Combilift introduces COMBi Safe-Lift anti-overload device
Forklift operators who are insufficiently aware of the load they are lifting and the risks that come with exceeding the forklift-rated capacity not only compromise their safety but also place everyone working around them at serious risk. Several factors can influence a forklift truck to become overloaded and these include load center, weight of load, lift height, and the type of load. The load center, which is the distance from the face of a fork to the center of gravity of the load plays a crucial part. The position of the load center can also vary depending on the type of load being lifted, for example, liquid loads or non-uniform loads. Forklift operators should be competent in understanding the weight of the load. Combilift’s new product, the Combi Safe-Lift, is an anti-overload device that enables operators to avoid the pitfalls of potential overloading, which can have serious consequences if it occurs. The Combi Safe-Lift incorporates a strain sensor on the mast section (See Pic.) and a lift cut-out valve on the hydraulic line to disable lifting if the unit is potentially overloaded. Managing Director Martin McVicar: “We offer the Combi Safe-Lift as an option at the moment but we believe that this simple and cost-effective system should become a standard option on all counterbalance trucks in the future. Fitting a straightforward device such as the Combi Safe-Lift is an effective way to reduce risks for the operator and other personnel, and also to avoid product damage as well as costly repairs.”
Bobcat announces its 2024 Dealer Leadership Group, honors 16 North American Dealers for Achievement
The Program Recognizes the Company’s Highest Performing Dealers Across the U.S. and Canada Bobcat Company has announced its 2024 Dealer Leadership Group. The 16 Bobcat dealerships honored this year are its highest-performing dealers in North America according to the company’s Dealer Performance Review. “Every year, our dealer network keeps raising the bar,” shared Brady Seavert, Vice President of Construction Sales at Bobcat. “We’re thrilled to recognize these outstanding businesses for their dedication and impressive accomplishments across the board.” The 2024 Bobcat Dealer Leadership Group includes: Bobcat of Brandon – Manitoba, Canada Bobcat of Brantford, Inc. – Ontario, Canada Bobcat of Dallas – Texas Bobcat of Fort Wayne – Indiana Bobcat of Gwinner – North Dakota Bobcat of Lincoln – Nebraska Bobcat of New York City – New York Bobcat of the Rockies, LLC. – Colorado Bobcat of Vineland – New Jersey Bobcat of Westchester/Jim Reed’s Equipment – New York Curtis Lane Equipment – North Carolina Duron Equipment, Inc. – Manitoba, Canada Ironhide Equipment, Inc. – North Dakota Jordan Equipment – Maine North Jersey Bobcat – New Jersey White Star Machinery – Kansas The Bobcat Dealer Performance Review is not only used to help dealers compare their performance against their peers, but it also identifies the top-performing dealers across Bobcat’s North American network, which is comprised of 300-plus dealer enterprises in the United States and Canada. As members of the Dealer Leadership Group, representatives from these recognized dealerships will function as the “voice” for the dealer network and meet with Bobcat senior leadership throughout the year to provide insights and feedback. To recognize and celebrate the achievements of this select group, Bobcat will also honor members at a dealer incentive trip to Prague, Czech Republic later this year. Each year, Bobcat Company continues to grow its North American dealer network. As part of the Bobcat dealer partner program, dealerships are provided with development opportunities, ongoing training, and educational and marketing resources to help position their customers, employees, and businesses for long-term success. “Our dealers play a crucial role in advancing the Bobcat brand,” Seavert continued. “Their commitment and teamwork are vital to our continued growth. We’re constantly inspired and thankful for the meaningful difference they bring to our customers every day.”
Chip Gaines announced as Bobcat Company’s New Brand Ambassador
The partnership between the home renovation expert and entrepreneur and the equipment manufacturer aims to inspire and empower Chip Gaines and Bobcat Company has announced a new partnership aimed at inspiring audiences to tackle their DIY dreams. Host of the hit show “Fixer Upper” and known for his passion for home improvement, Gaines is a long-time Bobcat customer and fan. Through this partnership, Gaines is excited to showcase his love for the Bobcat brand to his audience. “I’ve been using Bobcat equipment for years on my farm in Waco, and I can’t imagine working without it. My Bobcat machines have empowered me to bring some of my biggest ideas to life,” said Gaines. “When I was a kid, I remember seeing people driving Bobcat skid-steers, and I always wanted to be in the driver’s seat. This brand goes way back for me, and when I think of world-class equipment, Bobcat is it—which makes me so proud and excited about this partnership.” Aside from being an entrepreneur and contractor, Gaines and his family live a farm lifestyle on their Texas acreage. From tending gardens to managing goats, pigs and horses, Gaines is already sharing the work he is accomplishing with his Bobcat equipment, including a compact tractor, zero-turn mower, compact track loader and utility vehicle, across his social media channels, such as his Instagram page. While Bobcat continues to manufacture its legacy products, like the skid-steer loader, it has grown its consumer offerings geared toward homeowners with acreage who are seeking professional-grade equipment to maintain their properties. Given this, Gaines is an ideal partner for all that Bobcat offers. “Chip has a history of entrepreneurialism, a commitment to hard work and a spirit of community like none other – and he isn’t afraid to take on the toughest tasks and conquer challenges with determination. These values line up perfectly with the Bobcat brand,” said Laura Ness Owens, Bobcat vice president of brand and marketing. “We’re excited to work together to empower people to accomplish more – and have some fun along the way.” Gaines’ endorsement of Bobcat equipment underscores the brand's commitment to providing innovative solutions for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Stay tuned for future news on this partnership and the work Gaines and Bobcat will accomplish together.
The Manitowoc Company announces upcoming change in its Board of Directors
The Manitowoc Company, Inc. has announced that board member John C. Pfeifer has chosen not to stand for reelection to the Company’s Board of Directors; therefore, his term will end at the May 7, 2024, annual meeting of shareholders. First appointed to the Manitowoc board in 2016, as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Oshkosh Corporation Mr. Pfeifer brought expert and deep operational experience and advice from the machinery industry. He was instrumental in shaping Manitowoc’s strategy for growth in envisioning Manitowoc’s strategy shift from a solely product-focused company to being more service-oriented. “John brought sage and invaluable advice that was instrumental in steering the successful Manitowoc that it is today. Over the last seven years, he contributed his expertise in operations, finance, acquisition strategies, and a deep understanding of the construction equipment business, for which we are grateful,” commented Kenneth W. Krueger, Chairman of The Manitowoc Company, Inc.
