours of study time to contribute to your JAUPT Driver CPC.

All operators who successfully complete our Lorry Loader Operator or Slinger/Signaller courses receive an ALLMI identity card and certificate along with registration on the ALLMI Operator database for five years. After that, experienced operators need only to take refresher courses to update their knowledge.

At Palfinger UK we pride ourselves on the highest quality of instruction too, with all our trainers audited by ALLMI and achieving excellent scores in recent years. None more so than the newest recruit Zoe Ellis who joined the team at the end of 2019 with 11 years industry experience. In her 2020 ALLMI audit Zoe achieved a hugely impressive score of 97.5%, receiving 307 points from a possible 315!

In addition to our ALLMI courses delivered across the country, our Falkirk-based trainer is also able to offer IPAF and PASMA training courses for customers wishing to update their mobile access and platform qualifications.

To find out more and register an interest in our training courses, visit www.palfinger.co.uk/training

The Palfinger UK team was pleased to welcome business owner and popular YouTuber Daniel Ashville to the Devizes depot in September as part of a new video being filmed for his channel.

Daniel, who owns Ashville Aggregates based in London, has almost 60,000 YouTube subscribers, with videos documenting the progress of his business over the past few years.

Daniel’s visit to Palfinger UK in Devizes centred around seeing his brand new vehicle for the first time, a crane-hookloader combi from Palfinger, mounted on an all-black 8×2 Scania P450.

Keep an eye on the Palfinger UK Facebook page on @Palfinger UK for the full video, coming soon.

With models available for all GVW truck chassis variation, Palfinger UK offers the widest range of hookloaders on the British market. 

Able to handle a variety of different container lengths, with low transport height and increased tipping capacity, Palfinger hookloaders enable you to move more containers more easily.

High tensile steel is used to reduce the weight of the hookloader too, delivering increased payload, meaning each lift will earn you more money, fuel costs are reduced and the life of your vehicle is increased.

Flexible and robust with low dead weight and great lifting and tipping capacity, Palfinger hookloaders are particularly suited for waste and scrap metal disposal, as Bithells Waste Management Ltd testified when the family-owned business took delivery of two brand new DAF CF 400s from Lancashire DAF, both fitted with Palfinger T22 Hookloaders supplied and installed by Palfinger UK. 

The dual cylinder Palfinger Telescopic T22 Hook loaders are equipped with an easy-to-operate Pro-Active Drive control system (PAD) and feature soft-stop landing, reducing shock or damage to both truck and bin. Their unique hook arrangement is perfect for handling a wide variety of containers.  

Palfinger UK, part of T H WHITE Group, is the UK importer of Palfinger products. As well as supplying lorry cranes, hookloaders and skiploaders. The company has extensive body-building facilities in Devizes, Falkirk and Bradford (Yorkshire). Call 01380 733513 for details or visit www.palfinger.co.uk.

Palfinger UK – part of T H WHITE Group – has participated with leading infrastructure support service provider Amey and Mercedes Benz truck dealer Rygor Commercials to deliver two multi-purpose barrier rig vehicles as part of a 15 vehicle order, all but one of which are being supplied under a multi-million pound Highways England maintenance and response contract for the north west.

The vehicles will be used on routine maintenance, defect repairs, emergency incident responses and severe weather services over 420 km of motorways and 80 km of A roads in Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire and South Lancashire.

Built on Mercedes-Benz low-entry Econic 18-tonne chassis, the barrier rigs are fitted with Palfinger PK19.001A SLD 5 cranes which combine a high power lifting system with an intelligent light-weight design, with a maximum lifting capacity of 6,200kg with a maximum hydraulic outreach of 8.1m. Further augmenting the rig’s capability is an Orteco HD 800 truck-mounted pile driver which has a hydraulic rotation system enabling operation from either side of the vehicle, as well as the ability to deliver 680 blows per minute with a 1,060 joule hammer. Devizes-based Palfinger UK has a long-standing association with Amey and undertook both the crane installation and the specialist body-building of the barrier rigs which incorporate a wealth of safety features.

The Mercedes-Benz Econic chassis are 1827L models with 7.7-litre in-line six-cylinder engines producing 200 kW (272 hp). These are paired with 12-speed Mercedes PowerShift 3 automated manual transmissions. Full air suspension is combined with Active Brake Assist 4 emergency braking technology. Programmed to recognise other vehicles at higher speeds, as well as pedestrians when moving more slowly, this is capable of bringing it to a complete stop. Single step access and a predominantly flat floor makes for easy cross-cab access, enhancing safety for operatives who may be in and out of the vehicle many times in a working day by encouraging them always to use the safest side.

In building the barrier rig bodies and equipping the vehicles with cranes, Palfinger UK worked with Rygor Fleet Sales Manager Jeremy Price to ensure the finished specification met all Amey’s requirements.

If you have an application that requires a vehicle fitted with a crane and/or specialist bodywork, Palfinger UK can help to guide you through the many options to achieve the best solution. Call us on 01380 733513, or visit palfinger.co.uk.

The three-axle delivery vehicles feature a steer, drive and lifting rear-steer tag-axle configuration, delivering what the operator’s transport manager, Paul Gibbard, describes as “outstanding manoeuvrability and payload”.

Spec’d to have the same overall chassis length as the 18-tonne DAF vehicles but with a greater payload, the vehicles can carry and deliver 9 packs of blocks with no problem at all, comfortably running with 13t on board.

These new trucks are equipped with bespoke drop side bodies and high quality Palfinger BM26 loader cranes, both fitted by the expert team at Palfinger UK. CRS also had censored crane slipper pads fitted to the rear of each vehicle to provide maximum safety for drivers and flexibility on the varying delivery conditions they meet.

“Safety is very important to us: for our drivers, customers and other road users,” says Gibbard. “It starts with ensuring complete compliance, and our local dealer, Kingdon Wessex DAF, looks after us very well on service, maintenance and inspections. Then, apart from the additional crane stability pads, we add such things as recording camera units all-round, repeat-indicator side markers, Fresnel lenses on near-sides, lifting rear mud flaps to aid reversing safety in tight sites, cage sensors …. the list goes on and on. And we brief our drivers fully on every aspect.”

He added, “The thing is, these vehicles are like a big Swiss Army knife, they just have everything you need.”

