REPAIR AND REFURBISHMENT Ӏ SECTOR SPOTLIGHT
INSURANCE BUSINESS
Based in Peterborough, Crowland is an authorised service partner for Dutch mobile crane manufacturer, Spierings. It is also the UK insurance industry’s only approved repair centre. “Over the years we have always
stayed loyal to the insurance industry, and they have responded in kind,” says Pete. “Because of our focus on developing long- term relationships, today about 80 percent of the UK’s insurance business comes through our doors.
You can’t ever precisely plan your workload in this business, but the accident repairs from the insurance side ensures we have a steady flow of work.”
In addition, the company is
carrying out a major refurbishment contract for the Ministry of Defence, overhauling the army’s crane fleet as part of its service life extension programme (SLEP). It is also a supplier to major
contractors on the HS2 project, fabricating equipment such as lifting beams and outrigger pads.
However, reputations can
be lost much quicker than they are won. “The challenge as an independent is that the last job always has to be your best job,” says Pete. “And we are unique in that we sit in between the insurer and the crane owner. Both are our customers so that can be a delicate negotiation at times. You have to be sensitive to the needs of the crane owner while also meeting the insurance company’s requirements. We’re often walking a fine line.”
Before and
after: a recent paintwork update from Crowland Cranes Image courtesy of @ Andy Cahill (sales manager, Crowland Cranes)
MAXIMISED UPTIME OEMs are also investing heavily in service and repair. “Cranes are highly complex machines,” says Vincent Stenger, manager customer support development at Tadano Europe. “While owners can handle some basic service tasks, the majority of repairs - especially those involving structural components, hydraulic systems, or electronic controls - require specialised expertise. “Many customers who
traditionally maintained their own workshops now face difficulties
56 CRANES TODAY
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