Manitou Group has always been very active in Italy, through its 100% subsidiary MCI (Manitou Costruzioni Industriali) headquartered in Castelfranco Emilia. At SAIE 2011, in Bologna (Italy) last week, Manitou presented two new machines from the Heavy-Duty (MHT) range of 22.5 t and 18 t respectively. These machines will ideally pull Manitou’s new corporate initiative for New Business, which includes mining. The new MHT 10225, to be released in 2012, has a capacity of 22.5 t that is well suited to the needs of mining.

With 250 people, MCI is Manitou’s centre of excellence for rotating and heavy-duty telescopic handlers, which, Manitou says, “enjoy a #1 worldwide position on these very demanding segments.” MCI is also developing a full range of dedicated attachments (such as baskets, winches, crane jibs, holders, clamps, bucket, etc.) that come fully certified with the machines for maximum security and superior versatility.

MCI will be subsequently renamed Manitou Italia. This is not intended to change either its missions or organisation. “We’ve always been proud of our Italian teams who have built spectacular success in two different domains” said Jean-Christophe Giroux, Manitou President & CEO. “First, the Italian-developed ranges are the flagship of our RTH (Rough Terrain Handling) division, and have repeatedly set industry standards which we’re now leveraging with our New Business initiative. Second, we are establishing a stronger and stronger market presence in Italy.