After a year defined by delayed investment decisions, rising costs and fragile confidence, the UK forklift truck market is moving through a period of adjustment rather than retreat, a new financial report reveals.
The latest UK Forklift Truck Market Outlook, compiled for the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) by Oxford Economics, shows that cost pressures and economic uncertainty have influenced investment decisions throughout 2025, with many companies delaying fleet renewals or opting for shorter-term leasing.
However, the report suggests that 2026 will mark the beginning of a gradual return to improved conditions, supported by easing inflation and more favourable financing. Forklift truck orders are forecast to grow again as confidence strengthens, with further steady expansion expected through 2027. Analysts point to this as a transition into a more stable, sustainable replacement cycle rather than a return to pandemic-era peaks.
UKMHA CEO Rob Fisher said: “The year has required resilience, but we are encouraged by the projected upturn from 2026 onwards. The fundamentals of our industry remain strong, and when businesses feel more confident, we expect investment to return.”
The UKMHA’s industry survey showed that while some firms reported improved order books, confidence remained fragile. However, Association members show increasing levels of optimism for the return of modest sales growth, aligning with the predictions of economic forecasters.
The report suggests that 2026 will mark the beginning of a gradual return to growth, driven by easing inflationary pressures and a loosening of monetary policy conditions. With financing expected to become more affordable and supply chain uncertainty starting to settle, total forklift truck orders are forecast to recover by 9.4% in 2026. This uplift is set to be broad-based, with counterbalance truck orders projected to rise by 8.2%, supported by steady improvement in industrial production.
In the warehouse segment, truck orders are forecast to rebound sharply by 10.1% in 2026, following an unexpectedly weak performance in 2025 linked to softened online retail and consumer spending trends. Sales of pedestrian controlled warehouse trucks (Class 3), which were near to record highs in 2024, are projected to fall sharply during 2025 and then recover modestly in 2026.
Looking to 2027, the data points towards continued growth, albeit at a slower and more steady rate, with counterbalance orders forecast to rise by a further 6.5% and warehouse orders by a modest 1.9% as the market settles into a more normalised pattern of investment and operational planning.
Rob Fisher added that new entrants to the UK market demonstrate the continued belief in the long-term strength of materials handling, making the next edition of the IMHX logistics solutions show in September 2027 all the more attractive.
“Transition should not be misread as decline,” Rob said. “It is preparation. Our industry has shown time and again that it emerges stronger, and we believe it will do so again.”
“They recognise the UK as a market worth investing in,” added Rob. “That provides healthy competition, but also fresh collaboration opportunities. For established suppliers and newer players alike, IMHX 2027 will be a major milestone, and we would encourage organisations to start planning in early 2026 to ensure they are ready to showcase their capabilities.
For many years, women have worked hard to establish themselves as leaders, particularly in traditionally male-dominated industries. In recent years, there has been a welcome shift, with more women stepping up into senior roles where they provide dynamic leadership, are bold decision-makers, drive progress and inspire future generations.
We are delighted to introduce three UKMHA member companies, which are led by women who are thriving in their roles and shaping the future of the industry.
Rachel shares her journey from joining the family business in the 1980s to leading it to become one of the UK’s largest Mitsubishi dealers. She reflects on her pivotal career moments, the values that shaped her leadership, and her vision for the future of the material handling industry.
Rachel’s story is one of resilience, growth, and belief in people.
Zoe reveals her career development path from starting as an apprentice in 1997 to managing the company today. She reflects on her progression, the proud achievements of HFT, including multiple Mitsubishi awards, and the values that drive her leadership.
Zoe’s story is a testament to growth, determination, and the power of building strong teams.
Gillian reflects on her career journey from retail banking to the material handling industry, sharing how the transition challenged her and opened new leadership opportunities in a male-dominated sector. Her role on the UKMHA board highlights her commitment to supporting leadership development and inspiring the next generation of women.
Gillian’s story is about building strong teams and creating an environment where talented individuals can thrive.
