The UK importer of Italian-branded, tracked forklifts is seeking industry specialists to grow its regional dealer network.

APS, based in Upton, near Huntingdon, is the exclusive UK importer for the Hinowa range of rough-terrain tracked mini-dumpers, ride-on tracked forklifts and tracked boom platforms. The company, which showcased the machines at IOG Saltex at Windsor Racecourse this month, has represented Hinowa tracked boom platforms since 2005. In 2010, it added the other two machines to its portfolio.

Managing director Richard Tindale says Hinowa has a reputation for innovative products that are "durable, robust and easy to use".

"We have an experienced sales team for our access platforms, but need specialist agents in other industry sectors including landscaping and grounds care," he adds.

According to APS, the compact Hinowa tracked forklifts are easy to transport from site to site on a trailer. The tracks help the units to traverse almost any type of ground conditions, making the machines ideal for use in construction, materials handling, landscaping, farming and horticulture.

Hydraulic widening increases the machine width from 1.24 m to 1.8 m (4.1 ft. to 5.9 ft.), allowing the units to lift and carry loads of up to 2 T on severe slopes. The machine's attachments include a crane kit, pole/pillar holder kit, spool kit and an extended forks kit.

APS distributes construction and industrial equipment, and has close ties with the Hinowa factory. It employs 43 people, including six regional sales managers. Its annual turnover is about GBP8.2 million (USD13.3 million).

Hinowa SpA was founded in Italy in 1987. Located in the Italian province of Verona, the company, which employs 120 people, produces machines on rubber tracks for the agriculture, gardening, plant engineering, construction, industrial and shipbuilding sectors.