As Merlo Group Australia continues to expand its dealership network across the country, so too has it strengthened ties with those which have supported the Italian telehandler manufacturer for years, such as dealer STM Trucks & Machinery (STM).
With more than 50 years of industry experience, offering an extensive range of new and used trucks, top-of-the-line construction equipment, and in-house finance brokerage, STM — whose home base is in the industrial precinct of Smeaton Grange in Western Sydney —is a one-stop shop for businesses looking to purchase, maintain, or upgrade their heavy machinery.
To tell us more about the Merlos, Earthmoving Equipment Magazine caught up with Gino Cassaniti, the operations manager for STM Equipment, the division of STM which deals with telehandlers and access equipment.
“STM Equipment prides itself on providing the best brands and solutions for our customers,” he said.
“Merlo are an obvious fit because they are renowned in the industry and are seen as the leader in their field for technology, comfort, and safety.”
STM first sold Merlos in 2019. Today, anyone walking around the yards or the showroom can view a large Merlo fleet consisting of a diverse range of products including compact, medium capacity, high capacity, stabilised, and rotating telehandlers.
“We even stock specialised Merlo vehicles such as the concrete mixers and tool handler tractors,” Gino said.
“They’re so versatile. They’re not just telehandlers, they can be used as loaders, or with forks, or as elevating work platforms, for example.”
Gino said the machines were loaded with the latest technology, such as Merlo ASCS, which stabilises the front of the telehandler.
“The unique patented computerised ASCS has changed the telescopic machine game,” he said.
“It is just one of the revolutionary features where Merlo has added value to the market.”
The ASCS stands for Adaptative Stability Control System, which uses the company’s patented rated capacity limiter.
Its operating principle is based on three fundamental parameters, measured by means of special sensors: the load being handled; the position of the load, i.e. the distance of the load from the machine; the attachments in use, which are recognised automatically, thus enabling optimisation of the stability calculation and the load diagram.
“The computer can only sense Merlo manufactured attachments and it’s the quality the market has been demanding,” Gino said.
“The Merlo ASCS system is designed to deliver the highest level of safety for the operator, as well the most convenience for simple operation.”
Gino said other attractions of Merlos included having the largest-sized cabins for their classes and standard features such as a boom sideshift.
And perhaps one of the commonalities that has struck a chord with STM is the fact that Merlo, much like STM, is a family-owned enterprise.
Founded in 1964 by Amilcare Merlo in Italy, the company has remained under the leadership of the Merlo family, preserving its core values of quality, craftsmanship, and technological advancement.
The company’s culture is built on trust, innovation, and close relationships with both customers and employees, which is reflected in its high customer loyalty and employee retention rates. It continues to embody the values of a family business, combining a deep heritage with forward-thinking innovation.
They’re pretty much the same principles that STM operates by.
Beyond his operational expertise, STM founder Michael Gerace is known for his strong commitment to building and maintaining relationships with customers, suppliers, and staff.
This focus on personal connections has been a hallmark of STM’s approach, helping the company build a loyal customer base that values trust, reliability, and support.
Gino said STM continuously brought in the latest Merlo models to the showroom, and demand for them is always strong.
“That’s because the machines are so versatile, they are in demand across many industries, such as agriculture, construction, mining, and hire,” he said.
“It’s this versatility that customers are primarily looking for, as well as reliability and advanced safety features.
“They appreciate Merlo’s adaptability across various applications. Additionally, the comfort and ease of operation are key selling points.”
STM Equipment also keeps stock of Merlo genuine parts as a priority.
“We carry out services in our workshop as well as on-site using our field service vehicles,” Gino said.
“We operate a 1000sqm workshop, complete with painting facilities, allowing us to efficiently and safely conduct major repair work on all types of equipment.
“This ensures machinery is maintained to the highest standard.
“Our workshop team consists of highly experienced and trained technicians with specialised knowledge for servicing, repairs, and refurbishments on access equipment of all makes, models, and sizes.”
Gino said one key differentiator is STM Equipment’s capability to perform certified major inspections and refurbishments on access equipment, all of which are subject to strict government regulations.
“Our 10-year major inspections go beyond a simple low-cost re-compliance; they involve a thorough strip-down and refurbishment to meet the rigorous requirements of Australian Standard AS2550.10, resulting in a ‘showroom finish’ for equipment,” he said.
Additionally, STM Equipment has expanded its product range to include forklifts, rollers, loaders, and graders, further supporting the diverse needs of the industry.
“Choosing STM for truck and machinery needs means partnering with a company that understands the requirements and provides solutions tailored to customer needs,” Gino said.
“The long-standing relationships with a multitude of satisfied clients are proof of the company’s commitment to quality and reliability.
“STM treats each client as a partner, understanding their unique needs and offering custom solutions that enhance their business efficiency.”
With such efficient service guaranteed, STM ensures that not only is the full line-up of Merlo offering available, but that the equipment will operate at maximum efficiency without any problems.