JCB is celebrating a major milestone this month – the 40th anniversary of its famous Loadall telescopic handler.
It was first manufactured in 1977; the intention was to revolutionise lifting and loading tasks – initially on building sites. The Loadall’s potential to speed up farm work also soon become apparent.
With its ability to reach forwards and upwards – beyond what a tractor-mounted loader or traditional forklift could do – it understandably appealed to all sorts of end-users.
So much so, claims JCB, that it helped to spark a materials handling revolution.
Just last year (2016), the 200,000th Loadall rolled off the production line – coinciding with the advent of the ‘Agri Pro’ line-up.
In all, JCB produces around 50 individual models and distinct variants – for use in agriculture and horticulture alone; there are further offerings for construction and industrial applications.
They range from the pint-sized Loadall 516-40, with a 1.6t lift capacity and a 4.05m lift height, up to the 145hp Loadall 560-80; it’s able to lift 6t. The 535-95 boasts a lift height of 9.5m.
Dealer developments
In other recent JCB news, the company announced plans to “strengthen its distribution” in Northern Ireland with the appointment of new dealers for construction and agricultural equipment.
With effect from October 9, 2017, Ballymena-based R Kennedy & Co will become JCB’s agricultural dealer covering sales and service. According to JCB, the move will offer “more than half a century’s agricultural sales and service experience” to new and existing JCB customers.
Also Read: New JCB dealers for Northern IrelandA new dealer for construction, industrial and access equipment and generators will be announced later this month. The changes follow the termination of JCB’s contract with existing Northern Ireland dealer BC Plant.
UK and Ireland Sales Director Dan Thompstone said: “The new structure will give JCB greater focus in all the key sectors in Northern Ireland, which is a very important market for us.”