March 2009 International Cranes and Specialized Transport magazine editor's comment

Among all the bad news in the lifting and transport industry and in the wider world economy as a whole, some positive developments would be welcome like a breath of fresh air. In response, let's start off with news in this month's issue of one company that should do well out of the current world economic situation. Online used equipment auctioneer Iron Planet has just expanded outside the US and opened up in Europe. It should do well from the likely strong growth in online sales of used construction equipment. See the interview on page 54 and the story on used equipment in general starting on page 49.

Signs that people are fighting back against the falling economy are a very welcome but all too infrequent sight. In a bid to push this in the right direction, this issue of IC carries stories on at least four major events coming up in the next couple of months. Here's hoping they help stimulate positive change.

First is our Intermat show guide on page 15, second is the Hannover Fair preview on page 57, another is for the SC&RA Annual Conference on page 63, then there is the ESTA awards evening previewed on page 67. All are great opportunities for people to meet peers in the same situation and exchange ideas. Extensive networking opportunities at these events will help generate new business. Register now.

Last this month - but most important - is safety. In the current economic climate all areas of expenditure in a business are, rightly, examined for possible cost saving opportunities. Skimping on health and safety, however, is likely to have dire consequences. One accident could mean the end for a company. Work to improve safety needs to continue wherever cranes are at work, whatever the economic situation. Recent initiatives are rounded up in this month's safe view on page60. Save money, of course, but keep health and safety the top priority.