ACE Plant Ltd will be showcasing the Dromone D80 ‘Ball & Spoon’ hitch at this year’s Hillhead, underlining their focus on improving towing safety and reducing exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) in construction environments. By integrating the D80 system, the company is future-proofing its fleet while setting higher standards in safety, compliance, towing performance, and operator welfare. The Dromone D80 Ball & Spoon hitch, together with ACE Plant’s safety chain solution, will be demonstrated in a live environment using a dust-suppression unit with rain gun and spinning disc. The setup not only demonstrates effective site dust control, but also shows how the system helps reduce whole-body vibration for operators.

Automation specialists Baumer will present their extensive range of durable, high-performance sensors and encoders, designed specifically for the challenging conditions of quarrying, mining, and bulk handling. Products on display will include the GIM600R, a high-precision, exceptionally reliable inclination sensor for mobile machines. Delivering verified accuracy of up to 0.1°, it combines cutting-edge performance with the latest functional safety compliance, achieving PLd certification under ISO 13849-1:2023. Also featured is the Magres EAM 580RS absolute encoder, a PLd safety-certified solution for mobile automation. Boasting robust magnetic sensing and CANopen Safety communication, the device excels in demanding conditions, with IP67 protection, high resistance to shock and vibration, corrosion resistance up to CX (C5-M), and an E1-compliant design – making it suitable for the toughest on-machine environments.

Visitors to the Blast Log Ltd stand will see how the specialist blasting consultancy firm supports the optimization of electronic detonator timing to help minimize vibration impacts, with its Blast Log system – regarded as an essential tool for proactive blast design and effective vibration management. Also showcased on the Blast Log stand will be the FM 301 blasting seismograph, a cutting-edge device featuring tri-axial accelerometers and advanced MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) technology for accurate, high-performance monitoring.

Returning to Hillhead after several years, Deutz AG will present a range of proven and next-generation engine platforms designed to meet the latest emissions and performance requirements across quarrying, construction, and industrial applications. The engine line-up ranges from compact to high-output models, including the TD 2.9 with a cooling pack, the TCD 3.9/4.0 delivering up to 130kW, the mid-range TCD 5.2, and heavy-duty six-cylinder engines such as the TCD 10.7 and TCD 12.8 for high-load operations. Live demonstrations of Deutz’s Serdia diagnostics and telematics system will provide an insight into real-time performance monitoring and maintenance optimization. Also featured will be the Deutz Xchange programme, offering a cost-effective alternative to new engines. With professionally reconditioned units available for rapid dispatch, the programme helps minimize downtime and supports continued operation across mixed and legacy fleets.

Digger Guard will use Hillhead 2026 to unveil their latest innovation, Sky Shield, a new weather-protection system designed for operators of open-cab mini- and micro-excavators. Positioned as a first-of-its-kind aftermarket solution in the UK and Ireland, Sky Shield is engineered to protect against rain, wind, sun, and site debris, helping to reduce weather-related downtime while improving operator comfort and productivity. Also on display will be Digger Guard’s Vandal Guard security systems, polymer handrails, and bespoke engineered polymer components.

EPC-UK – specialists in drilling, blasting, and commercial explosives – will present a suite of technology-driven projects and services to enhance blast performance and deliver greater value to customers. Central to the display will be the upgraded Expertir blast-design software, a key component of EPC UK’s technology ecosystem, helping engineers to plan and execute safer, more efficient, and optimized blasts. The company will also highlight its ROG+ (Rock-on-Ground Plus) service, alongside tailored software and hardware solutions that bring advanced analytics and full digitalization to blasting operations. In addition, EPC-UK will use the event to unveil a major multi-million-pound investment in a future-ready booster manufacturing plant, set to produce high-quality pressed TNT boosters in the UK.

fibo Collect UK are the official distributor for fibo Intercon, a Danish manufacturer responsible for the innovative fibo Collect self-service system for concrete, mortar, screed, and loose aggregates. On their shared stand, a fibo Collect F1200 model will be displayed, featuring a hydraulic conveyor, automated washing system, and hopper covers. Visitors can also watch live demonstrations of the system’s control panels and key features, including the fibo Loop water-recycling system – recognized as the first fully circular washout loop in the collect batching sector. Industry experts will also showcase a new in-line solution for loose aggregates, designed to improve flexibility and control in bulk material handling. By merging Danish engineering excellence with the market expertise of the UK and Ireland, the companies demonstrate how sustainability and efficiency can be successfully achieved together.

