ReachMaster, Inc. parts with Falcon Lifts

Following the news of Falcon Lifts appointing USM ReRents as its exclusive distributor in North America, ReachMaster, Inc. issued a statement saying the two companies did not reach an agreement for a new contract. Falcon had previously been represented for over 20 years in the U.S. by Texas-based ReachMaster.

“We regret it was not possible to reach an agreement for a new contract with Falcon Lifts A/S that would have allowed ReachMaster to continue 20 years’ successful representation in North America where we took the company from zero market presence to a market leading position,” Christensen said. “While the split might be a surprise to the market, it is the result of several factors. It started late 2018 where we saw an influx to the market of both many new manufacturers in the compact segment and a significant increase in track-based compact lifts that competed with the Falcon. The Falcon product is both state-of-the-art in design and performance, and as such a top shelf product from a purchase, operation and maintenance point of view. We openly discussed the market developments with the manufacturer, but sadly the parties were not able to agree on a future strategy, or realistic expectations relative to the changing market conditions.”

ReachMaster, Inc. will continue to provide technical support and service to their current ReachMaster Falcon customer base as usual, including annual safety inspections and parts and repairs, the company said.

Christensen explained the decision was not based upon ReachMaster’s recent sale to Ruthmann. “Falcon Lifts A/S indeed served proper notice on January 2, fully in compliance with our contract. It actually proved to be good timing as it allowed for full transparency for all parties,” he said. “Of course you just don’t part ways after so many years without evaluating all of the options, including new opportunities associated with the new constellation of RUTHMANN ReachMaster. However, Falcon Lifts A/S demanded new contractual conditions that we deemed unusual for an exclusivity agreement and notably not included in our current or past agreements. After 20 years’ representation we failed to see the need for these demands, at which point it became clear that it was better to part ways in an amicable manner and let someone else sign that check.”

Reflecting back on two decades’ work for the product, Christensen added, “We are very privileged to have had a great run for 20 years. I am very proud of what our ReachMaster team has achieved, not only bringing the concept and product successfully to the market, but more importantly keeping the momentum going for this Danish manufacturer.

“Starting with the pioneering days of Falck Schmidt, five ownership changes, eight executive management changes and five different company names later, the ReachMaster team still managed to keep the ReachMaster Falcon a highly respected product in North America. And most importantly had great fun doing so, thanks to a very loyal customer base, to whom we extend a big thank you. Just to be clear, Falcon Lifts A/S has lived up to all its contractual obligations, so we of course respect and support their management’s decision to try a new direction in North America.”

“The aerial lift business has always been a dynamic industry, and change creates new energy,” Christensen said. “We are excited to continue our activities undeterred and we thank Falcon Lifts A/S for a great partnership for 20 years, and wish them and their new partners well.”