Tell us something about Hamm as it is a new name in Nepali market.
Hamm is a company established in 1878 to manufacture agricultural equipment. Hamm became a subsidiary of Wirtgen Group (WG) in 1999. WG recorded a turnover of 1 billion euros in 2012. WG deals with four different brands in the construction equipment sector: Wirtgen, Hamm, Vogele and Kleemann. We introduced Hamm in Nepal in November 2012. Wirtgen India manufactures 30 machines a month for Indian, Sri Lankan and Nepali markets.
So what kind of products are you introducing in Nepal?
Hamm has a wide range of products for soil and road compaction. Although we introduced Hamm compactor 311 D in Nepali market in November, we officially launched the product only on Friday.
You said Hamm 311 D was introduced in November. How was the market response?
Hamm 311D is doing really good in Nepali market. Our partner company, Construction Solutions, has already sold 6 units of Hamm 311 D, which means we have captured 30 percent share in Nepal´s soil compactors market. We have currently received 4 new orders for 311 D. They will be delivered within few weeks.
How is Hamm different from other products available in Nepali market?
Hamm 311 D is especially designed for countries like Nepal with difficult terrain. In India, we have Hamm 311 but 311 D is manufactured with additional driven drums to ensure better performance. Some of the highlights of Hamm 311 D are water cooled Cummins engine, 3 point pendulum articulated joint, driving comfort, modern display that informs driver about the machine condition, imported control panel and fuel efficiency. Besides, the machine with 11-ton operating weight can work in land surface with inclination of up to 30 degree which is best for Nepal.
What about the availability of spare parts and after-sales support?
Our partner company Construction Solutions has a huge stock of spare parts. It has offices in Kathmandu, Hetauda and Biratnagar to provide after-sales service. A team of experienced engineers and technicians with fully equipped mobile vans provides free services round the clock even in the country´s remotest regions.
Are you planning to introduce more new products in Nepali market?
As road expansion works are going on at a rapid pace in Nepal, we see a lot of potential in this market. We are planning to introduce tandem roller by the end of 2013 and asphalt paver in 2014.
Related story
Foreign trade decreases by Rs 311 billion
