FORKLIFT SUPPLEMENT
HOW TO GIVE YOUR FACTORY A LIFT
A PHOENIX FROM THE ASHES D
URING the recession, many manufacturers cut capital expenditure and warehouse stock levels. The forklift truck market in the UK was hit hard with fewer overall materials to handle. Since falling to its lowest point two years ago, sales have recovered strongly as UK companies have come out of this recession with a high level of optimism. Economists at the manufacturers’ organisation EEF have commented that a rebound in investment has occurred after just one and a half years, whereas in the past, it has taken three years until business regained the confidence to start investing after a recession. After being in a hard place, the forklift truck industry has, and still is, pushing back the rock. Since December 2009, the industry has bounced back strongly with a 48% increase in unit orders to recover 60% of its recessionary losses. According to the latest figures from the British Industrial Truck Association (BITA), year-onyear sales orders for trucks increased by 20% in 2011, rising by 4,300 units to 26,100. Engine counterbalance trucks led the comeback and accounted for more than a third of all orders, as 8,800 were purchased in 2011 – 26% more than in 2010. Powered pallet trucks were the strongest category with sales accelerating by 50% in 2011. This growth was driven chiefly by significant orders from the automotive and road haulage industries, as well as the supply chain to the construction industry. Not every type of forklift truck saw a growth in unit orders last year. Fewer reach trucks, low-level order pickers and narrowaisle trucks were ordered in 2011 compared to 2010, but Simon Brown, managing director at articulated forklift truck manufacturer Bendi Translift, argues that this sub-sector didn’t take the large hit that affected the rest of the market back in 2008 and remains steady (p12). With its customers looking to get more return on their investment, Steve Richmond, director at Jungheinrich, explains how the industry is responding to this – other changes to customer behaviour (p5).
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There is a trend for companies to sell into long-term propositions that include the service cost to deliver a ‘total life cost’ of a product. This has been highlighted right across this edition of TM and is no different in the forklift truck industry, with a feature on Toyota Material Handling discussing this new financial model (p10). Many industries hit by a 60% decline in sales in one the world’s biggest economies would have struggled and certainly cut back on investments, but the forklift truck industry was able to ride out the pain.. The economic downturn was unique in that Workforce – 45% of senior strong growth opportunities managers at British forklift in nations with burgeoning truck companies started populations led to a shift in the their careers as engineering economic landscape, as BRIC apprentices countries began to accommodate Sales – Year-on-year sales more and more millionaires. orders for trucks increased This is one reason why 20% in 2011 the most recent recession is different to those that have Safety – Fatal forklift gone before, as investment in accidents have fallen 69% new products has remained since 2008 relatively high throughout. The Point of interest – National Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) Fork Lift Safety Week 2011 runs Awards last month celebrated from 19 – 25 September 2012 the environmental, safety and productivity innovations from (statistics obtained from BITA within the market (p3), but and FLTA) the organisation’s warning on 22 March that over 1.2 million workers in the UK could be at risk of a serious accident because of inadequate training to work near fork lift trucks emphasises the contribution that manufacturers need to make to improve safety. Innovation around safety means that a new forklift truck may not only improve site productivity, but also improve the health of your employees. Since 2008, fatal fork lift accidents have fallen by 69%, but trucks are still involved in more major workplace accidents than cars and HGVs combined with 369 hospitalisations last year. Greater collaboration between buyer and seller emerging from service-included contracts could help to improve this further.
INDUSTRY STATISTICS:
Tom Moore, Reporter at The Manufacturer
Simply the best! THE WINNERS APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
SPONSORED BY: Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks
Daniel Mckinnon, Global Materials Handling
The Manufacturer’s comprehensive report on the forklift truck industry’s most prestigious event.
