The art of the deal
Alongside world-leading products, JCB prides itself on providing exemplary levels of service that keep its customers coming back time after time. That approach is extended throughout its unrivalled regional dealer network which looks after customers with replacement parts, service and maintenance and expert sales advice.
It is exactly that type of extensive support from dealer Scot JCB, that keeps Blackwood Plant Hire coming back for more. Indeed, since 2017, the firm has purchased almost 400 JCB machines and with 51 added this year alone, the company’s loyalty to JCB products shows no signs of abating.
Great Scot
Kilmarnock-based Blackwood Plant Hire is a family-owned business that was established in 2003 and now operates from multiple depots across Scotland with a fleet of approximately 500 machines, offering operated and self-drive plant hire.
The company works on a wide variety of projects across Scotland for sectors including construction, civil engineering, utilities and infrastructure. With recent expansions into the north of Scotland - supported by the new JCB machines – Blackwood has also added customers on renewable energy projects and housing developments into the mix.
Integral to the company’s success has been the fleet of equipment it sources from local dealer Scot JCB – which has proven to be as consistent, hardworking and reliable as the JCB machinery they sell.
“Our business has worked with Scot JCB for over 20 years. I’ve personally been involved since 2008, and since our management buyout in 2017, we’ve continued to grow that relationship. The reliability of the equipment, combined with exceptional aftersales service, keeps us coming back. We know we can count on them whether it’s delivering a machine at short notice or solving a machine challenge first time. Scot JCB is more than a supplier; they’re a trusted partner. Their service support, parts availability, and responsiveness are outstanding. Whether it’s a single machine or a large fleet deal, the level of care and commitment is the same. They understand our business and always make things happen quickly and smoothly. The wider team, including service and parts, consistently goes above and beyond. We value relationships and reliability above all else. JCB machines offer the performance we need, but it’s the people at Scot JCB and the support from JCB Finance that make the difference.”
Paul McCormack | Managing Director of Blackwood
A tool for every job
The latest equipment order has seen more than 50 new JCB machines join the Blackwood Plant Hire fleet. A deal comprising mini excavator, X Series tracked excavator, wheeled excavator, backhoe loader, compaction roller, telescopic handler and site dumper models hints at the diverse nature of the company’s operations.
As Paul McCormack adds: “Our JCB machines are used across a broad range of projects throughout the year - from civil engineering and groundwork to housebuilding, drainage, and roadworks. The JCB 150X HD tracked excavators are ideal for soft ground and low ground pressure sites such as windfarm work. Mini and midi diggers are used in urban settings or confined spaces, while backhoes provide flexibility for utility and general construction work.
“The comfort and usability of the new JCB cabs are a major win for operators, and the machine design is intuitive, which keeps productivity high. The build quality and reliability mean less downtime. We know we’re getting machines that can handle tough sites and varied conditions, all backed by fast service when needed.”
Plenty of power
These new additions include two JCB 370X crawler excavators which have drawn special praise. This is the biggest and most powerful model in the JCB X Series range with the ability to move 4.5 tonnes more material per litre of fuel than competitive models and boasting a Stage V/T4F 240kW (322hp) diesel engine delivering 14% more power.
The company was looking for a large, tracked excavator that could provide them with the power they needed to tackle some of their most challenging worksites, and they have complemented the existing line-up perfectly.
As Paul McCormack explains: “Scot JCB were able to source the 370X quickly and it offered exactly the performance we were looking for from a large tracked excavator. It looks like a solid machine and we have been impressed from the outset.
“The 370X delivers plenty of power and smooth operation. It’s been well received by both site managers and operators. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Operators are particularly happy with the cab comfort and power. We have also fitted GPS (Trimble), which improves accuracy and efficiency on site.”
A recipe for success
By its own admission, the dealer support from Scot JCB is a key ingredient in Blackwood Plant Hire’s continuing loyalty to JCB. With this exceptional customer service allied to an extensive product range purpose-built for hirers, JCB and Blackwood truly look to have found the recipe for success.