As Bailey Trailers’ axle and suspension systems partner, Granning play a key role in delivering the durability and performance our customers expect.
We caught up with Brian Walsh from Granning to talk innovation, collaboration and what goes into building dependable running gear.
Where did it all start?
“It must be about thirty years ago. I used to call into the factory to promote Granning as a potential supplier of axles and suspensions, it was around the time when commercial axles were first being introduced to agricultural machines.
“Michael Bailey was quite happy with his existing supplier. However, rather than leaving it at that, I persevered with my monthly visits, without any success, until one day I suggested to Michael that he tried a set of our axles. A few months after the axles had been delivered, Michael asked me to quote for ten axles and five suspensions, an order was placed and we were up and running.
“I remember Tom Bailey liked our axle because it had an outboard hub and drum that allows you to release the brakes and pull the drum off to access the brake shoes and the inside of the axle. This was one of our unique selling points back then and remains so today. It allows greater space for mounting in the middle of the axle, enables wider suspension centres and in addition makes service and maintenance easier for customers.”
The past 30 years has seen big changes to trailers, how have you had to adapt?
“Bailey has always been one of the market leaders, our relationship means that rather than keeping pace with the market, we’re actually setting the pace. For example, Bailey were the first to fit high speed full commercial axles across their range over 20 tonne. They were also one of the first to offer air suspension, load sensing and ABS braking across their premium range of trailers.
“Suspensions have had to change to match larger loads. Over the years Baileys have been pioneers, first introducing a four-leaf parabolic suspension, followed by the first 100mm wide suspension.
“Safety is always a key factor; Bailey goes to great lengths to ensure the product is safe for operators in the field and on the road. It’s reassuring that Bailey, who are now the outright market leader, has full confidence in choosing Granning for commercial axles and suspension systems.”
So, things are always evolving?
“The market determines what it needs, farmers want more efficient equipment that is easy to maintain and will be durable. There’s constant change in design and engineering at Bailey, I regularly sit with Richard and Michael to discuss what their customers are looking for and how we at Granning can help to support them.”
Tell us a bit about Granning?
“We were originally a trailer builder making commercial trailers. Sourcing a steady supply of axles was difficult, so we bought Granning, which at the time was an American owned company that had moved to Europe to sell axles into the European market.
“Having bought Granning to supply ourselves with axles, we soon realised there was an opportunity to sell axles to the market, there was an obvious demand. We gradually closed the commercial trailer side of the business and focused entirely on axles.
“The legacy experience of building chassis and working within trailer manufacturing is another of our USP’s. We like to think it gives us a bit of an edge over our competitors.”
What’s the special sauce in Granning?
“First and foremost, I would say quality. Our products are precision engineered, built to withstand wear and tear and are easy to maintain. We provide a bespoke engineering and design service, rather than supplying off-the-shelf products.
“We are very proud of the back-up we provide to customers. It might be that someone needs a spare wheelnut or a back plate that has been damaged in transit. No matter what, it’s how you deal with things when something goes wrong that defines you. I’m proud to say that in thirty years we haven’t been subject to any claims from Bailey.”
What do you like about working with the Bailey family?
“The closeness of the family, they’re a very tightly-knit bunch. There are three generations working in the business, I’ve watched them grow up, now they’re working in production, the engineering office, parts department and the sales team.
“It’s a true family business, built on loyalty. That loyalty extends to customers too, which is why so many return to the brand time and again. I’ve met many customers over the years, they wouldn’t use any other trailers.
“As I said earlier, Bailey is now the UK’s largest agricultural trailer manufacturer, we’ve been very lucky to grow with them. I’m glad I stuck at it.”
