Richards Coach Works and Spoutvac moves in regional consolidation
International operation Bucher Municipal has picked up two Victorian vocational equipment operations in quick succession to strengthen its regional presence.
Hot on the heels of acquiring Spoutvac, the division of Swiss-headquartered Bucher Industries has nabbed Richards Coach Works (RCW) – both venerable names in their fields.
Formerly Stan Richards Truck Body Builders and based in the Melbourne suburb of Sunshine West,, RCW has more than 70 years of heritage.
It’s main focus in is garbage truck body refurbishment, with a focus on sandblasting and painting, hydraulics and electrics but it also does non-waste custom projects, tippers and equine transport assets.
With RCW comes 10 workshop bays, a 15m blast booth and a 15m ‘spray ‘n’ bake’ paint facility. The firm employs 17 people.
Spoutvac is said to be Australia’s largest purpose-built manufacturer of industrial sewer and drain cleaning trucks and hydro excavation units, and distributor of equipment and accessories.
The privately owned company of more than 30 years is located in Bendigo.
“Bucher Municipal is market leader for sweepers, refuse collection vehicles and static compaction equipment in Oceania,” the new owner, whose Australian roots are in the forner JD MacDonald Engineering, notes.
“With the acquisition of Spoutvac, the division expects to grow the business in this region by complementing its existing product range.
“It will thus be able to better serve customers by offering them the full product portfolio through its well established Bucher Municipal sales and service organisation.
The division will integrate the entire operational business of Spoutvac into its organisation in Australia and offer employment to all the existing 35 employees.
“With the current management team remaining in place and the business location staying in Bendigo, continuity is ensured for customers, suppliers and employees.”
In the financial year ended in June, Spoutvac generated a turnover of more than A$25 million, its Bucher says.