IPS buys into outrigger pads market

UK parts supplier, Independent Parts Specialists (IPS) has acquired outrigger pads specialist PLC Sales as part of its plans to diversify its business.

PLC Sales, which will now trade under the name of Outriggerpads, has become one of the UK’s leading suppliers of high performance UHMW polyethylene outrigger pads and mats. The company is also the exclusive UK distributor for the German-manufactured Iso-Tech range of outrigger pads.

Bill Green, founder of PLC Sales, said: “IPS has a great reputation for service on replacement parts for access platforms, so I know the team will be able to provide even better support to my existing customer base. Just as importantly, the additional resources will enable the company to expand and open up new markets for our products.”

Kevin Shadbolt, operations director of IAPS Group, which owns IPS, said: “The acquisition of PLC Sales’ outrigger pad business brings our customers an additional range that really complements our existing products and services.

“Crucially, it also exposes IPS to new markets including cranes, construction equipment, exhibition trailers, the emergency services, forestry management and many others.”

Outrigger pads – also known as spreader plates - spread the pressure of a machine’s stabilisers or outriggers on any terrain where load-bearing capacity is an issue.

The company will now operate from the IPS headquarters at Telford, Shropshire.