Managing Director of Alto Handling (right), receives the Mitsubishi Gold Award from Stewart Gosling of Red Diamond Distribution which has acquired the Alto business

The UK importer of Mitsubishi forklift trucks, Red Diamond Distribution (RDD), has completed the acquisition of Portsmouth-based Alto Handling.

RDD's Mike Jones describes the acquisition as "an important development that will ensure customers on the South coast, including Brighton, Portsmouth and Bournemouth, continue to enjoy continuity of service from a highly regarded and vastly experienced local supplier".

"At the same time, the move will allow RDD to maintain the integrity of the Mitsubishi network in the UK by ensuring stability, job security and growth for this award-winning business."

Jones says Alto was a highly successful Mitsubishi dealership for more than 24 years and scooped the coveted Mitsubishi Gold Award for outstanding customer support on three separate occasions.

"I'm delighted to say that the colleagues responsible for delivering that service have responded enthusiastically to our plans which will see significant investment in staff, training and stockholding.

"Acquiring Alto Handling will allow us to further strengthen our route to market throughout this important territory," he adds.

"Mitsubishi is a world-leading brand but even the finest equipment is only as good as the support behind it... and that's where Alto excels."

Colin Ivory has agreed to remain on as managing director for the foreseeable future, helping to ensure seamless continuity of supply along with the support Alto customers expect and appreciate.

"For Red Diamond Distribution, this investment consolidates our network in the UK and demonstrates a cast-iron commitment to the Mitsubishi brand," says Jones.