Plant & Equipment | July - August 2022, Issue 253

July - August 2022 MAKING AN ONLINE SPLASH Permian International Auctions set a new standard for the global heavy equipment auctions industry. P60 PRE-OWNED ISSUEGETTING THE SOLUTIONS BAND BACK JuffaliTrucks imports and converts European TOGETHER Mercedes-Benz trucks to Saudi specifications. P22 Bobcat invites P&E to its first MEA Demo Days since 2019. ALSO P24 MOTOR GRADERS P32 ATTACHMENTS P46 253 www.PlantAndEquipment.com



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Contents July - August 2022ISSUE 22 60 253 PRE-OWNED SOLUTIONS www.PlantAndEquipment.com JuffaliTrucks provides used truck solutions in Saudi Arabia by importing and converting 70 European Mercedes-Benz trucks to Saudi specifications. MARKET OVERVIEWS 24 32 GETTING THE BAND BACK MAKING THE GRADE TOGETHER Al-Bahar, Powerplus, SDLG, Shantui and Plant & Equipment travels to Dobříš in the Masaha Global talk to James Morgan about Czech Republic to attend Doosan Bobcat’s first renewed demand for the latest motor grader Demo Days for MEA dealers and customers in models across the Gulf and beyond. almost three years. 46 44 22 ADDING VALUE THROUGH UD TRUCKS SOUTHERN VERSATILITY AFRICA EXTENDS ITS EURO 5 RANGE TABE Hammers, Galen and MB Crusher tell Plant & Equipment how they are capitalising Drive for better with the new Euro 5 Quester and on the vast untapped potential within Africa’s Croner trucks, with feature enhancements that equipment attachments market. boost profitability by doing more with less to overcome critical resource constraints. 24 44 60 32 MAKING AN ONLINE 46 SPLASH Permian International Auctions sells good condition oilfield and heavy equipment for the global oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing industries. Their items on sale at each auction are diverse and plentiful with a detailed video description for each. 70 NEW CAT 966 GC WHEEL LOADER DELIVERS HIGH PERFORMANCE The new Cat 966 GC Wheel Loader offers low fuel consumption with an on-demand fan, loadsensing hydraulics, intuitive controls, and performance series buckets. 4

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Middle East and Africa’s EDITORIAL Contributing Editor Leading Construction Magazine James Morgan Contributing Editor Assistant Sales Manager Munawar Shariff Kenny Ann +971 58 829 8247 ADVERTISING [email protected] Graphic Designer Sales Director Dan Fiesta Sahar Chaplin [email protected] +971 55 798 2212 [email protected] ARTWORK Senior Graphic Designer Adnan Shaik [email protected] ACCOUNTS Senior Accountant Pramila CS Kotian [email protected] Never miss an issue. PlantAndEquipment.News Subscribe for your copy of Bringing the latest equipment Plant & Equipment and construction news from around the world. Email: [email protected] Call: +97145808020 SOCIAL MEDIA MEMBER OF TERMS & CONDITIONS PO Box: 71530, Dubai, UAE Plant & Equipment shall not be liable for trade names and trade marks used by +97145808020 advertisers. No liability will be accepted for any loss occasioned by the failure of any advertisement to appear from any cause whatsoever, or for any errors therein. www.mesamediainc.com Advertisements are accepted subject to availability of space. If it is not possible to insert advertisements in the issue requested, Plant & Equipment will use its best endeavors to ensure that the advertisements are carried forward to the next issue. One month notice is required in writing for the cancellation of any series of advertisements. No guarantee can be made on the positioning of advertisements unless a contract in writing to such effect has been entered into between Plant & Equipment and the advertiser. Settlement Terms - Strictly payment in advance. Copyright: Middle East Strategic Advertising

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MIDDLE EAST NEWS SIZABLE ORDER BUSY SEASON EXPERTISE CONTRACTING AAA DELIVERS OVER ORDERS 34 XCMG 70 IVECO TRUCKS TO TERRAIN CRANES MULTIPLE CLIENTS IN FROM DIESEL SAUDI ARABIA MACHINERY It’s been a busy season for Arabian Auto Agency (AAA) Saudi-based Expertise Contracting Co. recently signed as the official IVECO distributor in Saudi Arabia recently an agreement to order 34 XCMG Terrain Cranes from delivered over 70 IVECO trucks to multiple transportation Diesel Machinery Company Ltd. The contract includes clients in Riyadh. all-terrain and rough terrain cranes which will be used for the growing Saudi construction and energy markets. Steady Routes ordered 40 new IVECO trucks as the transport The sizable order makes it XCMG’s largest ever from a company is expanding its transportation fleet due to customer in Saudi Arabia. increased logistics demand for logistics in Saudi Arabia this year. The new Iveco trucks will enhance the Steady Routes’ “Thanks to the efforts of the Chairman of Diesel fleet reliability, reduce its carbon footprint and serve the Machinery Company, all DMC sales team, and the efforts growing needs of their customers. The models in the order made by XCMG and their sales team in Saudi Arabia,” include the Iveco 440 Trakkers. said Ahmed Shokry, Country Sales & Marketing Manager at Diesel Machinery. “The 34 sold cranes will be handed Al-Hafash Group, based in Riyadh, ordered 24 new over to one of the largest equipment rental companies in IVECO 4×2 tractor head trucks while Al-Kharj (Al-Dossari the Middle East and Africa.” Transportation Co.) ordered 10 new IVECO 4×2 tractor Expertise serves over 1,500 customers from the head trucks.. petrochemical industry, oil and gas production industry, energy industry, and other industrial sectors all over the SPECIAL EQUIPPED TRUCKS Middle East.. GTE OLAYAN DELIVERS 5 SCANIA TRUCKS IN KUWAIT Olayan’s General Transportation & Equipment Company (GTE) recently delivered 5 units of Scania truck tractors equipped with CIFA concrete mixers in Kuwait. GTE Olayan is the exclusive distributor for Scania in Kuwait. Ideal for construction conditions, the Scania P-series trucks are known for its low weight cab, great visibility and balanced drivability.. 8

Your World, Our Challenge. Main Core Activities of the Quarry Mining LLC is: • Mineral Processing Plants • Bulk Handling Systems • Environmental Technologies Quarry Mining LLC P O Box 9593, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates Tel.: +971 7 2689799 | Fax: +971 7 2689499 | Email: [email protected] | Web: www.quarrymining.net

MIDDLE EAST NEWS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD ABDUL LATIF JAMEEL MOTORS LEADS ON CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, an authorized distributor of Toyota has flourished for more than 65 years and created purposeful vehicles in Saudi Arabia since 1955, has been awarded the connections and a collaborative relationship to deliver prestigious ‘Gold Award’ by Toyota Motor Corporation for a the best products, service, and quality for all our guests’ record eleventh consecutive year. automotive needs.” The award was presented in recognition of Abdul Latif In addition, Abdul Latif Jameel Motors Morocco and Algeria Jameel Motors’ agile adaptation to the rapid change in the have been awarded for their 2021 performance, and have business environment and continued commitment to the been receiving the Aftersales awards from Toyota, for a record delivery of excellent customer experience across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. fifteenth consecutive year.. Toyota recognized Abdul Latif Jameel Motors for achieving the highest score amongst distributors across the Middle East and a notable milestone, the highest ever score in aftersales excellence to date. The ‘Gold Award’ is awarded in recognition of the total result of each area in Sales & Aftersales. Hassan Jameel, Chairman of the Board of Managers of Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, said: “We are honoured to receive the ‘Gold Award’ for the eleventh consecutive year, a tribute to the dedicated efforts of all Associates at Abdul Latif Jameel Motors. As an authorized distributor of Toyota, the company LARGE ORDER METSO OUTOTEC WINS ORDER FOR LARGE IRON ORE PELLET PLANT IN OMAN Metso Outotec has signed an agreement for the delivery of leader with world-class pellet products,” says Chris Urban, Vice engineering and key equipment for an iron ore Grate Kiln President, Heat Transfer Products at Metso Outotec. pellet plant to Vulcan Pelletizing LLC. The plant is located in the industrial port of Sohar, the Sultanate of Oman. The value Metso Outotec is the world’s leading supplier of Grate Kiln of the order is approximately EUR 33 million, and it has been pellet plants, with more than 50 installations globally totalling booked in Metals’ Q2/2022 orders received. The pellet plant over 130 mtpa of production. The Metso Outotec technology will supply pellets to Jindal Shadeed Iron & Steel LLC, Oman. produces superior-quality pellets while minimizing overall Metso Outotec’s scope of delivery consists of the supply of plant operational expenses.. core pelletizing plant equipment, including the traveling grate, rotary kiln, and annular cooler. The design is based on the Grate Kiln plants that Metso Outotec is currently supplying for a customer in India. The plant, which is planned to produce six million tons of high-quality iron ore pellets per year, is scheduled to be operational by the end of 2023. “This is the third order for a 6 mtpa Grate-Kiln pelletizing plant within the last 16 months. Metso Outotec is proud to be the Vulcan group’s selected partner in iron ore pelletizing, and we look forward to propelling the Vulcan group to be a global 10