Bobcat and NRPA Grant results in increased park access and improved sustainability
Bobcat Company and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) are celebrating the culmination of their 2023 partnership grant to create vibrant and sustainable community park and recreation areas. Through this partnership, Bobcat awarded five grants, each worth $50,000, to support five park improvement projects in communities throughout the country. “Through our partnership with NRPA, we were able to invest time and resources for the betterment of communities nationwide,” said Mike Ballweber, president of Doosan Bobcat North America, Inc. “The five awarded grants created opportunities for communities to improve their recreation areas, focus on sustainability and encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the great outdoors.” The five parks that received grant dollars have completed their projects affording their communities healthier green spaces, more walkable parks and greater climate readiness. The grant recipients and completed projects include: City of Stonecrest in Stonecrest, Ga.: The City of Stonecrest, located east of Atlanta, used the grant dollars to develop a walking trail at Everett Park. The new 1.5-mile trail meets Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and opens up the dense forest to allow park enthusiasts to access an overlook by the South River. Bobcat of Atlanta supported locally with in-kind use of Bobcat equipment and volunteer aid. Davidson County Parks and Recreation in Lexington, N.C.: Grant dollars supported a pollinator garden and bog garden at a newly created park called Yadkin River Park. The gardens are designed to protect the surrounding community from adverse effects like water pollution and flooding. Local Bobcat dealership R. S. Braswell Co. (which includes Bobcat of Charlotte, Bobcat of Monroe, Bobcat of Rock Hill, R.S. Braswell Co. in Kannapolis, N.C., and coming soon Bobcat of Lexington) supported the project through volunteer aid and Bobcat equipment to transfer material on the project site. City of Buffalo in Buffalo, N.Y.: The City of Buffalo Parks and Buffalo Niagara River Land Trust partnered on a 22-acre conservation easement known as Houghton Park. The grant dollars helped transform what was once a dumping ground of large broken concrete slabs, bricks and stones, into an open nature conservation area in a dense urban neighborhood overlooking the Buffalo River. Bobcat of Buffalo helped support the teams locally by assisting with the removal of heavy debris on site. San Antonio River Authority in San Antonio, Texas: The San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) developed new trails, created two bioswales and planted more than 800 native plants and grasses at its 351-acre Trueheart Ranch Park which fronts the San Antonio River. According to the Deputy Director of the Parks and Recreation for the River Authority, Kristen Hansen, the native species not only contribute to the beauty of the grounds but also positively contribute to the health of the park’s ecosystem. Bobcat of San Antonio partnered with the River Authority during its planting initiatives bringing loaders, excavators, and utility vehicles to help with site work. City of Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation in Auburn, Wash.: Located south of Seattle, the City of Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation created a more inclusive environment for the community by creating new ADA-compliant gravel pathways at Auburndale Park. The project reinvigorated two existing pathways to remove the outdated asphalt and replace it with crushed gravel. Bobcat of Seattle provided in-kind volunteer aid and Bobcat equipment to demo the asphalt and help install the paths to proper grade. “Parks and green spaces are vital to communities because they are places that allow you to connect with your neighbors, move outside and enjoy nature,” said Ayanna Williams, NRPA director of community and environmental resilience. “Everyone deserves a healthy, more resilient community, and we are thankful for Bobcat’s support to help build more equitable futures for generations to come.” Bobcat Company is committed to building strong relationships, engaging volunteers and providing financial and in-kind support to organizations and programs to make a positive impact. Bobcat and NRPA will continue to partner in 2024, creating new opportunities to positively impact individuals and communities around the nation.
RAYMOND announces 2024 funding recipients for University Research Program
University Research Program has invested more than $5 million in funding to advance the future of material handling The Raymond Corporation has selected three research proposals to receive funding through The Raymond Corporation University Research Program. Through the program, professors and student researchers are encouraged to apply their engineering and technical research to discover innovative solutions for the material handling industry. After reviewing innovative research ideas from more than 20 universities, Raymond has selected three proposals to receive financial support. The research proposals selected for funding are: RetroLifts: Low-cost Forklift Retrofits for Scalable Autonomous Brownfield Deployments Proposal Author: Associate Professor Rahul Mangharam, University of Pennsylvania (Penn Engineering) Real-time Mixed Human-Robot Teaming using Digital Twins Proposal Author: Associate Dean and Professor Silvia Ferrari, Cornell University Framework for Effective Human-AMR Communication Proposal Author: Associate Professor Clark Hochgraf, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) The University Research Program helps to drive the next generation of technology for the supply chain, logistics and material handling industries. The mission is to encourage professors and researchers to apply their knowledge of engineering and technical fields, drawing synergies and collaboration between collegiate research and The Raymond Corporation. The University Research Program has funded 18 projects from 20 leading universities across the country, totaling more than $5 million in funding. The selected applicants have been evaluated on several criteria, including their possible impact on the future of the material handling industry, timeline and feasibility of budget. “Our University Research Program embodies Raymond’s steadfast dedication to empowering the future leaders of the material handling industry,” said Mike Field, president and CEO of The Raymond Corporation. “By collaborating with the brightest minds in academia, we aim to tackle present-day obstacles while pioneering innovative technologies and automated solutions that will shape the industry’s trajectory for years. We eagerly anticipate the transformative contributions these individuals will bring to the forefront of our industry.” The University Research Program will begin accepting one page concept papers this summer with applications due by the end of October for the 2025 program.
