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A Chesterfield-based access equipment specialist is reaching new heights after changing its name and entrusting the collection and delivery of its machines to a new, six-wheeled Mercedes-Benz Actros.
The new 26-tonner was supplied by Derby dealer Mertrux and is the first vehicle to wear the new colours of the Spiderlift Company. An Actros 2536, it has a top-of-the-range MegaSpace cab in smart silver, and a beaver tail body with winch, by hydraulic engineers CCT, of Holmewood, Chesterfield.
In March the former Ranger Equipment underwent a major rebranding exercise, which included the adoption of a new name that better reflects the nature of its business.
The Spiderlift Company is the sole UK distributor for the best-selling Teupen range of tracked access platforms. These German-built machines can cost as much as £225,000, for the biggest, 50-metre unit. They tip the scales at up to 12.5 tonnes but, because they are on tracks, the weight is evenly distributed so damage to ground surfaces is minimised.
Spiderlift recently added wheeled platforms by Finnish company Dino to its portfolio. It also builds telescopic booms directly onto vehicles – the 3.5-tonne Mercedes Sprinter is a popular base chassis – and runs its own hire fleet.
Access platforms sold or rented by Spiderlift are a popular choice with those working in the construction, building maintenance and tree surgery sectors. The company has previously towed its smaller machines to customer locations nationwide, but relied on third-party hauliers to transport its larger platforms.
It is now reaping the rewards from its decision to bring the entire distribution operation in-house. “In hindsight,” admits Commercial Director Andy Bray, “it’s something we should have done a while ago.
“In terms of logistical and operational efficiency, having our own truck is a great improvement. It means we’re more streamlined and flexible, and can undertake multi-drop collections and deliveries when we want to.
“It’s also a lot safer, not least because CCT’s body has been purpose-designed for the job, with a loading angle that means our machines don’t rub on the ground.”
Mr Bray continues: “We chose the Actros because we wanted a premium product. We’re very pleased with the truck. It’s practical and functional, and represents excellent value for money. And because they’re both German manufacturers of top-quality machinery, the Mercedes-Benz and Teupen brand images are a great ‘fit’.
“What’s more,” he adds, “we already enjoy a good relationship with Mertrux, who have been supplying us with Sprinters for some time now.”
So successful is its new six-wheeler already proving that Spiderlift is now considering returning to the same dealer for a second chassis. This new vehicle would have the same style of body as the Actros, but on a smaller scale, and be based either on a 7.5-tonne Mitsubishi Fuso Canter, or a slightly larger Mercedes Atego chassis.
“Our rebranding has been well received and business is very good right now,” concludes Mr Bray. “We are in a period of strong growth and as well as increasing our retail sales, are also expanding the size of our rental fleet from 14 to 24 units.” |
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