Finning has signed up dealer Versatile Equipment to sell construction contractor plant across the south east.

The moves is the first sub-dealership for Finning, which is looking to tap into local franchises to seal deals with contractors for volume selling lines of Caterpillar plant.

Versatile’s range of machinery covers hydraulic excavators from 1.5 tonnes up to 8.5 tonnes, skid steer loaders, telehandlers, multi terrain and compact track loaders.

Finning business manager, Lee Andrews said: “The deal with Versatile Equipment is a major move for us at Finning as we look to make significant growth to our general construction equipment penetration in the UK.

“We have some extremely strong Caterpillar products in our portfolio, but recognise that even with a comprehensive national branch network, we have been missing out on equipment sales in various parts of the UK, where purchasing decisions are made more on a dealer location basis.

“With this in mind, we have looked at the gaps we had within the market and in particular the South East.

Versatile has switched from Bobcat to take up the role as Finning Caterpillar’s first third party general construction dealer.

Versatile Equipment director Paul Rolfe said: “Having worked in the industry since its inception in 2003, Versatile Equipment has become a real expert in the compact loader and attachment markets.

“As a dealer that prides ourselves on our technical expertise, we saw a real fit with Finning and its network to play our part in extending what is the best national service and support reach in the UK.

He added: “With the continued support of Finning, we know that in the future we will be able to become an even stronger force in the South East from our rebranded Borough Green, Kent base.

“So 2011 will definitely be a good year for Versatile Equipment and our customers,” he predicted.