Stanley Handling

Features that were once extras are now being made standard on the models to improve health and safety for operators. For example, all trucks have power steering as standard, as well as creep speed across the whole counterbalance range. This creep speed is achieved via a button on the tiller to allow the operator to negotiate more compact spaces. In addition, the XT range is designed to slow down when cornering, to stop shedding loads.

Alex explains: "The whole XT range is AC controlled, and despite the enhanced features and benefits comes at a reasonable price. Our SBC range (the standard product) will have vertical drive motors, so you don’t have to worry about dust, damp etc. We have solutions for a variety of price points coupled with faith in the integrity of the products. We are making sure the products have the best components as the customer is looking for enhanced reliability and longevity. We’re happy to put machines out in 7-10 year deals.”

Alex sees health & safety playing a key role in pushing sales of Robur pedestrianised trucks and has noted that many clients are keen to exclude sit-on forklifts from facilities where possible. For example, Stanley has won a contract to provide 10 pedestrian reach trucks to an engine manufacturer, replacing sit-on reach trucks.

Alex explains: "A lot of companies tendered for the contract, but we won it because we have a pedestrian reach truck that will lift to 5.3m that operators could also stand on for long runs in the production centre.

"Companies are also trying to carry out more production in their facilities, so want to make the storage aisles smaller. Again this is where pedestrian reach trucks come into their own.”

Stanley Handling has entered this new reach truck in the 2014 FLTA Awards in both the Innovation and Safety categories.