Oakleaf Forestry recently completed phase one of a bespoke timber haulage upgrade for Norman Hall of Hall Transport, Co. Longford, with a strong focus on a professional installation, clear communication and a fast turnaround.

Norman has been in business since 1997 and now runs a fleet of 44 trucks, with timber haulage remaining at the heart of the Hall Transport operation. The fleet is predominantly Volvo, with Norman’s preference for the brand continuing through this 2026 Volvo FH Globetrotter.

Volvo arriving at Oakleaf Forestry – ready for phase 1 upgrade!

When Norman approached Oakleaf Forestry, the brief was clear. He needed a practical, professional upgrade that could be completed within a realistic timeframe, allowing the lorry to get back on the road and back to work.

With the Volvo in the Oakleaf yard for just one week, our team turned around phase one of the build, installing:

• KESLA 2210 crane
• KESLA ProG40 grapple
• Steelyard Peson weigher
• Bespoke designed and fabricated mounting frame for the oil cooler

The project brought together Oakleaf’s forestry machinery knowledge, fabrication capability and practical understanding of what timber haulage operators need from their equipment.

Norman commented on the service throughout the project, saying:

Great communication from Joe from start to finish. With a project like this, you’re always going to come up against obstacles as there are many moving parts, but Joe delivered on realistic deadlines.

As Norman is a busy operator with a fleet to keep moving, the Volvo has now returned to Longford and will come back to Oakleaf Forestry shortly for phase two. This will include the installation of the weigher screen and weather hood once they arrive.

Steelyard Peson weigher installed and tested by Oakleaf Forestry’s Production Engineer, Cormac

This build is a strong example of what Oakleaf Forestry can offer customers who need more than an off-the-shelf solution. From crane installation and weighing systems to bespoke fabrication and phased project delivery, the focus remains the same – building around the job and delivering around the customer.

The bespoke designed and fabricated oil cooler unit installed on the Volvo

Have an upgrade in mind? Let’s talk through what’s possible 028 38 330011

Stay tuned for phase 2!

Helpful links:

• Kesla 2210 crane
• Kesla ProG40 grapple
• Steelyard Peson

Introducing the new KESLA F-Series forwarder crane range – a new generation of forestry cranes developed to bring together strong lifting performance, smooth controllability and flexible configuration options for some of the most common forwarder classes.

The launch includes the KESLA 9F and 9FT, alongside the larger 10F/FT, 12F/FT and 14F/FT models. Developed as a complete crane family, the F-Series has been designed around the practical requirements of modern forestry work, where reliability, operator confidence and efficient day-to-day operation all matter.

KESLA has developed the F-Series with performance and precision at its core. The new range offers strong lifting torque, smooth power delivery and predictable crane movements throughout the working range.

The cranes are available in two reach options. The F-version provides a single extension with an 8.2 metre reach, while the double-extension FT-version offers a 10.07 metre reach. This allows the range to be configured around different machine builds, working environments and reach requirements.

The 9F and 9FT sit within the new range as a practical option for common forwarder applications, offering the strength, working reach and control needed for professional timber handling.

Designed around real forestry work

One of the strongest aspects of the new F-Series is the attention given to controllability. Smooth, predictable crane movement can make a real difference during a long working day, supporting accurate loading, reduced unnecessary movement and a more confident operator experience.

KESLA has also focused on crane geometry, with boom dimensions designed to support efficient operation while minimising excess crane movement. Combined with strong swing torque and a durable structure, the F-Series has been developed to perform consistently in demanding forestry conditions.

The range has been extensively tested across different markets, applications and base machines, with user feedback helping to shape the final product.

Built with flexibility and support in mind

The modular structure of the F-Series allows for a range of configuration options, including different pillar heights and link options. This helps make integration with different forwarders and applications more straightforward, while also supporting efficient spare parts management and long-term product support.

Maintenance and serviceability have also been considered throughout the design. Proven hydraulic solutions, carefully selected components and patented internal hose routing within the extension boom all contribute to a crane range designed with working life and practical upkeep in mind.

Available through Oakleaf Forestry

The arrival of the new F-Series gives customers another strong option when considering a forwarder crane solution that combines reach, lifting performance and smooth operator control.

The KESLA 9F and wider F-Series forwarder crane range are now available to discuss with the Oakleaf Forestry team. Get in touch with us to talk through your requirements and find the crane solution that best fits your operation.

