Combilift is Ireland's DHL Exporter of the Year for 2001.

Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment state minister Noel Treacy presented the company with a trophy, more than EUR12,500 in international shipments, and funds towards Combilift's overseas marketing programme.

"Combilift (is) to be congratulated on (its) commitment to innovation and persistence in pursuing opportunities in the global competitive marketplace," Mr Treacy said.

The DHL Export Awards recognise Irish companies involved in export and develop public awareness of the role small business plays in Ireland's economy.

Combilift's all-directional forklift is exported to 29 countries, the company said in a statement. Combilift was launched with three staff in 1998, and now occupies an 18,000 square-metre plant and employs more than 60 people.

Turnover had increased 98 percent last year, the company said.