Yale Europe Materials Handling has invested over USD2 million in its 35,000 sqm (376,737 sqft.) electric warehouse equipment facility in Masate, Italy. Improvements to the site include a new product development centre, an extensive testing area and a very narrow aisle (VNA) production line for the global market. Yale VNA and warehouse systems manager Ron Farr says space optimisation is currently "one of the most significant trends in warehousing and materials movement". "Despite the difficulties presented by the global economic crisis, Yale's parent company, NACCO Materials Handling Group, has continued to invest in new product development and bring new equipment ranges to the market. "Specifically, the company has recognised that demand for VNA equipment would be increasing and the new facility at Masate means Yale is now in a position to respond and deliver products to customers' individual requirements," Farr explains. The VNA production facility is housed in a dedicated 2,100 sqm (22,604 sqft.) building and uses the Demand Flow Technology (DFT) assembly process. Each truck is built to the customer's requirements and is tested at each stage of assembly and manufacture. Yale's new 50 m (164 ft.) test track means current and new or prototype products can be tested to their full capabilities. Testing includes lift and travel speeds, productivity testing, energy efficiency examinations and internal stability testing.