engcon and Hitachi Partner to Push Tiltrotator Innovation Across Europe
In a move that could reshape how European contractors dig, lift, and grade, Swedish tiltrotator pioneer engcon has inked a strategic supply agreement with Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME). The deal makes engcon a preferred supplier within HCME’s vast dealer and distribution network, opening new doors for tiltrotator adoption across Europe.
The agreement, although non-exclusive, marks a significant milestone for both companies. It positions engcon’s tiltrotators and associated tools front and centre in HCME’s offerings, offering more construction firms a straightforward path to upgrading their excavator fleets with the game-changing swivel-and-tilt attachments.
“This gives engcon an opportunity to expand to markets in Europe where we are not currently represented. We look forward to the collaboration that will benefit both parties and our customers in the long term”, said Krister Blomgren, CEO of engcon.
Why Tiltrotators Are Gaining Ground Fast
Once a niche piece of Scandinavian kit, tiltrotators are now fast becoming a must-have for operators seeking flexibility, safety, and productivity. With the ability to rotate attachments 360 degrees and tilt up to 45 degrees, these hydraulic wonders drastically reduce the need to reposition machines, slash job times, and boost operator precision.
And it’s not just about digging smarter. Tiltrotators also contribute to:
- Lower fuel consumption by reducing unnecessary machine movements
- Enhanced operator safety through better visibility and fewer ground personnel
- Minimised wear and tear on machines thanks to optimised operation
In a sector increasingly driven by sustainability and efficiency, this kind of multifunctional capability is striking a chord.
What This Means for Europe’s Job Sites
With HCME’s network stretching across Europe and into parts of Africa and Israel, engcon now has access to one of the continent’s largest distribution ecosystems. That spells increased visibility and sales opportunities for engcon’s full suite of solutions, from tiltrotators and quick couplers to control systems and smart attachments.
For Hitachi, the tie-up enriches its aftermarket offering. Dealers will now be able to offer customers an integrated excavator and tiltrotator package, boosting machine capability and customer value without the hassle of third-party retrofitting.
This deal is expected to have a ripple effect, particularly in markets where tiltrotators haven’t yet become mainstream. Expect increased demos, local training initiatives, and dealer-led promotional pushes in places like Southern and Eastern Europe.
About engcon: Swedish Precision, Global Reach
Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Strömsund, Sweden, engcon has evolved into the world leader in tiltrotator technology. With around 400 employees across 15 local sales companies, the firm has built a reputation for transforming excavators into multi-functional tools with unparalleled agility.
In 2024, engcon reported net sales of SEK 1.6 billion, with strong growth attributed to increased international interest in its modular systems. Listed on Nasdaq Stockholm, engcon continues to reinvest in R&D to keep pushing the boundaries of what excavators can do.
A Closer Look at HCME’s Distribution Powerhouse
Established in 1972 in Oosterhout, The Netherlands, HCME is a vital cog in the Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. global wheel. Its remit covers manufacturing, sales, and marketing of Hitachi construction equipment across Europe, Israel, and parts of Africa.
With more than 500 employees across its Amsterdam HQ and regional hubs in Germany, France and the UK, HCME is ideally placed to act as a force multiplier for the engcon product line.
The firm’s emphasis on innovation, reliability, and end-user support aligns neatly with engcon’s own customer-centric philosophy.
Future-Proofing the Construction Industry
With Europe’s construction sector under pressure to decarbonise, digitise, and deliver faster, innovations like tiltrotators are gaining newfound relevance. Compact, efficient, and versatile, they help operators do more with less – a key tenet of modern project delivery.
This partnership couldn’t be better timed. As more public and private clients demand leaner, greener builds, the ability to equip standard excavators with productivity-enhancing tech will become a serious competitive edge.
Expect to see engcon’s visibility ramp up at trade fairs, operator training centres, and on job sites large and small. As it piggybacks on Hitachi’s reach, the tiltrotator may soon become the go-to excavator enhancement across the continent.
Building Momentum for Smarter Machines
If there’s one takeaway from this alliance, it’s that the European construction scene is warming up to smarter machines. Tiltrotators offer that perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication—letting operators work faster, safer, and more sustainably.
The engcon-Hitachi partnership not only paves the way for deeper market penetration but also sends a strong signal that machine innovation is no longer a luxury. It’s a necessity.
As Krister Blomgren put it: “This is another step to make the tiltrotator concept and system known in Europe and is further proof that the tiltrotator plays a greater role in enhancing efficiency on site.”
