Briggs Equipment has completed the acquisition of materials handling dealer Forkway Group.

Operating from three UK sites in Amersham, Dewsbury and Southampton, Forkway has supplied industrial equipment and expert engineering services to customers since 1961 with a philosophy and commitment that perfectly complements the Briggs Proposition. The company, which has been a sub-dealer of Briggs for 10 years, is well respected within the industry for its commitment to customer service and has a loyal and diverse customer portfolio that covers key geographical areas.

This acquisition further strengthens Briggs Equipment’s position in the UK and Ireland equipment market, while ensuring Forkway customers benefit from access to a wider range of high-quality products and supporting services.

Pete Jones, Briggs Equipment group managing director, says: “With the acquisition of Forkway, we are delighted to have brought a strong and long-standing business partner fully within the Briggs Group. Their skilled employees, extensive customer portfolio and synergy with our own customer base means they are a further valuable addition to the Briggs Equipment Group.”

“We continue to build on our recent acquisition activity and this latest deal underlines our ambition and focus to grow the group and ultimately provide unrivalled service and coverage to our customers. Forkway has a proven track record of success that’s been built over a number of decades and whilst we will expand the overall capability of the business, we also recognise the importance of nurturing and protecting those unique and long-lasting customer partnerships.

“We look forward to welcoming the Forkway team into our business, working closely with them and providing the appropriate investment and support to ensure the company can continue to prosper and fulfil its huge potential.”

Richard Greaves, Forkway group director, says the acquisition will allow his business to accelerate its development as part of a values-orientated, industry-recognised and highly successful organisation. “The positive culture and ambition that runs throughout Briggs will help our people thrive in their roles, whilst delivering key improvements to our product and service offering,” he adds.