Intervect changes name to Alimak Hek

Swedish-Dutch access equipment manufacturer Intervect has renamed itself Alimak Hek. By adopting the monikers of its two product lines, Alimak hoists and Hek workplatforms, the company said it is reaffirming its market leadership.

According to Peter Arvidson, the company’s president and chief executive officer, the new name came about after a period of internal re-organisation.

“It’s fair to say the Intervect name was never truly accepted in the marketplace, while our product names have always been recognised worldwide,” he said.

The Intervect name came about two years ago when the company was purchased by two private equity companies, UK-based 3i and Sweden-based Ratos. Although the ownership of the group remains the same, Arvidson said the company was now fully communicating its long industrial heritage.

Alimak Hek said it will now devote itself to new product development including the expansion of its Scando 650 modular construction hoist range.

Originally launched last year, a new large-cage version will be added to the 650 range at the upcoming Conexpo exhibition in the US. Russell Bates, managing director of Alimak Hek’s UK operation, said Sir Robert McAlpine had already ordered the UK’s first two units.

Bates said the UK market is particularly interesting as it is the driving force behind the company’s recently launched temporary lifts. He claimed Alimak Hek has developed an affordable and cost-effective solution for contractors needing a replacement lift when upgrading old existing units in residential buildings.

More than 10% of Alimak Hek’s business is already accounted for by temporary lift sales and rentals, according to Bates.