Backhoes are on a rebound, manufacturers say.
They declare that the reduction in model counts and sales figures is over, and the loss of market share to compact excavators and other upstarts is history.
Backhoes are not just making a comeback, they say. They’re bringing improved features, value and versatility.
It would seem backhoes are emerging from a prolonged and costly battle of defending themselves against an onslaught from other equipment, most notably compact versions of excavators and wheel loaders. But Ed Brenton, Case product marketing manager, offers a different perspective. “The engineering work that goes into backhoes isn’t meant to defend the segment against other products. It’s done to keep evolving and improving a unique product platform to bring added value to core users who will always rely on backhoes.” Among these core users, says Brenton, are owner-operators, utilities, public works and infrastructure contractors.