CRS, which only started in business in 2005, now operates a fleet of 40 trucks out of 12 branches across the South West. One of the two founding directors, Chris Waelchli, discusses fleet acquisition strategy for a small business. He states: “Let’s be honest: to start with, you run anything, so long as it’s safe. Then, when you can afford it, you try and do better. So the growth of the fleet and the quality and newness of its vehicles is simply a reflection of how well the business has done.”

“The other bonus with a modern fleet, of course, is that we are automatically more environmentally supportive and able to fit in with such things as Bath and Bristol’s drive toward their clean air zones.”

 Director of Palfinger UK, Alan Johnson, has recently been announced as the newly appointed Chairman of the Lorry Loader trade association, ALLMI.

Alan has over 30 years experience in the lorry loader industry and his involvement with ALLMI dates back to the late 1990s.

After leading a ‘future direction’ working group in the early 2000s, Johnson served as ALLMI Chairman between 2003 and 2006 before choosing to stand down.  Since then, his commitment to ALLMI has remained constant, having retained his Board position to this day, including seven years employed as the Association’s Technical Director between 2009 and 2016.

Alan comments “I’m extremely honoured to be appointed to the Chairman’s role.  I look forward to working with the Board and membership in order to expand ALLMI’s reach and further strengthen its excellent reputation, whilst always being focused on improving standards and promoting collaboration and shared learning throughout all parts of the lorry loader industry.”

To find out more about Palfinger UK visit www.palfinger.co.uk

When Darren Lappin, the owner of DMR Haulage, expressed an interest in learning more about the Palfinger product as part of his new vehicle purchase, the Palfinger UK team decided the best way for him to experience the features was to try them for himself – at the Palfinger headquarters in Austria!

Accompanied by truck sales representative Jack Nutley, Darren was thrilled to have the opportunity to visit the Palfinger factory near Salzburg in Austria, to find out more about the brand, specification options and how he will benefit from his very own Palfinger crane.

Together with Palfinger UK’s south east area sales manager Chris Lucchesi and marketing executive Cassie Maxfield, Darren and Jack travelled to Austria for a three-day trip in February.

“We are delighted that Darren was able to take the opportunity to see the manufacturing facilities for himself,” said Palfinger UK’s Chris. “He was able to meet many members of the Palfinger team in Austria, experience a range of different crane specifications in a safe environment and ask lots of questions to learn for himself why Palfinger cranes are the global market leaders.”

The visitors were given a guided tour of the factory in Lengau, Upper Austria, seeing first-hand the journey of a Palfinger crane in production – from cutting, bending and welding the base materials, through to the 14-step coating and painting processing, and finally the fitting, mounting and testing departments.

Before they departed, Darren was able to get ‘hands-on’ with real Palfinger cranes at the specialist Demo Centre in Salzburg. Spending the entire afternoon there with dedicated Palfinger sales trainer Florian Kaiser, Darren and the group were able to use a range of Palfinger cranes. “This enabled Darren to experience all the options, from joystick controls through to P-Fold automatic folding, winch systems and fly jibs,” commented Cassie. “As a result, he was able to make an informed decision on a crane that will be an integral part of his business for many years to come – hugely important for an owner-operator such as Darren whose livelihood depends on his vehicle.”

Palfinger UK’s new recruit Zoe Ellis is proving her exceptional training ability only 8 weeks into her new role, with a near-perfect audit score from ALLMI.

The audit was part of Zoe’s reaccreditation upon joining the Palfinger UK training team. She achieved a mightily impressive 97.5% score, receiving 307 points from a possible 315 in total, her highest audit score to date.

Zoe joined the business in October and is responsible for providing ALLMI accredited Lorry Loader Operator and slinger/signaller training in the East of England. She was delighted with her score, “I know that I am a competent trainer with plenty of industry experience,’ she said, “but it was great to receive such a high score on the audit to support that. I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge with customers to help them achieve their ALLMI qualifications.”

Zoe joins an already established team of three full-time ALLMI trainers at Palfinger UK who provide accredited, HSE recognised training throughout the country at customer locations and our depots in Falkirk, Bradford and Devizes.

To find out more about training from Palfinger UK, or to request a price for training with Zoe or another member of the team, visit www.palfinger.co.uk/training and complete the online enquiry form.

Palfinger UK’s new recruit Zoe Ellis is proving her exceptional training ability already, only 8 weeks into her new role, with an near-perfect audit score from ALLMI.

Involved in the audit as part of her re-accreditation process upon joining the Palfinger UK training team, Zoe achieved a hugely impressive 97.5% score, receiving 307 points from a possible 315 in total, her highest audit score to date.

Zoe joined the business in October and is responsible for providing ALLMI accredited Lorry Loader Operator and Slinger/Signaller training in the East of England and is already taking bookings for the coming months across the region.

Praise from the ALLMI auditor was abundant in the follow up report, stating:

“Zoe presented a warm and friendly atmosphere throughout the day’s training. Good topical discussions and candidate questioning were consistently used, establishing the candidate’s level of knowledge and understanding of the topics being covered.

“Zoe demonstrated excellent industry, equipment and operating knowledge throughout. Well done Zoe!”

Modules covered within the ALLMI Lorry Loader Operator course delivered by Zoe include coverage of legislation – including LOLER, PUWER & Health & Safety at Work; introductions to the equipment and attachments; pre-operational spot checks; safe siting of the loader and deployment of stabiliser legs; and preparing, operating and stowing the crane safely and effectively.

Zoe was delighted with the score received from ALLMI.

“Whilst I know that I am a competent trainer with plenty of industry experience, it was great to receive such a high score on the audit to support that.

“It’s a great confidence boost to know that I am being recognised as providing excellent quality training, and I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with customers across the East of England to help them achieve their ALLMI qualifications.”

Zoe joins an already established team of 3 high quality, full-time ALLMI trainers at Palfinger UK, with a previous average audit score of 92%. The Palfinger and ALLMI trained team provide accredited and HSE recognised training throughout the country at customer locations as well as training facilities at the Palfinger UK Falkirk, Bradford and Devizes depots.

Sunny Patel, Training and Handover Coordinator, commented, “I am so pleased for Zoe on her recent audit score, although her ability and skill were of course never in doubt. Zoe is a highly capable trainer, and has been warmly welcomed by the training team, wider Palfinger UK colleagues and our customers. I look forward to working with Zoe in delivering exceptional ALLMI training at competitive prices for customers new and existing throughout the East of England.”

