The Japanese company KATO, a pioneer in the crane industry across Asia, has taken significant steps to expand its presence in the European market. Previously active in the production of excavators, the company now aims to introduce its self-propelled cranes—already highly successful in Asia—into European countries. Some models are currently being offered in the UK, and the process of obtaining CE certification for official entry into the European market is underway.
Eugenio Elefante, Sales and Marketing Director of Kato Imer, stated: “KATO currently holds the top position in mobile crane production in Asia.” With three production facilities worldwide (including one in Italy), the company is leveraging the quality of its products to strengthen its position in the competitive European market. According to Walter Baffioni, Sales Manager of Imer in France, the country still holds significant potential for expansion, and the company’s goal was to establish a broad distribution network by 2020. One of the standout models that has captured visitor attention is the KA-1000RX, featuring a 100-ton capacity and a 52-meter boom.
KATO’s Proud Legacy and Global Vision
Founded in 1895, KATO is recognized today as one of the most experienced manufacturers of Rough Terrain, All Terrain, city cranes, and truck-mounted cranes with telescopic booms. The company also operates diverse production lines, including excavators, earth-drilling machines, and vacuum trucks. With the acquisition of IHI Construction Machinery, KATO has also entered the crawler crane market.
In terms of after-sales services, Rivertek Services Ltd. is recognized as one of the key suppliers of KATO cranes in the Irish and UK markets. Beyond Europe, Rivertek serves clients in countries such as South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, Egypt, the UAE, Russia, and Ukraine. Relying on deep industry knowledge and years of experience, Rivertek handles all stages of crane purchase and delivery—from packaging and export documentation to professional inspections and the issuance of technical certificates—ensuring that cranes are delivered in optimal condition and ready for operation. The company’s motto reflects this commitment: “Quality is the key to customer satisfaction.”