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HE Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) Awards celebrated the best in materials handling at the Birmingham Hilton Metropole on 18 February. Double-winners Combilift led an impressive field of champions on the night. The audience roared in approval as the innovative Irish manufacturer – having already scooped the Award for Innovation for its Combi-RT – collected the coveted ‘Victor Ludorum’ award – a unique gold-plated Archie statuette created to mark the Association’s 40th anniversary. The hallmarked trophy, presented for the pioneering 2008 CombiCB multidirectional truck, marked Combilift’s second success of the night at the Olympic-themed ceremony, co-presented by the UK’s most successful athlete ever, hurdles champion Sally Gunnell OBE. Other big winners on the night included Linde’s 394 displacement pump (Environment), Ravas M-Forks (Safety) and JCB’s Changezee teletruk carriage (Ergonomics); each receiving a solid bronze statuette following an open vote through the FLTA website. Meanwhile, individual Awards were presented to Daniel McKinnon of Global Materials Handling, who was named Apprentice of the Year, Clive Mansfield of EnerSys, who was named Employee of the Year, and Jim Cameron of FB Chain for Services to the Fork Lift Truck Industry, who famously designed the FB chain wear gauge. Food manufacturer McCain Foods was presented with the “Safe Site Award” for its extensive use of Virtual Risk Manager to assess operators and focus training while forklift battery firm WB Powersource, which has engineers available 24/7 across the UK, was crowned Supplier of the Year. The FLTA Awards has served as a pick of the year tool for materials handling products and services since 1995, rewarding those that strive to raise standards throughout the forklift truck industry and this year was no exception. Sally Gunnell was aided in this year’s presentations by the association’s chairman Martyn Fletcher, as well as representatives from sponsors B&B Attachments, BNP Paribas, Doosan Industrial Vehicle, Hitachi Capital, Interfit, Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks, Powercell and Yale Materials Handling.
Sally Gunnell, Daniel Mckinnon and Mike Jones of Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks
EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR Clive Mansfield, EnerySys
Sally Gunnell, Clive Mansfield and Simon Duddy of EnerySys
SERVICES TO THE FORK LIFT TRUCK INDUSTRY SPONSORED BY: Hitachi Capital Business Finance
Jim Cameron, FB Chain
Sally Gunnell, Jim Cameron and Mark Richards of Hitachi Capital Business Finance
SAFE SITE AWARD
SPONSORED BY: Doosan Industrial Vehicle UK
McCain Foods UK Sally Gunnell, Peter Sumpton of McCain Foods UK and Tim Waples of Doosan Industrial Vehicle UK
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FORKLIFTSUPPLEMENT FLTA 2012
SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR
SAFETY
WB Powersource
RAVAS Europe BV, MForks
SPONSORED BY: Yale Materials Handling Europe
SPONSORED BY: Interfit MForks is designed to help a fork lift driver lift a load safely and to avoid dangerous situations, such as forks breaking. A patented measurement system is incorporated in the forks, which measures a combination of the load’s weight and its load centre point: the load moment. As a result, the MForks indicator – which is mounted in the cabin – calculates whether the load, in its current position on the forks, may be lifted safely. The indicator shows the actual load moment as a percentage of the maximum lifting capacity for the load centre.
Sally Gunnell, Chris Webb and Annie Morris of WB Power Source and Werner Meier-Ansari of Yale Materials Handling Europe
ENVIRONMENT
SPONSORED BY: B&B Attachments
Linde Material Handling UK, Linde 394 Displacement Pump This year Linde Material Handling has enhanced the H40 to H50 IC truck range with a bespoke displacement type hydraulic pump to further reduce noise and energy consumption. Thanks to this axial piston displacement pump, which replaces the previous internal gear pump, truck hydraulics and engine speed are no longer dependent on one another. The electronically adjustable pump reduces motor speed and therefore fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 18%. Sally Gunnell, Mike Hawkins of Linde Material Handling UK and Mike Barton of B&B Attachments
Sally Gunnell, Nicola Whittle of RAVAS Europe BV and Paul Morey of Interfit
INNOVATION
SPONSORED BY: BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions
Combilift, Combi-RT Combilift worked closely with Keyo Agricultural Services to develop the Combi-RT – a purpose-built, no compromise machine for significant improvements in the handling of live poultry. The truck has large diameter tractor tyres, all-wheel drive, 300mm ground clearance and a small turning radius – all of which contribute to reduced disturbance of litter. Fitted with a low profile, clear view, three-stage mast, it is quieter and gentler than previous equipment and offers high levels of comfort for operators. This results in reduced stress levels for the poultry and cleaner, speedier operations overall.
ERGONOMICS
Sally Gunnell, Mark van den Bos from Keyo Agricultural Services, Sam Moffett from Combilift and Emma Irving from BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions
SPONSORED BY: Powercell Industrial Battery Engineers
JCB Industrial, JCB Changezee This new JCB design is ergonomically advantageous because the operator completes all change functions from within the cab. This takes extra advantage of the excellent forwards visibility during the changeover procedure, by virtue of the fact that the JCB Teletruk does not have a vertical mast in front of the operator. The changeover sequence takes less than 30 seconds between a forks carriage and a shovel. It is done by the operator engaging the safety inter-lock switch with one hand, and then selecting the correct hydraulic service with the other. Thus accidental disengagement of the pin-locks is impossible. Sally Gunnell, Chris Nowell of JCB Utility Products and Derek Anderson of Powercell Industrial Battery Engineers
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VICTOR LUDORUM
Marking the Association’s 40th year, an all-time FLTA Awards “champion of champions” was crowned, having been chosen from every product winner in the Awards’ 17-year history. The FLTA Membership voted to create the shortlist for this award – selecting their favourite Ergonomics, Environment, Safety and Innovation winners since the awards began in 1995. From this shortlist, guests at the event selected the Victor Ludorum winner.