Fairchild Equipment unveils new facility in Cloquet
Fairchild Equipment has announced the relocation of its Duluth, Minnesota facility to a new, more expansive location at 1308 18th Street in Cloquet, Minnesota. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Fairchild Equipment’s mission to deliver unparalleled material handling services and reinforces its commitment to customer satisfaction and community engagement. Spanning an impressive 20,300 square feet, the new Cloquet, Minnesota branch is specifically designed to support a larger material handling equipment parts and rental inventory, provide comprehensive in-house shop service, and accommodate the company’s broad product offerings. “Our steadfast dedication to our customers and the community is what drives our expansion,” said Mike Wolf, Director of Operations for the Western Division of Fairchild Equipment. “The Cloquet facility embodies our commitment to excellence and enables us to serve as a vital partner in the community, contributing significantly to local business success and strengthening community ties.” The new facility represents a leap forward in Fairchild Equipment’s ability to offer swift equipment maintenance and repair services, an expanded rental fleet, and a venue that better accommodates the company’s extensive product range. Doug Larsen, Fairchild Equipment’s Sales Director for Minnesota and North Dakota, expressed his enthusiasm about the opportunities the new location offers. “We are thrilled to unveil our new premises to our customers. This move not only allows us to better meet the needs of our customers in northern Minnesota but also showcases our commitment to delivering unparalleled service. The enhanced space, services, and product offerings at our new facility are a testament to the trust we have built with our customer base.” The Cloquet facility is now open and ready to serve the diverse needs of the material handling sector, promising an era of increased productivity, innovation, and community partnership for Fairchild Equipment.
Raymond West celebrates 75 years as a Raymond Dealer
Raymond West is celebrating a significant milestone marking 75 years as a Raymond Intralogistics Solutions Provider. Raymond West has grown from an office in a Beverly Hills’ kitchen and the trunk of a Studebaker into a leading provider of forklifts, warehouse automation equipment, loading dock equipment, storage solutions, conveyor equipment, and much more. Raymond West Intralogistics Solutions boasts more than 1,400 employees, $831 million in annual revenue, and 21 branches across the West Coast. “As we mark our 75th year anniversary and partnership with the Raymond Corporation, we celebrate not just a milestone in time, but a journey of innovation, dedication, and growth,” said James Wilcox, President of Raymond West. “From the humble beginnings of a one-man operation in Southern California to becoming a leading end-to-endless intralogistics solution provider in the West, our success is a testament to the hard work and commitment of every member of our team, past and present.” “We’ve come far and will continue to aspire to set the standard for our clients in that whatever they need, the problem or challenge they have in their facility with material handling, we have the solution to Store, Move, and Optimize their operations,” added Wilcox. The company’s relationship with the Raymond Corporation began on March 15, 1949, when the W.T. Billard Company became a Raymond dealer. This partnership was further solidified in 1950 when Raymond introduced the narrow-aisle forklift, leading Billard to focus exclusively on Raymond products. Over the years, the company expanded throughout the region, opening branches in San Diego, Las Vegas, and Ontario. In 2002, the Raymond Corporation purchased W.T. Billard, and the company was rebranded as Raymond Handling Solutions. Under the leadership of James Wilcox, who became president in 2010, the company acquired Handling Systems Inc. in 2014 and Raymond Handling Concepts Corporation in 2018. This significantly expanded their sales and service footprint and gave them a presence in eight states, opening opportunities to store move and optimize your operations. In 2021, the three companies combined and rebranded as Raymond West Intralogistics Solutions. As Raymond West Intralogistics Solutions looks to the future, the company remains committed to providing the highest quality products and services to its clients, continuing the legacy that began 75 years ago.
Navigating the Shift: Adapting to the changing forklift market
In the ever-evolving landscape of the forklift industry, staying ahead of market trends is crucial for resellers to maintain a competitive edge. Recent data on our platform indicates a significant shift in the market dynamics compared to January 2023, with the number of machines available for sale experiencing a notable 40% increase. Since mid-2023, the market for forklifts has transitioned from being predominantly seller-driven to favoring buyers, marking a substantial shift in dynamics. This shift has not only expanded the options available to buyers but has also instilled a sense of caution due to prevailing economic uncertainties. Consequently, we are observing an initial decline in prices, further exacerbated by rising interest costs. We even observe consolidation trends with bigger dealers swallowing up smaller ones. Considering these developments, forklift dealers must strategize and adapt to this new reality to optimize their sales and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Thanks to modern technology today, operational excellence is not limited to big corporations only. Let’s look at six strategies that can help forklift dealers in today’s: 1. Excel in your local market: If your website only shows outdated equipment or no equipment at all, visitors will not give you a call but jump to the next website they find on Google. In light of more available choices for buyers, make sure your website is up to date with available equipment including good images and complete technical data. Big dealers have their own staff for that but that is not mandatory. Modern marketplace solutions have built-in features to effortlessly integrate your used stock into websites and make your website and local business perform stronger than ever. 2. Expand your markets: Staying in your area is comfortable, but keeps you limited. Of course, it’s your favorite choice as a dealer to sell locally as you can add services. In a buyer’s market, this comfort is illusionary. Selling outside your area and selling to other dealers makes your company sell equipment faster and gain new customers. 3. Competitive Pricing and Timely Selling: In response to the shifting market dynamics, resellers are encouraged to advertise their inventory at competitive prices. Selling now enables resellers to leverage the proceeds to invest in “new” used equipment later at potentially lower prices. Even if it’s hard to accept lower margins, waiting too long to adjust will only result in less profit. 4. Optimized Advertisements: Enhance the visibility of listings by optimizing advertisements with high-quality images and compelling pricing. This proactive approach attracts more clicks and inquiries, maximizing the chances of successful transactions. 5. Agile Trading Approach: In a market characterized by fluctuating prices, agility is paramount. Resellers should prioritize swift transactions over maximizing margins on individual devices. By promptly listing and selling equipment in its current condition, resellers can capitalize on market fluctuations and maximize profitability. 6. Market Awareness and Price Adjustment: Stay vigilant of market trends and adjust pricing strategies accordingly. Every day a listing that remains active incurs costs, particularly with rising interest rates. Regularly updating prices to align with market conditions is essential to optimize returns. Bonus: Get expert support Navigating the complexities of a shifting market landscape can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you are a small to medium-sized dealer with the challenges above, let’s set up a free one-hour consultation – limited to the first 20 dealers who contact us at dmillius@MHWmag.com Together, let’s navigate the changing tides and unlock new opportunities for growth and profitability. About the Author Chris Schmid is the CEO of Motus Group, the company behind Forklift-International.com, the largest international marketplace for used forklifts and material handling equipment. Before joining Motus, he led Sales & Marketing for a technology incubator, releasing and marketing software and e-commerce products. He was COO of a tech startup in Switzerland and San Francisco. Chris holds a master’s degree in international management from Reims Business School in France as well as the European School of Business in Reutlingen, Germany, and lives with his wife and three kids in Regensburg, Germany.