These inspiring stories highlight an important reality: female leaders bring a wide range of strengths to the table, including clear and effective communication skills, decisiveness, collaboration, inclusivity and empathy. They often combine these with the traits of resilience, emotional intelligence, self-awareness and integrity. These qualities make women highly skilled leaders, able to create a working culture focused on both teamwork and an understanding of the needs of the workers, such as the requirement for flexible working. This delivers not only support for higher team engagement and innovation but also contributes to stronger organisational performance.
The UK Material Handling Association is set to stage its most ambitious and hard-hitting health safety scenario to date, courtesy of a courtroom drama which will shine a spotlight on safety breaches in the workplace.
As part of the Conference at IMHX on September 10th, an unprecedented line-up of legal experts and industry leaders will comprise ‘The Mock Trial,’ which will demonstrate how the law responds when there is a life-changing accident involving a forklift.
Among the high-profile speakers confirmed is Austin Welch, one of the UK’s most respected junior barristers specialising in public inquiries, inquests, and health and safety law. Austin has played key roles in some of the country’s most complex and high-profile cases, including the Manchester Arena Inquiry and the Hillsborough Inquests.
He will be joined by Marta Tomlinson, Legal Director at Kennedys, who brings years of experience advising clients under investigation from the Health and Safety Executive, Environment Agency, and other enforcement authorities. Marta is a regular advocate in the Magistrates’ Court and Coroner’s Court and is renowned for her ability to cut through complex legal arguments with clarity.
Together with Clare Bottle, CEO of the UK Warehousing Association, and Stuart Taylor, Managing Director of Mentor Training, the expert panel will bring to life a gripping scenario that demonstrates how a serious workplace accident involving material handling equipment could play out in court.
‘The Mock Trial’ will not only expose the legal ramifications for businesses but will also drive home the personal consequences for those injured and those found responsible.
Rob Fisher, Chief Executive of the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA), co-hosts of IMHX, said the scenario is intended to highlight how breaches of health and safety protocols can impact individuals and businesses:
“Too often, the risks associated with health and safety breaches are seen as abstract until tragedy strikes. Through this mock trial, we want to bring home the reality in the most powerful way possible. By creating the drama of the courtroom, with the support of some of the most authoritative voices in the legal field, we are confident the message will leave a lasting impression.”
The IMHX Conference takes place from September 9 to 11 at the NEC, Birmingham, with the UKMHA hosting a safety morning, including The Mock Trial, on Wednesday 10th September.
Visitor registration is now open, with free entry available for professionals from warehousing, distribution, supply chain, e-commerce, retail, and manufacturing sectors.
To register, visit www.imhx.net.
A legal director from one of the UK’s most reputable law firms is poised to deliver a hard-hitting mock trial at the IMHX Conference, which is designed to underline the life-changing implications of health and safety breaches.
UKMHA, joint hosts of the show, are putting the finishing touches to an unprecedented courtroom drama on September 10, in their most ambitious attempt yet to highlight the risks associated with material handling equipment.
Featuring Marta Tomlinson from Kennedys Law LLP, Clare Bottle from UKWA and Stuart Taylor from Mentor Training, the IMHX Conference hopes that the scenario will resonate with everyone that works with, or around, forklifts or other warehouse trucks.
IMHX, the UK’s largest logistical event takes place from September 9 to 11. In addition to its mock trial, UKMHA will also host three insightful presentations from industry-leading professionals.
Jeremy Leonard, Managing Director of Global Industry Services at Oxford Economics will report on UK industrial truck demand in an uncertain economic environment, while Laura Nelson, CEO of RTITB, will talk about Shaping a Safety-Driven Workforce.
Meanwhile, Powerfleet will host a session titled ‘The Hidden Warehouse Risk That Will Cost You Your Job’, featuring Ingmar Schoemacher alongside Martijn Graat, founder of Logistics Matter and host of the Does Logistics Matter? podcast.
The presentations add weight to an action-packed IMHX Conference at the NEC, Birmingham, which will showcase sustainability strategies and practical approaches to drive both profitability and planet-friendly practices.
