The Merlo range complements FAMCO's Volvo and Ingersoll-Rand range of construction and road equipment

Dubai, November 27, 2007: FAMCO (Al-Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company) today announced the signing of an exclusive agreement with Merlo S.p.A. for the UAE distributorship of the world-renowned Merlo telescopic handlers, self-loading mixers and self-propelled platforms. With a dedicated division for construction equipment, FAMCO now enhances its existing range of Volvo and Ingersoll-Rand construction and road equipment with the addition of Merlo products.

The agreement was signed recently at Merlo's headquarters in Cuneo, Italy by Mr. Paul Floyd, Managing Director - FAMCO, and Mr. Amilcare Merlo, President & CEO - Merlo S.p.A.

Merlo is one of the leading players in the industry and a leading inventor of telescopic handling concepts. Manufactured in Italy, Merlo's Panoramic series of telescopic handlers includes 21 models ranging from 6.4m to 17.76m lift heights with load capacities from 2.8 to 10 tonnes. All Merlo telescopic handlers are fitted with a hydrostatic transmission, which provides complete control of the machine at construction sites.

The Merlo P38.12 and P40.17 models are able to access to 12 meter and 17 meter heights respectively and can accommodate various attachments such as man-lift baskets, pallet forks, crane and buckets. Also used in municipality, airport, poultry, reclamation, quarry and defense applications, Merlo Telescopic Handlers have a patented feature which allows horizontal adjustments at full height without changing the position of the machine, thus saving time and effort.

Mr. Arif Chishti, Divisional Manager - Construction Equipment at FAMCO said: "FAMCO believes strongly in representing products manufactured by world-renowned manufacturers such as Merlo, Volvo and Ingersoll-Rand. The Merlo telescopic handlers, self-loading mixers and self-propelled platforms to be distributed by FAMCO in the UAE complement our range perfectly. We are confident that they will be an invaluable asset to our customers in many areas."  

Safety is a priority for Merlo. All Merlo machines are fitted with an overload indicator and overload lockout device, preventing the driver from accidentally overloading his machine. Another unique Merlo feature is the 'Ring of Steel' - a 70mm diameter solid bar periphery around the machine. This provides unique protection against site damage, is an integral part of the chassis supporting the cab structure, and lowers the overall centre of balance thus promoting stability.

All Merlo equipment distributed by FAMCO comes with the company's full back-up after-care service and maintenance throughout the UAE.

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About FAMCO:
FAMCO (Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Company) supplies products and services to a diverse range of industries and commercial undertakings covering the transportation, construction, manufacturing, warehousing and marine sectors. FAMCO serves these industries with world-class brands including Volvo Trucks, Volvo Buses, Volvo Construction Equipment, Ingersoll-Rand, Linde, Dexion, Yanmar, SDMO, Stanley Proto, Fenner, Bruynzeel, Global, Bott, System Edstrom, Stertil, Hart and Nassau.

FAMCO's operations cover the entire UAE, with bases in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain and the company's development and success has been based on an in-depth understanding of customer needs and the dedication of its skilled staff.

FAMCO is committed to providing outstanding second-to-none service levels to customers and to maintaining quality, safety and environmental standards at the highest possible levels. Evidence of this is that FAMCO is an ISO 9001:2000 (Quality Standard) and ISO 14001:2004 (Environment Standard) certified company.

In addition, FAMCO continues to receive performance awards from its principals; recently Volvo Trucks, Volvo Construction Equipment, Linde and Dexion have honored the company with awards for outstanding sales and excellence in after-sales support.

For more information, please contact: 
Geoffrey Watson
Head of Corporate Communications
Al-Futtaim Group
Tel: +971 4 228 2101 Ext.214
Fax: +971 4 227 9801
Email: victoria.jacks@gmasco.com 
Web: www.al-futtaim.com 

© Press Release 2007