Combilift, Combi-CB compact multi-directional counterbalance
Sally Gunnell and Sam Moffett of Combilift.
FORKLIFTSUPPLEMENT Jungheinrich Uk
ARE YOU GETTING THE FROM YOUR FORKLIFT SUPPLIER? Jungheinrich’s director of System and Projects Steve Richmond explains how to pick the right forklift truck purchase for your business.
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ITH the global economic outlook still far from certain, companies across all sectors of industry are focused on delivering efficiency gains across their supply chains. This means that today’s forklift trucks, which have for so long been the workhorse of any well executed logistics operation, are now expected to work harder for longer and with minimal downtime. Most trucks on the market nowadays are perceived as sophisticated products featuring complex electronic and hydraulic systems and an attention to ergonomic design that ensures high productivity, safety and operator comfort are achieved. In many cases, what differentiates one forklift supplier from another is the added value benefits that the company can bring to its client’s business.
USERS NEED TO BE SURE THAT THEIR TRUCK SUPPLIER ACTUALLY HAS THE DESIRE TO DELIVER RESULTS THAT MIGHT APPEAR COUNTERPRODUCTIVE TO THEIR PROFIT STREAM
HOW CAN YOU BE SURE THAT YOU ARE GETTING THE BEST VALUE FROM YOUR FORKLIFT SUPPLIER?
Steve Richmond, Director, System and Projects Division, Jungheinrich UK
“Any company that operates a forklift truck fleet should ensure that its truck provider fully understands its needs and has the structure and processes in place within its own organisation to respond to the user’s issues as they arise.
The truck supplier should be able to work with its client to develop clear customer-led strategies. It is vitally important from the outset of the supplier/user relationship that the user is confident that his preferred supplier has the culture, style and values to deliver the kind of results he is looking for. For example, every forklift company can talk a good fleet management proposal, but few have the capability and the appropriate data in a format from which effective management decisions can be taken that improves operational and delivery efficiency. Users will only be able to derive maximum cost and efficiency gains with measurable values from fleet management systems if they have an effective communication strategy with their truck supplier. Users need to be sure that their truck supplier actually has the desire to deliver results that might appear counterproductive to their profit stream. A truck audit will often recommend reducing the fleet size which, on the face of it, is not in the supplier’s best interests.
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FORKLIFTSUPPLEMENT Jungheinrich Uk
KEEPING TRUCK DOWNTIME TO A MINIMUM “Users should look to source forklift truck fleets from organisations that are not only capable of supplying a full line-up of products, from counterbalance to warehouse machines, but can demonstrate that it has the infrastructure in place to guarantee the highest level of service. There is little point in any manufacturer pretending that trucks do not break down because, from time to time, they do. The frequency between technical problems and then the ability of the supplier to have an engineer on site in the shortest possible time to correct faults differentiates a good supplier from a bad one.
OPERATOR EFFICIENCY “No matter how technically advanced a truck might be, the interface between the forklift and the operator remains key to maximising efficiency. Properly trained operators are therefore essential if a forklift is to deliver ultimate throughput benefits. There are so many benefits to employing forklift truck drivers who are professionally trained. Turnaround is quicker and smoother, and accidental damage – to both the truck and the product being stored – is reduced. A sympathetically driven machine enhances truck reliability and improves general safety throughout the facility where the truck is operational. Most truck operators have realised the significant cost benefits that are achieved by choosing a forklift truck supplier with the service and maintenance credentials and infrastructure required to ensure that truck downtime is kept to a minimum. However, many truck users – both the bigger fleet operators and the smaller oneoff buyers – sometimes fail to see the substantial performance benefits that professionally trained operators can bring to their business. Of course, no one should be allowed to operate a truck without first receiving training but even experienced employees can benefit from refresher training. Refresher training may be required if the operator is involved in an accident or a nearmiss incident or if he or she has been observed operating the vehicle in an unsafe manner. It should also be considered if there have been changes to the workplace that could impact on the safe operation of the truck or if the operator is assigned to use a different type of machine, such as switching to a new high lift reach truck when they had operated low lift technology trucks before.
