EAST Kilbride-based LCF Engineering is set to launch a recruitment drive after being appointed by Finning as one of three new regional dealers in Scotland for Cat compact equipment.
Finning UK & Ireland recently announced that LCF, along with Mark Garrick and R C Dalgliesh, will join existing compact dealer DM Forklifts as authorised sales and service centres (ASSC) to make it easier for customers in Scotland to buy Caterpillar equipment.
John Young, operations and sales manager at LCF Engineering, told Project Plant the move will create job opportunities within the business, with staff set to be recruited for various roles to support the firm’s expansion plans.
LCF was founded in 2017 by mechanic Fraser Ross, the firm’s MD. The company is hugely experienced in the sale and service of light construction equipment. The appointment to sell the CAT BCP range follows LCF recently being appointed as a dealer for the Dynapac compact range. The business is also the Scottish dealer for CNF tracked dumpers.
John described the link-up with Finning as a ‘step change’ for the company. “We thought it was a perfect fit for us,” he revealed. “We pride ourselves on brands, and you don’t get a bigger brand than Caterpillar. They are the biggest construction equipment manufacturer in the world bar none.”
John explained that LCF has ‘indirectly’ gained experience of Cat compact equipment, as Wacker Neuson used to have an agreement to produce smaller equipment for Cat before production of the smaller excavators was brought back in-house.
LCF will be covering the whole of central Scotland and hopes to benefit from having an existing customer base already well versed in purchasing compact kit.
John believes after sales service will be key in helping to increase demand for the Cat machines. “You can sell something but it’s how you back it up (that matters),” he added. “Inevitably you’re going to get problems; it’s how you deal with those problems. After sales service is probably the number one thing.”
Despite widespread talk of recession, John said the market for construction equipment has ‘flatlined’ more than anything and he’s confident sales will rise again once springtime kicks in.
As well as new machinery, LCF also sells used plant and refurbishes light equipment. The business has also established LCF Training Academy, offering training in aspects such as light equipment operation, hire desk, workshop, and apprenticeships. LCF also offers high voltage training on electric/hybrid vehicles for both construction and automotive.
MD Fraser Ross said, “We look forward to forging strong relationships with our new suppliers and I believe that LCF with our drive, ambition and commitment to Dynapac and Cat, will establish ourselves as a leading dealer in the UK. I would also like to thank all our new and existing customers for trusting in LCF and the support of our hard working and dedicated team.”
LCF is envisaging close collaboration and a ‘good working relationship’ with the other regional dealers.
Finning revealed each of the dealers – all family-owned businesses – are strategically located to service companies across the country.
Mark Garrick, based just outside of Elgin, will cover northern Scotland. Operating from a seven-acre site, the business plans to continue investment in its fleet and expand current premises to support the additional sales generated by Cat compact equipment.
R C Dalgliesh, based in Lockerbie, takes responsibility for the south of Scotland. The firm’s six-acre site has a large workshop and storage area, along with a front of house wholesale goods store. The company plans to expand its facilities to include a dedicated demonstration area and showroom.
Stonehaven-based DM Forklifts will focus on the east of Scotland, covering both Aberdeen and Dundee. Cat equipment has formed part of its fleet for more than a decade.
Mark Hogg, director of construction industries at Finning UK & Ireland, said, “We are delighted to welcome four established companies to the ASSC network, widening our reach to cover the whole of Scotland.
“The continued expansion of the regional network is indicative of the increase in demand for smaller Cat machines across the construction, landscaping and agricultural sectors.”
