Last June saw Pavemac further strengthening its offering when it signed a deal with Sumitomo Pavers of Japan to become the sole distributor of its HA60W, HA60C and HA90C asphalt pavers in the UK and Ireland.
The Sumitomo Paver HA60W/C has a variable triple screed system that extends automatically from 2.3 metres up to 6.0 metres width, removing the need for bolt-on extension boxes. One of Pavemac’s first customers to benefit from this flexibility was Drivepoint Construction, which used the paver on the Bexhill-on-Sea to Hastings link road.
“The Sumitomo relationship came on the back of some research, internet-based originally, followed by a couple of state visits and some meetings with Sumitomo,” explains Alistair Bridgement, Commercial Director. “It was clear that the market was demanding something different and Sumitomo had the solution. Since the introduction of the pavers they’ve gone from strength-to-strength and it’s been a very positive experience.”
To maximise the increased offering that Pavemac can provide, the company has been carrying out various marketing exercises and active demonstrations. “Some have been sold without demonstrations because customers know and trust us,” adds Mr Bridgement. “The Drivepoint Construction deal did come about following a demonstration but they were so pleased with how the machine performed they purchased it straightaway.
“To ensure that our staff knew the system inside-out, full product training was provided by Sumitomo Pavers. They want everybody to be the best and fully trained in what the equipment can do.”
Although the Sumitomo Pavers is a new venture, Pavemac has been a dealer of Antec and Ammann Pavers since 2006 when it was created by John Finn and Keith Dearing to bring their product knowledge and experience to the paver industry. Pavemac now sells new equipment across the UK and Ireland, whilst also refurbishing and repairing equipment for the global market. Over 20 staff support the company’s activities operating out of a single site in Wimblington in Cambridgeshire.
“To ensure that our staff knew the system inside-out, full product training was provided by Sumitomo Pavers. They want everybody to be the best and fully trained in what the equipment can do.”
Alistair Bridgement, Commercial Director
Due to the breadth of its product range, Pavemac is able to cater for the needs of small, medium to large-sized contractors. The aim now is to capitalise on its strengths and increasingly move into the national arena. “The Sumitomo Pavers development has really helped us to move to the next level. We’ve got a great deal of experience and expertise to draw upon thanks to the high levels of focus and determination we have as a business. We’re always looking at potential opportunities to further strengthen our place within the marketplace.”
Building on this forward-thinking approach, Pavemac is now looking to use 2016 as an opportunity to really underline the progress it has been making. “For the next 12 months our main aim is to develop our customer base in order to grow the business,” concludes says Mr Bridgement. “We keep looking at new challenges and are currently exploring another project. Although it’s not carved in stone yet it would be a very exciting development to be involved in.”