Useful Links:

• Kesla Products
• Kesla’s Press Release

Following our recent announcement that Oakleaf Forestry successfully maintained its ISO accreditation, we are pleased to share a further update following receipt of the detailed reassessment report.

The report confirms an extremely positive outcome for Oakleaf Forestry Ltd, with auditors recommending full recertification across ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001, with no corrective actions required.

The three-day audit, carried out in March 2026 by Auva Certification Ltd, reviewed key areas of the business, including fabrication operations, forestry equipment sales, environmental management, health and safety systems, training, leadership and operational controls.

Our facility reflects the standards behind our everyday operations

While maintaining certification is an important achievement in itself, the findings within the final report provide further recognition of the standards, systems and working practices in place across the business.

The outcome reflects Oakleaf Forestry’s continued commitment to quality management, environmental responsibility and safe working conditions – not just as a requirement of certification, but as part of everyday operations.

Precision in action on the workshop floor

For our customers, suppliers and partners, this provides added confidence that Oakleaf Forestry continues to operate to recognised international standards across quality, environmental and health and safety management.

As the company continues to develop its services, facilities and partnerships, Oakleaf Forestry remains focused on maintaining the same high standards across every area of the business. From specialist forestry machinery and timber transport solutions to fabrication, servicing and customer support, our approach is built around knowledge, reliability and long-term trust.

We will continue to share company updates, project highlights, product information and behind-the-scenes news across our website and social media channels. To keep up to date with the latest from Oakleaf Forestry, including machinery news, workshop updates, industry insights and upcoming events, follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Built to Standard. Proven in Practice.

Links:

• Auva Certification (ISO reassessment report body)

Another incredible achievement from the world-leading manufacturer of light machines for forest thinning – Vimek.

Vimek has reached an important milestone with the delivery of its 100th 870 machine – a significant moment for the brand and a clear reflection of the growing demand for compact, professional forestry machinery.

The Vimek 870 forms part of Vimek’s Next Generation range and represents a major step forward in the development of modern forestry machines. First sketched out in 2014, the 870 was created with the aim of delivering a competitive, professional machine suited to today’s forestry requirements. Following years of development, testing and refinement, the first serial production machine was delivered in January 2022. Since then, production has continued to grow, with 100 Vimek 870 machines now manufactured and delivered.

Developed for Modern, Professional Forestry

The Vimek 870 represents a clear technological shift for Vimek and has been developed to meet today’s demands in thinning operations and forestry in sensitive environments.

The machine combines Vimek’s traditional strengths – agility, low weight and excellent terrain accessibility – with modern solutions for increased productivity and enhanced operator comfort. Its compact design enables efficient operation in dense forests and on terrain where larger machines face limitations, while still delivering the performance required by professional contractors.

The operator environment is designed with a focus on ergonomics, visibility, and control, contributing to both higher efficiency and an improved working day.

The Beginning of a New Era – Next Generation

For Vimek, the Next Generation project – with the 870 model at the forefront – represents more than just a new product. It marks a clear step toward a more professional offering and a new strategic direction for the company.

The platform enables the development of multiple machine configurations, such as 4-, 6-, or 8-wheel machines, including both harvesters and forwarders. Through a modular system, many technical solutions are shared across models, creating efficiency in development, production, and service.

“This is an important step for us, but also proof that we are on the right track. The Vimek 870 represents something new in our offering,” says Johannes Nilsson, CEO.”

A Strong Start – and Just the Beginning

Reaching 100 produced machines in a relatively short time demonstrates strong market demand.

“We see this as the beginning of something bigger. This is just the starting point of our continued journey,” Nilsson adds.

To speak to our team about Vimek machinery, contact us today.
UK: +44 (0) 28 38 330011
ROI: +353 1 531 4435
Email: info@oakleafforestry.com

Links:

• • Explore the Vimek range available from Oakleaf Forestry

Vimek Range Gains Further Attention as Demand Grows for Compact Forestry Machinery.

Across the forestry industry, the shift towards lighter, lower-impact machinery continues to gain momentum. For contractors, woodland owners and forestry professionals, the focus is no longer simply on output – it is also about ground protection, access, manoeuvrability and choosing machinery that works with the site rather than against it.

That is exactly where the Vimek range continues to stand out.

Available from Oakleaf Forestry, Vimek machines are designed for professional thinning, harvesting and forwarding operations where compact size, strength and site sensitivity all matter. The range includes lightweight harvesters and forwarders built to perform in first and second thinnings, smaller woodlands, tighter plantations and more environmentally sensitive forestry settings. Oakleaf Forestry’s Vimek range currently includes models such as the Vimek 870.2 Forwarder, 470 4WD Harvester, 470 6WD Harvester, 610SE Forwarder and 606TTW Forwarder.

