BC India is a good platform for all us to showcase our products to a large relevant audience. This will also help us further establish our brand and improve visibility, says Sunil Jain, Country Manager, JLG Industries Inc. Excerpts from the interview.

How do you assess the current CE market scenario, especially access equipment?
The uncertainty in the market has had its impact on the CE market overall and this has impacted the access equipment segment also. However, we still expect a slight growth in the access market as acceptance is increasing rapidly.

Which are the major areas to be addressed on a war footing?
Some form of regulation on age of the import of used equipment needs to be addressed; old equipment can affect work safety at construction sites.

What is your take on a possible dumping of equipment from China?
The dumping of Chinese equipment into the India market has to be looked as a potential threat to the healthy growth of the industry, keeping in view that aerial work platforms increase productivity by providing a very safe workplace. The customers are increasingly insisting on certified quality and branded equipment in the marketplace. There may be some initial dumping but we are confident the CE industry will do what is right.

What is JLG's strategy to bring about competitive costs in the current scenario?
As most access equipment are imported, the impact will be felt. JLG has been continuously developing new products to maintain a high standard with a minimal cost of ownership to customers. The RS Series launched last year is an example of this.

What is the demand-supply scenario for access equipment?
There has been a steady growth of the aerial work platform market in India. Growth in manufacturing and construction sectors will be critical for developing a higher demand. JLG, an Oshkosh Corporation company, has been working with the following strategy:

• Market recovery and growth;
• Optimise cost and capital structure;
• Value innovation;
• Emerging market expansion.

Tell us about the product range and services offered by JLG.
JLG offers various types of scissor lifts, boom lifts, vertical masts and telehandlers. Boom lifts are available up to 150 ft platform height. Both boom lifts and scissors lifts are available in electric and diesel models. Whether it is a construction job site, plant maintenance or assembly/installation, JLG has solution for working at height.

How do you look at the potential for rentals of this kind of equipment?
There is high potential for AWP in the rental market and it is going to increase in the coming years.

What is your take on the intense competition in this segment?
There are many players in this segment and there is place for everyone. JLG has always delivered products with excellent quality, meeting safety standards, backed by class after sales support.

What is your take on bC India as a business platform?
bC India is a good platform for us to showcase products to a large relevant audience. This will also help us further establish our brand and improve visibility.