Bobcat Company named to Fast Company’s 2024 Most Innovative Companies list
Brand recognized as stand-out industry leader in manufacturing, equipment design and automation Bobcat Company has been recognized as one of Fast Company’s 2024 Most Innovative Companies. The Most Innovative Companies honor places Bobcat in the spotlight among other organizations that are transforming industries and shaping society. “With innovation being at the core of our legacy, Bobcat is driving the industry forward reaching new heights,” said Joel Honeyman, Doosan Bobcat vice president of global innovation. “We believe that embracing technology and innovation is vital to long-term success, and we are thrilled to be recognized on Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies list.” Since 1958, Bobcat has been looking forward in all aspects of its business to transform how the world works, build cities, and support communities for a more sustainable future. Advancing Manufacturing for Efficiency and Precision Bobcat is recognized in Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies’ manufacturing awards category. Bobcat has advanced its manufacturing facilities—both in terms of its footprint and the technology within its many global locations. Recent updates to its facilities have included a $9.3 million automated press system in its Gwinner, N.D., manufacturing facility; technology in its Statesville, N.C., facility that streamlines component inspection; and a new robotic forming press in its Johnson Creek, Wis., location that minimizes operators’ manual labor while improving precision. All of these advancements have led to improved efficiencies, greater precision and more ergonomic worksites for its employees. Inventions for the Job Site of Tomorrow With a focus on innovation, Bobcat is paving the way for electrification and autonomy in equipment design and development. Since 2022, the brand has launched several industry-first machines, including the all-electric T7X compact track loader, the all-electric concept S7X skid-steer loader, and the fully electric and autonomous concept pair of loaders, the RogueX and the RogueX2. These new machines have garnered many new patents and patents pending, signifying how Bobcat is defining a new work experience while bringing sustainable solutions to the marketplace. Recognition, Optimism in Moving the World Forward This year’s Most Innovative Companies program showcases 58 industry categories—with manufacturing, health, climate, energy and AI among its popular categories. A panel of Fast Company editors and writers identified the companies driving progress around the world and across industries, evaluating thousands of submissions through a competitive application process. The result is a globe-spanning guide to innovation today, from early-stage startups to some of the most valuable companies in the world. “Our list of the Most Innovative Companies is both a comprehensive look at the innovation economy and a snapshot of the business trends that defined the year,” said Fast Company editor-in-chief Brendan Vaughan. “We saw extraordinary innovation across the board in 2023, but we also saw a handful of clear patterns: the growing footprint and impact of AI, the triumphant return of live events, and great leaps forward in climate tech. We face daunting challenges on many fronts, but the solutions we celebrate in MIC give me plenty of hope about the future.”
RAVAS unveils cutting-edge mobile weighing solutions at LogiMAT
RAVAS invites you to visit our booth at LogiMAT 2024 in Stuttgart. Located in Hall 10, Booth 10F76, they will showcase via a personal tour our pioneering weighing technologies and recently awarded products. The new, ergonomic RAVAS iPT Essential One of the highlights at the booth is the introduction of the brand-new RAVAS iPT Essential. This advanced hand pallet truck, equipped with the award winning RedBox technology, represents a new generation in mobile weighing and is designed with ease of use, reliability, ergonomics, uptime and innovation in mind, allowing end-users to benefit from an advanced mobile weighing solution that optimizes their logistics processes and enhances efficiency. The patented innovative display on the handle of the RAVAS iPT Essential provides graphic information on essential parameters, including gravity adjustment, overload warnings, truck tilt, and load cell malfunctions. Discover RAVAS’ Weigh in Motion technology Additionally, the RAVAS iCP-WiM 2500 with the new Weigh in Motion technology is showcased at the booth, which is currently nominated for the esteemed International Forklift Truck of the Year (IFOY) Award. The Weigh in Motion technology on an intelligent carriage plate (iCP) ensures accurate and reliable weight determination while a forklift is moving. This results in significant time savings, and thus cost savings, as the driver can weigh without stopping. It also prevents unnecessary additional transport movements and manual activities, contributing to higher efficiency, lower chances of accidents, better sustainability, and increased employee satisfaction compared to traditional weighing methods. Moreover, the calibrated value provided by the Weigh in Motion technology can be used for direct billing. The seamless integration of Weigh in Motion technology with TMS, WMS, or ERP systems enables real-time weight control, optimization of loads, and prevention of over- or under-loading of trucks, ensuring streamlined operations and maximum productivity. Forklift scales with Weigh in Motion technology are particularly suitable for situations where large amounts of palletized goods need to be moved within a limited time. Ideal for logistics, storage, reweighing, and LTL shipments. Work smarter, not harder Another innovation in booth #10F76 is the new and improved RAVAS Ergo-Truck 2. A weighing electric pallet truck, capable of moving, weighing, and lifting loads up to 1,500 kg. The latest edition boasts a larger and improved battery along with a more powerful and stable electric scale truck. It seamlessly integrates RAVAS’ efficient weighing scales, a lithium-ion battery, and Bluetooth technology. The Ergo-Truck 2 is the ultimate solution for warehouses, outperforming hand pallet trucks and floor scales. Bert de Greeff, Global Manager Marketing, Communication & Product Management of RAVAS, states, “We are delighted to present our latest innovations at LogiMAT. Our focus on advanced weighing technologies enables businesses to improve their logistics processes, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. The recognition received by the RAVAS iCP with Weigh in Motion in Poland is a testament to the impact our products have on the industry. LogiMAT visitors are invited to visit our booth, where the expert team is available to answer questions, provide demonstrations, and thoroughly explain the benefits of RAVAS products.”
