The new 3-wheel configuration offers enhanced manoeuvrability in tight spaces, making it ideal for warehouses and distribution centres where aisle widths are at a premium. The compact design allows operators to navigate narrow aisles and confined loading areas more efficiently than traditional 4-wheel counterbalance trucks.

The announcement, made from the company's facility in Dobříš, Czech Republic, forms part of Bobcat's broader strategy to expand its electric-powered material handling equipment range in response to growing demand for sustainable warehouse solutions.

Lithium-ion battery technology continues to gain traction across the forklift industry, offering advantages including faster charging times, opportunity charging capabilities, and reduced maintenance requirements compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.

The release follows Bobcat's earlier 2025 launches of the DV160S-9 and D45S-9 electrically-powered forklifts, which were designed for a wide range of industrial applications. The company continues to invest in its electric portfolio as operators increasingly seek alternatives to internal combustion engine trucks.

The latest UK Forklift Truck Market Outlook, compiled for the 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 arrangements.

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.

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 record highs in 2024, are projected to fall sharply during 2025 before recovering modestly in 2026.

Looking to 2027, the data points towards continued growth, albeit at a slower and steadier 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, CEO of the UKMHA, noted that new entrants to the UK market demonstrate 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 for the industry.

This year's campaign, led by the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA), centres on the message 'A Painted Line Isn't Enough', challenging businesses to move beyond traditional measures such as line marking, signage and hi-vis PPE, which only mitigate risks rather than eliminate them.

As part of the initiative, the UKMHA has unveiled a pioneering new portal to collect and analyse data on material handling equipment (MHE) incidents — an unprecedented move designed to provide vital insights and raise safety standards across the industry. Workplaces are being urged to use the portal to report any incidents involving MHE where personnel were or could have been injured.

David Goss, Technical Director at UKMHA, said: "In order to effectively tackle workplace safety we need to firstly arm ourselves with as much information as possible. That's why we have striven to make the 2025 campaign more engaging and interactive than ever before."

With an estimated 1,300 serious forklift-related injuries occurring in UK workplaces every year, the campaign marks an important step towards fostering a stronger, more collaborative safety culture across the material handling industry.

The campaign includes a powerful two-part video interview with Lisa Ramos and her husband David Garton, recounting Lisa's devastating 2006 forklift accident and its life-changing consequences, alongside a newly published white paper highlighting the urgent need to improve safety standards across the sector.

Rob Fisher, Chief Executive Officer of UKMHA, added: "NFSD gives the sector the perfect opportunity to join forces and create safer, more compliant workplaces. We are grateful to everyone who supported NFSD on the day but safety never sleeps so our work goes on."

Industry leaders including Crown, Toyota Material Handling, Körber, Combilift, AutoStore, Exotec and Swisslog were among the major names confirmed on the floorplan, demonstrating the continued importance of the event to the UK materials handling sector.

Chris Morley, Group Director – Maritime & Logistics at Informa, said: "The sector has evolved significantly since IMHX 2022, driven by widespread automation, AI adoption and an increased focus on sustainability. IMHX 2025 provided the perfect platform to explore these developments firsthand."

New for 2025 was the Future Zone, presented in partnership with SEC Storage. This interactive area featured cutting-edge technologies and solutions demonstrating the future of warehousing, with a focus on renewables and solar, warehouse optimisation, and eco-tech. The event also offered a comprehensive free seminar programme covering three key themes: smart technologies, environmental responsibility, and operational excellence.

Rob Fisher, Chief Executive Officer at the UKMHA, commented: "The material handling industry is a vital pillar of the UK economy, and IMHX is uniquely positioned to support and showcase its continued evolution. Bringing together a broad spectrum of solutions, innovations, and operational advancements, IMHX is the must-attend exhibition for business leaders across logistics, transport and distribution."

The prestigious Archies Awards ceremony took place during the show on Wednesday 10th September at The Vox Conference Centre. Looking ahead, IMHX has moved from triennial to biennial scheduling, with the next edition confirmed for September 2027.

To mark the production landmark, Combilift launched its largest-ever worldwide competition, offering the exclusive 100,000th 'Golden Forklift' — a specially-liveried Combi-CBE 3000kg multidirectional forklift — as the top prize. All proceeds were donated to UNICEF Ireland's Children's Emergency Fund.

The campaign generated €56,500 in ticket sales, with Combilift topping up the total contribution to an impressive €100,000, underlining the company's long-standing commitment to corporate social responsibility.

The 100,000th Combilift made its debut at IMHX Birmingham on 9 September 2025, marking a historic milestone in the company's journey. The Golden Forklift then embarked on a European trade show tour, attracting strong international interest.

