Mammoet has been at the top of the International Cranes and Specialized Transport magazine IC50 ranking of the world’s largest crane-owning companies since the launch of the league table which is now in its 24th year. In recent years ALE rose rapidly to third place in the table.

Combining the equipment fleets of both companies will make the new entity’s lifting capability close to double that of its nearest competitor, Sarens, in second place.

Speaking with HLPFI, Mammoet said: “Should these discussions result in a signed agreement, the companies will seek approval from the relevant competition authorities. In the meantime, the companies will continue to act independently of each other, as competitors.”