Toyota Material Handling North America will establish an advanced energy storage solutions research and development facility
Toyota Material Handling North America (TMHNA), comprised of two main companies, Toyota Material Handling and The Raymond Corporation, will establish an advanced energy storage solutions development, prototyping, and test center in Henrietta, New York. The forward-thinking research and development center, located at 1565 Jefferson Road, will see TMHNA collaborate with Rochester area energy storage resources to further support its own and Toyota Industries’ advanced energy solutions technology efforts, including lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells. As a result, TMHNA has committed to creating up to 40 new jobs. The company expects to begin preparational activities at the site immediately and be operational at the testing center in the spring. Currently, TMHNA employs 2,560 workers statewide. Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Governor Hochul and ESD remain laser-focused on expanding New York State’s green economy by supporting the creation of 21st century research and development and manufacturing jobs. Toyota Material Handling North America’s continued commitment to driving alternative energy applications for the lift truck industry is truly commendable, and we are thrilled that they are moving full speed ahead with all the opportunities that the state and Finger Lakes region have to offer.” TMHNA is a trusted source of quality and reliable products and is committed to being a total material handling solutions provider from forklifts to energy solutions to automation technology. Toyota Material Handling and The Raymond Corporation have a combined 150 years in the industry, providing total solutions, including the latest research and advancements in alternative energy and forklift battery technology, being the first U.S. manufacturer to establish UL certification for an integrated lithium-ion battery and forklift solution. President and CEO of Toyota Material Handling North America and Senior Executive Officer at Toyota Industries Group Brett Wood said, “We look forward to working alongside ESD to establish an energy storage and fuel cell development and testing center in Henrietta, New York. We are honored to contribute to the growth of this community while advancing innovation in sustainable technology. This initiative signifies our commitment to excellence and underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship. Through this venture, we aim to create new jobs, empower individuals and drive progress toward a better and brighter future.” ESD is assisting the company with the project by providing up to $1.5 million through the performance-based Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit program. County of Monroe Industrial Development Agency and Greater Rochester Enterprise also provided support for the venture. The total project cost has been placed at a little more than $2 million. The company had considered locating its new, state-of-the-art R & D facility elsewhere, but selected the Finger Lakes region due to its world-renowned reputation for available top-notch talent and its innovative technology base. State Senator Jeremy Cooney, said, “With Toyota Material Handling North America’s new facility, cutting edge energy innovations will be happening in Henrietta. Our region’s workforce talent continues to attract businesses to Monroe County, and I am looking forward to seeing the impact this project will have for our workers and our community’s continued economic growth.” State Assembly member Harry Bronson, said, “Rochester’s connection to the auto industry runs deep and Toyota Material Handling North America is continuing this tradition in our region and connecting to our new status as a green energy leader and tech hub. This investment is critical to expanding our workforce in the advanced manufacturing and technology sectors, and ensuring good jobs are made available to hardworking people throughout our area. Thank you ESD and Governor Hochul for your work to bring this new industry to Henrietta.” Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, said, “Toyota Material Handling North America’s decision to establish an advanced energy storage solutions research and development facility in the Town of Henrietta is a pioneering leap into the future of our green economy. I applaud TMHNA for their vision and leadership and for recognizing Monroe County’s strength as a hub for high-tech innovation. We’re grateful to Empire State Development and Gov. Kathy Hochul for their commitment to our economy, job creation, and advancing sustainability in our region.” Henrietta Town Supervisor Stephen Schultz, said, “The Town of Henrietta is excited that Toyota will have a presence in town working on innovative technologies regarding sustainable energy efforts. Henrietta has made a significant push for sustainable energy, including upgrading all of its streetlights to energy-efficient LED lamps, a project that is currently underway. Henrietta also is home to RIT and its Battery Prototyping Center, which also works in close collaboration with Empire State Development. Between Toyota, RIT, and energy research companies, Henrietta and Monroe County are becoming hubs for leading the way to a cleaner energy future.” Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce President and CEO and Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chair Bob Duffy, said, “As a storied company with roots in Upstate New York, Toyota Material Handling North America’s commitment to growth in Greater Rochester underscores the vitality of our region, including an exceptional talent pool and innovative technology ecosystem. Congratulations to president and CEO Brett Wood and his team, and we look forward to collaborating with Toyota Material Handling and The Raymond Corporation to unlock even more opportunities for growth.” Matt Hurlbutt, President and CEO, Greater Rochester Enterprise, said, “As a leader in the energy innovation sector, the Greater Rochester, NY region is the perfect location for Toyota Material Handling North America to establish an energy storage and fuel cell development center. GRE helped connect TMHNA leaders to economic development partners and the battery and energy storage expertise and integrated ecosystem available in the Greater Rochester, NY region to support the company’s growth plans.”
