There is a definite US versus Europe feel to this issue of the magazine, and it is not entirely intentional. It just seems to have worked out that way. First of all, the big news story of recent weeks is the management buyout of the UK-headquartered Europe and Asia operations of Morris Material Handling Ltd from parent company Morris Material Handling Inc. The two companies will maintain a close relationship since the Loughborough factory supplies major parts for Morris Inc’s new M Series wire rope hoist. But one wonders how long it will be before Morris Inc and Morris Ltd are competing fiercely against each other. We have visited the UK facility in Loughborough and spoken at length to the leaders of the management buyout. The management of the retrenching US operation proved to be not so communicative. However, we hope to report just as fully on Morris Inc’s plans once the company is out of Chapter 11 protection (which should be imminently) and ready to talk.
In this issue we also have a comparison of hoist duty service classifications described in US and European wire rope hoist specifications. This is based on a document produced by the US Hoist Manufacturers Institute.
Then we have our cover story – The European invasion – an exploration of the shortcomings of US wire rope hoist manufacturers and the superiority of the Europeans. And if that does not arouse righteous indignation within our American readers, then perhaps nothing ever will. So come on – let’s have your comments, complaints, criticisms or commendations! Send your letters to our new offices at the address below.
