Atlas Copco Craelius-the way ahead

摘要

AK: Perhaps you could give some information about the way in which the Atlas Copco Craeiius Division has evolved over the years. I know, for example, there was a period when it was not part of the Atlas Copeo Group. PN: From 1960 to 1978 Craeiius was part of Atlas Copco, specialising in core drilling products and geotechnical drilling equipment. During that particular period, Craeiius had subsidiaries in many European countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany and Spain. But it could not really be considered a truly international company - rather very much a European company then. The Division was then sold off and from 1978 to 1992 it came under the ownership of three different parent companies, latterly Diamant Boart, based in Belgium. It was re-acquired by Atlas Copco in 1992. AK: How did Atlas Copco envisage developing the Craeiius Division further with regard to the product range and markets when it was re-acquired? PN: At that time Atlas Copco was already producing its Mustang range of rigs for geotechnical and waterwel! work, so a small geotechnical division already existed into which Craeiius and its products, including exploration equipment, was incorporated. There was also a strong range of grouting equipment. The years 1992 to 1998 were characterised by stability and consolidation of the Division, but in 1998 the decision was made to become first a global player and then achieve leadership. The start of this long-term plan was the acquisition of JKS Boyles in Canada in 1998. JKS Boyles brought with it not only expertise in surface exploration drilling equipment, but a base in North America, and the company was also active with its drilling products in areas such as South America and South Africa, and thus opened up a much wider customer base.