Bobcat recognizes dealers for superior performance
Awards given to top-performing material handling equipment dealers Bobcat Company has recognized 21 material handling dealers for superior performance within their respective regions. The dealers were recognized based on sales, volume and other dealer engagement metrics. “We are pleased to recognize such a deserving group of dealerships for their efforts and achievements,” said Jarrod Steck, Bobcat vice president of material handling products. “While forklifts are a new product offering within the Bobcat portfolio, these dealerships bring years of expertise and experience within the material handling industry, and we are thrilled to award these top performers and valued dealer partners.” Bobcat recognized these dealerships at a reception held during MODEX 2024. Its top recognition for “Dealer of the Year” went to ASCO Equipment. Additional awards were also presented including: Summit awards as the premiere category of recognition, followed by Diamond Awards, and finally the Platinum Awards recognition. Summit Awards: ASCO Equipment, Morrison Industrial Equipment, Connell Material Handling, Alliance Material Handling Diamond Awards: Alliance Material Handling, ASCO Equipment, Bacon Universal Co., C & B Material Handling – Sioux Falls, C & B Material Handling – St. Albans, Connell Material Handling, Cromer South, Florida Forklift, Forklifts Group, Mid Columbia Forklift, Morrison Industrial Equipment Co., Summit Handling Systems, Valley Industrial Trucks, W.D. Mathews Machinery Platinum Awards: Anderson Forklift; Bobcat of Casper; Hugg & Hall Equipment; Atlantic Forklift Services; Delta Materials Handling; Lift Truck Center, Inc.; Dedicated Material Handling Solutions
Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas launches Logisnext Financial Services through partnership with DLL
Simplifies acquisition process, provides added flexibility Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas (Logisnext), a manufacturer and provider of material handling, automation, and fleet solutions, has announced the launch of Logisnext Financial Services, providing customers with one single point of contact for equipment purchasing and financing. The new service is offered through Logisnext’s strategic partnership with DLL, a global asset finance company for equipment and technology. Under Logisnext Financial Services, customers will have direct access to proven and reliable lease and purchase options across all Logisnext material handling and warehouse products in the United States, including Mitsubishi forklift trucks, Cat® lift trucks, Jungheinrich®, UniCarriers® Forklifts and Rocla AGVs. Customers will also have added flexibility and control of their business and capital requirements. This approach provides efficient and effective operating costs to meet business goals – all with the latest material handling technology. “DLL has had a longstanding history and close relationship with Logisnext for more than 15 years,” said Mike Kinka, president of Construction, Transportation and Industrial at DLL. “This, in combination with the experience of DLL in the materials handling market, will help bring Logisnext’s equipment financing solutions to the next level.” This collaboration further expands on Logisnext’s dedication to providing customers with a complete portfolio of solutions – from site-specific consultation and fleet management to financing and comprehensive product support. “The launch of Logisnext Financial Services, and our partnership with DLL, allows us to better serve our customers,” said Jerry Sytsma, executive vice president of sales and Aftermarket Services at Logisnext. “Through Logisnext Financial Services, customers will have one point of contact for managing their acquisition needs – from equipment purchasing to financing. Our goal is to help our customers succeed, and by offering a wide range of financing options, we make it easy for customers to get the right equipment when they need it most.”
Yale expands availability of award-winning Yale Reliant forklift operator assist solution at MODEX 2024
Technology designed to support warehouse safety initiatives now available on 59 Yale forklift models Yale Lift Truck Technologies announced the availability of its Yale Reliant™ forklift operator assist solution on an additional 16 Yale® models. The new entrants to the Yale Reliant lineup are predominantly warehouse lift trucks and expand the technology’s availability to a total of 59 models covering a wide range of applications, including those common in retail and e-commerce fulfillment, wholesale distribution, and third-party logistics operations. The lineup expansion includes several models that were not previously available for standard order with Yale Reliant enabled, as well as additional capacities or configurations of models for which only select variations were available previously. Very narrow aisle (VNA) turret trucks, narrow aisle reach trucks engineered with a smaller frame for tight retail environments like stockrooms, and the straddle, furniture, and standard order picker models are all newly available with Yale Reliant. Center riders, tow tractors, enclosed end riders, and reach trucks were already available with Yale Reliant, but the latest portfolio expansion extends availability to additional capacities and configurations of those models. The operator assist technology is the focus of the Yale booth #B3810 at the MODEX trade show in Atlanta this week. In addition to providing a deeper understanding of the solution’s underlying advanced dynamic stability (ADS) technology, personalized demonstrations at the booth also feature other technologies in the Yale Reliant suite like object detection, proximity detection and real-time location sensing. Yale Reliant keeps the operator in ultimate control of the lift truck, but depending on the package selected, automatically applies interventions in response to compromised stability, obstacles detected in the path of travel or nearby, and even based on rules specified for certain areas of the warehouse. “The interest that this technology continues to attract, whether at the industry’s leading tradeshows or reflected in the thousands of trucks commercially deployed with it, speaks to forklift accident prevention as a critical priority for today’s warehouses,” says Joe Koch, Emerging Technology Sales Manager, Yale Lift Truck Technologies. “Just yesterday, we introduced a standalone ADS option to empower operations with greater choice and opportunity to incorporate this tool in their safety initiatives, and this announcement takes another step in that direction, broadening our Yale Reliant lineup to help warehouses and retailers access the truck that is most appropriate for the job and technology that can help them support inexperienced operators and proper operating practices.”
PS Logistics Acquires Yordy Transport
PS Logistics, a transportation and logistics company in the United States, has announced that its subsidiary Diamond State Trucking & Logistics (“Diamond State”) has acquired Yordy Transport, a trucking company that specializes in flatbed shipping. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Headquartered in Morton, Illinois, Yordy Transport was founded in 2018 by Avery Yordy and primarily hauls railroad, steel, lumber, and building materials freight across the central and southeastern United States. Yordy Transport’s freight mix and geographic coverage are complementary to the Diamond States’ and are expected to provide immediate opportunities to realize operational synergies. Yordy Transport will now operate under the Diamond State name. “We are excited to welcome Yordy Transport’s flatbed drivers and employees to the PS Logistics family,” said Scott Smith, chief executive officer and co-founder of PS Logistics. “This acquisition aligns nicely with our desire to partner with founder- or family-owned trucking companies that put their drivers first while also providing quality service to their customers, and PS Logistics is looking forward to the growth opportunities that will result from this acquisition.” Avery Yordy, founder and owner of Yordy Transport, said, “Diamond State will be a great partner for my business. Throughout the process of working with them, it became evident that they are committed to the drivers’ success, and I’m excited that Yordy Transport will now be a part of a larger organization that will provide greater freight choices to Yordy’s drivers and operational expertise to the business.” The transaction continues PS Logistics’ acquisition strategy of partnering with families and quality owners within the transportation and logistics industry. Since 2016, PS Logistics has successfully acquired 26 trucking operations and five non-asset logistics operations across the United States.
