Spanish focus

UK-based 417 Euro Auctions has announced that the first auction held at its new Spanish site "exceeded all expectations, proving Spain to be the next logical country" in the company's expansion plans. The company has said that the development of a new permanent site in Valencia is part of its European strategy and will help it to better serve customers in Southern Europe.

According to Euro Auctions, the new site will act as a distribution platform for the currently booming markets of northern Africa and the Middle East. The 3.2ha site in the Riba-roja de Turia district of Valencia offers easy access to the main dock areas for loading and shipping.

The company, which claims to be the UK's largest auctioneers of heavy plant and construction equipment, said the December sale attracted 746 lots from 16 sellers and bidders from 32 countries, with internet buyers making up 51.9% of the total sale. Strong interest was seen from Spain, with 48 new bidders previously not seen at auction, and keen interest from Spanish-speaking countries in South America, notably Uruguay, who bought well.