Finning UK & Ireland will take Hillhead visitors on a ‘guided journey’ through the digital tools and smart technologies driving operational improvements. Designed to help operators identify on-site challenges and explore practical solutions, the Finning Caterpillar experience will feature dedicated zones for discussing efficiency gains, process optimization, and extended equipment support. Finning’s expert team will be on hand throughout the show to provide insights into the key trends shaping the quarrying and construction sectors, as well as advanced applications that help businesses work smarter.  

Exhibiting at Hillhead for the first time, Jihostroj will be keen to promote their hydraulic pumps and motor solutions to a wider international audience. The centrepiece on the Jihostroj stand will be the QHDM2 reversible hydraulic motor, part of the Czech engineering company’s heavy-duty cast-iron series designed for mobile machinery in mining and material processing. This robust motor is utilized in applications such as mobile crushed stone sorting machines, highlighting Jihostroj’s expertise in durable, high-performance hydraulic solutions.

As the official UK distributor for Hyundai industrial engines, Marshall’s Industrial will showcase the latest in high-efficiency powertrain technology at this year’s Hillhead exhibition. Engine product highlights will include the fuel-efficient G2 Series (1.8- to 3.4-litre) and the award-winning DX Series (5- to 7.5-litre), recently named ‘Diesel of the Year 2025’. Both ranges meet EU Stage V and US Tier 4 Final standards, providing clean, reliable performance across a broad spectrum of applications. The Marshall’s team will also be available to discuss the full Hyundai engine portfolio, including the advanced HX12 hydrogen engine and the robust 8- to 22-litre diesel range, ideal for large-scale repowering and export projects.

Swedish aggregates equipment manufacturers Maskin Mekano will be presenting their electrically powered screening solutions, including the SH 1202 mobile final screen. Designed for high-capacity production of precisely graded fractions, the three-deck SH 1202 performs well in demanding applications such as paving materials, even with fine, damp, or sticky feeds. Built on a fully electric platform, it can cut energy use by up to 70% compared with diesel alternatives, while reducing noise and CO2 emissions, making it ideal for urban and environmentally sensitive sites. Proprietary STE screen technology, sharp but controlled strokes, high-jacking legs, and built-in safety and service features ensure the SH 1202 delivers accurate, dependable, and user-friendly operation.

At Hillhead, McHale Plant Sales will showcase a range of mobile equipment solutions for construction, aggregates, and waste-recycling. The display will focus on Metso crushers and Komatsu’s latest innovations, including the new HM460-6 articulated dumptruck, PC220LCi-12 excavator, and WA485-11 wheel loader. Also featured will be the Komatsu Dash-11 PC130-11E0 mid-sized excavator, developed specifically for the UK and Irish markets.

Parksafe Group will unveil their all-new Zone AI Human Form Recognition (HFR) camera system – a cutting-edge solution designed to improve on-site safety while supporting compliance with construction contractors’ requirements. The system is suitable for a wide range of off-highway machinery, including excavators, forklift trucks, and other construction equipment operating in environments where pedestrians and machines work closely together. Using advanced HFR technology, the Zone AI camera detects pedestrians in real time and issues immediate alerts to equipment operators. When a person enters the detection zone, the system triggers visual and audible warnings to help reduce the risk of collisions. Key features include AI-powered pedestrian detection cameras, an LED pedestrian display, audible alarms for operator awareness, and optional extras such as a monitor display for improved visibility, a digital thumbs-up system for safe approach approval, and a digital video recorder for event documentation and compliance reporting.

Recognizing Hillhead as the world’s premier quarry exhibition, South African crushing and screening specialists Pilot Crushtec will use the biennial event to introduce their latest TwisterTrac VS350E mobile vertical-shaft impact (VSI) crusher and engage with prospective European distribution partners. ‘We want to make a big statement about our latest model TwisterTrac VS350E, which complies with the European Union’s Stage V emissions regulations,’ said Francois Marais, sales and marketing director at Pilot Crushtec. ‘Secondly, we are actively looking to engage with potential distributors for both the TwisterTrac and our broader product range – mobile and static.’ The TwisterTrac VS350E is equipped with a Stage V-compliant Volvo Penta engine that cuts emissions and fuel consumption by up to 40%. Its intuitive start-up panel and straightforward onboard annunciator display make it user-friendly for operators, while the machine’s variable-speed control ensures precise adjustment of output sizes and shapes.