Fairchild Equipment acquires Yale® lift truck dealer territories in Wisconsin and Illinois
Fairchild Equipment, a provider of material handling solutions in the Midwest, has announced its expanded dealer footprint as the official Yale Lift Truck Technologies dealer across eleven key counties in Wisconsin and Illinois. This strategic move comes as a testament to Fairchild Equipment’s unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding customer service, unparalleled parts availability, swift responsiveness, and exemplary overall quality in the material handling industry. The counties now served by Fairchild Equipment include Crawford, Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, Green, and Rock in Wisconsin, along with Stephenson, Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, and Lee in Illinois. “Fairchild Equipment has earned a storied reputation for putting the needs and satisfaction of our customers at the forefront of our operations since my father founded the company in 1985,” said Chad Fairchild, Chief Executive Officer of Fairchild Equipment. “We are excited to bring our expertise and passion for creating Customers for Life to the users of Yale forklifts in these new areas. Our team of experts takes pride in ensuring that every customer receives the solutions they need for optimized operations.” By incorporating the Yale® brand in these new counties into its portfolio, Fairchild Equipment will offer an even more comprehensive selection of material handling equipment. Yale is one of the primary brands offered by Hyster-Yale Group, a globally integrated manufacturer of application-tailored lift trucks and technology solutions, engineered to meet customer-specific needs. “As part of our customer-centric approach, we at Fairchild Equipment are proud to offer an expansive rental fleet ready to cater to businesses in need of temporary material handling equipment,” noted Tim Rothe, Vice President of Operations at Fairchild Equipment. “Furthermore, our service guarantee promises a two-hour response time for all service calls, ensuring minimal downtime and the continued productivity of our customer’s operations.” As a testament to Fairchild Equipment’s outstanding organization, Yale Lift Truck Technologies has honored them as a Dealer of Excellence 28 times. This annual award celebrates Yale dealers who have exhibited focused leadership and continued to drive their customers to the highest level of performance in all functional areas of materials handling. In an ongoing effort to maintain exceptional response times and customer satisfaction, Fairchild Equipment is pleased to announce an increase in the number of service technicians operating in these newly acquired regions. To support this expansion, Fairchild is actively hiring to fill these crucial positions, seeking out skilled individuals who align with our dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction. With a growing team of experts, customers can expect the high standard of support that is a hallmark of the Fairchild Equipment experience.
Explore Raymond’s interconnected ecosystem of intralogistics solutions at MODEX 2024
Discover end-to-endless solutions to set the tempo of an optimized warehouse floor The Raymond Corporation continues to build on its more than a century-long history of innovation and will showcase its end-to-endless intralogistics solutions and material handling products at MODEX 2024. Attendees of the show, held March 11 to 14 at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center, can visit Raymond at Booth B5406 to see and learn more about the complete line of Raymond intralogistics solutions. “For over 100 years, Raymond has been designing products to help customers address their ever-evolving operational needs through innovative solutions and technology,” said Mike Field, president and CEO of The Raymond Corporation. “We’re committed to serving as a single-source provider of complete intralogistics solutions, helping our customers tap into the tempo of their floor and find its flow. We’re looking forward to highlighting some of the industry’s most innovative products at MODEX 2024.” In the ever-evolving landscape of intelligent intralogistics solutions, lift trucks are indispensable workhorses within warehouses and distribution centers. However, optimizing vehicle functionality is more than mechanics; it depends on connected technologies. Raymond uses advanced technologies, data analytics, automation and lift trucks to integrate seamlessly into a networked ecosystem for a warehouse of optimization and maximizing efficiency. Total connectivity integration extends to energy management, where smart charging stations and renewable energy sources connect with operational logistics, ensuring sustainable practices while maximizing uptime. Together, lift trucks, connected technologies, and energy solutions form a symbiotic relationship, propelling the future of intralogistics toward unprecedented levels of productivity, sustainability, and interconnectedness. MODEX 2024 attendees will have the opportunity to learn about Raymond’s ecosystem of efficiencies through a variety of material handling equipment, connected technologies, energy solutions, automation products, and support services. Material Handling Equipment Raymond has built a reputation based on quality, innovation, and service. Its complete line of electric forklifts with integrated technologies are built to perform with increased efficiency and productivity with customers and operators in mind. See on display: Raymond® 8810 Side Entry Pallet Truck Raymond 8510 Rider Pallet Jack with the patented Pick2Pallet™ LED Light System and the patent-pending Raymond Advance® Operator Assist Technology Raymond 4800 Sit-down Electric Counterbalanced Truck Raymond 4250 Stand-up Counterbalanced Truck with Lithium-ion Batteries, iWAREHOUSE® Telematics and iWAREHOUSE ObjectSense Detection System Raymond 7530 High Capacity Reach-Fork® Truck with iWAREHOUSE FieldSense Connected Technologies The Raymond enterprise moves warehouse operations forward by offering advanced technologies connected with scalable, flexible and intelligent warehouse solutions. Scalable telematics solutions that collect and report vehicle and operator data help drive productivity across operations to create an optimized and intelligent warehouse operation. Energy Solutions Raymond energy solutions are specifically engineered to meet the demands of the toughest material handling applications while enabling data-based insights that allow managers to optimize energy efficiency and lift truck performance. In addition to helping optimize energy efficiency, the full line of Raymond energy solutions can help enhance productivity, lower operational costs and meet corporate sustainability goals. Raymond energy solutions include Energy Essentials Distributed by Raymond®, Industrial Lead Acid Batteries, and Advanced Lead Acid Batteries, including thin plate pure lead technology, providing high charge and discharge rates, a longer life span, and faster charging than traditional batteries. Energy Essentials Distributed by Raymond now comes with a new standard warranty of eight years, 5,000 cycles. Integrated Intralogistics Solutions and Automation The Raymond enterprise is a single source for complete intralogistics solutions, providing the technologies, systems and solutions that bring warehouse and distribution operations to exceptional levels of performance. Raymond Automated Swing-Reach® Truck. Facility managers can free their lift truck operators to focus on more critical tasks while the Raymond Automated Swing-Reach Truck moves, retrieves, and stores pallets — reliably, accurately, and autonomously. Regenerative lowering offers reduced downtime and improved energy efficiency thanks to fewer battery charges, while natural feature recognition allows infrastructure-free navigation. Automated and manual modes allow full pallet handling or case picking. Raymond Courier™ 3030 Automated Stacker. The enhanced Raymond Courier 3030 Automated Stacker features improved motion control, object detection coverage, increased speeds, and Lane Staging capabilities. New Raymond Courier Automatic Charging System. Enhance labor efficiency by automatically charging Raymond Courier Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs). Integrates with iBATTERY® and IWAREHOUSE® systems for optimum performance Choose when and how the AGVs are dispatched to the charge station: off-shift/full charge; low battery/partial charge; or inactivity/opportunity charge. Raymond High Capacity Orderpicker with iWAREHOUSE Integrated Tether System and iW.ObjectSense. Specifically designed for the demands of today’s on-demand economy and to facilitate order picking a full rack higher than currently available models, the High Capacity Orderpicker features an industry-leading elevated height of 456 inches, allowing for rack storage access to 11% more picking slots. The High Capacity Orderpicker is equipped with Energy Essentials Distributed by Raymond Lithium-ion Batteries engineered to integrate seamlessly into Raymond’s family of forklifts. The High Capacity Orderpicker is also outfitted with the iWAREHOUSE Integrated Tether System, a first-of-a-kind operator assist tool designed to alert operators and managers and to limit lift truck functionality if an operator is not properly tethered. Radioshuttle® Storage and Retrieval System. This semi-automated storage and retrieval system allows for maximum use of warehouse space. The Radioshuttle is easily managed with remote control and executes orders to load or unload pallets into a lane. Total Solutions Provider Through Support Services and Consulting Raymond Solutions and Support Centers are committed to offering customers end-to-end solutions, from lift trucks to facility automation, with specialization in seamless technology integration for a customized customer-focused approach. Raymond Solutions and Support Center experts are part of The Raymond Corporation nationwide network and collaborate with customer teams to help optimize warehouses, boost productivity and strategically utilize data for continuous improvement, resulting in savings for customers’ operations. Raymond Solutions and Support Centers strive to be an extension of customer teams with a shared goal of maximizing facility uptime and reaching operational goals.
