At the JLG stand, JLG Power Towers will highlight access platforms built to help streamline routine tasks such as inspections, stock checks, and maintenance. The range of solutions is designed to support controlled, and efficient working practices, helping support logistics and warehousing operations improve productivity.

A Pecolift will be on display – a manual push-around lift, offering a 3.5m maximum working height, and featuring a patented lift mechanism that requires no power. With a compact footprint (0.99m x 0.70m), lightweight design, and simple “turn handle to elevate” operation, Pecolift can be well suited to frequent, everyday tasks in back-of-house spaces, such as narrow aisles between racking and busy goods-in and goods-out areas. With no batteries or hydraulics, Pecolift is designed to support continuous use with minimal maintenance, helping to reduce downtime and keep tasks moving.

Visitors to the stand can also learn more about the Ecolift, a robust solution which uses the same patented lift mechanism but provides a higher 4.20m maximum working height. This makes it well suited to tasks requiring extended reach, such as accessing top-level racking, carrying out lighting maintenance, or working on overhead systems like sensors, ducting, or conveyors, frequently found in manufacturing and storage environments. Despite its increased working height, its compact design allows it to pass easily through standard doorways and be manoeuvred in space-restricted areas. Auto-locking brakes are also a core feature, helping support safe, stable operation throughout the working day.

Access Equipment from JLG Industries
Those attending the Warehouse & Yard Event will also be able to explore a broader selection of equipment for working at height across varied supply chain applications, with a range of JLG powered access equipment on show, including the DSP-L, Toucan 12E Plus, EC450AJ Compact, ES1330L, and Light Towers 450 Compact.

Visitors can speak with the team at the stand to learn more about how JLG Power Towers and JLG access equipment can contribute to improved operational performance across warehouse, yard, and logistics sites.

Further information on the Power Towers range at https://powertowers.com/

EnerSys (NYSE: ENS), a global leader in stored energy solutions for industrial applications, has introduced EZSelect Lite, a cost-effective, hassle-free system designed to streamline battery-room management through quick installation, intuitive monitoring and built-in diagnostics. By automating battery selection and reporting, the system helps operations optimise forklift truck battery usage with minimal effort, reducing avoidable delays, mispicks and uneven battery wear.

In busy material handling environments, battery selection is often left to operator judgement, yet site tests show that when selection is manual, “30% of the batteries will be under-utilised & 20% will be over used”, driving uneven rotation, premature battery failure and lost productivity.

Why Battery Rotation Matters

The EZSelect Lite system addresses this by monitoring each charger via a Charger Monitoring Device (CMD) connected to individual chargers, tracking charging and cooling activity to prioritise the best battery for use. A clear blue LED light on each CMD guides operators to the next battery, helping maintain ideal charge and cooldown cycles across the fleet.

Operationally, the EZSelect Lite system can drive measurable time and cost benefits. EnerSys notes that with a 10% cut in daily truck changes and a 10% faster battery change process, the system can pay for itself in under eight months, even before factoring in additional savings from extended battery life and early issue alerts.

Site benefits also include 2 to 5 minutes saved per change, reduced change frequency through extended run times, and an average of six months additional battery life linked to improved cooldown practices. Installation is designed to be straightforward with no certified installer needed and zero system configuration required, enabling faster time to value.

“The EZSelect Lite system makes correct battery selection simple and consistent. It is helping teams save time and money on every change while protecting battery health,” said Alexander Osinski, European Solution Champion and Battery Handling and Product Specialist at EnerSys.

Find out more about how this entry level battery room management system can help streamline your operation and help to reduce running costs.

For more information about EnerSys and its full line of products, systems, and support, visit www.enersys.com or contact your local EnerSys representative.

Automated material handling has historically relied on static, highly standardised workflows. While fixed infrastructure like conveyor networks remain essential for high-density continuous linear throughput, expanding them is capital-intensive and inherently rigid. Similarly, mobile automation, such as Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), typically involves the following of fixed paths created using magnetic tape or floor-embedded wires, or operation within fenced-off areas.

