Laker Builders Merchant has converted its entire materials handling fleet to electric with the recent delivery of electric Combilift CBE3000s. This follows last year’s installation of EP electric forklifts at all branches last year. 

Managing director Steve Robinson says: “We’ve fulfilled our ambition of going fully electric on all our forklifts and I’m pleased to report we’ve reduced our CO2 by over 20 T per year through this implementation. It’s a real win for the environment and a testament to the commitment Laker has to achieving CarbonZero.”

Laker is working to lower its carbon footprint across the whole business, not just for the environment and the future of the planet, but also to improve the welfare of its team and give them a better working environment. 

Having a completely green fleet means that the yard team are no longer working in diesel fumes. “It’s really nice that we’re not breathing in the diesel fumes; although I didn’t notice it at the time, now that it’s gone, I definitely feel better for it,” states yard manager Lloyd Paine. 

Laker’s electrification was achieved in collaboration with dealer Forkway, where Steve Noble recommended the CBE3000 because it was designed for the safe and efficient handling of long and bulky loads like timber that Laker moves on a daily basis. Being multi-directional, this Combilift thrives in small spaces, perfect for all of the Laker warehouses.

Noble had earlier recommended the flexibility of EP EFL302 lithium counterbalance machines for the yards. 

“Once the ideal truck specifications had been confirmed and we knew it was possible to meet the CarbonZero brief, the challenge fell to delivering all of this within Laker’s budget,” Noble explains. The deal stacked up because of significantly reduced running costs across the fleet in terms of both fuel and maintenance. “With no engine oil or fuel filters to change, servicing costs are greatly reduced over the old ICE fleet. Fuel savings are thousands per year. With the lithium batteries expected to last well over the five-year warranty period, the fleet will be providing cost savings and environmentally positive benefits for many years to come.”

Laker’s partnership with Forkway continues with the provision of new training for everyone so they can safely operate the new equipment. Drivers have all been provided with a training certificate and Forkway will be back to refresh regularly.

Laker Builders Merchant is an independent builders’ merchant operating in the south of England with ambitions of innovation, growth and CarbonZero.