Linde AG is investing EUR12.5 million (USD15.3 million) to expand forklift and warehouse equipment component production at its Ballenstedt site, in Saxony-Anhalt.

"This investment reflects the excellent performance of the Bellenstedt site and the region in general," said Stefan Rinck, a member of the materials handling operational board.

The expansion will create 28 new jobs, bringing the total to 189. The number of trainee positions will increase from nine to 16.

Ballenstedt is to become a centre for the production of hydraulic control valves for products from the group's three brands, Linde, Still and Om Pimespo.

Hydraulic control valves are components essential to forklifts' rotating and lifting functions.