Huang said, “We have a two year licence with Jost. We purchased the whole set of topless tower crane technology. This is arranged as a two year technology transfer, although there may be the option to extend the period.”
Zoomlion has had sales success for certain export markets so far, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, India and Vietnam. However the acquisition of Jost’s crane technology tower is expected to boost its sales in North America and Europe.
The new T320-16 mid-sized crane is the first of several cranes from Zoomlion. A small-sized crane will follow next, with an extra small crane model and a full range by June 2013.
Distribution is crucial to develop sales and Huang said, “We believe we cannot develop a market for the product without service support. We’re looking to attract deals to represent the range.” She added, “The partnership with Jost is related to know-how and not distribution. The financial crisis can be a clear opening for us. Our point of view is that it is easier to enter into a difficult market for tower cranes.”
Huang said that acquisitions remain a key component of Zoomlion’s growth strategy, with the firm keen to capitalise on current market conditions.
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