Linde Material Handling to showcase new products and automated solutions at MODEX 2024
Linde Material Handling (LMH) is set to make a notable presence at MODEX 2024, taking place from March 11 to 14, 2024, at booths #B8011 and #C7495. The showcase will feature a diverse range of offerings, including recently launched products, popular warehouse solutions, engaging speaking sessions, and live demonstrations of cutting-edge Linde Automated Solutions. Attendees will have the chance to personally encounter innovative material handling solutions that include the following: Automated Solutions: View two demos live for the duration of the event. Booth #B8011 will display the K-MATIC (automated VNA turret truck) in action. Booth #C7495 showcases an automated counterbalance, the L-MATIC, driven by Linde MH’s easy-to-install AGV management system, PACS. Finally, Jack Kaumo, Intralogistics Sales Leader, will be hosting the keynote session “Getting the Most Out of Your Labor”, discussing insights and solutions for struggling with personnel management and considering the switch to an automated fleet. Operation Enhancers: Demonstrations and subject-matter experts will be available on the event floor for two operation-enhancing add-ons: Linde Guardian and Linde Li-ION Batteries. Linde Guardian is a communication system used to minimize the risk of forklift collision with infrastructure, pedestrians, or other trucks. The system includes various sensors and alerting devices that keep the operator aware of potential hazards, even around corners. Linde Li-ION Batteries are Linde’s solution for miscommunication between lift trucks and energy sources. Receive an accurate state-of-charge display and improve the energy efficiencies between the forklift and its battery. Electric Forklifts: Embrace sustainability in every environment without sacrificing performance. Experience the Linde Series 5195, and the Series 1346, and the new Series 1254X in-person this year. The 5195 is a narrow aisle reach truck built for your high-density warehouses. It’s accompanied by several ergonomic, efficiency, and easy access features to keep your operator, warehouse manager, and maintenance technician happy on the job. The 1346 is a stand-up electric counterbalance, built to maneuver easily through heavy-traffic warehouses. Its small footprint, low height suspended platform, and robust frame are purposefully designed for highly challenging applications. The 1254X pushes the performance of electric trucks to meet that of internal-combustion; it’s capable of operating shoulder-to-shoulder in the same environment, with the added benefit of more efficient energy solutions. Next Generation of Pallet Trucks: The MT15B and MT22 will debut for the first time in a public forum this March. These trucks are engineered for flexibility, with features to bring high-performance material handling to multi-shift workplaces. The MT15B is equipped with a Li-ION battery and onboard charger, with the option to replace the charger with a second battery. The MT22 combines higher capacity lifting with a small footprint for ease of use in confined spaces.
Yale integrated lithium-ion forklift beats out 10 other nominees for top spot in product of the year awards
Readers of two material handling publications vote the ERP-VTL/VFL series the top lift truck of 2023 Yale Lift Truck Technologies announces the ERP-VTL/VFL integrated lithium-ion forklift series is the winner of the Readers’ Choice Product of the Year award determined by readers of Material Handling Product News and MaterialHandling247.com. The series, which includes three- and four-wheel models, was voted as the top product in the lift trucks and accessories category. Both the ERP040VTL, a three-wheel model, and the ERP040VFL, a four-wheel model, buck the traditional approach in which a battery box replacement converts counterbalanced lift trucks from lead-acid to lithium-ion battery power. Instead, the trucks are designed from the ground up around a space-saving lithium-ion battery pack. “Today’s warehouses need to capitalize on every possible opportunity to improve efficiency,” said Brad Long, Brand Manager, Yale Lift Truck Technologies. “Not only do these award-winning lift trucks provide a simpler pathway to the benefits of lithium-ion power relative to an aftermarket retrofit, but the strategic design around the fully integrated battery pack also delivers key productivity benefits, including improved operator ergonomics and stability.” An open-space design increases operator freedom to position feet and makes for easy entry and exit, maximizing comfort and convenience to help propel productivity, while a repositioned center of gravity enhances drive quality and improves truck handling in corners for greater operator confidence and performance. The lithium-ion power also supports productivity through fast charging and zero battery maintenance, allowing operators to focus more of their time on moving loads. The lift trucks produce zero tailpipe emissions and no gassing in battery charging or maintenance processes and offer lower energy costs compared to those powered by fossil fuels and lead-acid batteries. This award is the second for the ERP-VTL, which was previously named a winner of the GOOD DESIGN Award.