Haulotte changes strategy in the US

Haulotte Australia managing director Bernie Kiekebosch has assumed responsibility for the North American market and a new general manager, ex-JLG salesman Chris Coch, has been appointed. Haulotte will also open two new facilities - possibly in Chicago and Atlanta - to add to its existing bases on the east and west coasts.

Mr Kiekebosch said the key to the new strategy was to upgrade Haulotte's service back-up in the region, with as many as 30 to 40 factory-trained, independent service agents to be appointed over the next six months. He said serious discussions with the larger US rental players would wait until the service network was in place.

Alexandre Saubot, Haulotte's managing director, said the aim was to win a 10% share of the North American access market within two years.

The company meanwhile reported a 44% increase in sales for 2005 to €385.1 million (US$460 million), and Mr Saubot said he anticipated a further 15% to 20% increase this year.