THE first comprehensive survey of the size and complexity of the construction, earthmoving and mining equipment industry in more than 20 years has been released to provide unparalleled market intelligence to stakeholders in the industry.
Compiled by global research company, Off Highway Research, the 220-page report, The Construction Industry in South Africa, is a four-year study that details sales by model category, equipment analysis, sizes of equipment and sales by manufacturer.
According to Dr Jim Rankin of Agfacts, the report is an invaluable tool for financial institutions, parts suppliers and service providers, as well as suppliers of components such as tyres, hydraulics and filters, among others. It shows which machines are selling, and which are not, and it gives analysts food for thought when advising or building business plans.
“Much of the information was transposed from the Construction and Mining Equipment Suppliers Association (Conmesa) which we have been supplying monthly reports for more than 25-years. Other information was taken from complementary association in agriculture and materials handling where appropriate,” said Rankin.
He added that the report provides information on local suppliers that is handy for end users to know who the role players are and the extent of would-be supplier’s information. Based on the statistics it even provides readers with predictions on the industry and comprehensive forecasts until 2023.
With information such as actual machine populations in South Africa, by type and brand, suppliers can make informed decisions when it comes to the type of equipment, spares and services that they supply.
“We have found that in many instances perceptions are actually far from reality and actual ownership and supply figures are often different to what even we would imagine. This kind of market research is difficult to come-by and should make up part of any business plan for role players in the market in future,” Rankin said.
He highlighted six little-known facts about the industry revealed in the report:
- Backhoe loaders are the most sold machines in SA
- The new equipment sales market was valued at R14,1-billion in 2018
- Tracked (Hydraulic) excavators make up R2,55-billion of the total market
- Contractors are the biggest buyers of asphalt finishers, backhoe loaders, excavators, compaction equipment and skid steers
- Unusually, rental companies bought more motor graders than any other industry in 2018
- Mines are the biggest market for telehandlers
