MSA DEALER CONFERENCE 2018
Manitou Southern Africa held their annual Dealer Conference from 14th February to 16th February 2018 at the Bakubung Bush Lodge, located in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve in South Africa. This year’s conference was a special as we celebrated our 20th anniversary with our valued dealers from across Southern Africa along with some of our MBF colleagues (Laurent Bonnaure, Francois Piffard, Pascal Graff, Laurent Pons, Adil Charki, Wim Roose and Cyril Archambault).
Lindsay Shankland (MSA Managing Director) opened the conference proceedings with a presentation showcasing the growth of Manitou SA over the last 20 years. This was followed by presentations from our MBF colleagues outlining company results, forecasts as well as new and future product launches. The dealers were then given the opportunity to present their dealerships, targets, achievements and forecasts.
The guest speaker at the conference was Retha Neetling, a body language expert who discussed the importance of body language and confidence when closing customer deals and maintaining these customer relationships to foster trust and retention.
As the group of people that nurtured MSA to what it is today, Lindsay Shankland, Francois Piffard and Jannie Smith were each presented with a gift to commemorate the 20-year anniversary.
Machines showcased at the conference included the Gehl AL750 De-bushing spec, TLB 844S and the MLT-X 840. The Gehl AL750 De-bushing spec was put to the test and Dean Vorster (from Dezzo Equipment) did a live demo, removing unwanted bush and trees at Bakubung Bush Lodge.
MSA treated all the delegates to a true African experience for the awards evening, which was held on the 15th February. It began with a two-and-a-half-hour game drive through the bush where many of the Big Five wildlife were spotted. This was followed by a bush “braai” while traditional African dancers entertained the guests.
Dealers expressed their appreciation of being part of the conference and confirmed their commitment to the Manitou product. MSA looks forward to a successful 2018.
Dealers, MSA Staff and MBF colleagues at Bakubung Bush Lodge
Laurent Bonnaure presents 20th anniversary commemorative gifts to Francois Piffard, Jannie Smith and Lindsay Shankland
Traditional African dancers at bush braai