To find out more about training from Palfinger UK, or to request a price for training with Zoe or another member of the team, visit www.palfinger.co.uk/training and complete the online enquiry form.

The Palfinger UK team had the pleasure of supporting Mercedes-Benz at their ‘Unimog on the Farm’ events. 

These one-day events, held at locations across the UK, are aimed at individuals and businesses operating vehicles in the agriculture and arboriculture industries, showcasing the capabilities of the versatile Mercedes-Benz Unimog.

  During the events, Palfinger UK displayed a Unimog-mounted PK 12.502 SH B boom crane, with a reach of 10.3m and capacity of 1040kg at that distance. The body preparation and fitting, crane mounting and body painting was all carried out in Palfinger UK’s 17-bay workshops in Devizes, Wiltshire.

  Additionally, visitors on each day were invited to take part in a fun, practical activity for a chance to win a Palfinger watch. The challenge – to manoeuvre a tennis ball attached to the crane hook around a series of positions onto the top of road cones, as quickly and accurately as possible.

  National Key Account Manager for Palfinger UK, Tex Allen, commented: “This was an excellent series of events and we were delighted to be able to support our friends at Mercedes-Benz to raise the profile of the perfect pairing of a Unimog vehicle with Palfinger crane. Being able to run the interactive competition brought some fun to our display too, and certainly brought attention to the vehicle.”

  Events were held at Mercedes-Benz Trucks Events Centre in Barnsley, Jimmy’s Farm in Ipswich, Cotswold Farm Park in Cheltenham and The 3 Buffalo Farm in Scotland.

  Speak to the Palfinger UK team today to learn more about the wide variety of Unimog and truck mounting options for Palfinger cranes – call 01380 733513 or visit www.palfinger.co.uk

Having decided to expand the ALLMI lorry loader training provision in the East of the England, Palfinger UK naturally sought out a recruit of the highest calibre to join the already exceptional team. Cue, Zoe Ellis.

Zoe is not your average ‘teacher’. With a passion for heavy machinery and a wealth of experience in truck driving and training, Zoe is the perfect addition to the Palfinger UK team.

Zoe obtained her HGV Class 2 licence in 2007, and moving on to achieve her Class 1 licence in 2008. From there she embarked on a lorry driving career spanning 11 years. After many years practically living in her cab, Zoe opted for a change in lifestyle, whilst still wanting to stay in the industry she knew and loved. With a passion for training, and a friendly and enthusiastic personality to boot, Zoe decided to put herself through training to become an ALLMI instructor.

“I loved driving trucks but also wanted a more settled life away from weekly truck-stop stays and sleeping in cab. So I decided to take the plunge in 2014 and qualify as a trainer. Over the past 11 years I’ve been lucky enough to drive a really wide range of vehicles and use loader cranes from every manufacturer. In my experience Palfinger are the ‘crème de la crème’ of cranes, excellent quality, simple to use and designed with the operator in mind.

When I was offered the role of ALLMI trainer at Palfinger UK I was genuinely over the moon. It’s not often that you hear of people being offered their dream job, but that is exactly what has happened to me.”

Since joining the team at the end of September, Zoe has spent time getting to know the three existing instructors and the training co-ordinator at Palfinger UK, as well as meeting the wider teams in the sales, service and production departments. 

Palfinger UK offers ALLMI accredited, HSE-recognised lorry loader safety courses across the UK, with training delivered either at our facilities in Falkirk, Bradford and Devizes, or on-site at your premises. Additionally, we can register attendees for seven hours of JAUPT Approved Driver CPC qualifying time. Visit www.palfinger.co.uk/training to learn more and contact us to discuss your training requirements further.

When looking to expand the ALLMI lorry loader training provision in the East of the country, Palfinger UK naturally sought out a recruit of the highest calibre to join the already exceptional team. Cue, Zoe Ellis.

Zoe is not your average teacher. With a passion for heavy machinery and a wealth of experience in truck driving and training, Zoe is the perfect addition to the Palfinger UK team.

“I’ve always been passionate about machinery and hydraulics. My father was an engineer, so we always had go-carts and quad bikes at home as kids, and that sparked my fascination with trucks and cranes from a young age, the bigger the truck the better!”

Originally working at Stansted Airport as an Aircraft Dispatcher, Zoe decided to move into a driving career, obtaining her HGV Class 2 licence in 2007, and moving on to achieve her Class 1 licence in 2008.

From there Zoe embarked on a lorry driving career spanning 11 years initially with a local builder’s merchant, then with Seven Lincs, transporting containers across the country, and subsequently with a wide range of businesses including builders’ merchants and haulage companies.

After many years practically living out of her cab, Zoe opted for a change in lifestyle, whilst still wanting to stay in the industry she knew and loved. With a passion for training, and a friendly and enthusiastic personality to boot, Zoe decided to put herself through training to become an ALLMI instructor.

“I loved driving trucks but also wanted a more settled life away from weekly truck-stop stays and sleeping in cab. So, I decided to take the plunge in 2014 and qualify as a trainer, enabling me to pass on my experience and knowledge to other operators in the industry.”

Zoe proceeded to work as an ALLMI trainer for Saint-Gobain, parent company of builder’s merchant business Jewson, at David Watson Transport providing full induction training for new members of staff and also a return to more localised driving of 7.5tonne delivery trucks for BSS, part of the Travis Perkins team.

“Over the past 11 years I’ve been lucky enough to drive a really wide range of vehicles and used loader cranes from every manufacturer. Without a doubt, in my experience Palfinger are the ‘crème de la crème’ of cranes, excellent quality, simple to use and designed with the operator in mind.

Zoe continues, “as a result, when I was offered the role of ALLMI trainer at Palfinger UK I was genuinely over the moon. It’s not often that you hear of people being offered their dream job, but that is exactly what has happened to me.”

Since joining the team at the end of September, Zoe has spent time getting to know the 3 existing instructors and the training coordinator at Palfinger UK, as well as meeting the wider teams in the sales, service and production departments.

“Everybody here is so friendly and welcoming, it really is like a big family. I’m really looking forward to meeting new and returning customers and making an impact on the business delivering high quality ALLMI training in the East of England.”

Palfinger UK offer ALLMI accredited, HSE-recognised lorry loader safety courses across the entire UK, with training delivered either at our training facilities in Falkirk, Bradford and Devizes, or on-site at your premises.