Smart technologies will also be celebrated, including AI insights and data-driven solutions designed to cut operational costs and streamline warehousing. And the recurring themes of safety and operational excellence will also be explored further, with ideas to boost productivity while prioritising safety and well-being.
Rob Fisher, Chief Executive Officer at the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA), co-owners of IMHX, said: “The risks associated with health and safety breaches are genuinely life-changing to both the injured party and the owners of the business involved. The challenge for us is how we can bring these pitfalls to life in the most memorable manner, so the message gets through.
“We’re confident that we’ll make a big impression through our mock trial, which is another example of us raising the bar and adding real substance to our offering at the exhibition. It is the first time that we have ever tried to execute a presentation in such a creative way and we think that it will leave a lasting impression with everyone who witnesses it.”
Visitor registration for IMHX 2025 is now open, with free entry available to professionals from warehousing, distribution, supply chain, e-commerce, retail, and manufacturing sectors. To register, visit www.imhx.net
The UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) welcomes the arrival of Champion Forklifts owner Derek Martin to its board, who has issued an immediate rallying call to independent forklift dealers: “Join our association and save thousands of pounds.”
With over four decades of hands-on experience in the material handling world, Mr Martin is urging independent dealers to join the UKMHA and take advantage of the collective strength and guidance on offer, which he promises will also save hours of time, whilst easing the stress associated with running a small business.
“The benefits of a UKMHA membership are immeasurable,” said Derek, whose career in the material handling sector began in 1972. “It’s your support system, your time-saver, and in many cases, your money-saver too. I’ve joined the board to make sure smaller businesses get the recognition and help they deserve.” “Forklift dealers can’t afford to work in isolation; they have to have access to good, practical advice.
Derek is celebrating the 30-year anniversary of his Champion Forklift business, is perfectly placed to champion the interests of small dealer members and to help the association with its campaign to attract more of them to join.
“Health and safety can be a challenge for business owners of all shapes and sizes. It’s one area where forklift dealers need help. Via the services that UKMHA provide, especially the dealer member audit, you have the support to navigate through the legal requirements and other matters.
Rob Fisher, CEO, UKMHA said it benefits our board and association no-end to appoint such a respected industry professional who understands the needs of our members:
“Derek is a strong advocate for dealer members and will help us in our drive to represent the forklift dealer community across the UK.”
Derek concludes “Business is about people. You can’t take away rivalries and while we have competitors, we do talk to them; life’s too short not to get on with people.”
The UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) has expanded its board with the appointment of a new director.
Gillian Reed is Managing Director of STILL Material Handling UK, a post she has held for the past three years
Promoted from within, Ms Reed was formerly Service and Operations Director where she had been responsible for leading the development of the service team under STILL’s sales and service network, prior to two decades in the Retail Banking sector
Her appointment, coming at the end of the pandemic, saw STILL strengthen its business model, in particular investing further in the evolving industry direction of travel within the automation space.
Her goal on taking the reins at STILL as Managing Director was to continue to consistently set high standards in the company’s customer experience whilst growing the presence and footprint of the brand in the UK & Ireland, to reflect the size of the aspiration for the business.
Gillian Reed said: “The satisfaction and evolving needs of our customers remain the cornerstone of our business. I’m proud of the high service standards we’ve set, as reflected in our consistently strong Net Promoter Score, something that will continue to guide every decision we make. It’s a real privilege to serve as a board member of the UKMHA, where I can contribute to the broader advancement of our industry and champion collaboration across the sector.”
Rob Fisher, UKMHA CEO, said: “We are delighted that Gillian has agreed to join the UKMHA board. She is a highly respected and well-known figure within our industry and her knowledge of the service sector will be invaluable in helping the association with its work in this area.”
Ms Reed continued: “It’s incredibly encouraging to see more female leaders stepping into prominent roles across the material handling industry. A more diverse and inclusive environment not only reflects the world we live in, but also brings a wider range of perspectives and strengths to the table. I’m passionate about championing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, not just as a goal, but as a fundamental value that drives innovation, collaboration, and long-term success.”
