DEUTZ streamline UK operations

ENGINE manufacturers DEUTZ have announced changes to their UK operations aimed at improving customer service and strengthening their position in the British market.

DEUTZ UK Ltd, based in Cannock, now becomes a branch of German parent company DEUTZ AG, with the existing sales, marketing and product-support teams continuing to operate from Staffordshire while certain administrative and financial operations will be transferred to Germany.

DEUTZ AG’s other UK operation, the research and development facility in Dursley, Gloucestershire, will in future operate independently, reporting directly to Germany.

Commenting on the changes, Klaus-Ulrich Klinger, UK branch manager, said: ‘At DEUTZ we are always looking at ways to further develop and improve our range of engines. This forward-thinking attitude also extends to customer service.’

As part of the on-going enhancements, the UK branch will primarily concentrate its activities on servicing major OEMs, plant-hire groups and large fleet operators. Plans are already in place to expand and develop the company’s distributor network still further so that distributors can offer even more localized sales, service and parts support.

‘These changes should be viewed as extremely positive as far as our customers are concerned,’ said Mr Klinger. ‘Having a more-focused approach locally will help to reinforce our already strong position in the UK engine market.

‘The first six months of the year saw strong sales growth worldwide, with a significant UK contribution from the buoyant construction equipment sector. We are very optimistic about the future and are already anticipating a 20% sales increase in 2008, with several sizeable contracts already confirmed with major OEMs.’