Clements managing director Jim Longstaff said: “Failures elsewhere in our supply chain opened the door, and BTE underlined its excellent reputation by helping us out.”

The Kubota range boasts a unique “anti-theft” system fitted as standard.

The device uses encoded keys to ensure that only authorised drivers can access and operate the vehicle.

Longstaff said: “It might seem a small thing, but the fact that this is a supplier trying to do things for the benefit of its customers is something in Kubota’s favour.

“It’d be easy to have the attitude that, if the machine was stolen, we’d have to buy another – but Kubota want us to get long-term usage, and that’s a really attractive quality in a manufacturer.”

Clements purchased five Kubota machines initially, comprising three 1.5 tonne KX36-3 models and two 2.5 tonne U25-3 machines.

Clements has been so impressed with the performance of the Kubota minis that it has since acquired a fourth KX36-3. Between them, the six models now account for around 25% of Clements’ mini excavator fleet.

Longstaff said: “Overall, this was the best deal, both in terms of machine quality, cost-effectiveness and standard of after-sales service. Their machines tick all the boxes.

“It has been an extremely positive decision to opt for BTE. Subsequently, we’ve bought several other machines from BTE in classes not available from Kubota and they are now a preferred supplier.”

Richard Harrison, Kubota (UK) Ltd – Construction Equipment sales & marketing manager, said: “This deal underlines the importance of providing mini excavator solutions that represents exceptional value for money.

“There must be a balance between the initial purchase and subsequent residual costs, long-term machine performance and reliability, and a robust after-care service and support package.”