TVH gets sporty
WAREGEM, Belgium
TVH Group's human resource management department is organising fitness tests for all its employees to encourage them to look after their health.

According to TVH, the company's offices are abuzz with discussion about the voluntary fitness test that is taken during working hours.

"People are already working hard to get in better shape and obtain a better figure," TVH spokeswoman Sofie Duquesne says.

"The intention is to repeat the tests in a later phase and in all probability to notice a general improvement of fitness level," she adds. The company is organising sporting activities after the first test to assist employees improve their fitness level.

Mitsubishi reduces hold in Shin Caterpillar Mitsubishi
TOKYO, Japan
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd will reduce its stake in a 44% joint venture (JV) with US construction machinery maker Caterpillar Inc.

According to AFP, Mitsubishi plans to sell 17% of the 50-50 JV to Caterpillar for about USD5 billion.

The JV, Shin Caterpillar Mitsubishi Ltd, was established in 1963. It manufactures and sells hydraulic excavators, wheel loaders and bulldozers.

Konecranes raises stake in Japanese JV
HYVINKÄÄ, Finland
Konecranes has increased its holding from 49% to 65% in Meiden Hoist System Company Ltd, its joint venture with Meidensha Corp of Japan.

The two companies entered into the JV agreement on 6 November 2002. Konecranes, under the agreement, could increase its holding by 16% by 31 March 2008.

Konecranes hopes the increased shareholding will boost its presence in the Japanese hoist market and Japanese export markets. Meiden Hoist System Co Ltd has about 10% of the electric wire rope hoist market in Japan.