Kocurek Enjoys NFDC Demolition Day
On Tuesday 12 October, Kocurek Excavators attended the National Federation of Demolition Contractors’ inaugural Demolition Day event that was held at the Britannia International Hotel, London Docklands.
Most of the stand holders arrived at the hotel the evening before to set up their stands. NFDC CEO Howard Button and his daughter Miranda were there to help where needed, and Miranda enjoying the good humoured atmosphere. Demolitionnews.com’s Mark Anthony was also on hand, but when it came to doing any lifting he would suddenly get an urgent text message or phone call that generally lasted as long as the task in hand.
Ron and I caused some jovial comments when we installed our Kocurek flags. But we are too thick-skinned to take any notice of the competition and the flags stayed; although we had to keep a close eye on them to prevent our rivals relocating them on the 27th floor of the hotel. However some practical jokes between JCB, Liebherr and Volvo ensued; with JCB and Liebherr swapping the Volvo brochures for their own on the Volvo stand.
With all the stands in place and Ron asking if he could finally have a pint of Adnams, we all departed for a restaurant found by Alan “Matchett The Hatchett” from Sandvik Mining and Construction just a quick walk across Docklands. Needless to say, Alan was not so quick when it came to paying the bill.
The next morning and the start of the Demolition Day. The weather, apparently, was bright and sunny, or so we were told. The general Idea was for Kocurek to support the day by manning a stand and to promote the NFDC and, in turn, our company not only to demolition contractors but the demolition clients as well.
There were 25 stand holders; most of which were suppliers to demolition contractors in one way or another. It was however noted that no actual demolition contractors manned a stand, which was surprising as some of the delegates wanted to talk informally to the contractors. Throughout the day the conference/seminar had over 200 visitors. It was generally felt the event was a success, and Kocurek certainly has some excellent enquiries to follow up.
Alistair Janson.
Ron Callan (left) and Alistair Janson in front of their contraversial flags.
13th Oct 2010
