J&D Pierce expands crane fleet with Grove all-terrain models

J&D Pierce has expanded its crane fleet with new Grove all-terrain models, giving the steelwork contractor the largest fleet of Grove all-terrain cranes in the UK.

The new deliveries include GMK5250XL-1, GMK5150XL and GMK4100L-2 cranes. They will be deployed on several major infrastructure and construction projects, including a high-voltage direct current energy development in Scotland, a new indoor arena in Cardiff and the redevelopment of a stadium stand in North Wales.

The purchase reflects a broader shift in the company's project mix toward larger, more complex steel structures. It is also intended to reduce reliance on external crane suppliers by bringing more lifting work in-house.

Founded in 1975, J&D Pierce is an established UK structural steelwork contractor and has worked on major construction projects across the country. The latest order extends a relationship with Grove that began with the purchase of its first GMK3050 crane in 1999.

Since then, the business has acquired almost 30 Grove all-terrain cranes, with lifting capacities ranging from 50 tonnes to 250 tonnes. The latest expansion highlights the growing role of owned lifting equipment in its operating model as projects demand larger steel assemblies and more modular construction methods.

Many of the projects where the cranes will be used involve constrained sites and uneven ground. The Grove all-terrain range used by J&D Pierce includes the MEGATRAK single-wheel independent suspension system, designed to maintain tyre contact and improve manoeuvrability over difficult terrain.

That is particularly important on infrastructure and stadium projects, where access can be restricted and installation sequences tightly planned. In such settings, contractors often try to limit dependence on third-party availability for specialist lifting equipment.

Jamie Pierce outlined the thinking behind the investment.

"Structures are becoming larger, heavier and more complex, while clients are increasingly looking for off-site fabrication and modular construction solutions. Investing in additional lifting capacity allows us to undertake more of these projects using our own resources, reducing reliance on external suppliers and giving us greater flexibility in how we deliver for our clients. Cranes from Grove provide the capacity, reach and versatility we need, while their reliability and performance give us the confidence to tackle some of the UK's most high-profile projects," said Jamie Pierce, Managing Director, J&D Pierce.

The company also highlighted the importance of aftersales support in maintaining fleet availability. That has become increasingly important on time-sensitive infrastructure and commercial projects, where delays to heavy lifting operations can affect wider build programmes.

"The level of service from Manitowoc is second-to-none, and the aftersales support has always been exceptional. Whether it's technical advice, parts support, or service assistance, the Manitowoc team is always available. Strong manufacturer support helps maximize uptime and maintain project schedules so we can continue to deliver efficiently and productively for our clients," said Pierce.

Support network

Aftermarket support in the UK has also expanded with the launch of MGX Equipment Services in the country. MGX, a wholly owned subsidiary of Manitowoc, provides equipment support to crane owners, contractors and rental companies across the UK for all crane brands.

The move adds another layer to Manitowoc's effort to strengthen its service presence in the market, as fleet owners place greater emphasis on maintenance response, parts access and technical support. For operators with mixed project portfolios, service coverage can influence procurement decisions alongside lifting specifications.

For J&D Pierce, the latest order builds on a long-term fleet strategy centred on Grove all-terrain cranes. The range now spans four- and five-axle machines designed to cover a variety of lifting requirements across industrial, commercial and infrastructure work.

Derek Kidd, UK North Sales Manager, said the latest delivery marked another step in that relationship.

"Congratulations to Jamie and the team at J&D Pierce on their latest Grove deliveries. We are grateful for their ongoing trust and look forward to supporting the company's crane fleet as the business continues to grow."