Plant Parts, one of the UK’s largest independent stockists of construction machinery parts, will introduce ‘The Rig’, which is said to redefine hydraulic motor testing. Designed specifically for swing drive and final drive hydraulic motors, The Rig offers load testing up to 132kW and accommodates motors from 18cc to 340cc. It simulates real-world operating conditions and offers fully automated, single-operator testing, alongside advanced data acquisition and performance reporting.

As demand for waste-recycling continues to rise and reliance on landfills declines, Hillhead will provide the ideal stage for Recycleye to showcase the QuantiSort 2.0 AI-powered waste-sorting system – the latest generation of the company’s optical sorting technology for waste streams, including construction and demolition materials, WEEE, and metals. Building on the success of its predecessor, the QuantiSort 2.0 combines enhanced AI, higher-resolution sensing, and patented ejection technology to improve material recognition and sorting accuracy. Engineered to perform in dusty, moist, and low-light conditions, the system delivers consistent results in environments where traditional optical sorters can struggle. With processing speeds of up to 28 billion calculations per second and double the previous image resolution, it supports faster decision-making while reducing energy consumption.

SBM Mineral Processing, the Austrian experts in track-mounted, hybrid-electric crushing plants, will show the REMAX 600 and JAWMAX 450 machines at Hillhead 2026. For the first time at the show, SBM will also highlight their latest mobile concrete mixing technology, the EUROMIX series, using detailed scale models and information displays. The EUROMIX range delivers precisely controlled concrete quality across a wide variety of mix designs, combined with high mobility, fast set-up times, and ‘industry-leading production rates’ for reliable, year-round operation. Also on the stand will be SBM’s UK distributors, Banner Equipment and ORBA Group, showcasing the crushing OEM’s hybrid-electric drive concept, a feature that sets all 12 of the company’s mobile JAWMAX and REMAX crushers apart in terms of efficiency, performance, and sustainability.

Thwaites will present a new range of dumpers that focuses on safety, sustainability, and operator performance. Leading the line-up will be the latest nine-tonne ROPS+ dumper, featuring an advanced safety system with a wraparound frame, a pull-down roll bar, and a triple-lock motion-inhibit function to ensure safe operation. Also making their debut are the electric two-tonne hi-swivel and three-tonne power swivel models, delivering zero-emissions performance with all-day operation powered by lithium-ion batteries. Completing the display is the production version of the nine-tonne Rotator dumper, offering 360° operator visibility through its rotating cab and enhanced safety controls. A cabbed power swivel dumper will also be on show, rounding out Thwaites’ latest line-up of compact machines.

First-time Hillhead exhibitor Veethree Technologies, manufacturers of CANbus displays, gauges, and sensors, will be showcasing a new line of cyber-secure displays ranging from 3in to 12in. Designed with the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) in mind, these displays integrate cybersecurity from the start, reducing compliance work for OEMs. Highlighted products will include the C4.3RT, a compact 4.3in display powered by the Zephyr real-time operating system with secure boot and signed firmware updates, and the D7, a 7in touch-and-tactile display built on Linux and fully compliant with network and data privacy standards. Visitors to the company’s stand can discover the new displays, the current Veethree portfolio, and previews of the upcoming 10in and 12.3in models.

Under the motto ‘You’ll never crush alone’, the Wirtgen Group will showcase their end-to-end solutions for materials processing and road construction at Hillhead 2026, combining innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in one standout display. Some of the Kleemann crushing equipment on show will include the Mobicat MC 110 Evo2 jaw crusher and the all-electric Mobirex MR 100 NEOe impact crusher, while the screening range will be represented by the MSS 502 Evo, MSS 802 Evo, and MSC 702 Evo, all featuring adjustable parameters, high reliability, and dual-power electric drives. For highway construction, Wirtgen will introduce what they claim are the UK’s first modular battery-electric road construction machines – the W 50 Re cold-milling unit, the Super 1300-5e paver, and the HX 70e tandem roller, for fully co-ordinated, zero-emission operation. Also on display will be the Multi Jet burner from Benninghoven, said to be the world’s first asphalt burner compatible with green hydrogen for CO2-free asphalt production.