I started the company in 1988 to work in agriculture, but now concentrate on landscape gardening for public and private contracts. Among the most popular tasks I am asked to do are renovation work, fish ponds, foundations and home extensions.

I am currently working as a sub-contractor at a primary school in Waalwijk. As it’s currently the school holidays, now is a good time to renovate the sand pits and playground without having to disrupt the children’s playtime.

I tested a few different mini excavators before making my purchase decision. With Hitachi, most boxes were ticked thanks to a fast and reliable parts service, and the personable and friendly approach of Verbunt.

The most important feature of the ZX17U-2 compared to the ZX18 is the zero-tail swing. This is because a lot of my work is on housing developments with narrow spaces, brick walls, garden sheds etc.

The power of this machine is also amazing for its relative size. It has no problem handling a heavy load – even at full stretch.

I also like the stability and versatility of the reversible tracks. There is excellent visibility from the cab and the weight of the machine means that it can easily be transported on my trailer.