UTILISING TECHNOLOGY “In addition to proper and regular training, any technology that reduces the pressure on a forklift operator by making his or her day to day operational
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procedures more straightforward can only bring efficiency, productivity and safety benefits. Warehouse management systems, on-truck data capture systems, radio frequency identification (RFID) systemsbased warehouse navigation systems and forklift truck personnel protection systems are just some of the technologies that are being used to deliver lift truck operational efficiencies.
TRUCK MANUFACTURERS WILL HAVE TO TAKE ON THE ROLE OF SYSTEM SUPPLIERS IF THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS ARE TO BE FULLY REALISED Steve Richmond, Director, System and Projects Division, Jungheinrich UK
Going forward, truck manufacturers will have to take on the role of system suppliers if the potential benefits of these integrated solutions are to be fully realised. There are clear benefits to be gained by developing these technologies as part of the truck but it is essential that the integration of the technology is carried out carefully and is a robust solution delivered by the actual truck manufacturer. Simply bolting on lots of additional equipment will not guarantee the overall benefits and improved efficiencies that the technology can bring. It is also important to identify a clear chain of responsibility for the after sales support and maintenance of both the truck and any sub-systems that
are part of it. Where a number of suppliers simply bolt sub-systems on to a forklift truck disputes can arise over the responsibility for the ongoing management of the critical interfaces.That’s why it is important that users choose a truck manufacturer that can provide the trucks and the sub-systems – be it Radio Data Terminals (RDTs), scanners or warehouse management systems.
FINANCE “Understandably, the question of how the purchase of materials handling equipment is funded has taken on particular importance in these difficult times. When it comes to acquiring new trucks, a range of financial options are available but many truck users prefer to acquire their fleets on contract hire packages. Full service offers an easyto-budget, steady cost stream with no surprises, but we would advise anyone entering a contract hire agreement to spend time carefully reading the contract they are offered. We advise customers to ask: what is meant by maintenance? Does it include all repairs caused by wear and tear? We remind people that what is left out of a contract is often as important as what is included, and that they should never be fooled by an artificially low price. It could mean that either you are not going to get the full service or there has been some financial manipulation on residual values. Investing in a business remains crucial, but tying up working capital could mean missing out on other opportunities. It is essential that the truck supplier offers a range of options and a flexible approach to help truck users meet both the requirements of their business and the changing needs of the marketplace.”
FORKLIFTSUPPLEMENT Combilift
4-Way Handling www.combilift.com
• • • •
Space saving, safe and productive handling Robust and versatile Capacities from 2.5 – 25 tonnes Diesel / LPG / AC Electric
Without Combilift
With Combilift
Contact us for: FREE warehouse design service FREE DVD
Combilift Ltd
Gallinagh Co. Monaghan Ireland
Tel: +353 47 80500 UK: 07870 976 758 E-mail: info@combilift.com
BAE Systems’ finds the Combi-CB a versatile solution
BAE
Systems has taken delivery of a Combilift Combi-CB forklift for its Samlesbury site in Lancashire. The ability of this counterbalance design 4-way model to handle pallets, containers and long loads has enabled BAE to reduce the amount of trucks in its goodsin area for more streamlined, cost effective and safer handling procedures. The previous fleet of four counterbalance trucks and a sideloader was not being put to effective use and inventory manager Mick Woods needed to find a universal, versatile truck that could adhere to BAE’s requirements for an all electric fleet, its stringent focus on safety and its cost savings initiative. The three tonne capacity AC battery powered Combi-CB ticked all the boxes and has delivered a host of benefits. The CB operates indoors and out, offloading and reloading vehicles for dispatch and works as a sideloader to manoeuvre 6m lengths of timber in confined spaces. Customised to BAE’s requirements, it was fitted with 1200mm forks to facilitate the handling of the timber and fork mounted weighing scales were also incorporated.
Hydraulic fork positioners, operated from inside the cab, speed up the handling of varied loads such as standard pallets and longer CIC containers which hold aircraft canopies. “The up front investment in the Combilift will quickly achieve payback and enable us to make further cost savings in future,” says Mr Woods. “Even with Combilift’s flexibility to replace a number of fork trucks, there is absolutely no compromise in its performance, whatever mode it is working in.” Combilift’s Combi-CB
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HEAVY INDUSTRIES EUROPE
positioning system has recently been introduced to increase safety in operations.
