1. Manitowoc outlines a stronger focus on services and aftermarket
Manitowoc presented its latest strategy at the 17th Annual Midwest IDEAS Conference on August 26, highlighting a broader shift toward services, aftermarket and lifting solutions. The company is seeking to reduce its dependence on the cyclical new-crane market as demand remains uneven across regions.
Comment: The shift reflects a broader industry trend toward recurring service and aftermarket revenue as an important complement to new-equipment sales.
2. Liebherr tower cranes complete complex urban project in Lyon
Liebherr has reported the completion of a 14-month tower-crane operation at a highly constrained construction site in Lyon, France. Three EC-B flat-top tower cranes operated between a major shopping centre and a 115-metre-high building, with limited space available for crane positioning and construction activities.
Comment: Increasingly constrained urban construction sites continue to drive demand for flexible crane configurations and precise site planning.
3. Manitowoc introduces Potain Power Solutions
Manitowoc has introduced Potain Power Solutions, an energy-storage system designed specifically for tower-crane applications. The solution is intended to reduce reliance on diesel generators and provide stable power where grid capacity is limited or emissions and noise restrictions apply.
Comment: Energy storage is emerging as a practical option for reducing generator use on tower-crane sites, particularly in urban and remote applications.
5. Tower-crane engineering and lift planning highlighted at TCNA 2026
At Tower Cranes North America 2026, Maxim Crane Works engineering director Dan Durrett discussed the growing importance of detailed lift engineering, planning and operational control for tower-crane projects. The session focused on engineering practices and managing increasingly complex lifting operations.
Comment: As construction sites become more complex, engineering and lift planning are becoming increasingly integral to tower-crane operations.
6. JASO highlights the human factor in crane operations
JASO’s Josu Tornay discussed the role of people and relationships in the crane industry, emphasizing that technical expertise remains essential while operator competence, communication and long-term customer relationships remain critical to successful crane operations.
Comment: Despite increasing automation and digitalization, competent people remain a fundamental part of safe and efficient crane operations.
This Week in Brief
Aftermarket & Services — Crane manufacturers continue to strengthen their service and aftermarket businesses as a complement to new-equipment sales.
Energy & Electrification — Battery energy-storage solutions are beginning to enter the tower-crane sector as an alternative to conventional site generators.
Safety & Engineering — Recent incidents and industry discussions continue to emphasize lift planning, equipment inspection and operational competence.
Urban Construction — Tight urban sites remain an important driver of advanced crane configurations and engineering solutions.