Kato back in Europe

Japanese mobile crane manufacturer Kato returns to Europe for a second time.

Rivertek Services in Ireland will initially offer the 20 tonne capacity CR-200Ri city class wheeled mobile telescopic crane. Its September 2015 launch will be followed by introduction of the larger, 35 tonne capacity, CR-350Ri and the smaller, 13 tonne, CR-130Ri later in the year.

Features of all models in the CR range include hydraulic fly jibs and outrigger extension sensors. The 35 tonner has the “Magic Reach” concept which is an hydraulically telescoping and hydraulically luffing fly jib. Short tail swing radius and compact dimensions are other features, Rivertek said.

Rivertek is part of the JCD Group which posted revenue of € 42.5 million for 2014. It said that it is the largest crane dealer in Ireland. More than 70% of sales are to UK customers so a Kato crane centre opens in the UK in 2016, Rivertek said.

Colin Cleary, Rivertek managing director, said, “We are very excited to embark on this enterprise with Kato after extensive time and work in the engineering, design and specification process. This represents a fantastic opportunity to bring the proven reliability of the Kato crane back to the European market and offer fantastic value for all our customers.”

Hiroshi Ide, Kato Works executive officer and general manager, added, “To work with an established partner like Rivertek is important for Kato to progress to the next stage of our CR range of cranes in Europe. We have worked closely together and look forward to a new era of progress in Europe.

Kato left the European market more than ten years ago when new engine exhaust emission legislation was implemented that ruled out sales of existing models. In 2007 a joint venture company called Euro Rigo was set up in Italy by Kato and Italian crane manufacturer Autogru Rigo with a view to reintroducing and manufacturing Kato cranes in Europe but that was later dissolved.