Knights Brown, is proud to announce a significant investment of over £2 million in its plant and vehicle fleet, aimed at advancing safety standards and operational efficiency. This strategic move replaces older machines and vans, ensuring maximum availability to meet growing workload while incorporating the latest emission and safety features.
The independent construction company, which is headquartered in Ringwood, has allocated £1.5 million (excluding VAT) to acquire state-of-the-art machinery from the esteemed German manufacturer Wacker Neuson.
The new additions to the fleet include:
- 1 x 2.6t excavator
- 7 x 8t excavators
- 8 x 6t dual view dumpers
- 9 x 9t dual view dumpers
Except for the 2.6t excavator, all machines are equipped with advanced safety systems such as 360º Human Form Recognition Cameras, Digital Thumbs Up and hi-vis handrails and steps. These features represent the pinnacle of health and safety enhancements. Additionally, the dumpers come with automatic greasing systems to enhance the durability of pins and brushes.
Knights Brown has also invested £0.6 million (excluding VAT) in its commercial fleet, including:
- 9 x Ford Transit Couriers
- 10 x Ford Transit Connects
- 4 x Ford Transit Customs
- 1 x Ford Transit 350
These vans are equipped with the latest low emission EcoBlue diesel engines and feature added security and safety measures such as load area slam locks, reverse alarms, sensors and cameras, hands-free Bluetooth, satnav, infotainment systems and climate control.
Kevin Valentine, Managing Director of Knights Brown said: “This substantial investment in our fleet underscores our commitment to safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. By integrating the latest technology and safety features, we are not only enhancing our operational capabilities but also ensuring the well-being of our team and the communities we serve.”
The company’s choice of brands and models was made after extensive research considering emission data, fuel efficiency, cost of ownership, residual values and availability of safety features.
Keen to place its business locally, Knights Brown chose Hendy Group to supply the vans and Reeds Construction and Engineering the machinery. These choices were based on strong backup service, facilities, and excellent working relationships.
Reeds Construction and Engineering’s Philip Harper said: “We were delighted to be chosen by Knights Brown to supply Wacker Neuson dual view dumpers and Wacker Neuson excavators. By working closely together and carefully listening to Knights Brown’s requirements, we were able to deliver a tailored sales and service package that met all expectations. Both Wacker Neuson and Knights Brown place health and safety at the forefront of machine development and procurement. The dual view dumpers set a new benchmark for site safety, ensuring that operators always face the direction of travel and maintain clear visibility of site personnel.”
Chris Oliphant, Head of Fleet and Leasing Sales at Hendy Group, commented: “Commercial fleets are a core part of our business strategy, so we were ideally positioned to support Knights Brown with its recent fleet upgrade. We work with customers across various trades and recognise the growing demand for high-quality vans that meet the latest emission standards but remain fit for purpose. At Hendy, we represent six brands in the LCV space and have a comprehensive range of new and used vans and trucks to suit every budget and requirement.”
All branding and signage was supplied and fitted by Ringwood-based Multi-Signs.
The Transit Custom vans and dual view dumpers pictured will be heading out to construction sites across southern England, East Anglia and Wales very soon. Further deliveries will follow, including the excavators expected in early June.
These new additions significantly enhance safety, operational efficiency and environmental standards.
About Knights Brown
Knights Brown attracts customers for its specialist skills in coasts and ports, energy, water utilities, infrastructure and buildings. Common threads through this variety of work are unique challenges and live operational environments. Knights Brown tackles projects with its own down to earth, collaborative approach, seeking first to understand customers’ needs and aspirations before striving to exceed them.
For more information visit www.knightsbrown.co.uk
