Hek & Partner forms Russian used equipment company

On behalf of his new company Hek & Partner, former Alimak Hek executive Ernst van Hek is working with Maria Kornilova on a new company, Ventalus, to supply "high-quality" used powered access equipment and telehandlers to Russia.

Based in Moscow, Ventalus will be managed by Mrs Kornilova who was previously commercial manager of Haulotte Vostok, the Russian subsidiary of the Haulotte Group. Although the focus will be on used equipment, Ventalus is also planning to start distributing new products at the beginning of the first quarter of 2012.

Mr van Hek said, "Our company has a lot of experience and know-how of powered access equipment and the local market, as both of us and our sales team have worked for a long time in this business area. We will only sell good quality used powered access equipment from renowned brands, which comply with local regulations and certifications. All machines have been thoroughly inspected before delivery.

"Our strategy is to become a reliable partner for customers who want to be confident when buying high-quality used equipment for a reasonable price."

Mrs Kornilova said the new company would meet the needs from a growing Russian market for powered access and telehandlers; "The Russian market is still quite small compared to other markets, however, the potential for growth is there. The market is recognising the tremendous time and money saving potential from using powered access equipment."

Ventalus said it will import equipment from well known manufacturers with a strong after sales support. The product focus will be on scissor lifts, straight and articulated boom lifts, tracked lifts and telehandlers. Sales will be to both Russian rental companies and end users.

"From experience I know that local after sales service is extremely important for Russian customers, that is why Ventalus has set up a network of well established and trained service partners in the geographical areas where Ventalus is selling," said Mrs Kornilova.