For crane owners, the real value of a machine extends beyond its lifting strength – it’s about how quickly and efficiently it can be added to the fleet to keep projects moving on time. That’s where the partnership between DLL and Tadano stands out.
By combining the latest crane technology with financing tailored to the industry, they’re giving Australian businesses a smarter, faster path to growth without tying up capital in large upfront investments.
Tadano is one of the world’s leading crane manufacturers, with factories in Japan, Germany and the United States. The company has steadily grown its footprint in Australia, particularly since acquiring the Demag brand, which doubled its scale both locally and globally.
Jason Perry, Tadano’s Sales Manager for Queensland, Northern Territory and Papua New Guinea, has seen the industry change dramatically in his nine years with the company.
“Ten years ago, the crane industry in Australia was relatively small, with only a handful of major owners,” Jason said. “Today, there are far more players in the market, and Tadano’s global market share has grown, not only because of the company’s efforts in introducing new product offerings but the overall expansion of the industry. The importance of having reliable and efficient finance solutions has never been more vital to achieving success in today’s market.”
DLL, meanwhile, brings more than 60 years of asset financing experience. A wholly owned subsidiary of Rabobank, DLL operates in over 20 countries, supporting industries from construction to agriculture.
“DLL is a global asset financing partner,” said Brendon Mayo, Account Manager for Construction at DLL. “We partner with vendors and customers to support them on their financing journey. In Australia, we’ve made significant investments in the crane and construction industries and integrate closely with Tadano’s sales team to support their customers’ financing needs.”
A win-win situation for the customer
For many crane owners, the high upfront cost of equipment is a major barrier. That’s why the partnership between Tadano and DLL is so significant.
DLL’s role is to arrange flexible financing terms for qualified Tadano customers, helping them achieve productivity and profitability goals while managing operational costs.
Brendon explained why this flexibility matters. “Every deal is different. We take a bespoke approach to financing, putting the customer at the centre of the partnership. It’s not just DLL and Tadano – the customer is the third part of that relationship. By understanding how the crane will be deployed, the contract terms, and the business’s cash flow, we can structure financing that works from day one.”
This often means going beyond traditional models. DLL offers everything from operating leases, which can reduce risk on project-based acquisitions, to standard equipment loans with tailored repayment structures.
“One example is when we assisted a customer who had won a contract with significant start-up costs and delayed payment terms,” Brendon said. “We matched the cash flows of their project so the crane was cash-flow positive from day one. That kind of flexibility gives businesses confidence that their investment will perform.”
Fast financing, real results
Financing is only valuable if it moves at the pace of the industry. When financing through conventional pillar banks, crane owners often face delays and that can mean losing business opportunities.
Jason said that this is where DLL stands out: “The biggest thing is responsiveness. Brendon and the team are quick to get back to us, and that matters because when a crane buyer is ready, they want answers fast. From the first conversation, DLL gives us confidence about what’s possible and how far we can go.”
Supporting businesses through cycles
The crane industry is cyclical, shaped by construction activity, commodity prices, and infrastructure investment. Costs have risen significantly in recent years, putting pressure on smaller operators.
Brendon believes DLL’s long-term approach is what sets it apart. “We’ve worked with some vendors for more than 20 years, through multiple up and down cycles. Where other funders might tighten their belts in tough times, we see opportunities,” he said.
“We take a longer view, which helps our partners and customers keep growing even when conditions are challenging.”
That outlook is particularly important now. While the industry has faced some headwinds, Brendon sees positive signs ahead. “We’re coming out of a downward cycle, and that’s when opportunities present themselves. The partnership with Tadano helps customers take advantage of those opportunities when they arise,” he said.
Options beyond the banks
Another strength of DLL’s approach is its industry knowledge. Traditional banks may not always understand the unique nature of cranes as assets.
“Cranes aren’t like other equipment,” Jason said. “They’re complex, they hold their value differently, and the market operates in a unique way. DLL understands that which means they can offer solutions that banks often won’t. For our customers, that means more options and a better chance of securing finance when they need it.”
Expanding beyond cranes
The partnership isn’t limited to mobile cranes. As Tadano has expanded into aerial work platforms and truck-mounted solutions through acquisitions, DLL’s financing covers these products as well.
“Our access equipment portfolio is already a significant part of our business in Australia,” Brendon said. “Partnering with Tadano on these products means we can bring more options to our existing customer base. It’s going to be a big positive for both companies.”
Building confidence in the future
For Brendon, the value lies in being part of the customer’s long-term journey. “Financing is not just about getting a crane delivered. It’s about helping businesses manage risk, stay cash-flow positive, and grow sustainably. That’s what we’re here to do,” Brendon said.
By combining Tadano’s global expertise in lifting technology with DLL’s flexible financing solutions, the partnership is helping crane owners access the machines they need without compromising their balance sheets.
As Jason summed up: “At the end of the day, it’s all about giving our customers options. With DLL, we can do that – and that’s good for everyone in the industry.”