Recent industry discussion from Skogsforum has further highlighted the strength of the Vimek 870. In its Q1 2026 overview of the Swedish forwarder market, Skogsforum reported that the Vimek 870 was Sweden’s second most registered forwarder model, sitting behind the John Deere 1510G. The article also noted that the Vimek 870 has become increasingly popular, reflecting wider interest in smaller, capable machines within modern thinning operations.

Number of registered forwarders per manufacturer in Q1 2026 compared to Q1 2025 and market shares. Source: Analysis by Skogsforum.se with data from the Swedish Transport Agency

The same report pointed to a broader trend in parts of Sweden, particularly Götaland, where average forwarder load size has reduced in recent years. Skogsforum reported that the average forwarder load weight in Götaland has moved from 12.2 tonnes in 2023 to 9.1 tonnes in Q1 2026, suggesting a clear move towards smaller machinery in certain thinning applications.

For forestry professionals across the UK and Ireland, this reflects a conversation that is becoming increasingly important: how do we maintain productivity while protecting the ground, improving access and supporting long-term crop quality?

At Oakleaf Forestry, our focus is on supplying machinery that fits the conditions, the site and the way operators actually work. The Vimek range supports that approach – compact, capable machines designed for real forestry environments, backed by practical advice, finance support and aftercare from our team.

Whether you are working in first thinning, managing tighter woodland access, or looking for a lower-impact forwarder or harvester, the Vimek range offers a strong solution for modern forestry.

To speak to our team about Vimek machinery, contact Oakleaf Forestry today.
UK: +44 (0) 28 38 330011
ROI: +353 1 531 4435
Email: info@oakleafforestry.com

Links:

• Explore the Vimek range available from Oakleaf Forestry
• Read the Skogsforum market discussion

A busy and productive month was had, here at Oakleaf Forestry, with plenty happening both on-site and out in the field.

We had a great few days attending the Road Transport Exhibition (RTX Show) in Lisburn, connecting with others across the industry and showcasing what Oakleaf has to offer. Events like these are always a valuable opportunity to meet customers, partners and new faces within the forestry and machinery sector.

Kings of The Road even stopped by for an interview with the team

BACK AT HQ…

We’ve been continuing to grow the team, launching a recruitment campaign for welders, fabricators and plasma operators as we expand our operations. It’s an exciting step as we move forward in the next phase of our journey.

Brand Spotlight

April also marked the beginning of a new brand spotlight campaign, where we’ll be taking a closer look at the machinery and manufacturers we work with. We kicked things off with HYPRO AB, highlighting their range of high-performance machines and reinforcing our position as a trusted dealer across the UK & Ireland.

Click the image above to view the HYPRO Spotlight Campaign

On Earth Day, we were proud to share that Oakleaf Forestry is now powered by 100% renewable electricity – a step that reflects our commitment to reducing environmental impact while continuing to support the forestry industry. table.

Verified through Captured Carbon Limited and Go Power, helping us reduce our environmental impact while continuing to support the forestry industry across the UK & Ireland

It’s been a strong month across the business, and we’re grateful to everyone we’ve worked with along the way.

Links:

• HYPRO AB
• Kings of the Road
• Captured Carbon Limited
• Go Power
• Powered by 100% Renewable Energy Certificate
• Recruitment Campaign

Over the past two days, the Oakleaf team attended the Road Transport Expo at the Eikon Exhibition Centre, with a clear focus: connecting with the right people and continuing to build strong relationships across the forestry and transport sectors.

While we were there to network, it was a proud moment to see one of our recent bespoke timber transport builds on display among the Scania lineup – featuring machinery we supply and install as trusted dealers for Alucar Oy, STEELYARD PESON and Kesla Oyj.

Kesla Crane on display

McMorrow Haulage Lorry

Steelyard Peson Weighing System

It was fantastic to be joined by the McMorrow family, who were delighted to see their lorry taking centre stage.

Across both days, we had the opportunity to meet new contacts and have meaningful conversations with others who share the same work ethic and commitment to quality.  A highlight was spending time with the team at Kings of the Road Ireland, where we had the pleasure of giving a short interview – sharing more about what we do at Oakleaf and our passion for the forestry sector.

The weather certainly played its part – day one brought the usual mix of rain and wind, while day two delivered sunshine and strong crowds, creating a great atmosphere across the show.

