The first two North American companies have joined the Open-S Alliance, including the Canadian-based Craig Manufacturing.
In 2020, Rototilt and Steelwrist partnered to launch the alliance, which is an open standard for fully automatic quick couplers. The standard allows machine operators to combine machine couplers, tiltrotators and tools from different manufacturers and be confident that the tools will be compatible with each other.
Craig Manufacturing, which has locations in Cambridge, Ontario, Blackfalds, Alberta and Ethridge, Tennessee, joins the Open-S Alliance as an Associate member. Since its foundation in 1946, Craig Manufacturing has become known for innovative, custom manufactured solutions for construction, forestry, mining and agriculture.
“At Craig, we are focused on working with our partners to unlock the production potential of their machines. As the demand for increased productivity and improved sustainability grows, we believe the right attachment is key to achieving both goals. The Open-S standard provides manufacturers and users with a shared platform that offers the flexibility needed to maximize both production and sustainability in any application,” said Ben Craig, President of Craig Attachments.
“We believe the Open-S standard allows machine owners and contractors the freedom to choose the right tools, which is crucial for the future success of our industry. By promoting this shared platform, users can select from a variety of couplers, tiltrotators and attachments without compromising safety. This freedom of choice benefits manufacturers, dealers, and end users alike.”
Also joining from the North American market is Pacific JCB, a Forklift Services of America Company, and a JCB Construction Equipment and Steelwrist dealer in Seattle and Portland. Pacific JCB offers machine sales, rentals, parts and service. Pacific JCB joins the Open-S Alliance as a Supporting member.
“We warmly welcome the new members who will further strengthen the work to establish an open industry standard for automatic couplers. We believe that this common foundation will encourage innovation and a healthy competition”, said Anders Jonsson, Chairman of the Board of Open-S Alliance.
The idea of a common standard for automatic couplers for excavators continues to gain followers internationally.
In 2024, several companies joined the Open-S Alliance. Wacker Neuson joined the organization in April. As well, Construction Equipment Group AS from Norway and Daedong Engineering from South Korea, recently became members.
“Alliance members will gain advantages by following technical specifications that improve quality and give our dealers greater assurance in selecting equipment from various suppliers without encountering difficulties,” said Tor Kjetilson Moe, Group CEO, Construction Equipment Group AS.
Since Open-S was formally created in October 2020 the number of members has steadily grown to 13 members, including both major OEMs as well as attachments manufacturers.