As the UKMHA strives to continue improving industry safety levels, advancing the cause of new technology and helping the sector adapt to ever changing customer demands a diverse and experienced board will be vital in helping to shape future policy.
The association also has a special focus on attracting new talent to the industry and to upskill those already working in the sector. This matter is critical to the long-term sustainability of the industry and directly addresses the main concern of members regarding labour shortages.
The scope of talent and innovation characterising the UK’s material handling and intralogistics sector is set to get the recognition it deserves at this year’s Archies. Event organiser, the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA), has been flooded with nominations for this year’s final, which will be one of the highlights of IMHX week in September.
Entrants compete to win a coveted Archie statuette, named after Archimedes – the father of engineering – a true badge of honour for recipients.
Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony, which takes place at the Vox Conference Centre, within the NEC on the evening of Wednesday 10 September – and it promises to be a night to remember. Compère for the evening will be the towering figure of Harry Potter body double, broadcaster, stuntman and former England and British Lions rugby union player, Martin Bayfield.
View the list of shortlisted finalists here
Rob Fisher, UKMHA CEO, said: “We’ve been staggered by the volume and quality of entries for this year’s awards and I must applaud everyone for the standard of their submissions.”
Close on 100 entries have been shortlisted for this year’s scheme – well above last year’s total, with nominations spread across all 15 categories.
The finalists are drawn from the entire material handling and intralogistics spectrum, from new apprentices to those who have spent a lifetime in the industry.
One important theme set for recognition is the use of pioneering new technology and how this is reshaping the way the sector operates. This covers everything from automation and AI to software and sustainability. The human factor is also being recognised in the form of training provision across the sector and the dedication to customer service, safety and efficiency.
“The breadth of the nominations illustrates what a strong sector we currently have,” added Mr Fisher.
“The industry rightly deserves to celebrate the talent evident in today’s material handling and intralogistics sector and UKMHA will be doing all it can to ensure The Archies does just that.”
For full information on how to book a place at the gala ceremony, and to view the remaining sponsorship opportunities, visit: www.ukmha.org.uk/events/the-archies-awards/
National Forklift Safety Day once again proved to be a major success for 2025 with support from across the UK material handling and intralogistics sector – and if you missed out on the day itself, never fear as you can still participate by checking out the event’s new-look website where you will find a host of assets ready to access, including the pioneering new MHE Incident Reporting Portal.
For 2025, campaign organiser, the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) opted for a bold approach to reinforce the message that ‘A Painted Line Isn’t Enough’.
The principal focus of the 2025 campaign is an industry-first, a trailblazing new portal designed to assimilate and analyse MHE incident data with the aim of improving safety in the workplace.
Workplaces are being urged to use the portal to report any incidents involving MHE where personnel were or could have been injured. Questions relate to circumstances that led up to the incident, the nature and severity of injuries, the type of MHE involved, etc.
The data captured by the portal will be used to identify trends and to target areas where safety can be most effectively improved.
No other organisation is collecting this data and if the industry backs the portal then the information gathered will drive safety gains, both directly in the workplace, and through machine design evolution.
David Goss, Technical Director, UKMHA said: “If we are to improve safety around MHE then we must gather as much information as we can into the circumstances surrounding incidents, accidents and near misses. Only by doing this can we hope to understand why accidents occur and identify what we need to do to improve standards.”
He was quick to point out that the portal is not designed to apportion blame but merely to gather as much data as possible in order to derive effective solutions.
Works Managers, Safety Managers and Supervisors are the main targets for the portal but in essence, anyone with a knowledge of an incident can report it.
“I would urge everyone in the industry to visit the NFSD website for details on how to complete the form so we can start saving lives,” added Mr Goss.