Additionally, we can register attendees for 7 hours of JAUPT Approved Driver CPC qualifying time.

Visit www.palfinger.co.uk/training to learn more and contact us to discuss your training needs further.

For the first time, the dedicated Lorry Cranes division of T H WHITE Group – Palfinger UK – is producing its own annual calendar to distribute to customers and partners across the UK. 

Celebrating the diversity of Palfinger loaders in use every day throughout the country, the calendar features photographs submitted by individuals and businesses from across the UK which showcase a wide variety of Palfinger products in use in a range of applications. It is the result of a social media competition, the winning photos being selected by Palfinger UK staff from the Devizes, Bradford and Falkirk depots.

Visit the Palfinger UK Facebook page at www.facebook.com/PalfingerUK to see the full line-up of photos featured.

Alan Johnson has been appointed Director for the UK Palfinger distributorship, following Mark Rigby’s retirement in March. With more than 30 years’ experience in the lorry cranes sector, Alan joined the company in 2017 as Development Projects Manager before becoming General Manager in May 2018. “Since joining the team in 2017 I’ve worked on a broad range of projects which have given me the chance to build a strong interface between departments and people, many of whom I knew already from my time in previous roles in the industry.” “Becoming the General Manager of Palfinger UK in 2018 gave me additional exposure to the commercial elements of the business and importantly some great opportunities for increased involvement with customers and suppliers.” “I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues, our customers and suppliers to ensure that we remain a reliable, innovative business and the first-choice partner for customers across the UK. It’s a fact that one of the biggest strengths of Palfinger UK is our people. Additionally we have great resources at our disposal to add value to customers across the UK, as well as a fantastic core product from the global market leader, Palfinger.”

The Palfinger UK training team were delighted to share the feedback from industry professionals this week following a series of CPD training sessions delivered at the start of 2019.

Delivered in December and January at the Palfinger UK Falkirk, Bradford and Devizes centres, the CPD events were set up specifically for ALLMI instructors. The five sessions were designed to provide an increased understanding of the Palfinger products in the UK market, as well as the systems and technical functionality used on Palfinger products.

Following the training, delegates were asked to provide feedback on their training, with hugely positive responses recorded across the board.

• 100% of the ALLMI instructors said that they would attend another CPD training session from Palfinger UK
• 100% thought that the course content and detail provided was either Good or Great, with 60% choosing Great!
• 100% rated the knowledge, attitude and values of the Palfinger UK training staff as either Good or Great, with a huge 86% choosing Great!
• 95% rated the overall experience as either Good or Great.

Additional comments included:

“A very good & informative day, well worth it”

“Thoroughly enjoyed the day, thanks again”

“I had a really good day. Sometimes trainers don’t get to use the very latest equipment but this day allowed us to have a look at your latest products.”

“Excellent CPD presented in a professional, relaxed manner! Very well done!”

“Really helpful instructors who went out of their way to ensure everyone had a fantastic experience”

“Very professional set up in the training room. Palfinger UK staff knew their stuff. I would attend another CPD day”

If you’d like to know more about training opportunities at Palfinger UK, please click here to visit our Training information page.

The Palfinger UK team was delighted to hand over one of two new crane builds in January to long-standing customer, Gibsons of Kendal.

Representing a major investment for the family-run Gibsons business, the latest delivery comprises a Palfinger PK 78002 SH D crane with flatbed body, mounted on a new generation Scania R500 8×2 truck. This is the ninth Palfinger crane for Gibsons, with a second, identical truck due in Summer 2019, taking Gibsons into double figures with Palfinger.

Gibsons specialises in large haulage services in the UK, with a modern fleet of vehicles to perform a wide variety of tasks. As well as celebrating the delivery of the new vehicle, Gibsons are proud to be commemorating the 40th anniversary of their business this year.

Their new Palfinger PK 78002 SH D high performance crane offers a lifting capacity of 4850kg at 13.7m full extension, perfect for the heavy lifting jobs that are part of the everyday activity for the Gibsons team.

The build comes with Palfinger’s High Performance Stability Control (HPSC) system. Sensors for proportional path measurement are placed in the stabilisers, making their positioning fully variable and enabling quick calculation of all permissible working ranges for any slewing angle and stabiliser position. This ensures maximum flexibility and productivity when the crane is in use, with the widest possible working range and maximum lifting capacity, as well as increased safety for all involved.

Gibsons of Kendal owner, Ray Gibson, is pleased to have taken delivery of his newest vehicle. “This is our ninth crane and vehicle from Palfinger UK – previously T H WHITE Lorry Cranes – and we have yet another crane vehicle on order for Summer 2019,” he said. “Our vehicles are used for a variety of applications including transporting water turbines, electric panels, transformers, cabins, containers, gate houses, generators, camping pods and even art sculptures. We’ve always found that Palfinger cranes to be extremely reliable and capable of heavy lifting tasks, especially in challenging situations. Using high quality Palfinger cranes keeps us ahead in our business and our customers satisfied.”

Palfinger UK area sales manager Scott Dunn worked alongside Ray, his son and co-owner Chris, as well as the technical and workshop staff at Palfinger UK to ensure Gibsons received the perfect crane for their needs. “We cooperated very closely with Gibsons of Kendal for a number of months on these particular new builds, designing the specification meticulously to meet their exact requirements. We are all very pleased with the finished result, and are confident that the new addition, alongside its partner arriving later in the spring, will complement Gibsons’ existing fleet of Palfinger cranes. Everyone at Palfinger UK would like to thank Gibsons of Kendal for their continued business and wish them all the best in their 40th anniversary year.”

When leading Welsh Agricultural dealer David Evans Agri Ltd (DEAL) was approached by a customer for a bespoke tractor with a crane, they knew exactly which brand would provide the perfect solution.

Visiting the DEAL dealership one day, Mark Davis, head of technical and sales office at M&D Services in Port Talbot, spotted a customised tractor fitted with a crane in the yard – which had been built by David Evans previously – and decided that he just had to have one of his own.

“The tractor/crane combo in David’s yard was intended for forestry use and I knew I needed something bigger, so this was a new challenge for DEAL,” said Mark.

David Evans added: “For Mark’s Fendt 936 Vario tractor we fabricated and installed the mounting kit ourselves, making sure it was the perfect fit for the tractor. Building this for a customer was a bit of an experiment so we knew that it was important to have the back up of the importer of a high-quality crane. That’s why I went to Palfinger UK.”