Today, enabled by Physical AI, the logistics industry is shifting towards Industrial Mobile Autonomy (IMA). Instead of being forced to adapt environments to accommodate machines, operators can now benefit from intelligent vehicles that will adapt dynamically to their environments.

Navigating using onboard sensors, such as cameras, radar and lidar, autonomous vehicles can dynamically reroute as well as seamlessly handle indoor/outdoor transitions and variable weather. This has the potential to drastically improve the resilience of the whole system.

Intelligent Fleet Orchestration

A limitation of early mobile automation was the emergence of vertical ‘walled gardens’, where vendors built deep but narrow solutions confined to single tasks. However, there are now solutions that enable logistics operators to run a diverse, mixed autonomous fleet on a single, unified platform, eliminating vendor lock-in and simplifying mixed-fleet management.

The deployed autonomy solutions must adhere to rigorous regulatory compliance and carry a CE marking. The machinery directive provides the necessary framework under which it is possible to produce a product capable of deployment across a range of customer sites without the need for infrastructure changes – significantly accelerating deployment speed. This streamlined approach is further strengthened by the availability of solutions that have been independently validated and endorsed by bodies such as TÜV SÜD, providing a globally respected stamp of quality and safety.

And of course, systems integration must still be frictionless. Autonomous fleets must connect seamlessly to existing Terminal Operating Systems (TOS) and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) via secure APIs.

Building Trust in Autonomous Machines

For autonomy to succeed, it must work for the workforce. Low reliability with any technology leads to worker frustration as well as safety concerns. To continue to build trust between the human workforce and autonomous machines, solution providers must prioritise safety as well as explainable AI.

Crucially, the technology must fit seamlessly into an operating environment. To improve the day-to-day worker experience, systems should be designed to minimise cognitive load. Using intuitive Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) such as acoustic devices and lighting to indicate what the vehicle is doing will help workers better understand the vehicles operating around them.

Autonomy can positively shift manual operators into high-tech supervisory roles, moving from a driver to a Fleet Operator or Mission Controller, lowering the risk of accidents caused by human error. However, employers must also provide clear paths for upskilling.

Real-world Examples

The commercial viability of autonomy is validated by recent deployments. On April 21, 2026, the Port-Connected and Automated Logistics (P-CAL) project completed a UK-first trial at the Port of Tyne, operating a fully autonomous terminal tractor in live quayside traffic alongside active crane movements. Supported by the UK Government’s CAM Pathfinder program, P-CAL proved that existing terminal tractors can be successfully retrofitted – turning them into a secure, digital workforce.

Similarly, DHL Supply Chain completed a live airside deployment at London Heathrow Airport, where an autonomous vehicle, driven by Oxa, navigated 1,300 kilometres over 14 days in active airport traffic. This project established a scalable framework for the use of autonomy within inter-terminal baggage transfers and further airport services.

For warehouse and logistics operators, the future of material handling lies not in rigid, fixed infrastructure, but in flexible, intelligent, and certifiably safe autonomous solutions, powered by Physical AI.

The phase 1 launch marks a significant strategic move for the business, as Digital Next Ventures begins building out a dedicated technology and ecommerce arm alongside the established Digital Next agency.

Digital Next Ventures has invested £100,000 to date into the development of ShipSherpa and E-commerce projects, with the ambition of creating the most elite technology-enabled logistics network in the UK.

The business will also launch its own ecommerce brands, utilising the skills, knowledge and infrastructure of the Digital Next agency team across performance marketing, SEO, paid media, web development, automation, AI search and digital growth.

This new venture model allows Digital Next Ventures to take the expertise built inside the agency and apply it directly to owned technology platforms and ecommerce businesses.

ShipSherpa is the first major platform to launch under this model.

Built for logistics managers, businesses, self-employed owner-driver couriers and fleet operators, ShipSherpa has been designed to make same-day delivery easier, faster and more intuitive.

The platform aims to solve one of the biggest problems in logistics: outdated, fragmented and manual processes. Too much of the same-day courier market still relies on phone calls, spreadsheets, WhatsApp messages and disconnected courier networks.

