The world materials handling market grew by 50% to 379,000 trucks compared to 253,200 units in the first half of 2010.

According to Jungheinrich Group's market intelligence, all regions contributed to the increase. Asia posted the strongest gain, expanding by 77%, with China making the largest contribution, growing by 103%.

Europe's market volume advanced by 27% in the first six months of 2010 and accelerated in the second quarter by achieving a 39% growth rate. Western Europe recorded growth of 18%, while demand in Eastern Europe jumped 85%. The market improvement in Eastern Europe is especially impressive considering it collapsed by 78% last year.

The North American market recorded a rise of 28%.

Jungheinrich expects the world market to increase by over 30% - to more than 700,000 trucks - this year.