David,
May i suggest that you look around the area to see what plc reps are in the area.
In the states, AB is number one, most students are taught AB,
and that's the way AB wants it.
I'm sure others will disagree, but i have not been able to find another plc rep in my area with a lot of stock, experience, and tech support.
West Tn had (2) reps for the same plc manufacturer in the late 80's, back to back. they did a great job selling their plc's. sold tons of them. when there was a problem, the end users called and got no support. come to find out they packed up, took the money, and ran. both of them.
i know of one company i did a lot of business with that asked who is in the area and how long had they been there. AB was the answer, the location i will not say.
the decision was made right then on a corporate level to go with AB.
since that time, i know of siemens, cuttler hammer, omron, mitsubishi, telemechanique in the area. no stock, no experience, no local tech support.
just my experience.
regards,
james