MIDDLE EAST NEWS DELIVERY THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY APPOINTS MAMMOET During a signing ceremony in Umluj, Saudi Arabia, The Red The approach to the façade design was to minimize visual Sea Development Company (TRSDC) and Mammoet have impact of the architecture on the environment by employing a signed a contract for the Sheybarah Island Resort, a key highly reflective polished stainless steel cladding that reflects part of the Red Sea Project in Saudi Arabia. Under the scope the natural surroundings: the ocean, the sky, sand dunes and of the contract, Mammoet is commissioned to deliver 73 prefabricated villas from Grankraft’s yard to the site and install the reef below.. them onto their foundations: on the beach and over water. Sheybarah hotel is a 73-key hyper luxury resort on Sheybarah island; located in the south east of the archipelago on the Red Sea. The island is home to a highly diverse environment with mangroves, white sand dune beaches and some of the most beautiful and pristine coral reefs in the world hosting many species of fish and other marine animals. The resort, designed by Dubai-based architectural firm Killa Design, comprises uniquely shaped overwater and beach villas, arrival, front of house and F&B buildings and other facilities. STATE-OF-THE-ART ASSISTANCE DP WORLD AND THE GCC USES TEREX SAUDI PORTS CRANES IN DUBAI AUTHORITY ANNOUNCE CREEK NEW PARTNERSHIP General Construction Company (GCC) is working on a DP World and the Saudi Ports Authority announced the stunning development in Dubai, a project in which they signing of a 30-year agreement with an investment value chose 14 Terex Cranes to assist them with. The Terex Luffing of more than $133.33 million to build a state-of-the-art, Jib Tower Cranes, as models CTL140-10 and CTL260-18, port-centric Logistics Park at the Jeddah Islamic Port. were selected for this massive undertaking. The agreement aims to establish a logistics park which spans over 415,000 square metres, with an in-land The tower cranes are installed mainly free standing with container depot capacity of approximately 250,000 tower heights up to 110m or with in-shaft installation and TEU and warehousing storage space of 100,000 square feature at least a 50m jib. metres. Future expansions could increase the storage Jewel of the Creek is a 1 million sqm mixed use development space to 200,000 square metres.. in the Port Saeed area of Deira occupying a strategic location at the north shore of Dubai Creek. The project incorporates a mix of residential, commercial, hospitality and recreational use and will transform this location to a vibrant urban centre and the prominent landmark in the heart of Dubai.. www.PlantAndEquipment.com 11

MIDDLE EAST NEWS SUSTAINABLE ENERGY LUCID TO BUILD NEW EV PRODUCTION PLANT IN SAUDI ARABIA Lucid Group announced the signing of agreements with the vehicles to other global markets, including exclusive models Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Industrial designed to appeal to Lucid’s discerning customers in the Development Fund, and the Economic City at King Abdullah region and beyond. Lucid’s AMP-1 in Arizona will continue Economic City (KAEC), as it lays the groundwork for a to serve as the company’s central manufacturing hub, with full production factory in Saudi Arabia. The agreements the Lucid Production System and other manufacturing are expected to accelerate Saudi Arabia’s strategic goal technologies refined in the United States before deployment to transform and diversify its economy through the at other factory sites. The company expects that its development of sustainable energy and transportation. production capacity in Arizona and Saudi Arabia will exceed 500,000 vehicles per year in aggregate when each facility Lucid reviewed multiple opportunities before selecting KAEC reaches its target capacity. in Saudi Arabia as the optimal location and opportunity for its first international manufacturing facility. The new Lucid anticipates that Saudi Arabia’s efforts to foster an manufacturing hub will be fully owned by Lucid and enable automotive ecosystem through its Saudi Vision 2030 should the company to meet growing international demand for yield cost savings for Lucid as well as environmental benefits, luxury electric vehicles. with reduced transportation of product to the customer. The project should also enable opportunities for Saudi Arabia to Lucid estimates that the location of Lucid’s first international diversify and transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy manufacturing plant in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia may result in up to $3.4 billion of value to Lucid over 15 years, and transportation.. and the facility will enable Lucid to address growing demand for Lucid’s products. Lucid plans to establish operations at KAEC for re-assembly of Lucid Air vehicle “kits” that are pre-manufactured at the company’s U.S. AMP-1 Manufacturing Facility in Casa Grande, Arizona, and, over time, for production of complete vehicles. At its peak, the company expects to manufacture up to 150,000 vehicles per year at the KAEC facility. Construction of the plant is expected to start in the first half of 2022. Vehicles in the initial phase will be slated for the market in Saudi Arabia, but Lucid plans to export finished SPECIAL ORDER TROJAN GENERAL CONTRACTING ORDERS 5 VOLVO TRUCKS WITH ATLAS TIPPER BODIES Leading construction group, Trojan General Contracting recently ordered 5 units of Volvo FMX 6×4 chassis trucks mounted with ATLAS 18 CBM Tipper Bodies. Al Futtaim, the UAE’s official dealer for Volvo Trucks, supplied the Volvo FM 370 Trucks while Al Shirawi Equipment Co. supplied the ATLAS 18 CBM Tipper Bodies. The fleet is also equipped with tip ending solutions from Hyva tipping gears that are made of high carbon steel. Trojan General Contracting is planning to use the new trucks for major infrastructure development projects across the UAE including the Etihad Rail project.. 12

MIDDLE EAST NEWS EMERGING MARKET SIX RAIMONDI FLATTOPS AT WORK FOR NEW MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT IN IRAQ Official Raimondi Cranes agent, Akem Group, deployed four all types of construction materials, will remain onsite for 18 Raimondi MRT159s and two MRT144s for the construction of additional months. a massive mix-used development in one of Iraq’s main cities. As part of the city’s redevelopment plan, the new complex represents Akem Group currently has more than thirty Raimondi cranes Erbil’s modernization with its offering of 11 contemporary residential buildings, alongside retail and hospitality. deployed in Iraq across several jobsites.. The MRT159s, operating onsite with a maximum lifting capacity of 8t, have all been installed with jib lengths of 65meters and tower heights ranging between 45m and 124m. The two tallest flattops, standing at 112.4m and 124m, have been anchored to the building, while the remaining cranes are freestanding. The two MRT144s-8t, currently standing at 36m and 55.3m with jib length of 43m and 51m respectively, are at work for the construction of Empire Square, area located in the center of the new residential development. The six flattops, lifting www.PlantAndEquipment.com 13

MIDDLE EAST NEWS LARGE PURCHASE AL BASSAMI GROUP ORDERS 50 HINO TRUCKS IN SAUDI ARABIA Tsusho Jamjoom Trading Company, official Saudi Arabia distributor for Hino, recently supplied 50 Hino 300 Series trucks to Al Bassami International Business in Jeddah. Al Bassami Group’s large purchase allows the group to expand their logistics fleet in the kingdom. Included in the order was the 816 model of the Hino 300 Series that offers high power, low emissions and fuel economy while utilizing the 4X2 chassis. Tsusho Jamjoom Trading Company began distributing Hino trucks in October 2019 as the first-ever Japanese-owned truck wholesales and retailer in Saudi Arabia.. MULTI-PURPOSE ORDER BOOM CONSTRUCTION COMPANY ORDERS 12 JCB BACKHOE LOADERS IN QATAR Mannai Trading Co., JCB’s official dealer in Qatar, recently forklifts, Massey Ferguson agricultural tractors and farm delivered 12 JCB 3DX PLUS backhoe loaders to Boom equipment, Daewoo and Eicher Buses, DAF and Eicher Construction Company in Doha. The civil engineering contractor plans to use the backhoe loaders for road and Trucks, and more.. utility projects in Qatar. Made in India, the JCB 3DX ECO features a high performing 68.6kW engine while offering a multi-purpose (6-in-1) bucket and hammer lines as standard. Mannai Trading’s equipment and transportation distribution portfolio in Qatar includes JCB, Grove cranes, TCM EFFICIENCY TOWERS MEDCO SUPPLIES 50 GENERAC LIGHT TOWERS IN SAUDI ARABIA Generac’s Saudi Arabian distributor, Middle East Development Company Limited (MEDCO), recently supplied 50 VTevo mobile lighting towers to a client in northern Saudi Arabia. The lighting towers will be used for the NEOM Project located near the Tabuk region. The VTevo helps operators withhold up to 75% of fuel and protect the environment with a reduction in carbon emissions up to 10 tons per year. The efficient light tower can run continuously without refueling for up to 200 hours.. 14

COMPETITIVE FINANCE COSTS MIDDLE EAST NEWS BANK NIZWA SIGNS PILE FOUNDATIONS MOU WITH OASIS TRADING AND BAUER CONSTRUCTS EQUIPMENT COMPANY PILES FOR A MEGA PROJECT IN SAUDI Bank Nizwa recently signed a Memorandum of ARABIA Understanding (MoU) with Oasis Trading and Equipment Company to extend financing to the company’s customers The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), appointed and help them in buying Caterpillar machines in Oman. marine contracting specialist Archirodon to design and The agreement was signed by Khaled Al Kayed, CEO of build the iconic bridge to the Shurayrah Island, as well as Bank Nizwa and Bashar Ahmed Aref Al Barghouthi, General two smaller bridges in Saudi Arabia. Archirodon tasked Manager of Oasis Trading and Equipment. Saudi BAUER Foundation Contractors Ltd., a subsidiary of BAUER Spezialtiefbau GmbH, with the construction of As per the agreement, Bank Nizwa will be providing piles for several bridge structures. structured Islamic financing facilities to customers of Oasis Trading and Equipment Company to enable them to buy In the first phase of the project, Bauer constructed three ‘CAT’ machines at subsidised rates. As a company with over test piles for a load test, and in the second phase a total 60 years of experience in the Middle East, Oasis Trading of 37 onshore piles with a diameter of 1,300mm for and Equipment Company deals in various CAT machinery, two new bridges. For the central bridge, which connects heavy equipment, and power systems, which are used for the main island of Shurayrah with the mainland, 60 a wide variety of applications, including earthmoving, piles with a diameter of 1,500mm and 27 piles with a building and construction, mining, road making, diameter of 1,300mm were installed in the third project demolition, waste and scrap handling, electric power phase off the coast. generation, and marine propulsion. Archirodon’s purpose made floating crane barge and its In line with Bank Nizwa’s growth strategy and contribution crew was used to assist Bauer piling team to construct to the Sultanate’s economic diversification goals, the 87 offshore piles. “This is not a typical working location Wholesale Banking Group offers services to an extensive even for us. What’s important here above all are precision range of clients in the construction, marine, oil and gas, and good logistics by Archirodon,” said Project Manager infrastructure, power generation, healthcare, tourism, Mudasser Iqbal. “Fortunately, the timing for material logistics amongst many more. CAT and its equipment cater deliveries by barge was optimal, so we were able to keep to all these key sectors. Many customers rely on CAT’s to the schedule.” products to advance sustainable progress and improve living standards. The MoU will, therefore, provide a significant A BAUER BG 28 drilling rig was placed and safely impetus to several key projects in various sectors where secured on the Barge to carry out the drilling work. The the company provides its services, particularly to Small work began in September 2021 and was successfully and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to buy CAT machines and completed in February 2022.. equipment at competitive finance costs.. www.PlantAndEquipment.com 15

