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Feature Articles

Forkliftaction News takes an in-depth look at current trends, challenges and opportunities impacting the materials handling market. Packed with insights from industry experts, you'll learn about the latest emerging technologies and new solutions on the market.

8 minute read

To AGV or not to AGV

Feature Article - 30 Jun 2011 (#520) Since the last Forkliftaction.com News report on AGVs in 2009, some interesting developments have taken place. Melissa Barnett reports on some of these advances, particularly in the area of hybrid vehicles.

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9 minute read

Forklift financing – lifting its game

Feature Article - 26 May 2011 (#515) Navigating your way through the murky waters of asset financing can be confusing. Melissa Barnett looks at what drives financial institutions when dealing with the materials handling sector, what financing options are available and what the next two years may bring.

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9 minute read

Accessories and Cabin Options

Feature Article - 28 Apr 2011 (#511) Good cabin design which ensures driver safety and comfort is an essential component of forklift design and manufacture. Melissa Barnett looks at how this is achieved using a range of innovative cabin options and accessories available on the market.

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9 minute read

New solutions through new technology

Feature Article - 31 Mar 2011 (#507) Despite the general downturn in sales and production over the past few years, a number of materials handling companies, both large and small, have been busy finding solutions to client problems by developing new and exciting technology. Melissa Barnett investigates some of the new technologies on offer.

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14 minute read

The North American market report
Recession caused pain but improved good companies

Feature Article - 24 Feb 2011 (#502) US materials handling equipment orders grew 18% in 2010 and are forecasted to grow 11-12% in 2011 and 2012. While some pundits say the industry will not reach the peak...

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Melissa Barnett

15 minute read

Market looks towards recovery

Feature Article - 6 Jan 2011 (#495) It was a year of unprecedented natural disasters on a global scale. Beginning with the Haiti earthquake in January, 2010 delivered a disaster almost every month. Floods, fires, blizzards and volcanic eruptions caused widespread misery and financial hardship on every continent. No sector of industry or agriculture went unaffected, including the materials handling industry. Melissa Barnett reports on the year that was and looks at what 2011 might bring.

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13 minute read

Parts distribution key to happy customers

Feature Article - 16 Dec 2010 (#492) The forklift industry may appear to be centred around new products, but for more end-users, it is the availability of parts that is paramount. Christine Cranney looks at developments in...

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7 minute read

Counterbalance forklifts – here, there and everywhere.

Feature Article - 25 Nov 2010 (#489) Counterbalance forklifts are one of the cornerstones of materials handling, offering versatility and an almost bewildering range of options. Melissa Barnett looks at some of the trends and applications for these vehicles.

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10 minute read

European recovery slow and steady

Feature Article - 28 Oct 2010 (#485) Over the past two years, Europe, along with the rest of the developed world, has felt the consequences of the Global Financial Crisis. None of the companies Forkliftaction.com News spoke to for this report have emerged unscathed. However, as Melissa Barnett discovered, some are doing better than others.

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8 minute read

Hydrogen forklifts still a long way to go

Feature Article - 30 Sep 2010 (#481) The forklift market is looking for greener power sources but as Forkliftaction.com News reporter Christine Cranney discovers, it may be a while before fuel cell forklifts replace battery-powered ones.

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