The bespoke fitment from DEAL goes even further by enabling the user to detach the crane and auxiliary leg stabilisers when required, so that the tractor can be used with or without the crane, or with other implements as required.

Rear mounted on the tractor, the medium duty Palfinger PK 19.001 SLD5 has a 4-extension C boom with lifting capacity of up to 18.5 tonne metres and an 12.6-metre reach. The lightweight design from Palfinger enables higher payloads than other cranes of a similar size, making the PK 19.001 SLD5 ideal for the wide range of heavy lifting tasks which Mark often undertakes. Additionally, the front and rear additional Palfinger stabilisers offer Mark both increased stability on the frequently uneven terrain around his home patch in South Wales, as well as extra support for heavier loads, enabling him to lift and move larger items quickly and easily.

Les Drage, Head of Technical and Sales at Palfinger UK, detailed the work put into the project by the Palfinger UK team. “This was a special project with a significant amount of bespoke work needed to harmonise the mechanical, hydraulic and electric interface work before the unit was sent out from Palfinger UK in Devizes.

“Extensive liaison and support was provided initially from the area sales manager Stuart Wilson, as well as from Project Engineers Rob and Gary to the team at David Evans Agricultural Ltd, while on-site stability testing was carried out by Steve in the Palfinger UK Service department before final handover. We’re pleased with the outcome and we enjoyed working with David and his team.”

“I intend to use the tractor in my work with utilities providers mostly,” said Mark. “In the countryside around South Wales these companies often need to install poles, pipes and cables in areas which truck-mounted cranes can’t reach – such as through fields or down tracks. My tractor mounted crane solves the problem and will open up more opportunities for me in those areas of work.”

The 936 Vario itself delivers up to 366hp from a 7.1 litre Deutz turbocharged diesel engine; combined with the strength and power of the Palfinger crane it adds up to an impressive machine for M&D Services.

Speaking of the build, David is keen to work on other bespoke jobs in the future. “This really is a specialist piece of kit and sort of a prototype for us really. We think it’s gone very well and we’re certainly interested in working on similar projects in the future with Palfinger cranes. Our facilities here at DEAL are perfect for managing these sorts of projects and my team is always ready to help provide solutions for our customers.”

On his experience working with the Palfinger UK team, David has nothing but praise. “The Palfinger UK team has been great. Project Engineer Rob was very helpful, coming out to support with the crane fitment and was always available on the phone to answer questions and provide guidance throughout the build.”

If you have a crane configuration in mind that you would like to discuss please do call Palfinger UK on 01380 722381, or take a look at www.palfinger.co.uk. To find out more about David Evans Agricultural Ltd visit www.dealwales.co.uk.

Palfinger UK once again attended the UK’s largest forestry and timber show this weekend, putting on an impressive display of forestry equipment from market leaders Palfinger Epsilon and timber bunk specialists Alucar.

The biennial APF Exhibition, hosted in the 6,000-acre estate of Ragley Hall near Alcester, Warwickshire, was attended by over 18,500 visitors this year and 320 exhibitors from across the forestry sector.

With a stand space of over 600m² Palfinger UK showcased a variety of timber handling cranes from Palfinger Epsilon, the world’s largest manufacturer of timber and recycling cranes, as well as specialist timber bunks from Finnish company Alucar, the largest manufacturer of aluminium timber superstructure systems.

Supported by valued customers who proudly displayed their trucks fitted with a variety of Epsilon cranes and timber bunks, the Palfinger UK team were on hand to meet new and existing customers and provide information on the full Epsilon and Alucar ranges, including the new Epsilon Q Series, unveiled at Interforst in July.

Kieron M. Owen Transport Ltd from Powys in Wales showcased their Epsilon M120L crane on a Scania R500 truck, which also featured an Alucar aluminium superstructure with a 5-tonne timber capacity.

TSL Contractors Ltd lent one of their Argyll-based Skyhook company Volvo FH trucks which featured a M12L crane with Epscab all-weather protection command centre and Alu 55 timber bunk. Skyhook are a helicopter hire company serving the construction, forestry and agricultural sectors in Scotland, carrying loads to remote and inhospitable locations where even an Epsilon-laden truck cannot reach.

Ayr-based JST Services Ltd, cargo handling and logistics specialists and one of the largest timber handling businesses in Europe, demonstrated their Volvo FH500 Globetrotter with M10L Epsilon crane and Alu 55 timber bunk on a complete Alucar superstructure subframe kit, coupled with a Dennison tri-axle drawbar trailer, also fitted with Alucar bunks.

Fresh from it’s launch at the 2018 Interforst event in Munich in July, visitors to the stand could see and learn more about the brand new Epsilon Q17L, part of the Q Series which boasts the lightest and longest reach cranes in its class – up to 11m at the maximum. Not only that, the Q Series offers a 15% faster crane speed than its predecessors, enabling maximum speed even at higher lifting capacities for increased efficiency.

Peter Williams of Forestry Transport Maintenance, partner with Palfinger UK for Epsilon and Alucar products, brought along his fully refurbished Volvo F12 tractor unit, resplendent in the livery of Tree Harvesting Ltd, a former timber merchant based in Wales thirty years or so ago.

This was coupled to a Dennison triaxle semi-trailer, fitted with the new Epsilon Q17L 105 with ergonomically designed Palfinger Master Drive top seat. The trailer/loader package is owned by Chris Knowles, who was satisfied enough with Epsilon products to purchase the first prototype Q17L 105 into the UK with positive results so far.

Palfinger UK are the sole UK distributor of Alucar timber superstructure systems, which are produced primarily of aluminium and not only increase truck payloads but also enhance durability and prolong the lifespan of the superstructure. The bunks are unique in their production, using detachable upright stakes which are easier to maintain, repair and replace than traditional welded supports.

James Stronach, Product Manager for Epsilon at Palfinger UK, who organised the APF stand and attended the event was pleased with the event this year, commenting, “despite the weather and fewer visitors this year overall, we had a good number of enquiries and potential orders over the three days, which is great. We are grateful to our customers and manufacturers who supported on the stand and for the visitors for visiting us and offering positive feedback on the Epsilon brand and the Palfinger UK business in general.”

Virpi Hattula, Export Sales Manager at Alucar, added, “we were pleased to come to the show this year to support James and Palfinger UK, and very happy with the display from Palfinger UK at the event, featuring a range of our Alucar bunks and superstructures, which were a great attraction for visitors to the stand.”