MIDDLE EAST NEWS VERSATILE TRUCK DAIMLER INTRODUCES ECONIC TRUCK IN THE MENA REGION Daimler Commercial Vehicles MENA FZE (DCV MENA) to the public services sector (municipality and waste announced the launch and availability of the benchmark management). The trucks can also be seen frequently tackling setting Mercedes-Benz Econic trucks across the Middle East short-radius distribution jobs, construction site transport and and North Africa. First introduced in 1998, the Econic has even fire & rescue. enjoyed significant success in multiple European markets for over two decades due to its safety, efficiency, ergonomics and With a choice of proven Euro VI compliant inline 6-cylinder reduced impact on the environment. The Econic is the proven engines offering basic output of 272hp and 1200Nm of torque choice for airport ground services, municipality and waste to a top output of 354hp and 1400Nm of torque, and with management applications. technology designed to reduce particulate emissions and nitrous oxide output, the Econic is a powerful and environmentally The Econic is a versatile low-entry truck designed in response friendly solution. The engines offers high torque at low speeds to growing urban areas and the increased demands placed and features optimised fuel and AdBlue consumption. on mobility, logistics, the environment and quality of life. The trucks are efficient, powerful and reliable, and offer maximum Customers interested in exploring Econic’s capabilities have safety for those in the surrounding environment, as well as the possibility to inspect a demo vehicle in the UAE. Those optimum working conditions for the driver and/or crew. that make the Econic choice for their business can expect open production slots and short delivery timelines of only a “With the MENA launch of the proven Econic, DCV MENA is inviting interested parties to reach out for a demonstration few months.. of the vehicle and is pleased to note that production slots are immediately available, thus allowing for short delivery timelines of only a few months,” said Olaf Petersen, the General Manager at Daimler Commercial Vehicles MENA. Available in 2-axle (4×2 traction) and 3-axle configurations (6×2/4 or 6×4 traction), with wheelbases ranging from 3450mm to 5700mm and permissible gross weights of 18- to 26-tonnes, the Econic can suit a wide range of applications. In a variety of international markets, the Econic is already successfully addressing customer requirements from airports LOYAL CUSTOMER SAFEER AUTOMOTIVE ORDERS 10 ISUZU D-MAX PICKUP TRUCKS IN OMAN Prominent rent-a-car operator, Safeer Automotive, has were formally handed over to their new owners at a ceremony bolstered its already sizable car rental assets with a fleet of hosted recently by OTE Group, exclusive distributors of Isuzu 10 new Isuzu D-Max pickup trucks. The 2022 model vehicles in the Sultanate of Oman. The new vehicles add to around 37 Isuzu pickups and Isuzu Trucks that have long been the cornerstone of the company’s car rental business. The double cabin FL D-Max, with its power-packed 3.0 litre turbo diesel engine and 5-speed automatic transmission, is a much-coveted machine globally. Highly regarded for its 4x4 performance both on and off-road, the D-Max comes with a substantially enhanced interior and driving dynamics while staying true to its core attributes as a popular working vehicle. With its leading edge safety features and updated infotainment technology, the D-Max also guarantees all-day comfort for passengers.. 16

MIDDLE EAST NEWS POWER SOLUTIONS ZAHID TRACTOR TO SUPPLY 69 GENERATOR SETS TO SAUDI ARABIA’S RED SEA PROJECT Caterpillar Inc. announced that Cat dealer Zahid Tractor was accommodations. Zahid Tractor is also addressing uptime selected by the main contractor to supply power solutions needs through Customer Value Agreements (CVAs), which that deliver 32 MW of prime power for The Red Sea Project, include customer technician training, regular maintenance a nearly 28,000 square-kilometer regenerative tourism at scheduled intervals, and around-the-clock, on-demand destination under development along Saudi Arabia’s west coast. technical support. The project leverages Caterpillar’s expertise in supplying and Additionally, most of the units are equipped with Cat Connect maintaining field-proven power solutions that have enabled Remote Access Monitoring (RAM), Caterpillar’s advanced data operation on various hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), biodiesel, and blended fuel products for more than a decade. visualization, reporting and alert offering.. Zahid Tractor is supplying 69 generator sets that deliver 32MW of prime power. The generator sets can run on both conventional diesel and B100 biodiesel to supply energy during the construction phase of The Red Sea Project. Once complete, the luxury tourist destination will include a total of 16 hotels, an international airport and other commercial operations scheduled for completion in 2023. Zahid Tractor has already delivered, installed and commissioned most of the generator sets in weather- resistant, sound-attenuated enclosures that are currently being used to support construction activities and workforce EXPANSION THE BIG 5 AND INDEX TO RETURN TO QATAR IN 2023 dmg events has signed a strategic partnership with Qatar based NeXTfairs to run The Big 5 Construct Qatar and INDEX Design Qatar in the Gulf state in Q3 2023. Scheduled to take place from 25-27 September 2023, this represents the latest move in dmg events regional portfolio expansion strategy. The return of these two internationally recognised dmg flagship events also marks the birth of a long- term alliance with local event organiser NeXTfairs. The co-located Big 5 Construct Qatar and INDEX Design forecasted value of US$76 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR Qatar shows will connect essential suppliers and trade buyers of 10.54 percent over the period. A total of US$16.4 billion committed to Qatar’s infrastructure development, and offer will be invested into infrastructure and real estate projects both a thought leadership knowledge platform and face-to-face by 2025 under Qatar National Vision 2030. In addition, the business and networking opportunities. pending ratification of a new law regulating public-private In its 2021 Qatar Construction Market – Growth, Trends, partnerships is set to further accelerate sector opportunity.. Covid-19 Impact & Forecast (2022-2027) report, Mordor Intelligence valued the market at US$55 million in 2021 with a www.PlantAndEquipment.com 17

MIDDLE EAST NEWS STRONG PERFORMANCE AL NABOODAH’S SWAIDAN TRADING WINS DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD Swaidan Trading’s Commercial Vehicles and Heavy Equipment Year’ award directly from Ashok Leyland, whom they represent division has recently earned the prestigious ‘Distributor of the exclusively in the UAE since 1984. The award was revealed at a special ceremony during the Global Dealer Conference hosted by Ashok Leyland in Kochi, India. Presented by Ashok Leyland’s Chairman Dheeraj Hinduja, Swaidan Al Naboodah, Managing Director of Al Naboodah Group, was on hand to accept the award in person. Providing consistently strong sales performance and after sales support over the last three decades to countless clients in the region, Swaidan Trading has cemented Ashok Leyland’s dominance as the market leader of large-sized buses in the UAE, boasting a majority market share in a highly competitive and price sensitive market.. SUSTAINABILITY PUSH DNATA TO REPLACE ALL VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT WITH ELECTRIC UNITS dnata is pushing sustainability to the core as it is targeting non-motorised trolleys, 124 hybrid cars and thousands of to replace all its vehicles, diesel units, and GSE equipment tractors. dnata has started replacing them with electric ones with electric ones to become carbon neutral, reduce general as well as exploring to convert the heavy duty tractors with cost and maintenance cost. Across Dubai and Jebel Ali there are about 30,000 equipment, including motorised and electric units.. SIGNIFICANT GROWTH COMMERCIAL TRANSPORT SECTOR RECORDS A 37% GROWTH DURING Q1 2022 IN DUBAI The Commercial Transport activities sector in Dubai has of 2022 extending from the same period of last year. These reported a significant growth of 37% during the first quarter results reflect the cohesion and strength of the business movement in the commercial transport sector, which plays a vital and prominent role by contributing to facilitating the movement of people and goods, positively affecting the advancement of economic development and the domestic product of the Emirate of Dubai. RTA’s Commercial Transport Activities Department is making sustained efforts to meet the needs of this vital sector by holding joint gatherings with stakeholders to enhance business relationships and step-up coordination with them, receive their feedback, and develop the best solutions to the problems they encounter.. 18

MIDDLE EAST NEWS ROBUST PRODUCT RANGE AL MASAOOD BECOMES OFFICIAL DISTRIBUTOR OF TCM HEAVY & MEDIUM FORKLIFTS IN THE UAE Al Masaood Commercial Vehicles and Equipment (CV&E), forklifts, reach trucks and skid steer loaders. The load capacity part of Al Masaood Group, announced that it is the authorized of small TCM forklifts ranges from 1.5 tonnes to 23 tonnes, distributor for Toyo Carriers Manufacturing (TCM) in the UAE. with the brand’s large-size products able to support heavy tasks such as container handling operations in ports. TCM, a long-established global brand in the material handling industry, offers a high-quality portfolio of forklift products “As its authorized distributor, we at Al Masaood CV&E are designed and engineered to meet client requirements. tying our customer-centric sales and aftersales support to Supplied from production facilities in Japan, China, Thailand, TCM’s robust product range through this partnership, thereby and Europe, TCM’s value-for-money product range includes providing an end-to-end service to our customers. This internal combustion engine forklifts, electric counterbalanced partnership exemplifies our commitment to bringing to the UAE market top quality products to support the operations of relevant local sectors. TCM’s line of forklifts is available at Al Masaood CV&E showrooms in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Northern Emirates (Sharjah),” said Mohamed El Zeftawi, General Manager of Al Masaood CV&E. The TCM forklift range is available at Al Masaood CV&E’s showrooms in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Northern Emirates (Sharjah). Apart from TCM, Al Masaood CV&E is also the sole distributor in Abu Dhabi for UD Trucks, Renault Trucks, and UniCarriers Forklift, and in the UAE for Oshkosh Fire Trucks, along with other well-known brands of heavy equipment and ancillary products.. COOPERATION DISTRIBUTOR VARA IRAQ VISITS TAFE POWER BOMAG IN GERMANY APPOINTS GLOBAL ELECTRIC COMPANY VARA Company, the authorized distributor for Doosan, IN QATAR Bobcat, Bomag and Valtra in Iraq, was recently invited to the Bomag headquarters in Boppard, Germany to review Global Electric Company WLL has been appointed as the the market and strengthen the cooperation between authorized dealer of TAFE POWER range of diesel generators Bomag and VARA. This comes after Bomag officially and engines in Qatar. This partnership will strengthen TAFE announced in April that VARA Company will be the POWER’s presence in Qatar and reinforces their commitment authorized dealer in Iraq. to supply global power solutions and industry-leading Iraq has seen an upsurge in the construction market as products to their customers. new projects and developments have been released this Based in Doha, Global Electric Company, a group company of year to improve the country’s infrastructure.. the OITC Group, is a leading distributor of products for the energy, industrial and retail sectors.. www.PlantAndEquipment.com 19





MIDDLE EAST NEWS PRE-OWNED SOLUTIONS JuffaliTrucks provides used truck solutions in Saudi Arabia by importing and converting European Mercedes-Benz trucks to Saudi specifications. Heiko Schulze, CEO of Juffali Commercial Vehicles. B ased in Jeddah, Juffali Industrial Product Company (JIPCO) has been Mercedes-Benz’s authorized 22 dealer in Saudi Arabia for over seven decades. As a Mercedes-Benz expert, JIPCO has diversified and expanded its business by introducing used trucks solutions - JuffaliTrucks - to their customers. In 2018, JuffaliTrucks was established and since then, the Saudi dealer has imported pre-owned Mercedes-Benz trucks from Europe and converted the trucks to Saudi specifications. Strong ambitions JuffaliTrucks aims to be the leading brand in Saudi Arabia with intentions to sell from all regions in the kingdom. Currently, the Saudi dealer operates from Jeddah and Riyadh with plans to open in Dammam in August 2022.

