LiftOne LLC is replacing KMH Systems Inc as an authorised dealer for Yale materials handling equipment in the Tennessee market and purchasing certain new Yale inventory and aftermarket parts from KMH. July 31 is set for completion of the purchase.

"The opportunity to add Yale forklifts to our Hyster product offering will better position us to enhance our leadership position in providing comprehensive solutions for our customers in the materials handling industry," says Edward Weisiger Jr, chief executive officer of Carolina Tractor & Equipment Co, of which LiftOne is a division.

Charlotte-based LiftOne gained the Hyster territory for a portion of Tennessee - and areas in four other south-east US states - on May 1, succeeding a unit of Barloworld Ltd.

Nacco Industries Inc's materials handling group owns the Yale and Hyster brands.

Bill Pfleger, Yale distribution president, says, "We look forward to the advantages LiftOne will bring to longstanding Yale customers as well as the opportunity for developing new customers in portions of central Tennessee."

LiftOne has 17 branch locations throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee and, in various markets, represents the Hyster, Linde lift trucks, Ottawa/Kalmar, Combilift and Rail King brands.

While being compensated for yielding the Yale territory in Tennessee, KMH retains its physical locations in Nashville and Goodlettsville in the state.

Founded in 1976, Dayton, Ohio-based KMH remains the authorised Yale dealer in six other territories in mid-west states. KMH has a total of 12 facilities with representation in various markets for the JCB, Combilift, Bendi, Flexi, Pettibone, Sellick and Genie brands in addition to Yale.

"We have been a Yale dealer since 1986 and appreciate the contribution to our dramatic growth, but KMH's business model has evolved, and this transaction fulfills the strategic plan of all parties involved," says Michael Guenin, president and CEO of KMH Systems.