Speaking at the cheque presentation ceremony in Monaghan, Combilift CEO and Co-Founder Martin McVicar said: "This campaign was designed not only to celebrate a major manufacturing achievement for Combilift, but also to make a meaningful difference beyond the factory floor. By supporting UNICEF, we are supporting one of the world's most effective humanitarian organisations and helping children who need it most."

The winning ticket was purchased by Kareen Farrell, who travelled to Combilift's headquarters in Monaghan to receive the one-of-a-kind Golden Forklift. Farrell said: "I was absolutely delighted when I heard I had won. My dad shared the competition details and bought a ticket to support UNICEF because it's a children's charity that helps children all over the world, so winning the forklift was an incredible bonus."

Founded in 1998 and based in Monaghan, Ireland, Combilift employs around 650 people and specialises in multidirectional and customised materials handling solutions, supplying customers in around 85 countries.

The investment will accelerate DHL's e-commerce and health logistics businesses, partnering with leading robotics companies including Boston Dynamics, Robust.AI, Locus Robotics, and 6 River Systems.

To date, DHL has deployed more than 2,000 robots in its UK-based warehouses, including over 750 picking robots from Locus Robotics and 6 River Systems across 18 sites throughout the UK, Ireland and the company's EMEA territory.

The Stretch robot from Boston Dynamics handles up to 700 packages per hour, safely lifting parcels up to 23 kg from pallets to conveyors. Designed for trailer and container unloading, it reduces physical strain on workers and speeds up turnaround in high-volume facilities. DHL recently deployed its first Boston Dynamics Stretch robot in the UK.

Carter from Robust.AI is a 3-in-1 multi-function collaborative robot that can operate autonomously, be guided manually via a force-sensitive handlebar, or act as a load-carrying cart. Origin from Locus Robotics is a compact autonomous mobile robot designed for high-density picking environments, working alongside human associates to transport goods within the warehouse.

The decision coincides with the UK government releasing its first trade strategy since Brexit, which DHL says adds to the UK's position as a resilient and adaptable logistics hub playing a key role in global commerce as trade patterns continue to shift.

DHL emphasised that while robots are taking over hard physical work, they support rather than replace employees, enabling staff to focus on other value-adding activities. The company noted that robots are generally seen very positively by staff.

The research shows that over half of UK fulfilment centres are projected to use AI in their operations by 2025, rising to 70% by 2027. By the end of the decade, automation technology is anticipated to handle over 90% of warehouse logistics tasks globally, with warehouse automation becoming the industry standard.

There has been a dramatic surge in the deployment of service robots within the transportation and logistics sector. Sales of these robots increased by 44% in 2022 and a further 35% in 2023, with an estimated 140,000 units sold in 2024. For the UK, this translates to an average of approximately 4.25 robots per fulfilment warehouse by 2025, a figure expected to climb to 7.52 robots by 2030.

According to McKinsey research, 25% of industrial sector companies' capital spending will be directed towards automation over the next five years. Meanwhile, the logistics robot market is forecast to reach $21 billion by 2029 globally, and within Europe the UK holds a major share of the autonomous mobile robot (AMR) industry as businesses seek to shore up their supply chains.

Neil Miller, Managing Director at Impact Express, commented: "What stands out in this research is how fast things are moving. Technologies like AI and robotics, once limited to the biggest players, are becoming more accessible and widespread."

A separate report from OW Robotics identified retail and 3PL as the two sectors that could see the strongest potential gains from robotics adoption, with businesses increasingly deploying smart robotics and automated guided vehicles to complement human labour, enhancing operational safety and throughput in dynamic, high-volume settings.

In January 2025, Bill Finerty, CEO of Toyota Material Handling, announced: "Our two newest products reinforce Toyota's commitment to environmental stewardship without compromising the efficiency and power of our reliable products. These two new models are impactful in many different applications, meeting the needs of all our customers and harnessing the innovation and power of our electric products."

Jungheinrich showcased major product launches in 2025, including the ETV 3i reach truck featuring cutting-edge lithium-ion technology, high ergonomic standards, and advanced safety functions. The company's EFG 425 electric counterbalanced truck received the prestigious 2025 IFOY Award, reflecting Jungheinrich's blend of high performance, energy efficiency, and operator safety.

In May 2025, EP Equipment partnered with Jungheinrich for developing innovative forklifts based on lithium-ion batteries. The same month saw Bobcat launch the DV160S-9 and D45S-9 electrically-powered forklifts designed for a wide range of industrial applications, and HD Hyundai unveiled a heavy-duty electric forklift equipped with a 93-kilowatt-hour lithium iron phosphate battery and carrying capacity of around 9 tons.

KION Group expanded its automation portfolio with new electric forklifts and advanced automation platforms, accelerating geographic expansion across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. The company's inclusion in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Europe Index 2025 underscores its commitment to technology innovation, sustainable solutions, and industry-leading ESG standards.

