Kalmar continues to expand its materials handling equipment range with the launch of a new series of five-tonne to nine-tonne forklifts.

Kalmar managing director Christer Granskog said Kalmar hoped to grow through introducing new products.

"In recent years we have expanded our container handling business significantly, through acquisitions and organic growth. We have also consolidated our position in the heavy industrial field," he said.

The "5-9" range follows the launch of a nine-tonne to 18-tonne range in 2002. Kalmar had now filled the weight class below, said Kalmar Industrial Systems manager Leif Wallin.

"The launch of our new series is an important part of our expansion. It provides excellent breadth, ranging from the premium model to a more basically equipped model that will give us the opportunity to reach customers in new markets."