Palfinger Epsilon Area Sales Manager, Lorenz Santner, was also full of praise for the Palfinger UK team. “For PALFINGER EPSILON the UK market is one of the most important ones in Europe. After all these years we are happy to call the Palfinger UK team our friends in our big European EPSILON community.”

He added, “the show was again a great place to meet long-time friends, to have interesting discussions about the latest developments in the market and also to meet new people. The APF show is without a doubt the UK’s leading show for the timber industry and I am pleased that so many people from all over the UK made the effort to visit the event and the Palfinger UK stand again this year.”

To find out more about the full range of Palfinger Epsilon timber handling equipment and Alucar timber bunks, please visit www.palfinger.co.uk/epsilon-forestry

One of the biggest cranes currently fitted at the back end of a UK-registered 32-tonne chassis has just been delivered to new owner AET Transport Services. The brand-new Mercedes-Benz Arocs 3248LK ENA eight-wheeler is one of a fleet of 66 vehicles for the Poole-based AET Group, which comprises AET Andover, Curvin Transport, Dorset Crane Hire and Eaton Transport divisions.

Since its delivery, the new Arocs truck has been assigned to the AET factory relocations team who move machinery, plant and other large consignments across the UK and Europe for customers including Airbus, Rolls-Royce, Britax and Sunseeker.

Palfinger UK played a significant role in AET’s new purchase, building the truck’s platform body and installing the rear-mounted Palfinger PK 65002D SH crane, which has five hydraulic extensions. AET Group Managing Director Andrew Trotter explained: “A rear-mounted crane will always be more appropriate for some jobs, as it allows us to back into the premises and reach further.

“The truck’s rear-steer axle also gives us an excellent turning circle, which is a major advantage on difficult-to-access sites. We talked to another manufacturer who offers a chassis in the same configuration, but came down in favour of the Mercedes-Benz, not least because its axle loadings were better suited to the crane.”

The aim of the Palfinger UK team, alongside Mercedes-Benz Product Manager Ian Knight and Truck Sales Executive Steve Trevett from south coast dealer Marshall Truck & Van, was to shed as much weight as possible without compromising stability and rigidity. As a result, the low-height sub-frame was fabricated from a special high-grade folded steel plate which is stronger but lighter than a standard, off-the-shelf product.

The team is delighted that having made a commitment to finish a truck with a maximum payload of 9.5 tonnes, the finished product is in fact capable of carrying 10 tonnes, all due to expert design and engineering processes from the Palfinger UK’s Technical and Production teams.

“I’m very pleased with that figure, as the extra half-tonne gives us a lot more flexibility,” confirmed Andrew Trotter. “An eight-wheeler which can lift 10 tonnes from the back end and then carry all of that weight is going to be a very productive addition to the fleet.”

Mark Cotton, Area Sales Manager for Palfinger UK, is also pleased that the outcome has delivered even more than his customer had hoped : “I’ve known Andrew for almost 15 years through my time in the industry and it is a pleasure working with him, especially when the result is such a successful build. I am looking forward to seeing the new truck out on the road around the South West and working with Andrew again on future projects.”

One of the biggest cranes currently fitted at the back end of a UK-registered 32-tonne chassis has just been delivered to new owner AET Transport Services.

The brand-new Mercedes-Benz Arocs 3248LK ENA eight-wheeler is one of a fleet of 66 vehicles for the Poole-based AET Group, which comprises AET Andover, Curvin Transport, Dorset Crane Hire and Eaton Transport divisions.

Since its delivery, the new Arocs truck has been assigned to the AET factory relocations team who move machinery, plant and other large consignments across the UK and Europe for customers including Airbus, Rolls-Royce, Britax and Sunseeker.

Palfinger UK had a significant role in AET’s new purchase, building the truck’s platform body and installing the rear-mounted Palfinger PK 65002D SH crane, which has five hydraulic extensions.

AET Group Managing Director Andrew Trotter explained: “A rear-mounted crane will always be more appropriate for some jobs, as it allows us to back into the premises and reach further.

“The truck’s rear-steer axle also gives us an excellent turning circle, which is a major advantage on some, difficult to access sites. We talked to another manufacturer which offers a chassis in the same configuration, but came down in favour of the Mercedes-Benz, not least because its axle loadings were better suited to the crane.”

The aim of the Palfinger UK team, alongside Mercedes-Benz Product Manager Ian Knight and Truck Sales Executive Steve Trevett from south coast dealer Marshall Truck & Van, was to shed as much weight as possible without compromising stability and rigidity. As a result, the low-height sub-frame was fabricated from a special high-grade folded steel plate which is stronger but lighter than a standard, off the shelf product.

The team are delighted that after having made a commitment to finish a truck with a maximum payload of 9.5 tonnes, the finished product is in fact capable of carrying 10 tonnes, all due to expert design and engineering processes from the Palfinger UK Technical and Production teams.

“I’m very pleased with that figure, as the extra half-tonne gives us a lot more flexibility,” confirmed Andrew Trotter. “An eight-wheeler which can lift 10 tonnes from the back end and then carry all of that weight is going to be a very productive addition to the fleet.”

Mark Cotton, Area Sales Manager for Palfinger UK is delighted with the outcome for his customer, “I’ve known Andrew for almost 15 years through my time in the industry and it is a pleasure working with him, especially when the result is such a successful build. I am looking forward to seeing the new truck out on the road around the South West and working with Andrew again on future projects.”

Pictured: AET Group Managing Director Andrew Trotter, second from right, is pictured with, from left, Mercedes-Benz Trucks Product Manager Ian Knight, Palfinger UK South West Area Sales Manager Mark Cotton, and Marshall Truck & Van Truck Sales Executive Steve Trevett

T H WHITE has acquired Falkirk-based Outreach Truck Ltd, the Palfinger distributor for Scotland, and with agreement from Palfinger the merged businesses will come together as the UK’s largest national lorry crane provider, trading as Palfinger UK from May 2018.

Palfinger UK will be the only independent European distributor with full national coverage and will be one of the largest distributors in Europe selling products directly to end users.

