Linde's UK division is set for a record year, with orders up 14.5 per cent and its Basingstoke plant aiming to produce more than 9000 forklifts, up 6.5 per cent.

Linde's success was a result of increases in demand across the market this year, said Linde sales and marketing director Stephen Moule.

"For the first six months of 2004 the growth rate has accelerated, with an increase of almost 12 per cent (over last year), and we believe the market will reach 32,000 units (this) year," Moule said.

The materials handling industry was reaping flow-on benefits from renewed activity in public projects and, more generally, a positive UK economy.

"The economy is performing well, and that leads to growth in consumer confidence, which translates into increased spending," Moule said.

"The market is heading for a record year, and I think the market can exceed that in 2005 and produce more than 33,000 forklifts."