The British Industrial Truck Association (BITA) released its market analysis earlier in the year for 2018, showing that the materials handling sector is performing well above predicted expectations.  

An overall rise in the volume of forklift trucks being sold across the UK was highlighted. With figures showing a +2.5% rise, bringing total sales to just over 35,300 units. 

Encouraging figures

The positive statistics reflected a strong finish for the market at the end of last year, and came above BITA’s Autumn Forecast. The best performing models in terms of sales were revealed to be diesel engine counterbalance trucks. 

Sales of diesel powered counterbalance lift trucks rose by +7% over the course of last year, beating out electric powered alternatives, which saw an increase of +3.4%. The powered pallet truck market also experienced significant market growth, emphasising a seismic shift towards more courier and express delivery services being used in the UK.

Positive forecast for forklift market

The forklift market in the UK has increased significantly over the last decade. Back in 2009, the number of units sold came to 17,658. Last year, after a ten year continuous climb, the total number of units sold exceeded 35,000.

BITA has also predicted a modest strengthening in the market for the sector, in spite of the ever-growing economic uncertainty over Brexit. The new data which has been released exclusively to BITA members, predicts successive growth over the next 3 years. This is mainly thanks to increased levels of positive activity in various service sectors; such as retail and wholesale distribution, food and beverages, along with transport and storage. 

Whether it’s used forklifts or new forklifts, here at H&F, we have a variety of forklifts for sale – all of the highest quality. Take a look around our website or contact us for more information.