MIDDLE EAST NEWS includes semitrailer tractor units with a range of different applications, buses, vans, and used truck bodies. The inventory has been converted to Saudi specifications and serviced based to standard Mercedes-Benz intervals. “We guarantee our customers by checking all the pre-owned trucks in 3 stages (in Europe and upon arrival to Saudi Arabia, and before the final delivery to the customer) in addition to the trade- in of the used trucks and providing after-sales services with the highest standards of Daimler and Mercedes-Benz,” says Mohammed Yousef Al Heiko Schulze, CEO of Juffali Commercial Vehicles (R) and Mohammed Al Wardat, Director of JuffaliTrucks. Wardat, Director of JuffaliTrucks (L). JuffaliTrucks has launched their own dealer website - www.JuffaliTrucks.com - allowing “Our vision and mission are to be the brand number 1 for Saudi customers to browse and enquire online the used trucks in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” says Heiko for pre-owned Mercedes-Benz trucks. Schulze, CEO of Juffali Commercial Vehicles. “At JuffaliTrucks “We have accomplished many achievements and successes in a you will find a large selection of used trucks, trailers, and short period since the establishment of JuffaliTrucks in terms semitrailers, but also all brands, models, bodies, and ages. Plus, of sales and customer satisfaction. And our expansion plans to at all our locations in the Central Region (Riyadh), Eastern cover the whole kingdom,” adds Al Wardat. Region (Dammam - August 2022), and the Western Region JuffaliTrucks’ parent group, JIPCO is the authorized general (Jeddah), you will receive the same professional advice and a distributor in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of Daimler Truck comprehensive range of services during your truck purchase.” AG, representing Mercedes-Benz Trucks, FUSO Trucks & Buses, Juffali Commercial Vehicles has a long successful history with MCV Buses, EvoBus and Mercedes-Benz Vans.. Daimler AG dating back to 1974 when a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles and E.A. Juffali & Brothers launched the National Automobile Industry (NAI) in Jeddah to assemble Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles locally in Saudi Arabia. The NAI plant is still growing and progressing to become one of the leading Mercedes-Benz factories outside Germany and has obtained the ISO-9001/2000 international quality certificates. High standards For JuffaliTrucks, the increasing interest in used trucks plays to its strengths. The dealer has a large pre-owned inventory that JuffaliTrucks Riyadh Branch. JuffaliTrucks Dammam Branch (Opening Sep-2022). www.PlantAndEquipment.com 23

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE GETTING THE BAND BACK TOGETHER Plant & Equipment travels to Dobříš in the Czech Republic to attend Doosan Bobcat’s first Demo Days for MEA dealers and customers in almost three years. 24

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE T he global pandemic caused myriad challenges for “Of course, we’ve been able to maintain contact with our companies operating across the entire spectrum of dealers and customers via phone and video calls, but we industry, not least the plant and equipment sector. haven’t been able to catch up with them in person,” he Strict local lockdowns coupled with wide-ranging international continues. “That’s why we’re so excited to bring everybody travel restrictions meant that projects of all sizes had to be put here to Dobříš. All our MEA dealers are in attendance: Saudi on hold and, in many cases, the acquisition of new equipment Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, Yemen, was placed on the backburner. Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Gabon, Angola, Mozambique, Sudan But manufacturers’ bottom lines were not the only thing to and South Africa – we’ve invited more than 80 people in total.” take a hit during this period. The pandemic also put paid to physical meetings, and while the widespread adoption of Aside from the advantages of meeting with contacts face-to- video conferencing software enabled businesses to maintain face, Rhayem explains there are also a number of practical relationships remotely, many missed the ability to meet clients benefits offered by Demo Days. “There’s nothing better than and suppliers in person. giving dealers and customers the opportunity to see the machines and try them out in person,” he says. “Look over Gaby Rhayem, Regional Director – Middle East and Africa at there. You can see someone using a Bobcat tree transplanter Doosan Bobcat EMEA, certainly falls into this category. Before attachment. We could show that person videos, we could the pandemic, his team regularly organised events at the share brochures and supporting information, but it wouldn’t manufacturer’s Dobříš Campus in the Czech Republic, enabling compare to actually trialling the technology first-hand. dealers and customers from across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region to try out the latest Bobcat machines first-hand. “Over there, someone else is cutting the ground with one of our wheel saws,” Rhayem continues. “That guy now knows “These are the first MEA Demo Days that Bobcat has hosted exactly what the unit can do, and he’ll be thinking of the in almost three years,” Rhayem tells Plant & Equipment with a various applications for which it can be used. That’s the beauty smile, shielding his eyes from Dobříš’s midday sun. “The last of Demo Days: they enable attendees to jump straight into time we were able to invite people here was in October 2019, the latest Bobcat machines, start the engines and assess their before the pandemic. The last time we met at all was at our capabilities. There’s nothing better than getting a feel for a MEA Dealer Meeting, which took place in February 2020 at our particular model. Customers benefit by being able to test drive facility in Pontchâteau, France. Since then, we haven’t been the equipment, whereas dealers can return to their regions and able to meet at all. That’s why we’re calling this our ‘reunion’. speak more authoritatively about our offering.” www.PlantAndEquipment.com 25

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE Of course, flying the best part of a hundred people from the arrive at the dealership. Suppliers aren’t able to carry the MEA to the Czech Republic is a costly exercise, even for a same volume of stock as they did before the pandemic, so multibillion-dollar company such as Bobcat. So, does Rhayem the opportunity to gain hands-on experience at Demo Days expect a suitable return on investment? Do Demo Days really represents a distinct advantage.” translate into new orders? “They absolutely do,” he replies. “And we mustn’t forget, it’s In addition to time-honoured favourites, Bobcat’s Demo Days very kind of our dealers and customers to come here. Taking featured a broad range of new and yet-to-be-launched models two or three days out of their busy schedules is not easy. But and technologies for attendees to try. However, as is the case they are keen to attend because they understand the benefits – for the vast majority of equipment manufacturers, many of especially when there are so many new models in our line-up. these innovations have been developed with Western markets In the current climate, machines are often sold before they in mind, and so are unlikely to be rolled out within MEA markets for some time. Nevertheless, Rhayem is adamant Bobcat’s latest line-up of machinery was put through its paces that showcasing cutting-edge advancements to dealers and by expert operators during a ‘dynamic demonstration’. customers in his region is still a worthwhile exercise. “For sure, some countries are ahead of others when it comes to the latest innovations,” he says. “For example, Bobcat has been selling one-tonne electrical excavators in the United States and Europe for almost a year now. We haven’t sold this product in MEA markets, though, because the technology is more expensive than internal combustion units and there’s no regulatory incentive to use electrical models. Our regional customers are free to invest in these products, of course, but they’d need to pay extra and, right now, it doesn’t always make commercial sense to do so. “However, consider some of the latest regional megaprojects,” Rhayem continues. “NEOM in Saudi Arabia, for example, requires all machinery working on site to be electrical. So, 26

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE when the time comes, dealers that can supply electrical mini- that will be rolled out to benefit end users over the months excavators, compact track loaders, skid-steer loaders and so and years to come. In addition to previewing the MT100 Mini on, are going to have the edge over their competitors. Track Loader, Bobcat chose the Dobříš Demo Days to debut concepts such as its brand-new object avoidance technology “This is what we’re discussing with our partners at GTE Saudi and the T7X compact track loader. Arabia, Bobcat’s authorised dealer in the Kingdom,” he adds. “They’re really interested in ordering electrical track loaders Bobcat MT100 Mini Track Loader | Preview for these sorts of projects. It’s just a matter of identifying how Designed to replace the need for wheelbarrows, shovels and many machines are needed, the delivery timelines and how we other hand tools, Bobcat plans to launch this compact track can make this happen. Because, ultimately, if GTE can acquire loader later this year. MEA Demo Days attendees, however, the machines and align on pricing with their customers, they were given the opportunity to undertake some hands-on will order them.” testing ahead of time. Despite being narrow enough to pass through gates, doorways and other tight spaces, the MT100 So, all in all, the advantages offered by in-person gatherings still packs a punch with a rated operating capacity of more appear to far outweigh the costs of hosting them. When asked than 450kg. This piece of kit is specifically designed to boost how it feels to be reunited with the manufacturer’s MEA productivity on both urban and small-scale jobsites. family, Rhayem replies: “Do you remember the headline of your last article (see Issue 252 of Plant & Equipment). It was Bobcat Object Avoidance with Radar Sensors | Concept ‘Go Big or Go Home’. Here, we say ‘Come back to our home’. These state-of-the-art sensors have been developed in We are at the home of Bobcat, after all.” collaboration with the manufacturer’s partners at Ainstein, a US-based radar specialist that received a strategic equity MEA Demo Days: next-gen machinery highlights investment from Bobcat back in 2021. Based on similar technology to that employed by parking sensors already used With a comprehensive line-up of machinery, including skid- on cars and agricultural machinery, this system is able to either steer and tracked loaders, mini-excavators, telehandlers, light passively warn operators of obstacles or actively stop the compaction equipment, and an array of versatile attachments, machines to which it is fitted. Bobcat’s 2022 MEA Demo Days featured a plethora of cutting- edge kit for its dealers and customers to sink their teeth into. Commenting on the technology, Vijay Nerva, Bobcat’s Innovation and Acceleration Head for EMEA, said: “It is no Of particular interest to attendees were the manufacturer’s surprise that operators often hit objects with their machines. product previews, which offered a glimpse into the innovations This happens due to poor visibility, high density of moving objects surrounding the machine, or a simple lack of attention. We have developed a solution that assists operators in performing work without worrying about their surroundings, resulting in higher productivity and more awareness.” Bobcat T7X Compact Track Loader | Concept Billed as the ‘world’s first all-electric compact track loader’, the Bobcat T7X is an eye-catching concept that is being developed in line with the manufacturer’s emissions and noise-reduction goals. Its 62-kWh lithium-ion battery pack can deliver up to four hours of continuous use, thanks in part to a load-sensing power management system that automatically reduces the output to suit the task being performed. Bobcat showcased a broad range of models during the event, including a number of its latest-gen compact track loaders. www.PlantAndEquipment.com 27

