Our Story

Built on Engineering Excellence

Chieftain was founded by John D Quinn, whose passion for engineering was evident at a very early age. What started with an industrial loader has grown into one of Northern Ireland's leading trailer manufacturers, serving industries across the globe.

Today, Chieftain manufactures over 100 trailer models across multiple sectors: agricultural, commercial, forestry, rail, recycling & waste, fuel solutions and ground support equipment.

Whilst Chieftain is recognised today as one of Northern Ireland's leading trailer manufacturers, it began with one man's passion for engineering and a determination to serve those who work the land.

Early Chieftain orange excavator working on a hillside
1978

The Beginning

Chieftain was founded by John D Quinn, whose passion for engineering was evident at a very early age.

1978
Early Chieftain industrial loader
JDQ excavator working on the bog
Chieftain Industrial Loader in action
1979
Chieftain peat industry excavator
Chieftain early machinery
Chieftain early trailer
1979

Ireland's Peat Industry

Initially John had developed an Industrial Loader, however at a customer's request, he turned his attentions to designing and manufacturing machines for Ireland's peat industry. When the peat industry started to decline, John continued his commitment to developing products for those that built, transformed and cultivated the land.

1985

Back to the Land

In the beginning, Chieftain specialised in the production of tractor drawn low loaders, dump trailers, fuel bowsers, stone carts and block grab attachments.

1985
Early Chieftain fuel bowser
Chieftain early agricultural trailer
Chieftain early dump trailer
1990
Chieftain commercial stepframe low loader
Chieftain early commercial trailer
Chieftain commercial drawbar low loader
1990

Fast Forward

Building on its early success, Chieftain continued to refine its low loader and dump trailer range, and introduced Fast Tow models for higher speed use.

1995

Commercial Expansion

Chieftain then entered the commercial truck drawn market with commercial drawbar low loaders and stepframe low loaders.

1995
Cadzow heavy haulage Scania with Chieftain low loader
Chieftain low loader carrying specialist machinery
2000
Chieftain rail and forestry trailer
2000

Specialist Industries

Chieftain's commitment to Research and Development soon saw the introduction of trailers for Rail, Forestry and other highly specialised industries.

The Future

Innovation is in Our Blood

The story of Chieftain is one of hard work, determination and innovation. At Chieftain, innovation translates customer requirements into new products. Our continued aim is to set the pace for innovation and be the benchmark for success in our industry.

Chieftain XCEL Half-Pipe Dump Trailer

Our Values

The Professional Choice

Chieftain use their knowledge and expertise in the design and manufacture of their product range, making them the professional choice.

Family

As a family-run business, Chieftain realise that pursuing a business opportunity requires bravery. Our experiences have cemented our purpose for helping you face your challenges and become more productive.

Leadership

Chieftain by definition means "Leader of Men". Our highly skilled men and women have many years of experience in the trailer industry. Their attention to detail and commitment to engineering excellence is unmatched.

See Where It Happens

Visit our factory page to learn more about our manufacturing facility in Dungannon, Co. Tyrone.

Our Factory

FIND YOUR CHIEFTAIN.

Get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements.