Despite the economic and political uncertainties, 2016 was a good year reports Hyva UK, with the truck market remaining strong.

It says its hookloaders and skiploaders maintained their dominant market shares with combined sales of more than 800 units and sales of tipping cylinders rose significantly to record levels.

And the company says the key to its success was the new and strengthened management team introduced in the spring, enabling wider and closer contact with vehicle operators across the UK.

The products didn't stand still either: significant introductions during the year included the hand-held TRR 'Handy' remote control skiploader operating system and the announcement of Hyva's entry into the truck-based crane market.

2016 also saw Hyva products being specified for bank stock vehicles owned by many of the main chassis manufacturers, including DAF, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Iveco and MAN.

For 2017, Hyva says it expects sales of the new crane range to be prominent. Orders taken for multiple units towards the end of 2016 will be seen on finished vehicles early in the spring. A crane demonstrator vehicle in the shape of an 18t builder's merchant vehicle will also be going on the road shortly.

For skiploaders, the TRR Handy module is now also being introduced for vehicles in the lighter weight ranges below 18t gvw. The company believes such vehicles are principally used in congested residential applications where TRR Handy models can offer improved safety and efficiency.

And the company says it will also develop its HyvaCare aftermarket programme which is aimed at skiploader and hookloader operators.

The company said it expects to increase staff numbers at both its Manchester HQ and among sales and service teams in the field.

Hyva UK managing director Mike Taylor said: 'We will continue to build on our strengths and reinforce our market-leading position. We have some exciting new introductions coming along that will further demonstrate Hyva's excellence in both its products and after-sales support.

'Of particular note, Hyva is now the only manufacturer of hydraulic and truck-based bulk handling equipment to offer the full range of tipping cylinders, skiploaders, hookloaders and cranes. With a unique position, we have a unique opportunity - one that we intend to maximize to the full'