The new Lisman premises in Malaysia have 5,000 sqm of covered storage capacity and over 300 used machines.

European used materials handling equipment supplier Lisman is expanding into Asia with the opening of subsidiary Lisman Forklifts Asia Sdn Bhd in Port Klang, Malaysia.

Lisman Forklifts Asia managing director Marcel Jansen tells Forkliftaction.com News the "centrally located" start-up will allow customers to source quality, used machines from a location "near their premises and easy for them to visit".

"The global materials handling market is undergoing a lasting revolution. We foresee an increase of production and usage of materials handling (equipment) in Asia in the next few years ... This is why Lisman will not miss a chance to expand the business to a new level," he explains.

The new Lisman premises in Malaysia have 5,000 sqm (54,000 sqft.) of covered storage capacity and over 300 used machines ready for customers.

"What is normal for a customer dealing with Lisman in the Netherlands is similar to what is offered by Lisman Forklifts Asia - a wide range of sale-ready machines," Jansen says.

All major European and Japanese brands, warehouse and counterbalance trucks, from small to large capacities, for standard use or specific applications, will be found in the Asian subsidiary.

Jansen says Malaysia is a natural choice for the company's Asian branch. "It is centrally located and a normal stop for the major shipping routes, with excellent port infrastructure, easy access via the international airport, and with a highly skilled, English-speaking workforce."

He adds that the start-up has been received with enthusiasm. "Without advertising and before the actual opening of our premises, there are already many serious enquiries from various South East Asian materials handling equipment professionals."

About 10 people will be hired during the start-up phase for Lisman Forklifts Asia.

The Dutch ambassador to Malaysia, PPJ Bekkers, officially opened the new business on 25 April. Local and international Lisman associates attended the event, including Jansen, business development manager Loris Scarpa and Lisman CEOs Anton and Koen Lisman. The ceremony was streamed live to the main office in the Netherlands.

The subsidiary was the result of "over one year of careful preparation", Lisman says.