Forklift dealerships are certainly under pressure, with reports of insolvencies becoming more frequent in many markets. Part of this may be natural attrition and a necessary consolidation in markets where there were simply too many dealers chasing too few customers. Sure, when the economy was running hot, there was plenty of business to go around. But now that belts are being tightened, weaker players will inevitably flounder. And there are two sets of messages here: manufacturers need to think carefully about granting franchises and about their demands on dealers; and customers must give as much thought to their dealer choice as to the forklift selection. Buyers also need to pause before attempting to drive down prices. When the dealer collapses, the few dollars saved on the purchase price pale into insignificance against the hassles involved in service and support.