TM: WITH MANY MANUFACTURERS STRUGGLING TO GET ACCESS TO FINANCE OR HAVING TO OPERATE ON LOWER LEVELS OF CAPITAL EXPENDITURE, WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU? The company’s latest development, the 25 tonne lifttruck 250D-7E
Tom Moore (TM) gets the lowdown on the latest products at Hyundai Heavy Industries from European Sales Manager Gino Van der Auwera (GA) TM: HOW CAN BUYERS GET THE BEST VALUE FOR MONEY ON FORKLIFT TRUCKS?
GA: Customers can increase productivity and gain value by buying the right truck for the right application. Additionally, by taking the total cost of ownership during the life time of the truck into account, will savings will be made over time. This implies weighing up a number of things such as durability, lower service costs, lower downtime and ease to use. Hyundai has managed of design and manufacture forklifts with a strong focus on these required elements.
TM: YOU MENTION BUYING THE RIGHT TRUCK FOR THE RIGHT APPLICATION, WHICH OF YOUR PRODUCTS SUIT WHICH SECTORS AND WHY?
GA: The 250D-7E has a load centre of 1.200mm and 25 tonne capacity. It is ideal for use in the construction sector and at container terminals in ports. Thanks to the installation of an independent, up-to-date cooling system, the cooling fan will only start when needed. This results in less consumption and less noise.
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TODAY’S ECONOMY REQUIRES THAT EVERY INVESTMENT YIELDS A QUICKER RETURN ON INVESTMENT FOR THE COMPANY THAN EVER BEFORE Gino Van der Auwera, European Sales Manager at Hyundai Heavy Industries
Our five tonne battery truck 50B-7 suits the food & beverage industry. The dual drive with two electric motors enables very sharp turning ability in comparison with single motors. The benefit of this is that there is less collateral damage made to uprights and safety levels are increased. The 50L-7A is ideal for inside and outside use in breweries and other production facilities because of its high performance and Tier IV engine certification. The high volume range between 25D-7E and 33D-7E is extremely popular in big rental companies because of its ease of use and low maintenance. For these rental companies it is important that any operator can jump easily into the truck to do his/her job comfortably.
TM: SAFETY IS AN IMPORTANT ISSUE WHEN DECIDING ON WHAT FORKLIFT TRUCK TO BUY. WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO IMPROVE SAFETY?
GA: Hyundai Heavy Industries meets the OHSAS18001 regulations. From the five tonne up to the 25 tonne range, a load indicator and wheel
GA: Banks are very cautious when it comes to financing trucks at the moment. Today’s economy requires that every investment yields a quicker return on investment (ROI) for the company than ever before. As manufacturers replace and upgrade material handling equipment, they are looking for solutions that can meet this new requirement. The industry is responding with new equipment, technology and systems that enable complete supply chain transparency.
TM: HAS THERE BEEN A MOVE TOWARDS LEASE RATHER THAN PURCHASE SINCE THE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN?
GA: It is obvious that the market is heading towards leasing rather than purchase in the U.K. This implies that financing solutions will become more and more important and can even be considered a sales tool once you have it. Hyundai has anticipated this and has implemented a Hyundai Finance scheme, which provides retail financing over certain rental periods in most European countries.
TM: WHAT IS THE COMPANY’S APPROACH TO MRO?
GA: Hyundai’s European dealer network is connected through an IT platform where every dealer can order parts and receive them with an overnight delivery service. Our technicians receive technical training at the Hyundai training centre in Belgium on a monthly basis.
LOOKING FOR YOUR PERFECT PARTNER?
Impact Handling is the perfect partner because we have the power to support all of your materials handling needs; from just one truck to an entire fleet. Our strength lies in our ability to be flexible, we’ll not only supply fit for purpose trucks, new or used, we’ll tailor your finance package, we’ll supply original parts, we’ll service and maintain your fleet, and we’ll always be close at hand with 15 locations and growing. If you’re looking for a partner that’s loyal, adaptable, financially stable and hugely supportive, Impact Handling may be your perfect materials handling match.
Telephone 0800 169 9789 impact-handling.com
Thinking Cat® Lift Trucks. Think Impact Handling.
Toyota Forklift Simulator – To be launched at IMHX 2013
MATERIAL HANDLING UK Tony Wallis, operations director at Toyota Material Handling UK, explains the finance options and life costs involved when purchasing a forklift truck.
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HERE are many benefits to both purchasing and leasing options; the important factor is identifying the option that is best for each business. A key benefit of rental is that it provides stable and predictable costs, a critical factor in the purchasing process for business in today’s economic climate. Rental is now the preferred option for over 65% of Toyota’s business, although the majority of the remainder will opt for a service maintenance plan to ensure equipment remains reliable, achieves maximum up time and meets legislative requirements.