T H WHITE’s involvement with lorry cranes began in 1974 and the business grew dramatically in the 1990s when world-leading Austrian hydraulic crane manufacturer Palfinger made T H WHITE its official distributor for England and Wales. Outreach Truck Ltd has also worked closely with Palfinger since 1976, accumulating parallel experience and expertise north of the border. Outreach staff will now join the T H WHITE Lorry Cranes team in the new Palfinger UK operation.

Mark Rigby (above), director of T H WHITE’s Lorry Cranes business, believes the acquisition of Outreach is the perfect fit with T H WHITE: “For more than 40 years Outreach has offered hydraulic handling, lifting and access equipment, supplying and fitting the complete range of Palfinger cranes. As regards the Palfinger Epsilon range, T H WHITE has traditionally focused on construction and recycling cranes, while Outreach has a strong business base in forestry cranes. That’s a great example of how this ‘coming together’ will broaden the portfolio of the whole operation.

“Likewise, Outreach has worked closely with many Scottish local authorities to develop expertise in bespoke body-building. That is complemented by T H WHITE’s state-of-the-art body-building workshops in Devizes and Bradford where a vast variety of body styles and sizes are built and fitted to chassis, often in conjunction with cranes, pile drivers and other equipment.”

The creation of Palfinger UK means that the business now has operational bases in Devizes (Wiltshire), Bradford (Yorkshire) and Falkirk (Stirlingshire). Although trading as Palfinger UK, the business will firmly remain part of the T H WHITE Group.

“Now that we have a spread of business locations right across the British mainland we can work on further enhancing the high levels of customer service we are already known for,” adds Mark. “Added to that, we are always looking for ways to assist various sectors of the market with new, specialist products, as we did last year with the introduction of specific models designed for the needs of builders merchants. Expect to see more of that as we go forward.

“All in all, Palfinger UK looks like being quite a force!”

For more on Palfinger UK, what it means for you as a crane user, as well as details of a host of exciting new products, visit www.palfinger.co.uk.

T H WHITE Lorry Cranes, the UK national distributor for Palfinger Epsilon, has introduced a significantly enhanced, free 5-year warranty package for Epsilon Classic cranes.

The new package offers 24-months’ free parts and labour cover for all components – an increase from the original 12-month warranty package. Additionally, all structural and load-bearing components will benefit from an extra three years’ free cover for parts. The new 5-year warranty applies to all new orders placed with T H WHITE for Palfinger Epsilon M125LC68 or M125LC82 Classic cranes.

As well as the new 5-year warranty package T H WHITE
now also offers customers the opportunity to receive the first year of a Classic Crane Service Plan free of charge when signing up for a 5-year Plan with their new crane.

T H WHITE’s Lorry Cranes Service department is recognised across the industry as one of the leading providers of service, repairs and parts for lorry loader cranes, offering outstanding aftercare and compliance support from a nationwide team.

Mark Rigby, director of the T H WHITE Lorry Cranes Division, comments: “The M Series Classic Epsilon has become a product of choice in the tipper grab market, and this enhanced product offer demonstrates a real belief in the strength and integrity of the product in a very tough market application, to give customers even more confidence to continue buying Epsilon cranes now and in the future.”

To find out more please visit www.thwhitelorrycranes.co.uk/epsilon-high-five, or phone T H WHITE Lorry Cranes on 01380 722381.

Family-owned Bithells Waste Management Ltd – which has been operating in Wigan for more than 50 years – has taken delivery of two brand new DAF CF 400s from Lancashire DAF, both fitted with Palfinger T22 Hookloaders supplied and installed by UK Palfinger importer T H WHITE. Family-owned Bithells Waste Management Ltd – which has been operating in Wigan for more than 50 years – has taken delivery of two brand new DAF CF 400s from Lancashire DAF, both fitted with Palfinger T22 Hookloaders supplied and installed by UK Palfinger importer T H WHITE.

The Palfinger Telescopic T22 Hook loaders, equipped with easy to operate Pro-Active Drive control system (PAD), feature a unique hook arrangement which is perfect for handling a wide variety of containers, offering a low transport height and great lifting capacity. The dual cylinder T22 provides increased tipping capacity and soft-stop landing, reducing shock or damage to both truck and bin.

Transport Manager Emma Bithell said: “T H WHITE has been great to work with. The team there welcomed us over to their workshop to observe the assembly of the new trucks. In particular, Hook and Skip Area Sales Manager Steven Bretherton has kept us informed throughout the design and build stages – his attention to detail is second to none.

“Steven, together with National Sales Manager Tex Allen and the crew at T H WHITE have been extremely professional throughout and a pleasure to deal with. Like us, they clearly share a passion for their company and doing the best for their customers.”

Steven Bretherton added: “At T H WHITE we take pride in providing the best service and products available to our customers. I personally look forward to working with the Bithells Waste Management team again in the future and I’m delighted that they have found their experience with T H WHITE to be pleasant and professional.”

As the official national distributor of Palfinger and Epsilon cranes and equipment, T H WHITE Lorry Cranes has a strong reputation for installing premium products on a wide range of vehicle chassis.
As well as being the UK’s largest lorry crane supplier, T H WHITE Lorry Cranes also offers in-house body-building, assembly to chassis and servicing, backed up by customer service that has attracted some of the biggest names in the industry.

For more than 15 years one of our key clients has been leading commercial vehicle contract hire company LC Vehicle Hire, to whom we have supplied Palfinger, Epsilon and Orteco equipment for their large fleet of contract hire commercial vehicles. Most recently T H WHITE has been contracted by LC Vehicle Hire, not only to install the cranes, but also to provide Orteco piling units and build the specialist bodywork required for a series of seven specialist barrier rigs. T H WHITE Lorry Cranes was delighted to hand over the first of these multi-purpose vehicles in the autumn, built to the precise specification required by Kier Highways, a sector leader in UK highways maintenance, which has placed orders for units on both 18t & 26t chassis.

The first of the new barrier rigs is built on a Mercedes Antos 2535 truck supplied by Northside Truck & Van Ltd. The on-board Palfinger PK 19.001 SLD5A boom crane is supplied with radio remote control for improved usability and safety. Its intelligent, lightweight design will accommodate high payloads with a lifting capacity of 6200kg and a maximum hydraulic outreach of 14.8m.

Designed for heavy-duty pile driving, the Orteco HD 800 truck-mounted pile driver has a hydraulic rotation system enabling operation from either side of the vehicle, as well as the ability to deliver 680 blows per minute with a 1,060 joule hammer.