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE With a rated operating capacity of 1,374kg and zero CO2 whole new solution further down the line. Our radar sensor emissions, Bobcat plans to use its prototype T7X to gather could be combined with our remote-control tech, which further feedback from customers so that it can better could in turn be used to supplement some of the features understand market opportunities and applications across the we’ve developed for excavators. The result might be semi- EMEA region. autonomous guidance features. With such a diverse range of technologies on display, one could be forgiven for wondering whether Bobcat’s R&D experts “Even so, we do have a direction of travel,” he continues. “We are working towards a specific vision or, instead, operating as have developed a 10-year view of what we call ‘The inevitable spontaneous problem-solvers. Plant & Equipment caught up future’. We’re interested in ascertaining how our customers with Joel Honeyman, Vice President of Global Innovation at will work a decade from now, subject to future advancements Bobcat, to find out more. in technology. This is our guide; we take a lot of input from “We have to take a pragmatic approach to innovation in this roadmap in terms of the solutions we choose to develop.” the sense that we develop individual solutions that might be deployed on specific platforms,” Honeyman explains. Meet the dealmakers “However, by combining these innovations, we can create a Bobcat’s 2022 MEA Demo Days provided an ideal shop Several members of Bobcat’s US-based innovation team were window for its latest models and innovations, but it also on hand to answer questions from MEA dealers and customers. offered a welcome opportunity to speak with those responsible for growing Bobcat’s regional order book. As Chief Executive Officer of Vara Company, Bobcat’s authorised dealer for Iraq, Haidar Maulwed knows more than most about how to leverage the manufacturer’s global reputation for quality. “We have been Bobcat’s official dealer in Iraq for around six years now and, believe me, our business has grown rapidly,” he tells Plant & Equipment. “It’s good because there are a lot of opportunities in Iraq at the moment. The main problem we face is getting hold of enough machines, but we receive strong support from Bobcat’s management team in this regard. “I can say that we are dominating the market in Iraq right now,” Maulwed continues. “In fact, Bobcat and Vara Company enjoy a more than 90-percent market share within the country’s 28

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROFILE compact machinery segment. And I’m talking about all types of Enter Andrew Higgins, Vice President of Doosan Financial smaller machinery, from mini-excavators, backhoe loaders and Solutions Europe Middle East and Africa (EMEA), whose job it telehandlers to skid-steer and compact track loaders.” is to ensure Bobcat’s dealers and customers have the financial backing they need to acquire stock and machinery. Mohamed Shams Elramly, General Manager of General Trading “We’re a small team of five people, and we look after the & Equipment (GTE) Saudi Arabia, is a man with decades of financing requirements of around 180 Bobcat dealers across experience working alongside Bobcat. “I’m GM of the oldest the EMEA region,” he says. “Every one of our dealers carries Bobcat dealer in the world,” he says, explaining that GTE’s stock, so, instead of expecting them to acquire stock and pay us relationship with the manufacturer dates back to 1976. “Bobcat a month or two later, we arrange stock finance facilities. These has a strong reputation in Saudi Arabia and there are numerous enable our network to take delivery of Bobcat machines and applications driving demand. We provide machines that are used postpone payment for a period of up to six months, depending for construction, telecommunications and electricity infrastructure, on when the stock gets sold. Another part of our job is to fund and even cleaning projects right across the Kingdom. that same equipment into the end user market thorough our zero- or low-interest rate programmes. We expect dealers to “Business hasn’t quite returned to pre-pandemic levels just carry stock and we do all we can to help them sell it. yet, but we’re doing okay,” Elramly adds. “As is the case for all manufacturers, our biggest issue relates to a shortage of In total, approximately 80 of Bobcat’s dealers and customers machines. The supply chain represents a challenge across our from across the MEA region attended the 2022 Demo Days. region at present. But, for us, if we had more machines, they would be sold – no problem.” As a long-standing GTE customer, Eng. Ali H Al-Ayuni, General Supervisor of Equipment at Al-Ayuni Investment and Contracting Co, offered his perspective on the advantages that the manufacturer’s models offer to end users. “Bobcat is number one within Saudi’s compact machinery segment,” he says. “In fact, when it comes to smaller machinery, the company is number one in the world. Bobcat’s products are of the highest quality, which is why we like to use them.” Maulwed and Elramly are clearly adept at connecting end users with Bobcat machinery, but adequate financial mechanisms are also necessary in order to keep the wheels of business in motion. www.PlantAndEquipment.com 29

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PCROOVFEIRLESTORY “I’ve been with Bobcat for ten years, five of those in my In terms of newly introduced models and technologies that are current role and our finance revenues have doubled during likely to prove popular in the Kingdom, GTE’s Elramly echoes that period,” Higgins continues. “Last year, we registered $1.6 Rhayem’s point about electric-powered machinery. “We can billion in finance revenues. In 2017, when I took this job, we see there will be demand for electrical track machines in Saudi registered around $750 million. Arabia,” he explains. “This will be an important segment for us, especially when it comes to important developments like “Clearly, demand for Bobcat products has increased NEOM and the Red Sea Project.” significantly during that time and the demand for financing continues to grow, particularly in these times of political All things considered, Bobcat’s MEA Demo Day ‘reunion’ instability and economic uncertainty,” he adds. “Our looks set to pay dividends for the manufacturer – and programmes are being well received right now and we expect not only in terms of its order book. Higgins concludes: to finance even more stock into the dealer network once the “Demo Days are an opportunity for us to offer a hands-on market’s supply chain issues ease.” experience for our entire range of machines. They also offer a great way to thank our partners for their business while Given the perspectives offered by Maulwed and Elramly, connecting with existing and potential Bobcat customers. It’s Higgins’ prediction seems likely to prove accurate. For been a fantastic event and one which we will undoubtedly instance, with a 90-percent-plus share of Iraq’s compact equipment market, one might assume that Vara Company’s repeat next year.”. potential for expansion is limited but, encouragingly for Bobcat, the dealer’s CEO says this is not the case. In his own words: Scott Park, President and CEO, Doosan Bobcat “The market in Iraq has more potential,” Maulwed emphasises. “This year, many of our customers are unsure “We started this dealer meeting as a reunion, and… we whether or not projects are going to be available. However, have added more members to our family. It was very nice it’s a very low-risk and low-cost option for them to deal to meet our new dealers from Sudan, from Lebanon, from with us. As such, it’s a matter of educating end users and Gabon, from Kenya, and a family-member-to-be from contractors through activities such as workshops and Algeria. So, our family is getting bigger and bigger. Just a demonstrations. [Bobcat’s Demo Days are] proof that it’s few short years ago, we were a $2.5 billion to $3 billion better to allow operators to come and test the machinery for company. Last year we were a $5.1 billion company. This themselves, rather than to rely on videos and catalogues. This year, we’re going to be $6.5 billion. We’re growing thanks hands-on approach should enable us to increase the volume to [our dealers and customers] and, together, we’re going of potential sales across our market. to deliver more and more results. And what I mean by results, at the end of the day, is making sure that our “At the same time, given Vara Company’s high market share customers can do more.” in the compact equipment segment, it’s also very important for us to defend our position,” Maulwed adds. “We don’t want to show any weaknesses to our competitors, so there’s no room for complacency.” 30

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - COVER STORY www.PlantAndEquipment.com 31

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - MOTOR GRADERS MAKING THE GRADE Al-Bahar, Powerplus, SDLG, Shantui and Masaha Global talk to James Morgan about renewed demand for the latest motor grader models across the Gulf and beyond. 32

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - MOTOR GRADERS W ith the GCC’s road-related pipeline standing at But are such projects translating into an uptick in orders of motor more than $76 billion as of Q1 2021, according graders? According to Al-Bahar, Caterpillar’s exclusive dealer in to ResearchAndMarkets.com, the development of the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain, there is growing transport infrastructure represents big business across Gulf. demand for these units in terms of both sales and rentals. However, as was the case for many industries, this sector was adversely affected by strict national lockdowns and global “As long as there is development happening in the region, travel restrictions introduced to combat Covid-19. It’s therefore demand for the right machines will continue to exist,” explains unsurprising that demand for motor graders took a hit during Samer Ismail, Product Manager – Earthmoving and Excavation the pandemic. at Al-Bahar. “Growth demands new projects and new projects require the latest machines and reliable support. Fortunately, things appear to be looking up for grader manufacturers and dealers active in the region. Analysis “We are not only selling new machines, but we are also seeing from GlobalData, published in Q1 2022, showed that urban customers come to us for their used and rental requirements,” construction projects are driving growth across the region Ismail continues. “This allows us to give end users exactly thanks to ongoing modernisation efforts within major cities what they need based on the projects and budgets in question. such as Dubai, Riyadh and Cairo. The increase in Al-Bahar’s market share is proof that Cat motor graders are being well received across the GCC.” www.PlantAndEquipment.com 33

