The search for Europe’s ultimate operator is on

Operators take centre stage in the LANDCROS European Operator Challenge

The most advanced operator skills and reliable orange machines will be in the spotlight at the inaugural LANDCROS European Operator Challenge. Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) is hosting the grand final of the competition on 10-11 September, following ten qualifying rounds hosted by leading European dealers between May and June.

The contest combines real-life operating conditions with fun, engaging elements that will demonstrate the true extent of operators’ capabilities. Tasks are inspired by regular job-site activities, and include skill-based exercises to test control, precision and overall handling of the machine.

Real skills, real machines, real competition

Participants can choose to compete activities on the ZX95USB-7 compact or the ZX210-7 medium excavators, and the ZW250/ZW310-7 wheel loaders. Between 12-16 operators are expected to attend each of the national events.

The first will be held by Spanish dealer HJM on 30 May, followed by HCM UK on 6 June and Swiss dealer Probst Maveg on 8-9 June. HCM Netherlands, HCM France, Luyckx in Belgium and SCAI in Italy will host their events later that month, and Moviter in Portugal, and SIA Alwark in Latvia and Lithuania complete the line-up.

The winners of the national heats will compete for the title of LANDCROS European Operator Champion at the final at HCME headquarters in Amsterdam. The overall winner will receive an exclusive trip for two to Japan, and the top three contestants will be invited to showcase their skills as brand ambassadors at the LANDCROS outdoor demonstration area at Intermat Paris 2027.

The Reliable Orange

“The LANDCROS European Operator Challenge is an opportunity to celebrate the expertise of our talented operator community and the performance of some of our most popular reliable orange machines,” says HCME Director Marketing & Brand Communication Laura Hendriks

“With the support of our dealers, we are proud to launch the first LANDCROS event ahead of the Hitachi brand’s transition next April. We look forward to connecting with our customers and operators during this fun and engaging process, and crowning our champion for 2026. Let the battle begin!”