This report is the first published by Off-Highway Research to deal solely with the wheeled excavator market in the UK, whereas it was previously combined with reports on crawler excavators. This report analyses the UK market for wheeled excavators capable of being turned through 360 degrees, which are mounted on wheels and range in size from 6 tonnes to over 30 tonnes. Machines with a weight below 6 tonnes known as mini excavators, are the subject of a separate report within the European Service, and are not included in this analysis. Excavators with a weight classification of 6-10 tonnes, often referred to as ‘midi’ excavators, are included in this report.

The findings presented in this report are based on Off-Highway Research’s existing database and on information collected during an extensive interview programme undertaken during February 2021, which included all domestic manufacturers and leading importers.

The UK market for wheeled excavators is one of the most competitive sectors in the European construction equipment sector, with more than 17 suppliers competing in what is a relatively small volume market. The market for hydraulic excavators has had a turbulent history, although the wheeled sector has been less impacted than the crawler market, while the changes in market conditions have had a profound effect upon both manufacturers and dealers. This report will highlight these changes and attempt to analyse the likely developments in the market over the next five years, together with the implications for the companies which compete in it.