Manitou withdraws from Intermat

Manitou is the latest company to announce its non-attendance at the Intermat exhibition, joining a number of the larger access companies that are missing from the exhibitor list.

In light of the downturn in the construction market Manitou said it had put in place a number of action plans designed to prepare for a difficult 2009. It has decided to withdraw from the Intermat Exhibition and reassign its communication budget. More focus will be placed on meeting clients and prospective customers at Manitou's production sites or at private receptions.

Marcel Claude Braud, president and chief executive officer, said, "This decision comes at a time when the financial climate and market situation are quite exceptional and we are constantly having to adapt to them both, as much in terms of our structures as our sales activities. It is in showing responsibility that we will succeed in ensuring the longevity of our Group, while remaining loyal to our clients."

Other notable access companies absent from the show are Genie, Alimak Hek, and Aichi Corp, Geda, Niftylift, Tadano, China's GJJ and Bronto Skylift.