Toyota Industries Corporation doubled its R&D investments and deepened collaborations, including a partnership with Vanderlande for logistics automation, enabling advanced automated vehicles, telematics, and integrated warehouse solutions. In April 2025, STEF Group partnered with Toyota Material Handling Europe for launching hydrogen-powered forklifts in the European region.

The global forklift market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period, from an estimated market size of USD 91.19 billion in 2025 to USD 141.32 billion by 2032, with electric forklifts holding the largest market share at over 70% globally.

Forklift tipping incidents remain the biggest cause of serious injuries and fatalities, accounting for 42% of all recorded injuries and 24% of all forklift accidents. Many of these occur because operators attempt to jump clear instead of staying inside the cab during tip-overs.

In response, manufacturers such as Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks have developed 'no-cheat' seatbelt systems designed to ensure drivers remain securely seated, significantly reducing the risk of serious injury during tipping incidents.

Pedestrian safety has emerged as another critical focus area. Research shows that 43% of forklift-related accidents annually in the UK involve impacts with a third person, with 65% of those affected being pedestrians engaged in activities unrelated to the immediate truck operation. These accidents result in 36% of forklift-related deaths.

Pedestrian awareness systems using real-time proximity detection are now being deployed across busy warehouse environments. These systems alert operators when pedestrians or other obstacles are nearby, helping to prevent collisions before they occur.

VisionMast technology represents another advancement, enhancing forward visibility through slim-yet-strong mast designs and strategically positioned hydraulic hoses. This allows operators a clearer view of loads and surroundings, reducing blind spots and ensuring safer, more accurate handling.

Ergonomic improvements are also playing an important role in safety, with features including suspension seats that absorb shock, adjustable lumbar support, and breathable materials. Manufacturers are also designing larger, more adjustable cabins to accommodate the changing physical needs of today's workforce, enabling operators to work longer without experiencing discomfort that could lead to safety lapses.

The company was appointed in 2010 by Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift Europe — now Mitsubishi Logisnext Europe B.V. (MLE) — which selected Impact for its national reach and shared values. The relationship has since strengthened year on year, helping to cement Cat Lift Trucks as one of the UK's most trusted equipment choices and enabling Impact to grow its own footprint across the country.

Both companies say the success of the partnership has stemmed from a willingness to go well beyond traditional equipment supply. Instead, the focus has been on tailoring machinery, support and service packages to customers' evolving operational demands.

Founded in 1985, Impact Handling has grown into one of the UK's leading materials handling providers, supported by 13 depots nationwide. As the Cat Lift Trucks distributor, it offers a full suite of acquisition and support options — including purchase, hire, lease-purchase, buy-back/re-hire and full-service contracts — and has built a reputation for adapting equipment in-house to meet individual customer needs.

This flexibility has allowed users to pair the durability and engineering strength of Cat Lift Trucks with tailored performance enhancements and support.

Impact's position within Aprolis UK further deepens the relationship. The wider Aprolis Group, which acquired Impact in 2021, has more than 50 years' experience in materials handling distribution and represents Cat Lift Trucks across France, Italy, Spain and Luxembourg.

The findings reflect a continued shift towards automated solutions in the warehouse and logistics sector, with AI moving from pilot programmes to day-to-day operations. UK grocery and parcel operators are increasingly tying computer vision and predictive analytics to real-time tasking, enabling crews to work with fewer exceptions and more planned movements.

According to industry analysis, the autonomous warehouse is becoming reality, with most automation stacks now built on four layers: autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for moving pallets and totes; conveyor, sortation and shuttles for routing; warehouse execution systems (WES) for directing work; and warehouse management systems (WMS) and ERP for inventory, orders and finance.

Royal Mail achieved 90% automation in parcel operations after sustained investment, demonstrating how autonomous flows can lift throughput and maintain consistency across peak periods. Asda doubled picking rates with an AutoStore setup that scaled in phases while the site remained live, proving that modular automation can keep service steady during transformation programmes.

The research indicates that successful automation isn't purely a technology challenge but also requires collaboration with customers throughout the planning and implementation process. Key success factors include defining performance indicators early, simulating material flows using digital twin technology, and ensuring rapid maintenance and repairs once solutions are operational.

Safety improvements from automation are also significant. Sites that add traffic management, machine-guarded zones and automated induction require fewer blind lifts and awkward reaches, cutting incidents during busy periods. From 2023 to 2024, Great Britain recorded 604,000 self-reported non-fatal work injuries, highlighting the continued importance of workplace safety improvements.

Looking ahead to 2027, industry data points towards continued growth as markets settle into a more normalised pattern of investment and operational planning, with new entrants to the UK market demonstrating continued belief in the long-term strength of the materials handling sector.