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - MOTOR GRADERS Machinery manufacturer Powerplus also seems to be Covid-19 pandemic and its subsequent negative impact, the witnessing a post-pandemic rise in orders for its graders. “We sales performance for motor graders in the last 12 months have seen a slowdown in demand for motor graders during has definitely been lower than in pre-pandemic years,” he the last 12 months due to the Covid-19 situation,” CEO Marcus explains. “Of course, this is a common challenge faced by all Ong tells Plant & Equipment. “However, as the market has manufacturers; not only Shantui. started to open up, there has been a significant increase in inquiries and orders for motor graders, not only in the Middle “As with other construction equipment segments, demand for East region but globally.” motor graders depends on local investment in infrastructure construction,” Du continues. “To a certain degree, economic For Du Dagong, Vice General Manager at Shantui, the situation development in the Middle East has been negatively affected could certainly be rosier in the Middle East. “Due to the by a downward trend in oil prices since 2015. This situation lasted for several years until 2020. During this dark period, regional motor grader demand remained at a low level.” While the pandemic certainly hampered motor grader sales, Bruce Zhang, Middle East Region Sales Manager for SDLG, remains optimistic about the segment’s longer-term prospects. “The Gulf market has recovered well thanks to the high oil price over the past 12 months,” he says. “It is a good period for my colleagues and me in this region. We expect demand to reach even higher levels as Middle East governments begin to restart construction projects that were put on hold during the pandemic.” Eng. Mahmoud Ayoub, Sales Manager at Masaha Global. All in all, it appears that better times lie ahead for motor grader manufacturers and dealers active in the Middle East, but which segments are currently driving demand for these units? 34

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - MOTOR GRADERS Eng. Mahmoud Ayoub, Sales Manager at Masaha Global, according to Ayoub. “It’s been a good year so far, and we SANY’s authorised dealer in Kuwait, points to the usual expect demand to improve further in H2 2022 and during suspects. “Sales performance for motor graders has been very 2023,” he explains. good during the last year,” he tells Plant & Equipment. “Current levels of demand are high, with significant requirements Zhang is equally optimistic about SDLG’s prospects, revealing coming from the road infrastructure and oil and gas sectors.” that he is anticipating a twofold increase in regional motor grader sales during the second half of the year, compared to Al-Bahar’s Ismail agrees, pointing out that – although niche – H1. Shantui’s Du concurs, noting: “As governmental budgets motor graders offer a number of functions that are difficult to accumulate, we predict the next round of infrastructure achieve using alternative equipment. “Several industries make investments are imminent – especially in markets such as use of motor graders, but in the Middle East, they are mostly Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Yemen, Iraq and Syria.” used for a handful of applications,” he explains. “Roadworks, such as street, highway and parking lot construction, wouldn’t exist without motor graders. Operators use these machines to flatten and smooth surfaces before the asphalt can be laid. The units can also be deployed to maintain unpaved roads. “Motor graders are also required for more general construction projects in the Gulf,” Ismail continues. “Again, workers can use these machines to level surfaces before laying the foundations and infrastructure needed for homes, commercial buildings and other structures.” Demand may be increasing in the Middle East at present, Du Dagong, Vice General Manager at Shantui. but what lies ahead for those supplying motor graders to the region? Masaha Global, which is in the process of extending its operations beyond Kuwait (see Issue 251 of Plant & Equipment), is benefitting from an expanding order book, www.PlantAndEquipment.com 35

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - MOTOR GRADERS “Our prediction for the Middle East’s motor grader market during H2 2022 is that Powerplus will witness increased demand as projects postponed during the pandemic start to resume,” Ong says. “Government budgets that were ringfenced for medical supplies will also begin to be reallocated to infrastructure projects as the Covid-19 situation continues to stabilise.” As Al-Bahar’s Ismail concludes: “We are glad to see our market share for motor graders increasing, thanks to high demand in related sectors. Moreover, graders are among our top three highest-selling earthmoving machines across the region. So, our projections for 2022 look perfect and we are hopeful for an even more profitable year ahead.”. Next-level innovation Although the fundamental design and applications of motor grown used to the conventional layout over many years. So, graders have remained largely unchanged over the years, introducing more electronic functionality has its pros and cons; manufacturers the world over are continuously striving to it really depends on user preference.” enhance productivity, efficiency and operator comfort through advanced technology. While all manufacturers must offer a range of options to cater to varying customer requirements, Zhang notes that SDLG is “Caterpillar always starts with the best in efficiency, continuing to invest in new innovations to ensure long-term effectiveness and power, and then makes its models even success. “The G9220F is our most popular model in the Middle better with upgrades that enhance their most popular East, and the G9290 – our largest unit – is ideal for mining features,” explains Al-Bahar’s Ismail. “From the latest activities,” he says, adding that SDLG has improved its motor generation of advanced control joysticks to satellite-linked graders’ rear-axle functionality to enhance their performance telematics, Caterpillar is constantly working to make the while operating on slopes. connection between operator and equipment more intuitive, responsive and flexible.” Shantui’s Du points out that, technology aside, any machinery deployed in the Middle East must be capable of handling even “In addition to road construction, civil engineering and mining the most challenging of operating environments. activities are driving demand for our motor graders,” says Ong. “Our most popular models are the Powerplus PP12G- “The main concern of regional motor grader customers is IX and PP14G-IX, which come equipped with 12-ft and 14-ft quality; the machines must be able to endure high-pressure moldboards, respectively. Users who require more powerful worksites, so durability, stability and efficiency are vital,” machines tend to opt for the PP14G-IX Advance model, as it he notes. “At the same time, aftersales service, spare parts boasts a 220-hp engine and ZF transmission.” availability and ease of maintenance are equally important.” “One innovation worthy of note is pilot joystick controls, which are located at either side of the operator’s seat,” Ong continues. “This technology is designed to replace the 10-lever control format, making operations more user-friendly. However, many still prefer the conventional lever system because, unlike with other heavy equipment, motor graders tend to be driven by specially skilled operators who have 36



MUPiCdOdMlIeNGEast Mega Projects by Plant & Equipment SAUDI ARABIA SAUDI ARABIA / EGYPT Project: Green Riyadh Project Project: Electrical Interconnection Project Value: USD 23,000,000,000 Value: USD 1,800,000,000 Client: Government of Saudi Arabia Client: Saudi Electricity Company (Sec) Website: www.saudi.gov.sa Green Riyadh has officially launched in seven The contracts, which were signed simultaneously between neighbourhoods in the city. The project, which is billed as Riyadh and Cairo, included contracts with three consortiums one of the largest integrated and comprehensive urban of international and local companies to implement the afforestation projects in the world, is being implemented in connection project, which has a capacity of 3,000 megawatts, the Al-Aziziyah, Al-Naseem, Al-Jazeera, Al-Araija, Qurtuba, with a 500kV HVDC technology. Al-Ghadir and Al-Nakhil neighborhoods. They consist of the construction of three high-voltage Green Riyadh includes the plantation of 7.5 million substations, the East Madinah Station, the Tabuk Station in trees across Riyadh’s gardens, parks, mosques, schools, the Kingdom, and the Badr Station in East Cairo, linked by hospitals, and other public facilities, in addition to King overhead transmission lines with a length of about 1,350km Khaled International Airport. Afforestation work will and marine cables in the Gulf of Aqaba with a length of 22km. cover 6,000 schools; 2,000 car park sites; 9,000 mosques; 1,670 government facilities; 390 healthcare facilities; 64 SNC Lavalin has been awarded a four-year project universities; 3,330 neighbourhood gardens; 16,400km management and engineering design review services of streets and roads; and 1,100km of green belts along contract for the 3,000MW interconnection project between electricity and petrol pipelines. Egypt and Saudi Arabia. IRAQ UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Project: Rehabilitate Nasiriyah International Project: Gold Refinery At Sharjah International Airport Airport Free Zone Value: USD 367,000,000 Value: USD 20,000,000 Client: Iraq Civil Aviation Authority Client: Kayzan Group Website: www.icaa.gov.iq The project is expected to be completed within 36 months India-based Kayzan Group, engaged in bullion trade, and have a capacity of about 750,000 passengers annually. wholesale and retail of gold jewellery and multi-branded It will include the construction of 25km of road linking the consumer goods in the UAE, is planning to set up a gold airport to surrounding facilities. refinery in the UAE with an installed capacity of one tonne per day at a cost of $20m. Turkish consultancy Kiklop will provide design and project management services for the Code 4E airport. The project The refinery, which will use scrap gold as feedstock, will be could cost around $367m and is the first project to be located at Sharjah International Airport Free Zone (SAIF) financed under an oil-for-projects agreement with China. with an annual refining capacity of 365 tonnes. 38

MIDDLE EAST NEWS - PROJECTS JORDAN SAUDI ARABIA Project: National Water Carrier Project Project: Nobu Complex In The Eastern Province Value: USD 1,000,000,000 Value: USD 63,500,000 Client: Ministry of Water and Irrigation Client: Rimal Alkhobar Real Estate Company Website: www.mwi.gov.jo The Aqaba-Amman desalination and water transport project Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Development Fund (TDF) announced is a strategic project and a top priority to provide the the signing of a financing agreement with Rimal AlKhobar Kingdom’s population of 11 million with drinking water, Real Estate Company, co-owned by Retal Urban Development the project will provide about 300 million cubic metres of Co and Assayel Arabia, to develop the first Nobu complex in desalinated water annually. The project allows the ministry the Eastern Province. to implement its strategic plans to improve the groundwater reality, including addressing the problems of over-pumping The $63.5m (SR238m) project will feature a 5-star hotel from underground wells, their storage capacity, reducing with over 100 rooms and suites, 62 residential units, a water loss by raising the efficiency of networks, and luxury Nobu restaurant, pools, a health center, gym, and improving water supply. meeting and event venues. With an outstanding seafront location, the project will contribute towards the ongoing The National Carrier Project includes an intake plant to be development of the Kingdom’s tourism sector. The project based on the southern shore of Aqaba, a desalination and presents a significant opportunity that will attract more pumping station in Aqaba, and a 450km pipe line. investors to the Kingdom’s tourism sector, resulting in job creation, improving overall quality of life, and catalyzing further development of tourism destinations. UNITED ARAB EMIRATES BAHRAIN Project: Binghatti Canal Project Project: Al Fateh Highway Upgrade Project Value: USD 136,250,000 Value: USD 107,490,000 Client: Binghatti Developers Client: Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Website: www.binghatti.com Urban Planning The Dubai-based Binghatti Developers has launched a The proposed revamp, one of the largest roadwork projects residential project in Business Bay which is scheduled to be in Bahrain, is set for tentative completion in March 2024. completed in June next year. Al Fateh Highway upgrade (Main Works) comprises of construction of 600m length underpass at Gulf hotel junction, Binghatti Canal consists of 300 units, including 124 one- left turn bridge at Shaikh Daij junction, U-turn bridge between bedroom, and 85 two-bedroom apartments, in addition to 84 Shaikh Daij junction and Manama causeway including 4km studios. The developer’s 50th project which will be unique in length widening and reconstruction of AlFateh Highway. terms of creativity and luxury with views of the Dubai Water Canal. Smart homes will provide the highest standards of The Al Fateh Highway Upgrade Project will increase the security in a modern and luxurious lifestyle with high-tech highway’s capacity from 87,000 vehicles per day to 140,000 solutions that facilitate the customers’ lifestyle, especially vehicles per day once it is completed. with the integration of the virtual assistant system (Alexa) to facilitate daily household tasks. www.PlantAndEquipment.com 39