All in all, it was a valuable couple of days away from the office – building genuine connections, gaining insight into the wider industry, and seeing firsthand the innovation and effort others are bringing to the table.

Useful Links:

• Alucar
• STEELYARD PESON
• Kesla
• Flowtech
• McMorrow Haulage
• Kings of the Road Ireland

Oakleaf Forestry is continuing to strengthen its position in the timber transport sector, now working as a UK and Ireland distributor and approved installer for Alucar, alongside introducing onboard weighing solutions from Steelyard Peson.

These partnerships represent a clear step forward in how Oakleaf delivers complete, high-performance forestry transport solutions – working with manufacturers recognised for quality, innovation, and reliability in real working environments.

Strengthening Timber Transport with Premium Partners

Alucar are specialists in lightweight aluminium timber bodies, manufactured in Finland to some of the highest standards in the industry. Designed to maximise payload without compromising strength or durability, Alucar bodies are built for efficiency in demanding forestry applications.

Bringing Alucar into the Oakleaf offering allows for the delivery of robust, fully engineered timber transport builds, optimised from the ground up. At the same time, integrating Steelyard Peson’s wireless weighing system – purpose-built for forestry and backed by years of specialist expertise – ensures operators have full confidence in every load. Accurate, real-time measurement supports both compliance and efficiency, allowing each load to be maximised safely.

A Timber Transport Build Designed Around Real Requirements

These partnerships were brought together in a recent build completed for McMorrow Haulage, Leitrim based.
The requirement was clear: a machine capable of consistent performance, precision handling and long-term reliability in demanding forestry conditions.  In February 2026, a new Scania S560 arrived at Oakleaf HQ from Cawley’s, where the full build was designed and delivered in collaboration with the customer and key partners.

Full Specification Built for Performance

The final build reflects a complete, high-performance timber transport solution:
• Alucar lightweight timber body with full protection package
• 220L hydraulic system with thermostatic cooling
• Parker load-sensing pump
• Kesla 2212sT crane with ProPilot controls
• Steelyard Peson wireless weighing system
• ExTe bunks and bars
Each component was selected to ensure the machine performs reliably in real working conditions, while maximising payload and maintaining compliance.

Built for Real-World Forestry Work

With over a decade of experience working with Kesla, and a continued focus on partnering with leading manufacturers, Oakleaf Forestry is positioned to deliver complete, engineered forestry solutions.

The addition of Alucar and Steelyard Peson strengthens this offering further – enabling Oakleaf to provide fully integrated timber transport systems that are built to perform where it matters most.
This build represents more than a single project. It reflects how Oakleaf Forestry approaches every job – combining proven equipment, strong partnerships, and practical experience to deliver machinery that works as it should, day in and day out.

Useful Links:

• Alucar
• STEELYARD PESON
• Kesla
• Flowtech
• McMorrow Haulage

Oakleaf Forestry is pleased to be attending the South West College GET Engineering Careers Fair this Saturday 28th March from 9:30am – 12:30pm, supporting an event that brings together students, educators, and employers from across the engineering sector.

The careers fair provides an excellent platform to engage with those considering a future in engineering, offering insight into the wide range of opportunities available within the industry. It also highlights the importance of developing practical skills, technical knowledge, and career pathways that support long-term growth.

Attending events such as this allows the team to contribute to conversations around future talent, while sharing real-world experience of working within this specialist sector.

The team looks forward to meeting attendees on the day, discussing the work carried out at Oakleaf Forestry, the brands we work with and offering guidance to those exploring a career in engineering.

At Oakleaf Forestry, we’ve always taken pride in the quality of our work – from fabrication through to the supply of specialist forestry equipment.  Achieving ISO certification formalises what has long been part of our day-to-day operations:

• Structured and consistent fabrication processes

• A strong focus on safety across the workshop and wider operations

• A commitment to reducing environmental impact

• Continuous improvement across all areas of the business

Maintaining our ISO accreditations is something we take seriously as a business – it’s not about a one-off achievement, it’s about how we operate every day.

These standards reflect the way we work across quality, safety and environmental responsibility, and that includes the steps we’ve taken as a business to move towards more sustainable practices, such as our investment in renewable energy.

It’s all part of building a business that’s not only reliable for our customers, but responsible in how we grow.

– Joe Litter, Founder and Director at Oakleaf Forestry

Looking ahead, we remain committed to maintaining these standards and continuing to deliver quality and reliability across everything we do – supporting our customers, our team, and the industry as a whole.