A closer look at Link-Belt CraneFest: new product demos and milestone celebrations

Distributors, customers and Link-Belt employees alike convened at the company’s headquarters. Photo: Link-Belt

The Kentucky heat can be intense, wrapping around you like a thick, humid blanket. As soon as I stepped off the plane at the Louisville International Airport, I was met by the infamous September warmth. But just palpable, was the excitement surrounding the 2024 Link-Belt CraneFest held at the company’s headquarters in Lexington, KY.

A whirlwind of innovation and camaraderie, I had the privilege of experiencing the event along with more than 1,000 attendees staggered throughout the week— including distributors, customers and Link-Belt employees — filled with learning, connection and celebration as the company also commemorated 150 years in business. But the star attractions of the event? Two highly anticipated product launches: the 65-ton (60-metric ton) 65|RT rough terrain crane and the all-new 225-ton (220-metric ton) 225|AT all-terrain crane. ACT reported exclusively on these launches in our October issue.

The 225-US ton capacity all-terrain crane is the third AT in the company’s range of 5-axle ATs. Photo: Link-Belt

CraneFest 2024 began with infamous southern hospitality at Fasig Tipton, one of North America’s oldest thoroughbred auction houses. Here, Link-Belt hosted a reception and live auction for attendees as four sets of exclusive crane scale models were auctioned off at each session, raising a remarkable $61,000 for various charities of the winner’s choosing. Attendees were also gifted a personalized bottle of none other than Kentucky bourbon to commemorate the event.

The following morning, we headed to Link-Belt’s campus, where the true heart of their operations was on display. I was treated to a tour of the facilities and got a close look at their recent capital improvements, including a formed boom fixture and a new table milling and boring machine for lattice boom production.

However, the highlight of CraneFest was the live demonstration of Link-Belt’s product lineup. With 28 models on display, attendees had the chance to inspect each crane, engage with the team and see the machines in action. It was a powerful sight, and one that Senior Vice President of Marketing, Sales, and Customer Support Bill Stramer captured perfectly.

More than 1,000 attendees— including distributors, customers and Link-Belt employees— toured the company’s facility. Photo: Link-Belt

“CraneFest is an opportunity to get up close and personal with Link-Belt. You erect a temporary booth at Bauma and ConExpo — and those are great events — but you really learn the most about a manufacturer when you see it in action. We talk about continuous improvement a lot, but Link-Belt never sits still. You walk through our facility today — You see the evolution of our processes. Simple, common-sense things like assembly or how we store and house parts, investment in new tooling and elimination of waste.”

Beyond the impressive equipment, CraneFest was a celebration of everyone who makes it possible — from customers to employees. As Director of Production Mike Clevenger put it, “CraneFest is a chance for everyone in the company to celebrate what we do here.”

Watching the pride on employees’ faces and the excitement of attendees during the live demo made this sentiment clear. In the end, CraneFest 2024 wasn’t just about showcasing cranes; it was about honoring the spirit of innovation and connection that continues to drive Link-Belt forward.