French construction equipment specialist Mecalac has become one of the largest suppliers of compact wheeled loaders after taking over the production of a range of agricultural wheeled machines currently made by French firm Pichon.

Effective from January 1, 2019, Pichon will cease production of compact wheeled loaders and concentrate on its core business of muck and slurry tankers and trailers.

Complementing Mecalac’s existing German-made wheeled loaders, Pichon’s six-strong range of machines (26 to 75hp), which are made in Landivisiau in Brittany, will be distributed under the Mecalac brand through its worldwide dealer network. This will take place during 2019, after an engine upgrade to meet Stage V emission regulations.

Mecalac and Pichon have also reached an agreement under which the compact wheeled loaders will still be distributed in the Pichon brand name and colour, allowing Pichon to maintain its agricultural business with a technically upgraded range of machines.