BLACKWOOD Plant Hire has invested in 51 new JCB machines so far this year, extending a partnership with Scot JCB that has lasted over two decades.
The latest additions include 17 mini and midi-excavators, 14 tracked excavators (including two of the latest 370X models), four wheeled excavators, five site dumpers, four tandem rollers, three telehandlers, and a backhoe loader.
Discussing Blackwood’s relationship with Scot JCB, MD Paul McCormack explained, “It comes down to reliability, ease of getting parts, operator comfort, and support. The machines are simple to operate, comfortable, and our drivers love the X Series cab design.”
The Blackwood fleet is spread across the country, including a major expansion in the north of Scotland. Paul estimates that around 75% of the new machines have gone into operation in the north.
Scot JCB sales engineer George McKnight has worked closely with Blackwood Plant Hire for over 15 years and is regarded as a key part of the relationship.
“George is brilliant,” Paul added. “He treats every machine sale with the same care and attention, whether it’s one digger or 20. He always makes sure we’re looked after.”
The availability of parts and ‘first-time fix rate’ are standout points for Blackwood. The business also finances most of its JCB machinery through JCB Finance. In total, almost 400 JCB machines have been purchased over the years.
“We’re old-school,” Paul continued. “If someone asked me about buying from Scot JCB, I’d tell them one thing: phone George!”
