Electric Wheelbarrow Multi-Dumper elektro Type MCE400

Making life easier
PowerPac offers mini-transporters and compaction technology

By including the manufacture of motorised wheelbarrows, PowerPac has opened a business segment with room for expansion. Known for its tampers and vibrating plates, the German company from Kronberg-Oberhöchstadt has marketed its Caddy series successfully since 2001. These transporters are equipped with petrol or electric engines, and wheel or track drive.

PowerPac has been represented in the German construction machinery market since 1991 with its tampers and vibrating plates, which are used particularly for soil and concrete compaction. Lothar Urbschat is the founder and managing director of the company, based in Kronberg am Taunus.

"PowerPac stands for expertise in compaction technology", says Urbschat. "From design to distribution, we employ professionals with extensive know-how for providing a service to professionals. Our philosophy includes market-based product development, taking into account the tried and true".

The idea of making wheelbarrow use easier was born two years ago during a private construction project. A motorised wheelbarrow had to be developed. The company immediately requested a utility patent for these machines.

"Since then, we have continuously expanded the product line of motorised wheelbarrows", reports Urbschat. The first on the market was the Multi-Caddy, a multi-function device with optional attachments, including power accessories. Later came the Mini-Caddy with a deeper tipping trough, and then the Electric-Caddy. A year ago, the product line was expanded with the introduction of the Track Drive Caddy.

The demand for a simpler carrying system led to the development of the Mini-Caddy. This has a lower load volume and a lower structure overall. "By expanding our product line with this small versatile transport device, we have also expanded our dealer network", says the managing director. "With compaction technology, we continue to have a presence at construction equipment dealerships. Our Caddy products are also conveniently available at dealers of motorised equipment".

"We have developed many new designs of small, off-road transport equipment in recent years", emphasises Urbschat. "We participated in 18 trade fairs in 2004 alone. We also sent flyers and direct mailings to dealers. The launch of our second product line was accompanied by an extensive advertising campaign. It met with a good response". In the first year, a total of around 500 Multi-Caddy units were supplied to both men and women alike. A special technical feature of the Multi-Caddy is the option to use it with various attachments, such as road sweepers or cutter-bar mowers. Of course, it was inevitable that perceptive competitors came out with similar products on the market.

Another advantage of PowerPac is the company's fleet of rental equipment. This fleet has slowly expanded and offers the customer a broad range of machines for indoor and outdoor jobs. These machines range from garden equipment to mini-excavators. The rental line even includes parquet sanders.

The emphasis is on compaction technology and the Caddy series. In 2004, compaction technology sales were down. "Not only were we able to offset this decline with transporter sales, but we even increased total turnover by 10 percent", said an obviously pleased Urbschat. "In any case, there is an expandable market for mini-transporters".

Quality is the Priority
"When it comes to price, we do not offer a cheap line of mini-transporters", says the PowerPac MD. "We think it is important to offer sound quality at reasonable prices. Our products are distinguished by their durability and sturdy design. In addition, we provide comprehensive customer service with individualised solutions".