The newly-designed website also contains details about other assets that have been released in support of the 2025 campaign:
Rob Fisher, Chief Executive Officer of the UKMHA, said: “We are grateful to everyone who supported NFSD on the day but safety never sleeps so our work goes on. We will continue to work with the industry throughout the year to create safer and more productive workplaces, and with industry support then we can go a long way towards achieving that.”
For more information visit the National Forklift Safety Day website
The array of talent and innovation characterising the UK’s material handling and intralogistics sector is set to be celebrated at the final of one of the industry’s most prestigious awards ceremonies, The Archies. Organiser, the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA), has been flooded with nominations for this year’s event, which will be one of the highlights of the IMHX exhibition week in September.
Entrants compete to win a coveted Archie statuette, named after Archimedes – the father of engineering – a true badge of honour for recipients.
Winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony taking place at the Vox Conference Centre, within the NEC on the evening of Wednesday 10 September – and it promises to be a night to remember.
View our full list of finalists here
Rob Fisher, UKMHA CEO, said: “We’ve been staggered by the volume and quality of entries for this year’s awards and I must applaud everyone for the standard of their submissions. Frankly, I don’t envy the job of the judges having to find winners from such an outstanding set of nominations.”
Close on 100 entries have been shortlisted for this year’s competition – well above last year’s total, with nominations spread across all 15 categories.
The nominations recognise the contributions of everyone within the material handling and intralogistics sector, from new apprentices to those who have spent a lifetime in the industry.
The use of pioneering new technology from automation and AI to software and sustainability are all set to be recognised, as is the broad scope of training provision across the sector and the dedication to customer service, safety and efficiency.
“The breadth of the nominations illustrates what a strong sector we currently have and the innovative solutions dedicated professionals have developed to help transform the movement of goods and improve operational efficiency in one of the UK’s most important industrial sectors,” added Mr Fisher.
“The industry rightly deserves to celebrate the talent evident in today’s material handling and intralogistics operations. The UKMHA will be doing all it can to ensure The Archies does just that.”
Award Categories
The award categories reflect the entire material handling spectrum, with recognition set for individuals, projects and products, along with services and innovation. They reflect the need to attract the best new talent to the industry – a key aim of the UKMHA – as well as the changing nature of the industry with the advances in technology such as automation and AI.
For the full list of award categories and sponsors follow the link here
For full information on how to book your place at the gala ceremony, and our remaining sponsorship opportunities, visit: www.ukmha.org.uk/events/the-archies-awards/
Seizing the initiative in the fight to improve safety in workplaces where material handling equipment operates forms the crux of this year’s National Forklift Safety Day (NFSD), which launches today (Tuesday).
Campaign organiser, the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) has opted for a bold approach to this year’s theme, highlighting that linemarking, signage and hi-viz PPE do not eliminate risk in the workplace, only reduce it.
It is why this year’s campaign is characterised by the message ‘A Painted Line Isn’t Enough’.
In an industry-first, the UKMHA is trailblazing a new portal designed to assimilate and analyse MHE incident data with the aim of improving safety in the workplace – and the trade association wants the help of the industry to achieve its goal.
David Goss, Technical Director, UKMHA said: “In order to effectively tackle workplace safety we need to firstly arm ourselves with as much information as possible. Only by doing this can we hope to understand why accidents occur and identify what we need to do to improve standards.
“No other organisation is collecting this data and is why we are today urging the material handling and intralogistics industry to support the initiative. We want people to tell us about MHE related incidents they have experienced in their own workplace so that we can spot common causes and act on them.
“This isn’t a whistleblowing exercise, it’s the compilation of vital data that will help us to reduce risk. I would urge everyone in the industry to visit the NFSD website for details on how to complete the form so we can start saving lives.”
The website also contains details about other assets being released today in support of the campaign:
Rob Fisher, Chief Executive Officer of the UKMHA, said: “NFSD gives the sector the perfect opportunity to join forces and create safer, more compliant workplaces. That’s why we have striven to make the 2025 campaign more engaging and interactive than ever before.”
For more information visit the National Forklift Safety Day website
