by Harry Hunter | Mon 24 Aug 2026
G&J Bircham purchase two new Hyundai minis
Norfolk groundworks contractor G&J Bircham has added two Hyundai HX25Az mini excavators to its fleet, with the 2.6-tonne machines primarily destined for housebuilding projects across the region.
The HX25Az is the largest model in Hyundai’s compact range that can be easily transported behind a light commercial vehicle or pick-up, giving G&J Bircham the flexibility to move the machines between sites without relying on specialist transport.
“We’ve been replacing older equipment from another supplier and pretty much all of our excavators are Hyundai now,” said Director Gavin Bircham.
“The HX25Az is just an ideal size. We can move them about ourselves on a trailer. The Hyundais are very reliable machines and the operators really like them, particularly the big, comfortable cabs.”
The company already operates five Hyundai HX85A 8.5-tonne excavators and two 13-tonne machines. Supplied by East Anglian compact equipment dealer Tobin Plant, the latest arrivals are equipped with Strickland hydraulic quick hitches and a selection of buckets. They are also covered by Hyundai’s three-year warranty.
“We’ve known Simon Tobin for years,” said Mr Bircham. “Tobin will be providing service while the machines are under warranty, and we have our own fitters for after the warranty period.”
Founded in 1970 by Gavin Bircham’s father and uncle, G&J Bircham remains a family-owned business, with Gavin joining the company in 1996. His mother and sisters are also involved in its operation. The company employs around 26 people and undertakes groundworks for housebuilders, local contractors and highways projects across Norfolk and Suffolk.
“We complete everything up to damp proof, including roads, sewers, foundations, domestic drainage, slab paths and patios,” said Mr Bircham.
Powered by a Stage V diesel engine producing 18.5kW (24.8hp) and 81.4Nm of peak torque, the HX25Az uses tandem variable displacement piston pumps to deliver a maximum flow of 28.2 litres/min each. Its zero-tailswing design and choice of dipper arms provide a maximum digging depth of just over 2.5m.
The compact excavator also features a spacious cab, all-round visibility, a 5in full-colour monitor, auto-shift travel speeds and proportional joysticks. Safety equipment includes an automatic safety lock, overload warning system and safety valves on the boom, arm and dozer cylinders, while attachment hoses are routed through the boom structure for protection.
“They are good quality machines and we have put them both straight to work,” said Mr Bircham. “We are busy at the moment, with three active sites across Norfolk and Suffolk.”
Simon Tobin of Tobin Plant added: “Tobin Plant would like to thank Gavin and the team at G&J Bircham for their valued order of the two HX25Az machines and we look forward to working with them in the future.”
Subscribe to Earthmovers magazine NOW - 3 issues for just £3 - CLICK HERE