Our focus will remain on sustainability, digital integration, and customer-centric solutions

Manish Mathur
CEO – Cranes, Action Construction Equipment Ltd

As the year 2024 concludes, how do you assess the year for the company and its business?

The year 2024 has been a landmark year for Action Construction Equipment Ltd (ACE). We strengthened our leadership position across various segments, particularly material handling and construction equipment, while expanding our product portfolio to meet evolving market demands. Highlights of the year include the successful launch of the BS-V AX124 backhoe loader, 30 and 35-ton pick & carry cranes and several other innovative products at bauma CONEXPO INDIA, which saw an overwhelming response from stakeholders. With robust demand in infrastructure and construction, 2024 demonstrated ACE’s resilience, innovation, and adaptability in a competitive market landscape.

What were your goals and key achievements in the year 2024? What factors helped you to meet your targets for this year?

Our primary goal in 2024 was to solidify ACE’s position as a pioneer in offering cutting-edge, sustainable solutions in the construction equipment sector. Key achievements include the launch of seven breakthrough products, signing significant deals during bauma CONEXPO INDIA, and expanding our presence in international markets. Strategic investments in R&D, a focus on customer-centric innovation, and the unwavering support of our sales and service network played pivotal roles in achieving these targets. Furthermore, India’s infrastructural push and our alignment with the “Make-in-India” initiative have been major contributing factors.

What are the prevailing challenges in the construction equipment sector when we enter the new year? What are the emerging opportunities?

The construction equipment (CE) sector faces challenges such as rising input costs, supply chain disruptions, and the need for rapid adaptation to stringent environmental norms. However, these challenges are accompanied by significant opportunities. The government's increased focus on infrastructure development, including highways, metro systems, and smart cities, presents a robust growth avenue. Additionally, the growing demand for sustainable and technologically advanced equipment creates opportunities for companies like ACE to lead the transformation with innovative, eco-friendly solutions.

How is the Make-in-India programme playing a key role in strengthening the Indian CE industry?

The “Make-in-India” programme has been instrumental in transforming the Indian CE industry by fostering self-reliance and reducing dependence on imports. It has encouraged domestic manufacturing, supported indigenisation of components, and created a favourable ecosystem for innovation. For ACE, this initiative has enabled us to expand our local production capabilities while adhering to global standards, thereby ensuring cost-competitiveness and enhanced customer trust.

How will the indigenisation of manufacturing and supply chain fast-track the industry growth?

Indigenisation in manufacturing and supply chain has the potential to accelerate industry growth by improving cost efficiency, reducing lead times, and enhancing quality. By focusing on local sourcing and production, ACE has been able to mitigate global supply chain disruptions while boosting the Indian economy. Moreover, indigenisation aligns with sustainability goals, reducing the carbon footprint associated with logistics. These factors collectively strengthen the construction equipment sector’s ability to meet domestic and international demand seamlessly.

How are you planning the year ahead? What are your goals and way forward?

As we step into 2025, ACE is committed to driving innovation and strengthening its product portfolio to cater to the growing infrastructure demands. Our focus will remain on sustainability, digital integration, and customer-centric solutions. We plan to increase investments in R&D to develop next-generation equipment, expand our global footprint, and continue supporting the “Make-in-India” initiative. Additionally, we aim to leverage our extensive service network to enhance customer satisfaction and ensure seamless project execution for our clients.