IMSA Setting a New Standard for Scoop Trams in Mexico

Q: What is the company’s value proposition and what are its priorities for the Mexican market?

A: We are a company with a legacy spanning over 50 years, founded in Torreon, Coahuila. Our primary focus is the installation and sale of high-quality machinery for the mining sector. The company was established in response to a significant need in the 1960s and 1970s, a time when Mexico lacked free trade agreements. Our sister company, FIMSA (Fábrica de Implementos Mineros), specializes in the manufacturing of critical mining equipment, such as conveyor belts, screens, jaw crushers, and cone crushers. IMSA, our company, handles the installation, sales, and full-service support for these products.

In those early years, international products were scarce, and as a result, we made it our mission to develop tailored solutions for the Mexican mining industry. Over the years, as Mexico opened to international trade agreements, we adapted our business model to import foreign products and expanded into the construction sector by supplying machinery for aggregates. Despite these shifts, we have always maintained a strong and unwavering presence in the mining sector.

A pivotal moment occurred in the 1980s, when FIMSA received an invitation to Finland from a manufacturer of Scoop Trams. They wanted FIMSA to distribute their machines in Mexico. However, my family’s vision was more ambitious: we sought to manufacture the equipment locally. Although that opportunity did not come to fruition, it shaped our direction. We are now entering a new chapter. After forging a strategic alliance with a leading Chinese manufacturer, we will officially become distributors of Fambition equipment, further strengthening our position in the mining industry and continuing our legacy of delivering innovative, high-quality solutions to the sector.

Q: Why did the company decide to partner with Fambition?

A: The decision was based on the exceptional quality and reliability of Fambition’s products. We are not just machinery manufacturers and distributors; we are also long-time users. Our family has a deep history in mining, with my grandfather, Enrique Gaitán, having constructed flotation plants across Sinaloa, Zacatecas, Durango, and Sonora. This hands-on experience has given us a thorough understanding of what the mining sector truly needs in equipment.

We have been using Scoop Trams for years, and we trust Fambition because it offers industry-leading machinery. Moreover, we know that in the mining industry, a quality service and aftersales support are vital. This is why we decided to take on that responsibility ourselves.

Fambition’s equipment stands out due to its use of European and American components, assembled in China to strict quality standards. A prime example of the company’s innovation is the FL 25 Scoop Tram, recently unveiled in Shanghai. This powerful machine can load up to 25t in a single scoop, demonstrating both its strength and efficiency.

Q: How is the reception of Fambition’s equipment in the Mexican mining sector?

A: The reception has been overwhelmingly positive. For instance, we were the first to acquire a Fambition FL04 Scoop Tram in early 2021, and after nearly three years of operation, the machine has proven its reliability. This has strengthened our partnership with the brand. We have a partner in Durang, which iis another satisfied customer. The company purchased multiple units from us, including both FL04 and FL07 models. We are already preparing another order for later this year.

We have also received great feedback from contractors working with First Majestic in Tayoltitlan. One of its machines, the larger FL10 model, has performed exceptionally well, meeting the company’s high standards. We back our equipment with strong warranties, and all components, such as the Volvo Penta engines, come with their own international guarantees. This, combined with our local service and support, gives customers confidence not only in the quality of the equipment but also in our commitment to aftersales service.

Q: What would you say sets Fambition apart from other options available in the market?

A: There are several key advantages that distinguish Fambition from other options. First, there is the equipment’s availability. In mining, downtime is costly, so our customers need equipment that can operate 24/7. Fambition guarantees 2,000 hours of operation, during which we provide complete support. Additionally, we offer competitive pricing for top-quality equipment, making Fambition a compelling value proposition.

Another significant advantage is our large inventory of spare parts in Mexico, which ensures quick response times for maintenance. We are also flexible in our sales approach, offering options like leasing, credit sales, and discounts tailored to customer needs.

Finally, we adapt our equipment to meet the specific conditions of each mine. For instance, we have collaborated with miners working in extreme water or temperature conditions that could damage machinery, and we have designed specialized machines with added protection for those environments. We are committed to offering customized solutions that cater to the unique challenges of our clients.

Q: What are your goals for the future and how do you define success for this year?

A: Our primary goal is to firmly establish Fambition as the go-to brand for Scoop Trams in Mexico. We want miners to instantly associate Fambition with Scoop Trams and low-profile trucks. In terms of sales, we aim to distribute a substantial number of FL04, FL07, and FL10 models, and ultimately expand to even larger models, such as the FL14.

We are focused on forging partnerships with major mining companies, and with each passing year, we expect our sales to grow. Our long-term vision is for every Mexican miner to have access to Fambition equipment while continuing to offer top-tier service and support. Success this year will be defined by achieving a significant increase in sales, strengthening our customer relationships, and positioning Fambition as the industry leader in Mexico’s mining sector.