These premium, powerful units are complemented by installation on a custom-built body from T H WHITE Lorry Cranes – a twin access, triple-drop-side solution with fall prevention system.

Karl Simpson, Regional Transport and Plant Manager at Kier, said: “Since taking possession of this vehicle, it has been used to carry out all the safety fence repairs and street lighting column replacements within the Highways England Area 13 ALDM Contract. It is performing beyond our expectations due to its manoeuvrability and the high payload enables the team to take all the required materials to site in one trip, saving time and money.”

Mitch Barnes, LC Vehicle Hire Operations Manager – who collaborated with Kier on the specification – commented: “This vehicle – tailor-made to the customer’s requirements – is a superb specialist addition to the LC fleet.”

The first of the new barrier rigs was handed over by Scott Marsland, sales support officer at T H WHITE Lorry Cranes, who also provided training with the end user to ensure full understanding. All barrier rigs are delivered with Type Approval as well as a two-year warranty on the complete rig, and a three-year warranty on the Palfinger crane.

For details of barrier rigs and many other vehicle-mounted crane and pile driver applications, contact T H WHITE Lorry Cranes on 01380 722381.

The T H WHITE Lorry Cranes aftersales department will again see its already excellent customer service capabilities further increased thanks to a significant investment by the Group.

Following continued growth of the Lorry Cranes division, the decision was taken to replace the existing Megaamat Megalift in the Parts department and replace it with a brand new automated vertical lift, the Shuttle XO-500 from Kardexremstar.

The original Megalift was near the limit of its capacity and as the 15-year old machine is no longer in production, replacement parts would soon have become a problem.

High-tech infrastructure is used by the parts department to store hundreds of different components for Palfinger, Orteco and Isoli crane systems, with an electronic lift freeing-up floor and rack space in the workshop. The old machine had a footprint of four square metres with an internal capacity of 64 cubic metres, while the new XO-500 is not only larger at just under ten metre square footprint, but also has a capacity of over 165 cubic metres.

The deconstruction of the old Megalift and installation of the new XO-500 took just seven days in September, enabling the parts department to begin using the new machine with minimal disruption as soon as it had been refilled.

Gerald Webb, Parts Manager for the Lorry Cranes division, commented: “The increased capacity of the new machine will not only release valuable storage space for additional items in the stores, but its faster electronic lift system will also improve efficiency and speed up response times. This, in turn, will have a positive impact on the aftersales service we provide to customers, offering a dedicated ordering helpline with 90 per cent of parts in stock and a 24-hour delivery service from warehouse to customer.”

“We are now looking towards the future, with a view to installing an automatic picking process to expedite the service provided by the Lorry Cranes Aftersales department even further.”

Palfinger cranes have a justified reputation for quality, durability and reliability. The Austrian company makes cranes for a vast range of applications but has never designed a crane specifically to serve the needs of the UK builders merchants market – until now.

Unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC in late April, the Palfinger BM26 crane is the first in a series of new cranes for builders merchants. By taking a simple approach and designing a crane that combines all the features needed for straightforward ‘lift and place’ tasks, Palfinger has created a strong, rugged design that represents outstanding value and is ideal for the safe loading of heavy pallets, banded bricks, blocks or timber, sacks of sand and ballast, or concrete pipe sections and castings. In fact there is nothing you would normally find in a builders merchant yard that this crane can’t handle.

The BM26 is designed for 26t (GVW) trucks and has a maximum lifting capacity of 1,620kg at 8m and a slewing angle of 420 degrees. The boom features sophisticated geometry giving it the ability to work with heavy loads in confined spaces with a maximum stabiliser spread of 6.6m. It is not always necessary to deploy the stabilisers on both sides as stability is monitored by the HPSC-E electronic stability control system ensuring the crane always operates in complete safety.

A high speed boom extension makes for fast, efficient use, and all movements can either be controlled from the onboard control panel or the six function portable radio remote control unit.

Protected hose guidance and hose drum are fitted as standard and a hydraulic supply is carried through the boom for auxiliary equipment.

Palfinger cranes are distributed in the UK by T H WHITE Lorry Cranes which also provides national after-sales service. At its headquarters in Devizes, Wiltshire, T H WHITE Lorry Cranes also operates a commercial body-building facility with a state-of-the-art paintshop. We offer a complete one-stop shop for conversion of a truck chassis into a fully-specified vehicle, fitted with your choice of crane and bodywork. There are no middle men, meaning that you benefit from the simplest, most cost-effective solution.

For full details of the Palfinger BM26 Builders Merchants crane, please visit www.thwhitelorrycranes.co.uk, call us on 01380 722381, or email us at lorrycranes@thwhite.co.uk.

It is an unavoidable fact that due to the environments in which they operate commercial vehicles are susceptible to body damage. Whilst it’s important to maintain vehicles in a good, safe condition, the situation everyone wants to avoid is having the vehicle out of action for extended periods while it is sent for repair.

It was to help operators maintain their vehicles in prime condition and minimise down-time that T H WHITE Lorry Cranes launched a mobile body repair service in 2015, which has proved extremely popular and effective.

Two specially-equipped vans are currently in service covering the Midlands, London, the South East and the Home Counties, carrying out on-the-spot repairs at times to fit in with your schedule. The repair service is also available in the north on request and it is planned to add a third van specifically to cover the North of England.

The mobile facility with its workshop tools and extensive stock of parts is capable of undertaking a surprising range of repairs including dropside, side impact protection, rear under run and floors. Both vehicles are fitted with onboard generators and welders capable of all site welding, including aluminium.Routine body inspections (T H WHITE’s online compliance system) can also be carried out on-site and estimates can be provided for all repairs.

To find out more about our on-site commercial vehicle repair service call us on 01380 722381, then select 1 for Service, 2 for Breakdowns and Defects, 2 for Body Repairs, or visit our website, thwhitelorrycranes.co.uk

As UK importer of lorry cranes from the global Number One manufacturer Palfinger, T H WHITE has now re-entered the market for hookloaders and skiploaders with a superb, newly engineered range.

Uniquely in the UK we are offering a three year full warranty on all products, which are also supported by our aftersales national network.

For the latest information, or to book a demonstration, please contact: Steve Bretherton, Area Sales Manager (North): 07825 453170, sdb@thwhite.co.uk or Mike Connolly, Area Sales Manager (South): 07917 555149, mike.connolly@ thwhite.co.uk;