HC Forklifts UK's forklifts are manufactured in China.

HC Forklifts UK has expanded its dealer network significantly just 12 months after the company's launch.

The Corby-based forklift company, which was established by Eqstra Industrial Equipment and imports and distributes an extensive range of Hangcha machines, has added 24 strategic partners to its network.

Terry Kendrew, who heads Eqstra's operations in the UK, says the company has exceeded "all expectations" with the quick dealer network growth. "The demand from dealers has been really encouraging and we're delighted to be able to supply the HC product all over the UK through this dedicated and professional network."

The 24 dealers in the HC Forklifts UK network provide sales and aftersales support across the full range of trucks.

Recent additions to the company's portfolio include a 32 T diesel counterbalance truck as well as a new warehouse range. The company's diesel, gas and electric forklifts, and warehouse equipment are manufactured in China and have Cummins, Nissan, Perkins or Yanmar engines, with Okamura, MS or ZF transmissions.

After launching HC Forklifts UK in January 2013, the company says it engaged with businesses it wanted to add to its strategic partnership, and has worked hard to create a solid network built on extensive product availability and competitively priced machines.

"Many dealers tell us that a key thing for their customer is quick product delivery, which is where HC Forklifts UK really scores. We've invested heavily in our stock, which means the majority of our standard models can be delivered the next day," Kendrew says.

HC Forklifts UK is part of the South Africa-based Eqstra Group, a player in the supply and maintenance of industrial, agricultural and materials handling equipment in South Africa, Africa and the UK. It employs more than 250 people in the UK.

The company's Eqstra Industrial Equipment subsidiary established HC Forklifts UK to import and distribute the HC range of forklifts manufactured by Chinese forklift manufacturer Hangcha.

According to Eqstra Industrial Equipment, around 30% of the machines manufactured in Hangcha's Zhejiang province-based factory are exported, making it the Chinese forklift manufacturer with the highest volume of exports.