ABE Editor takes on new role within Route One Publishing

It’s the time of year when attention turns to the latest major show in the calendar, which in this Case is the Hillhead quarrying, construction and recycling event.

If the state of the recovery in the industry is judged by this and other recent shows, then it is well advanced.

For example, while not perhaps as industry-specific as 427 Hillhead, but nevertheless a good gauge, the recent CTT 2014 construction equipment and technology show in Moscow, Russia, again attracted over 1,000 exhibitors, with organisers making the point that a slowdown in Europe’s construction equipment market means “Russia is one of the growth engines for Europe.” After the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, attention turns to the 2018 FIFA World Cup (as the current world football event is underway).

The need for such events is not in doubt, and while Russia may well be a growth area, after the recent financial problems, companies and quarry operators throughout will possibly be looking to renew and upgrade equipment to take advantage of newer, more productive and fuel efficient machines.

Indeed, if you read our Quarry Profile in this issue you will see that Britain’s newest aggregates company, 7447 Hope Construction Materials, has spent a considerable amount of money buying a machines and support package from 395 Caterpillar. Other major manufacturers are also reporting increased sales of their products, and at Hillhead many pieces of equipment will be making their world, European or UK debuts.

Cancelled in 2009 due to depressed conditions emanating from the global financial crisis, Hillhead made a record-breaking return in 2010 to reaffirm its status as the world’s biggest working quarry show. It was a similar story in 2012, and that status has not changed in 2014.

This says a tremendous amount for the organisers and for those who support the event.

Meanwhile, on another note, this is my last edition of Aggregates Business Europe/Aggregates Business International as Editor.

From July onwards, I am handing over the reins to Guy Woodford, the Assistant Editor on our sister title World Highways, and stepping down to a part-time role as Consulting Editor across both titles.

I have had many enjoyable years at Route One Publishing, covering both the highways and aggregates industries and I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank-you to everyone I have met and worked with during my years at the helm.

It is not goodbye however, and I am equally excited about working with you in my new role as our industry faces up to the challenges ahead.

I look forward to meeting up at Hillhead and the many other industry events.