Fork lift specialist Combilift took two stands at Timber Expo, one featured its 5-tonne sideloader, the other the latest generation C4000, seen in the UK for the first time.
The new C4000 features the same functionality as previous incarnations of Combilift’s flagship model, with all the upgrades relating to operator comfort.
The C4000 now has a roomier cab, with a redesigned dash panel for improved ergonomics. The curved windscreen and the addition of more glass to the cab provides better visibility.
Combilift is having “a brilliant year”, according to product manager Steve Tomlinson. “Sales to the UK were up 60% in 2010 and are a further 40% up this year,” he said. “We’ll sell around 500 units in the UK this year.”
Product diversity has helped Combilift buck the economic trend, he said, with models such as the compact CB opening new markets, such as small joinery shops and builders merchants. And, he added “it’s all about logistics these days. People have been looking to save space and money and set their warehouses out better”.
The timber sector remains Combilift’s biggest single market, accounting for more than 50% of its business, so attending a dedicated timber show was very important, added Mr Tomlinson.
