US trailer giant Wabash National has signed an agreement with Western Australian company Mezz Trailers to bring Wabash National, Transcraft and Benson-branded transport equipment to the Australian market.
The move was announced only a week before Dick Giromini, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wabash National Corporation, will address the Australian transport community at the Global Truck & Trailer Leaders Summit in Melbourne.
“The relationship with Mezz Trailers is another step in executing Wabash National Corporation’s strategic plan as we expand into new markets,” Mr Giromini explained.
“Although manufacturing a product for export can be challenging, our manufacturing operations are capable of building to a diverse set of customer needs,” added Brent Yeagy, Group President of Commercial Trailer Products at Wabash National. “We’re pleased to offer new trailer options designed for the harsh conditions Australian fleets face in their daily operations.”
According to Wabash, the rugged conditions and long hauls in Australia can prove harsh for many international brands of trailers. That’s why the company said it chose steel grades that exceed Australian standards, “which will provide a competitive advantage in the market place”.
Robert Lane, Director of Product and Business Development of Commercial Trailer Products at Wabash National, explained, “We believe our success in Australia will largely be attributed to the fact that both Mezz Trailers and Wabash National are focused on innovation, superior product performance and a commitment to customer satisfaction.”
In addition, “Mezz Trailers has ensured that components on the Wabash National trailers meet Australian regulations” and are available locally, along with warranty support.
“I have spent the past 20 years in the trailer industry in Western Australia,” said Nigel Withnell, Sales Manager for Mezz Trailers. “What excites me about the partnership is being able to provide our customers with a world-class, quality product. This goes hand in hand with being able to offer after sales service and support. I feel confident that we can do that for our client base. In working in partnership with Wabash, we will be working with a household name in trailers — one that is extremely well-respected around the world.”
Mezz Trailers works closely with clients to offer innovative semi-trailer solutions. Located in East Victoria Park, Western Australia, Mezz Trailers has been experiencing double-digit growth in trailer sales every year since its founding in July 2011.
Wabash products that will be from July 2014 include Wabash National DuraPlate dry vans, Wabash National ArcticLite refrigerated vans, Transcraft steel and hybrid flatbed and drop deck trailers, as well as Benson aluminium flatbed and drop deck trailers.