Live blog from the CV Show
30 April 2014 
It has been a busy second day at the Commercial Vehicle Show and Workshop 2014, yet while visitors flock to see the latest innovations, we have been able to speak with a number of exhibitors and find out the latest news.
First visit of the day was to friction specialist Lumag, who along with their range of products for the commercial sector, were also presenting their new factory. Based in Poland, the 189,000sq ft facility employs 205 people and features the latest state of the art technology to mix compounds precisely. Lumag is very proud of its investment in the facility, especially as it is keeping the manufacture of its products in Europe.
The GEA stand is always busy, as members are able to come face to face with the team that looks after their benefits. Tonight will see the annual dinner, bringing even more people together for a night of fun, food and entertainment.
Fil Filters may not be exhibiting at the CV Show but I managed to catch up with UK and Ireland Sales & Marketing Director Mike Mongan. Fil Filters has been in the UK for a couple of years, with the Turkish brand keen to increase awareness of the products. Mike explained how the company is looking to build its name over here, which can be a difficult task for a product in a competitive market. The company produces 97% of its products in its Turkish factory, meaning it has complete control of the manufacturing process, while being able to keep costs down.
Hickleys is present and promoting its activities, including its upcoming Simply Diagnostics trade event. Sykes Pickavant are another company with an interactive stand, staff demonstrating the equipment for spring compression and ball joint removal, giving a bit of interactivity to its visitors. Owner Paul Archer commented on the stand’s effectiveness, adding that they will be keeping the concept for upcoming events.<
We’ve just been to see Pichler Tools who demonstrated their wheel bearing installation and removal tools which have been very popular with visitors. Aftermarket reader and previous Top Technician winner, John Tinham was impressed with how it saves time and hassle and has bought the tools at the show – we’ll be getting John to let us know how he gets on with them in our TestBench feature in a couple of issues.
Vehicle launches included the new Euro VI range from Izusu Trucks and the new Renault Master van series.