AFRICA NEWS DELIVERY WESTSTAR ASSOCIATES LIMITED DELIVERS 8 MERCEDES ATEGOS IN NIGERIA Weststar Associates Limited, the authorized distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Nigeria, recently delivered 8 units of the Mercedes-Benz Atego 1725 chassis to Westwood Motors Limited, an automotive company based in Abuja. The Mercedes-Benz Atego distribution truck is a seamless integration between all components, combining high performance, extreme durability, excellent load capacity, low operation cost, and easy maintenance with reliability and robustness to handle the diverse needs in cargo transport with different body options.. DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT METSO OUTOTEC AND PANAFRICAN EQUIPMENT GROUP TO COOPERATE IN AFRICA Metso Outotec and Panafrican Equipment Group have signed a distribution agreement for Metso Outotec’s stationary and mobile crushing and screening equipment for the aggregates and mining contractors customers segments. The agreement covers Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi, where Panafrican Equipment Group has already an extensive and established presence in the construction and mining businesses.. TOP-PERFORMING VOLVO TRUCKS DEALERS EXCEL AMIDST UNCERTAIN TIMES Volvo Trucks South Africa announced its top-performing According to the Naamsa (National Association of Automobile dealers, who excelled at supporting fleet customers during Manufacturers of South Africa), at the end of April 2022, Volvo the uncertain times these past few years as part of a greater Trucks secured a leading 21.3% market share in the extra nationwide network. heavy commercial vehicle segment within the combined South African and Southern African Customs Union markets for the The Mega Dealer of the Year award went to Volvo Truck & Bus Centre Gauteng, while independent dealer, Magnis Trucks year-to-date.. Zululand walked away with top honours in the Medium Dealer of the Year category. Volvo Truck & Bus Beaufort West won the Small Dealer of the Year category. The company has 19 dealers and service sites across the country, and Volvo Trucks is celebrating its 22nd year in South Africa in 2022. It has assembly facilities in Durban and currently has four extra heavy truck ranges available, namely the FH16, FH, FM and FMX. 40

YOUR TOTAL SOLUTION FOR ASPHALT AND CONCRETE At Lintec & Linnhoff, we manufacture and distribute leading- edge solutions for the asphalt and concrete industries globally under the Lintec, Linnhoff and Eurotec brand names. Our products include asphalt mixing plants, concrete batching plants, pavement related technologies and machinery, and specialist concrete cooling solutions.

AFRICA NEWS LARGE ORDER ZIMOCO SUPPLIES 250 FUSO TRUCKS IN ZIMBABWE At an exclusively hosted handover ceremony in Zimbabwe, success of the Baker’s Inn deal, Zimoco Commercial Vehicles FUSO Trucks and its authorised general distributor, will play a significant role in widening the company’s ZIMOCO celebrated their newly-formed partnership with distribution network to the underserved areas of Zimbabwe. Baker’s Inn with a substantial delivery of 50 FUSO FE7-136 The new fleet will allow Baker’s Inn to grow this already brand-new trucks. impressive production from 450,000 loaves to 1 million loaves In line with the company’s vehicle replacement policy, the produced daily in the near future.. first 50 units handed over form part of the massive order of 250 trucks. The remaining units will be delivered in batches in the upcoming years with the aim to ultimately replace the company’s existing non-Daimler Truck fleet. Baker’s Inn is beyond ecstatic to welcome its very first robust FUSO fleet and the new wheels will further boost its flourishing bread business and the increasing demands of customers in the region. Since the official opening of the Regional Centre Southern Africa (RCSA) in 2016, ZIMOCO and its sister dealership, Southern Cross Motors have been the exclusive general distributors of Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) commercial vehicles in Zimbabwe and Zambia. With the PRODUCT EXHIBITION CASE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT SHOWCASES AT NAMPO SOUTH AFRICA At NAMPO 2022 Harvest Day held outside Bothaville, South The 570T and 570ST are the brand’s leading products, Africa, the CASE brand had the opportunity to host an entire featuring the powerful S8000 engine, outstanding stand to showcase its industry leading equipment. This was performance and fast response time. The CASE excavator also the first time that CASE hosted its own stand, following range was represented by a 22-ton CX220C LC heavy duty the acquisition of its South African distributors to strengthen excavator, powered by a highly fuel – efficient engine. its local presence. The 821F front-end loader on display delivers best-in-class horsepower and massive torque, which combined with the strong and fast hydraulics, result in exceptional productivity and performance. The 885B Grader, with its unique mouldboard design, fuel- efficient, turbocharged engine, and rear-mounted cab, delivers high-productivity, high-precision performance, and excellent operator comfort. Two skid steer loaders, the SR150 and SR200, completed the product exhibit, known for their power and productivity and outstanding comfort and visibility in the spacious cab with ample glazed areas.. 42

AFRICA NEWS NEW DESIGNATION LAFARGE EGYPT APPOINTS JIMMY KHAN AS NEW CEO Lafarge Egypt, a member of Holcim, has announced the Khan contributed to the success of the group around the world designation of Jimmy Khan as Lafarge Egypt’s new CEO, over the past 18 years. He has been the CEO of Lafarge Zambia succeeding Solomon Baumgartner Aviles. since 2018. Prior to this, he was named as the CEO for Lafarge Mauritius and Seychelles in 2015. He served as the Business Processes manager in Lafarge Nigeria between 2013 and 2015. Lafarge Egypt, a member of Holcim Group, is a key player in the construction materials industry. With its plant located in Sokhna, the company provides products and solutions that are essential in creating the structures that shape our landscape today. Powered by more than 1500 employees, and through its established business in cement, concrete, Lafarge Egypt is committed to providing sustainable building materials to meet the needs of its customers, whether it be individual home builders, large construction companies, architects or local artisans.. DISTRIBUTION HAULOTTE APPOINTS MATECH AS ITS NEW DISTRIBUTOR IN TUNISIA Haulotte recently appointed Matech as an authorized commercial relations we have maintained together for several distributor in Tunisia. Matech, a company specialized in the years will enable us to reinforce Haulotte’s presence in Tunisia,” sale of premium brand equipment, will be in charge of the said Didier Mertens, General Manager of Haulotte Africa. distribution of all Haulotte aerial work platform ranges and after-sales service in Tunisia. Matech’s technical teams have recently undergone intense training to diagnose machines efficiently and respond quickly “We want to strengthen our distribution in Africa with to malfunctions. The company will soon have its own stock professional and reactive partners such as Matech. Its strong of machines and spare parts to ensure fast deliveries and a local presence, its in-depth knowledge of the market and the high level of service.. STRATEGIC COOPERATION ASHOK LEYLAND EXPANDS ITS PRESENCE IN SOUTHERN AFRICA Ashok Leyland announced a new distribution partnership with ETG group’s logistics, warehousing and distribution vertical, ETG Logistics (ETGL). ETG is a global conglomerate operating across various segments, with a deep focus on uplifting Sub- Saharan Africa. An agreement was signed between the two companies for cooperation of distribution of products in the Southern African region. ETGL will operate dealerships for Ashok Leyland in six key Southern African countries as part of this strategic cooperation.. www.PlantAndEquipment.com 43

AFRICA NEWS UD TRUCKS SOUTHERN AFRICA EXTENDS ITS EURO 5 RANGE Drive for better with the new Euro 5 Quester and Croner trucks, with feature enhancements that boost profitability by doing more with less to overcome critical resource constraints. U D Trucks Southern Africa unveiled a new Euro 5 range are minimized,” says Filip Van den Heede, UD Trucks Southern for the well-established Quester (heavy duty) and Africa, Managing Director. Croner (medium duty) trucks. The event, attended by customers, UD Trucks network partners and Southern African “In South Africa, in particular we see a wider customer base media took place in Muldersdrift, at Ground The Venue. opting for a more sustainable and at the same time more fuel- efficient logistics solution and UD Trucks being the market The upgrade boasts enhanced features that will improve uptime, leader in the Euro 5 market with Quon is now expanding enhance efficiency, and optimize Total Cost of Ownership the offering with Quester and Croner, in line with being a (TCO), all while lowering the vehicle’s environmental impact challenger in the industry,” adds Van den Heede. and retaining benefits from previous models. Ensuring businesses stay competitive The new Euro 5 range has been introduced in other fast- growing and emerging regions around the world that are Air pollution is one of the largest health threats facing the moving to adopt more stringent international emission world today. According to the International Energy Agency standards in a bid to cut pollution and improve air quality. (IEA) global energy review 20212, global energy carbon In most markets, as in South Africa, UD Trucks’ new Euro 5 emissions are projected to rebound in the post-Covid era to range has been introduced ahead of these regulations to better grow by 4.8%. This would represent the largest single increase prepare businesses for the switch to a cleaner fleet. in over a decade. Emissions from transportation alone are at risk of increasing global emission levels by over 1.5%. This latest launch bolsters UD Trucks’ Better Life purpose – to be better for logistics, the planet, people, and business. Moving towards cleaner fleets is imperative. Euro 5 reduces Better Life drives the integration of sustainability across all NOx emissions by about 43% compared to Euro 4 and of the company’s operations and processes to realize lower significantly reduces the carbon footprint of the vehicle environmental impact, higher customer satisfaction, higher through cleaner emissions. profitability, and a better place for people to work and live. As the first truck manufacturer to introduce Selective “In today’s world, sustainability is more important than ever. Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology in 2004, UD Trucks’ Covid-19 is also placing more emphasis on a more sustainable new Euro 5 range features SCR technology to significantly approach to driving a post-pandemic recovery. Modern and boost environmental protection and fuel economy. With these efficient logistics is vital to keep the world moving in these benefits, SCR technology is proven to be more reliable when fast-evolving times, and our latest launch will ensure greater compared to other emission control technologies for reducing resilience for businesses while ensuring environmental impacts NOx emissions. 44