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A recent research study found that the current economic situation has changed the way many customers choose to finance their equipment, with customers looking at more adaptable options. As a result, suppliers have to offer the broadest spectrum of adaptable solutions to meet the business needs of their customers.
LOOKING AT THE COST OF WHOLE LIFE OWNERSHIP “Although acquisition is an important factor, it represents
RECENT RESEARCH HAS INDICATED THAT SAFETY SITS WITHIN THE TOP SIX INFLUENCERS IN THE PURCHASE CYCLE
less than 20% of whole life costs on an average machine and the message we continue to communicate at Toyota is the cost of whole life ownership. Operator costs, damage to goods and facilities far exceed the majority of acquisition costs yet purchase and running costs are separated by most companies. It is only when they are combined that you get the true picture. A good supplier will identify whole life costs offering a broad spectrum of support facilities to maximise productivity and drive down costs. High first time fix rates, rapid response times and parts deliveries are critical and should feature high on any acquisition agenda. We try to involve the customer’s purchasing and operational managers to take the whole life cost approach. We have found that a greater buy-in from these customers who understand how we are trying to drive down costs in damage, accidents and efficiency makes significant reductions in lifetime costs. Comprehensive servicing is designed to take care of all of the truck maintenance needs, and a preventative maintenance contract is an effective way
FORKLIFTSUPPLEMENT Toyota Material Handling UK
ALTHOUGH ACQUISITION IS AN IMPORTANT FACTOR, IT REPRESENTS LESS THAN 20% OF WHOLE LIFE COSTS ON AN AVERAGE MACHINE of preventing unplanned downtime and costly repairs or a safety inspection which ensures the truck compiles with safety standards.
WHAT TYPE OF FORKLIFT TRUCK IS SELLING OUT THE QUICKEST? “There has been a significant increase in both the warehouse and counterbalance market during the last 12 months. During the early part of the recession people retained equipment longer and sweated the assets for maximum savings. As cost controls and business efficiency has improved businesses are looking for ways to increase efficiency. Recent research has indicated that safety sits within the top six influencers in the purchase cycle. We have always been at the forefront of safety; the Toyota Active System of Stability on counterbalance trucks has helped increase awareness of safety significantly. When we added shock sensors to the reach truck range as standard we experienced a significant increase in enquiries. Safety is at the heart of our product and remains a key priority in the development of our equipment. Our trucks are designed for industrial use and this is
Toyota Traigo 48 electric powered forklift
AS THE WORLD’S LARGEST CAR MANUFACTURER, WE DON’T FIT OUR AUTOMOTIVE ENGINES TO OUR FORKLIFT TRUCKS. WE HAVE INDUSTRIAL ENGINES TO MEET INDUSTRIAL DEMANDS Tony Wallis, Operations Director, at Toyota Material Handling UK
reflected in our engines which are specifically designed for our forklift trucks, which provide longevity and reliability. It is an interesting observation that, as the world’s largest car manufacturer, we don’t fit our automotive engines to our forklift trucks. We have industrial engines to meet industrial demands. The best equipment is useless if the service and support doesn’t match the product. In the event of things going wrong we also provide a four hour response time in the UK with a 96% first time fix, so in the event of the unthinkable, help is always near at hand.
THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY AT TOYOTA “Sustainable alternative fuel technology is high on the agenda – we have various developments in progress that will develop over time and Toyota is taking a long-term considered approach to new fuel alternatives. Ongoing advanced technology is continually assessed and added as products develop. Another development is the new fork truck simulator which will be launched at IMHX 2013 and has been developed to help improve driver skills and reduce costs through improving operator skills.”
Service Engineer from Toyota National Service Support
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THE RULES
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ORKLIFT sales fell by up to 60% during the recession but Bendi was not among those that suffered. Since the recession, manufacturers have increasingly looked to invest in lean efficiency saving measures, something that Simon Brown says has maintained the company’s sales figures throughout the economic downturn. “What our truck does is recessionproof because it saves space and time, which allows companies to save money. We are now experiencing our highest sales figures ever recorded,” he says.
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FOR MORE EFFICIENT MANUFACTURING Tom Moore talks to Simon Brown, managing director at Translift Bendi, to discuss how its models can save manufacturers both time and space with its articulated forklift trucks.
INCREASING SPACE
YOU COULD HAVE THE BEST MACHINE IN THE WORLD BUT IF YOU DON’T SERVICE IT PROPERLY THEN IT WILL LOSE ITS EFFECTIVENESS Simon Brown, Managing Director at Translift Bendi.
