Wisconsin-based Dawes Crane and Rigging has been named the first Potain self-erecting crane dealer in the state. Dawes, which sells and rents equipment, previously sold and leased Potain products before securing the dealership contract recently.

Dawes held open houses to introduce the product at its Milwaukee, Chippewa Falls, Madison and Kaukauna branches.

“We wanted to become a Potain dealer because the products have yet to be widely introduced in the U.S. and we want to be pioneering in this respect,” said Dawes sales director Mike Wood. “Most of our customers are involved in building smaller construction projects; mini-malls, condos, and apartment blocks. Feedback has indicated that self-erectors are ideal for such work, particularly in downtown areas.”

Waukesha-based contractor, Fred Kinateder Masonry, plans to use the crane to erect a seven-story structure in Milwaukee that will house 30 condominiums overlooking Lake Michigan.