AFRICA NEWS Aside from featuring a Euro 5 system with SCR technology, Croner, ahead of its time the new range of Quester and Croner also features a new instrument cluster with real-time fuel coaching. This A reliable and versatile medium-duty truck, Croner has been enhancement provides drivers with immediate and specific designed to make every moment count. The latest Euro 5 feedback on driving techniques that are more fuel efficient. upgrade and new instrument cluster add to Croner’s other tried-and-tested features: Quester has evolved with the times • Wide and customizable model offering – Croner can be Quester, a heavy-duty truck that combines excellent fuel configured to suit specific applications and optimized for efficiency with durability, has evolved further to meet today’s better productivity. transport and environmental challenges. The latest Euro 5 upgrade and new instrument cluster add to Quester’s other • Fuel efficiency – Aerodynamic cab design reduces the drag standout features: coefficient by 5% compared to previous models. • Smart: Connected and business-ready with innovative UD • Drivability – Allison automatic transmission and superior Telematics – a high-tech wireless communications system – ergonomics provide more comfort for the driver, resulting in allows transportation companies to maximize efficiency with less fatigue and higher productivity. real-time vehicle tracking and geofencing. • More space, comfort, convenience – Croner’s cabin has • Sustainable: Increased fuel efficiency with numerous been designed to put driver comfort first. It also comes with features including ESCOT automated manual transmission. numerous active and passive safety features to protect the Combined with lighter tare weight and optimized driveline, driver, cargo, and surrounding traffic. fuel economy can improve by up to 10% compared to the previous Quester model. “For 86 years, we have grown UD Trucks to be a truck brand of choice for our customers and this year in we celebrate 60 years • Safe: Quester with ESCOT takes away the drivers’ need to of operating in South Africa,” says Filip Van den Heede. “We shift an average of 1,000-1,500 times a day by automatically are committed to continuing our endless pursuit of bettering selecting the right gear at any given time. This leads to less lives in the spirit of our “Gemba” philosophy, leveraging stress and improves safety by allowing the driver to focus smart and sustainable logistics solutions to provide ultimate more on the road. dependability for our customers, business partners, colleagues and society at large.”. www.PlantAndEquipment.com 45

AFRICA NEWS - ATTACHMENTS ADDING VALUE THROUGH VERSATILITY TABE Hammers, Galen and MB Crusher tell James Morgan how they are capitalising on the vast untapped potential within Africa’s equipment attachments market. 46

AFRICA NEWS - ATTACHMENTS From road construction to mining, and pretty much every segment in between, attachments represent an attractive option for operators and contractors looking to achieve the best possible value from their existing fleet of machinery. It’s therefore no wonder that so many manufacturers are keen to grab a slice of this multibillion-dollar industry – especially in African markets. Researchers at Fact.MR anticipate the global market for equipment attachments will achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.4 percent from 2020 to 2030, reaching a combined value in excess of $6.7 billion by the end of this period. The upwards trajectory of development across Africa is likely to be even steeper, with the continent’s construction market predicted to register a 7.5 percent CAGR during the period 2022 to 2027, according to Mordor Intelligence. Amaia Romero Rubio, Export Area Manager at TABE Hammers, is certainly aware of potential offered by African markets. “We have been collaborating with distributors in countries such as Namibia and Algeria for many years,” she tells Plant & Equipment. “More recently, we have started to supply hammers to additional markets, including Madagascar, Angola, Mauritania, Cape Verde and Morocco.” Founded in 1968, Spain-headquartered TABE Hammers has more than half a century of experience in the construction, demolition, recycling, mining, forestry and agriculture sectors. Although probably best known for its hydraulic breakers, the manufacturer produces an array of machinery accessories ranging from crusher and screening buckets to materials handling and demolition grapples. It’s therefore no surprise that the firm is keen to continue growing its presence in Africa. “South Africa undoubtedly has enormous potential for this type of machinery,” says Rubio, adding that her team is now working to establish a footprint in markets such as Nigeria and Egypt, where the company has had no presence previously. As a relative newcomer to Africa’s construction sector, Turkey-based Galen is best known for the manufacture of bucket attachments. Orkun Batuhan Yildiz, the company’s Sales and Marketing Manager, appears buoyed by his team’s early performance on the continent so far. www.PlantAndEquipment.com 47

AFRICA NEWS - ATTACHMENTS “Galen has begun to gain popularity in countries such as “Since the very beginning, MB Crusher has been providing Kenya, Ghana and Nigeria,” he explains. “Generally, companies solutions for construction and mining sites all over Africa,” that want to obtain high-quality attachments at affordable a spokesperson from the manufacturer’s Press Department prices – such as mining operators – prefer our products. We explains. “We like to calculate turnover differently – not only made our first export to the region earlier this year.” in terms of money. We measure turnover in terms of how Italy-headquartered MB Crusher, meanwhile, which has been quickly we conduct our operations, how fast we can deliver manufacturing crusher buckets and equipment accessories to our clients, and how rapidly we can get them to work for more than two decades, is active across a broad range of and earning money. The yield of those who are creating new markets. The family-owned business boasts seven international infrastructure in developing areas, those who are rebuilding subsidiaries, logistics centres across multiple continents, and a after natural disasters, those who are pushing harder to recycle comprehensive network of authorised dealers to deliver service more and more – this is what enables us to thrive and marks support around the world. us out as a successful and growing business.” Amaia Romero Rubio, Export Area Manager at Covid-19 severely hampered the activities of attachment TABE Hammers. manufacturers operating in African markets, and the supply chain issues that continue to plague the continent’s post-pandemic recovery certainly haven’t helped matters. Even so, most within the industry understand that the region holds immense potential for companies that can weather the current storm. “Since the beginning of the pandemic, it has not been the best time for sales in this area,” says TABE Hammers’ Rubio. “Maritime transport has been a major problem, but this is something that is improving, and we have a good feeling about the coming months. “We live in uncertain times but the African continent has many possibilities,” she continues. “We have witnessed an increase in demand for our attachments during recent months, and we foresee a positive second half to the year. We are sure that good times are coming.” 48

AFRICA NEWS - ATTACHMENTS Of course, when it comes to equipment attachments, versatility more. Even though we are an established manufacturer, we is the name of the game. After all, these products enable are also able to design or tailor our accessories for specific operators and fleet managers to turn almost any machine into types of work.” a Swiss Army knife. Yildiz says Galen is witnessing increased demand from mining, construction and infrastructure operations in Africa. “Our “Our units can be attached to all kinds of heavy equipment,” heavy-duty rock buckets and shovel buckets are popular among MB Crusher explains. “This means crushing operations can be mining companies, whereas our shaft screener buckets and carried out directly at the construction site, helping contractors trapezoidal buckets are ideal for infrastructure projects,” he to become independent from third-party suppliers and thus explains. “We are seeing requirements for vehicle armouring avoid delays and inflated costs beyond their control. MB from the defence industry, and the forestry sector is also placing Crusher products provide on-site independence. Users can orders for log debarkers, woodchippers and grapples. perform crushing and screening operations in the remotest parts of Africa without having to undertake expensive and Orkun Batuhan Yildiz, Sales and Marketing Manager at time-consuming transportation activities. This enhances both Galen Group. consistency and efficiency.” So, which are the most popular equipment attachments in African markets. Naturally, the answer depends on the country and applications in question, but TABE Hammers’ Rubio tells Plant & Equipment that certain accessories are in perennial demand across the continent. “In general, the greatest demand we see in Africa is for heavy breakers, the vast majority of which are compatible with machines weighing at least 30 tonnes,” she explains. “Our most common models in Africa are the MT 20, MT 30 and MT 40. In addition, the MT 80 is an extra-large model specifically designed for the heaviest excavators operating in African markets – 60 to 100 tonnes. We also offer solutions for a range of other jobs through attachments such as crusher buckets, screeners, pulverisers, grapples, pedestal boom systems and www.PlantAndEquipment.com 49

AFRICA NEWS - ATTACHMENTS “Heavy-duty buckets, loader grapples and ground-engaging working, either because it’s in need of maintenance or tools such as teeth adapters are Galen’s most popular repairs or due to a lack of materials, the company is losing attachments across African markets at present,” he adds. money. Our attachments are designed to help avoid these MB Crusher notes that it’s difficult to identify which of its situations. Our models feature centralised greasing points to products are most sought-after with any degree of accuracy, facilitate on-site maintenance, they are sturdily built to ensure due to the need to find the most appropriate solution based performance in every working condition, and they offer a wide on their clients’ existing equipment. “We have attachments range of applications.” suitable for any carrier. It’s virtually impossible to pinpoint the most wanted products because we supply attachments in line With levels of demand for equipment attachments picking with the types of equipment already present in our customers’ up across Africa, it’s no wonder that manufacturers appear fleets, matching them with units that are best equipped to optimistic about their short-term prospects. But do they expect simplify the jobs ahead. this situation to continue during the longer term, and how do “Popularity is, however, increasing across the board as MB they intend to capitalise on this trend over the coming months Crusher units satisfy a very important need for company and years? owners: to avoid downtime. Every time a machine is not “In October, TABE Hammers will exhibit at bauma 2022 in In addition to its well-known buckets, Galen is seeing growing Munich,” says Rubio. “We plan to introduce an update to demand for attachments such as grapples and debarkers. our iconic MT 375 model, which is compatible with five- to eight-tonne backhoe loaders and therefore common across all markets. The purpose of this update is to increase the power of the hammer while reducing consumption, thus achieving a more efficient product. We encourage all Plant & Equipment readers to come to our stand and see our hammers in situ.” For Yildiz and his colleagues at Galen, it’s going to be a matter of catering to increased demand in a measured manner. “This year has been very busy for us,” he says. “We think that our share in the African market will continue to increase rapidly, especially from 2023 onwards. Our only wish is to grow slowly and in a controlled manner because we are committed to establishing long-term relationships with customers across African markets.” For MB Crusher, the long-term strategy is simple. “We’ll try to be on every job site,” the company concludes.. 50