Bendi stacks the depth of the pallet with little wastage compared to other types of forklifts. Mr Brown states, “It is the articulated principle of the truck that saves space.” The design of the Bendi improves operating efficiencies and can reduce the number of trucks needed. Whereas counterbalance forklift trucks have double-pallet handling requiring two trucks, Bendi vehicles can take a pallet straight from a lorry and put it in racking in one go. Articulated forklifts also have better functionality over the reach truck, which is also designed for smaller aisles, as it is 30—40% quicker over the course of a pallet cycle because of the reach truck’s slow mast movements. Bendi’s core market has been 3rd party logistics companies but is now spreading rapidly into manufacturing with three new space-saving
FORKLIFTSUPPLEMENT Translift Bendi
models, including the new pedestrian machine. Brown explains that the Mini Bendi has a capacity to lift 1.2 tonnes to a height of four metres so goods can be transported in a 1.6 metre wide aisle instead of the wider aisles needed for counterbalance and reach trucks. This either reduces or utilises the amount of space needed for storage of loads or when operating in and around production areas, for example when loading tooling dies. Brown says, “The compact design enables more lorries onto the forecourt to speed up the loading process, helping companies to achieve a higher level of on time deliveries. If you need a four metre counterbalance space between each lorry then it just slows down the whole process.” Bendi’s forklifts are predominantly electric, accounting for 95% of its range. This reduces the energy costs for the manufacturer and enables the compact size of the truck. Whereas fuel and space costs are less of a problem in China and the US where a lot of manufacturers design, make and sell their forklift trucks, a UK-based manufacturer such as Bendi understands the market and has created a niche in providing vehicles that are more sensitive to space.
BUYING BRITISH It is not just new trucks where Bendi excel. Blue chips such as ASDA and B&Q both take “remanufactured” machines as well as new. This is an intensive MRO programme that Brown says “is not just the check, service and paint commonly associated with forklifts.” He explains, “We strip the chassis back down to its raw components and shot blast it back to bare metal and restart the manufacturing process as if
The Mini Bendi operating in a production area
THE MINI BENDI HAS A CAPACITY TO LIFT 1.2 TONNES TO A HEIGHT OF 4 METRES SO GOODS CAN BE TRANSPORTED IN A 1.6 METRE WIDE AISLE INSTEAD OF THE WIDER AISLES NEEDED FOR COUNTERBALANCE AND REACH TRUCK Simon Brown, Managing Director at Translift Bendi.
it were new. The company adds either service exchange parts or new parts and the machine comes out the other end with full warranty.” 2012 has seen Bendi ramp up production here in the UK, creating new jobs in the process. Brown says that more and more people choose to buy British but other than being patriotic, there are practical benefits too. Bendi has a training scheme based in the UK. As it is a niche manufacturer, it carries out a lot of its servicing direct with 40 engineers covering its UK
customers. Brown makes the point that “you could have the best machine in the world but if you don’t service it properly then it will lose its effectiveness.” Bendi sells 60% of its forklift trucks direct to the end user in the UK and doesn’t have dealers in the traditional manner. This means that it deals directly with many manufacturers. With the charge for government, retailers and end consumers to buy British to boost UK manufacturing, the same challenge could also be posed to manufacturers.
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FORKLIFTSUPPLEMENT Cat
Tom Moore meets Terry Kendrew, managing director at the UK’s sole distributor of Cat lift trucks and warehouse equipment, Impact Handling.
