Interview with Juan Ignacio Merino, responsible for trade of Maropsa
July 22, 2009
What kind of machine sold most at present?
At the moment, what more are selling second hand is the machinery for asphalt paver as compactors and milling machines.
What additional services does your company offer?
Our workshop only serves to our rental fleet and, of course, our distributions. In the second hand market the best thing you can give is quality. We do not have an exhibition of used machines, we sell the machines with which we work and its status is always "ready to work". Breakdowns of warranty are not present in our machines because any problem is detected and solved before sale.
How has it affected the crisis in the sale of used equipment?
Obviously, it doesn't help at all, but the truth is that the second hand market had already fallen in good times. Now, in the beginning of the crisis, it has bottomed out but I am sure that the recovery goes through a major purchase of used equipment and this is going to put the sector on a situation we could not see since the beginning of this decade.
What problem is the potential buyer of a currently used equipment?
The big problem, as in all sectors, is the funding. Customers need to purchase and this proves the fact that in June we had already doubled the number of deals from 2008. But, with the banks completely closed without releasing a penny and combines their benefits, buyers fail, in most cases, to make a purchase. The banks have brought us so far and will not do anything to help us out.
What is the profile of your customers? Has it changed in the last few months?
The customer profile has not changed too. Which Yes has changed is that of the buyer: most at the moment is foreign.
What time means that remains in stock a machine in your company?
We are not concerned the time spent in stock because we do work, but it is clear that this has been extended considerably.
How much percent of sales corresponds to exports?
I have no precise details of this year, but we probably walk by 70-80%.
What is the biggest problem that faced at the time of import and export?
The main countries buyers right now are African countries, where secure forms of payment are not safe and the absence of legal rights is total. It is essential to have reliable clients that you can rely on.
Do you think that it has been benefited the sector of machinery used for the implementation of the Plan E?
At all. The money from the Plan and which could become the used machinery sector it managed banks. I am yet to hear a customer tell me that the Bank has given a grant from this plan.
In his view, what is the future of the sector? What would do to enhance it if, for example, President of the Government?
The future of the sector is the same as in the country: uncertain. Let us hope that this does not last long.
