Shaw Handling says the economic downturn has been good for its business and it is still on track to launch its "revolutionary" forklift range this year.

The Abu Dhabi-based manufacturer established by British-born David O'Callaghan initially planned to launch its iLift range in the second or third quarter this year (Forkliftaction.com News#405). It is now planning to introduce the forklifts to the market in the fourth quarter of 2009.

O'Callaghan tells Forkliftaction.com News that Shaw's inaugural launch consists of forklifts over 10 tonne capacities, empty and laden container handlers and reach stackers.

"The launch will see the first new designed iLift with capacities of 10-18 tonnes and five- and six- high empty container handling trucks that will be based on our new design," he explains.

In the next four years, Shaw will launch 20,000-28,000kg forklifts and seven- to eight-high empty container handlers. The iLift family of trucks will be fully constructed based on a modular design.

O'Callaghan says that forklifts built on a traditional platform and used in normal operation are usually rebuilt after 20,000 to 40,000 hours of usage. "This means they are completely stripped to the chassis and all major parts replaced and then it is painted. The amount of time it takes to do this can be halved with the new modular construction trucks," he says.

Shaw explains that companies are now looking to reduce costs and are open to new developments to help them do so.

"Customers want more flexibility and less downtime. The new Shaw iLift meets these demands and customers who have had the concept explained find the new way appealing. They can now cut the number of trucks needed in their fleets."

Shaw has also attracted people with vast experience to join the company because "the current job uncertainty means employees are more willing to join a new company" and are looking for new opportunities in the market.

O'Callaghan adds that Shaw has been contacted by companies from the US, Australia, Germany, Italy, Brazil and India expressing interest to partner as dealers in joint-venture partnerships as the forklift market is now more competitive.

"This has been promising and the companies who sign up first will be where the launches will take place. Italy is the first with a number of trucks possibly sold there," O'Callaghan says.

Shaw is currently talking to Tailift about a joint venture, which will see the Taiwanese forklift manufacturer producing the iLift range for sale in China and Taiwan.

"These talks might take some time but we are hopeful that an agreement will be finalised by the end of the year," O'Callaghan says.