MJ Barrett opt for local telehandler supply deal

Two JCB Loadall machines for Uttoxeter-based structural steelwork and cladding contractor

UTTOXETER-based structural steelwork and cladding contractors MJ Barrett Constructions have expanded their telehandler fleet with the addition of a pair of JCB machines.

The company has bought two JCB Loadall 535-140 Hi-Viz telehandlers in a deal worth around £115,000. Supplied by JCB dealers Gunn JCB, the Loadalls were manufactured just down the road from MJ Barrett’s base at JCB’s World Headquarters in Rocester.

Operations manager Paul Leadbetter said: ‘We’ve bought the two new machines due to a growing order book and to meet the additional capacity of work, erecting and cladding steel-frame buildings. The 14m model is our standard machine for this type of work.

‘We run a variety of telehandlers along with the two JCBs with baskets. Our chairman, Malcolm Barrett, struck the deal with Gunn JCB, as the latest JCB machines have a very good specification. And with JCB being just up the road it was an easy decision to make.’

The 535-14 Hi-Viz Loadall is powered by the highly efficient Stage IIIB/Tier 4i JCB EcoMAX diesel engine, which delivers 75hp (55kW) and a maximum travel speed of 29 miles/h. The models purchased can lift to a maximum height of almost 14m and can handle loads of up to 3.5 tonnes.

National contractors MJ Barrett Constructions – part of the MJ Barrett Group – specialize in steel-frame construction for both the agricultural and industrial markets. The company operates a fleet of seven telehandlers along with the two JCB Loadall machines, plus a fleet of aerial work platforms.

With the machines working mainly in steel erection, MJ Barrett’s JCBs are not likely to amass huge operating hours, resulting in very strong residual values for the future.