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ITH a commitment to service that borders on the obsessive, Impact Handling is growing its business by improving the efficiency of handling operations for manufacturers throughout the UK. Concentrating on meeting the market’s business needs is paying dividends for their own, providing long careers with many opportunities. Managing director Terry Kendrew has over 30 years experience in the materials handling industry and has overseen this successful customer focused strategy that has created growth for Impact Handling despite the tough economic conditions. Mr Kendrew explains the company’s philosophy, “We have always tried to look at things from the customer’s point of view. We believe they need a partner who works with them and offers good
unbiased advice. They need a team that really understands their requirements and can offer flexible tailored solutions; we aim to be that partner for all of our customers without exception.” This success did not happen overnight with a reputation built upon hard work. Financial muscle has helped to establish one of Impact Handling’s key strengths in that they fully own all of the vehicles that they supply. Not only does this allow for much more flexible contracts to suit its customer’s business needs, but also means there is
no third party finance and the restrictions that these situations cause. Impact Handling were officially appointed as the sole distributor of Cat Lift Trucks in the UK and Ireland in November 2010, positive affirmation of the quality of their service. Impact Handling doesn’t only supply and service Cat Lift Trucks but a whole range of materials handling equipment and storage solutions, making them a one stop shop for their customers. This puts them in the perfect position to offer unbiased advice and to analyse the equipment required. For Synseal Extrusions, the PVC-U extrusion company which was awarded Nottinghamshire Company of the Year 2011, this approach, coupled with the flexibility that Impact Handling offer, were key factors in awarding a five year contract hire agreement to supply and maintain all of their materials handling equipment. The current fleet has machines from nine different manufacturers, with some equipment highly specialised. An around the clock seven days a week operation keeps this equipment running efficiently and ensures downtime is minimised. Impact Handling has the experience and trained manufacturing service teams to cope with demand. Onsite engineers and the ability to supply back up trucks from stock are all part of the service that has prompted Synseal Extrusion to move all of their materials handling requirements to a single supplier for the first time. Part of the total solution that Impact Handling strives to deliver is to analyse the operational needs at each site and then source and supply equipment that is fit for purpose. For Synseal Extrusions, Impact Handling has supplied lumber specifications to various Combilift trucks since bigger wheels to create higher ground clearance suits the exact needs of the site. Other lift trucks supplied include Combilift high lifters, with 9.6 metre triplex masts, and articulated Aisle Master and Cat counterbalance trucks. Other machinery supplied includes powered pallet trucks with long forks, Green Machine sweepers and specialist unique reel lifter equipment. The ability to deliver specialist service support around the clock within a flexible contract has given Synseal Extrusions options that they didn’t have before. Warehouse manager Geoff Nixon explains, “I have one person who I can speak to about all
our needs. Impact Handling make it simple and I can rely on them to get the right person onsite to sort out any issues that arise. They are actively improving the fleet to match our needs and simply allow us to concentrate on looking after our production and our customers.” Another consequence of the customer focused approach means that Impact Handling is continuing to expand their UK wide network of local service centres. Local, highly responsive service is a key requirement for many customers. It would be cheaper for Impact Handling to operate from a single base but this option would not give customers the best possible service. Listening to customers is one of the underlying principles that has established both Impact Handling and Cat Lift Trucks as leaders in their field. The new Cat EP13-20(C)PN(T) range of 48V, three and four-wheeled counterbalanced electric lift trucks, which Impact Handling has now started to deliver to the first customers in the UK, answers the direct call for electric trucks that are more durable in harsh environments. Engineered to operate both indoors and outdoors, whatever the weather, these new trucks offer longer service intervals and reduced energy consumption, with added safety features and quieter operation. With threewheel versions available in lift capacities of 1.3, 1.5 tonnes and three and four-wheel trucks with 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 tonnes, all of these forklifts feature sealed wet disc brakes, one of the key factors that has enabled service intervals to be extended to 1,000 hours. IPx4 splash resistance and IP54 sealed traction and hydraulic motors ensure that this range of trucks lead the way where it matters most, in reliability, durability and cost of ownership. Not only can these trucks be thoroughly washed down, maximising lifespan and productivity, but the frame and mast can also be galvanised, making these some of the most corrosion resistant trucks available today. Listening to customers and meeting their business needs has shaped the way Impact Handling operates. Financial independence, a healthy stock of new and used vehicles and both a willingness and ability to offer flexible contracts means that an increasing number of customers are benefiting from a positive impact on their own bottom line.
ALL OF THESE FORKLIFTS FEATURE SEALED WET DISC BRAKES, ONE OF THE KEY FACTORS THAT HAS ENABLED SERVICE INTERVALS TO BE EXTENDED TO 1,000 HOURS
Terry Kendrew, Managing Director, Impact Handling
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Toyota Material Handling UK
The World’s Number 1 manufacturer of materials handling equipment Toyota Material Handling is the world’s number one manufacturer of materials handling equipment. Our renowned Toyota Production System (TPS) is based on just-in time delivery, quality control and a strong team culture and is the acknowledged reference among manufacturers. Toyota Material Handling offers a single point of contact for all your materials handling needs, whatever your size of business. From a single truck user to some of the biggest names in manufacturing, we have the product and support services to be a strong business partner. Toyota is able to offer unrivalled levels of support, consisting of world-class products, fleet management, short-term hire, operator training, genuine parts and unbeatable sales and service support tailored to your business needs.
To find out more about the Toyota Material Handling UK call 0870 850 1409 or visit www.toyota-forklifts.co.uk.
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