ShipSherpa is being built to change that.

Through simple and intuitive technology, logistics managers will be able to book, manage and track urgent same-day deliveries in one place, giving businesses greater visibility, better courier access and more confidence when moving goods on demand.

ShipSherpa is entering the market at a time when businesses are increasingly demanding faster, more flexible and more reliable delivery options.

Between now and the end of the year, ShipSherpa’s goal is to onboard 10,000+ self-employed owner-driver couriers across the UK, creating a powerful verified network capable of supporting businesses that need to move goods quickly, reliably and on demand.

Self-employed owner-driver couriers and logistics operators can now sign up via app.shipsherpa.co.uk .

The customer-facing ShipSherpa portal is scheduled to launch in August 2026 , giving businesses a simple and intuitive way to access verified same-day courier capacity through the platform.

The customer waitlist is already growing, with brand-name clients and a rising number of businesses registering interest in using ShipSherpa for same-day and on-demand delivery requirements.

Looking ahead, ShipSherpa will also open up major opportunities for fleet managers and logistics companies.

Later down the line, fleet operators will be able to upload their own vehicles onto the platform, allowing them to generate revenue from idle fleet capacity and flex their operations up and down without having to invest in additional vehicles.

This creates a new model for same-day logistics: one that gives businesses access to reliable courier capacity, gives self-employed drivers more opportunity, and gives fleet operators a smarter way to monetise existing assets.

Justin Blackhurst, Founder of Digital Next Ventures, said:

“ShipSherpa is the first major move in our new technology and ecommerce strategy.

“We have built a strong agency team at Digital Next across performance marketing, SEO, paid media, web development, automation and AI. The next step is to use that expertise to build and scale our own technology platforms and ecommerce businesses.

“Same-day delivery is a market that is ready for better technology. Too much of the industry still relies on manual processes, phone calls, spreadsheets and fragmented courier networks.

“With ShipSherpa, our aim is to build the most elite logistics network in the UK, powered by technology that logistics managers actually want to use. The platform has to be simple, intuitive and operationally powerful.

“We have invested £100,000 to date because we believe there is a huge opportunity to revolutionise how same-day delivery is booked, managed and fulfilled.

“Driver and logistics operator sign-ups are now live, and our customer-facing portal is scheduled to launch in August. This is not just about building another courier platform. It is about building the technology layer for the future of on-demand logistics.”

ShipSherpa’s long-term vision is to become the leading technology platform for same-day delivery in the UK, connecting businesses, couriers and fleet operators through one intelligent, easy-to-use system.

Digital Next Ventures will now focus on scaling the ShipSherpa courier network, growing the customer waitlist, continuing platform development and preparing further owned ecommerce ventures powered by the Digital Next agency team.

Website: www.shipsherpa.co.uk

BIFA was actively involved in the development and preparation of the PAS 41201:2026 for customs intermediaries, which was sponsored by HMRC, working alongside industry stakeholders to help create a practical framework that reflects the realities of customs operations and the responsibilities of all parties involved in the customs declaration process.

Commenting on the publication, BIFA director general, Steve Parker said: “This marks an important step forward for our industry. As customs requirements continue to evolve, it is essential that traders and customs intermediaries have a clear understanding of their respective roles, responsibilities and obligations.

“BIFA was pleased to contribute to the design and development of PAS 41201:2026, helping to ensure that it is both practical and relevant for organisations that act as customs intermediaries and are responsible for preparing and submitting customs declarations or providing related customs services on behalf of traders.

“PAS41201:2026 provides a sound basis for building sustainable, transparent and effective relationships between traders and their customs agents, which is critical to maintaining compliance and supporting efficient supply chains.”

It establishes a framework of good practice that promotes clarity, accountability and cooperation between parties involved in customs activities. By setting out clear expectations, it aims to reduce misunderstandings, improve data quality and strengthen compliance across the supply chain.

PAS 41201:2026 sets out the core principles and behaviours that customs intermediaries should follow when fulfilling customs declarations and carrying out closely related services (such as paying tariffs or duties, or arranging the movement of goods).

It defines what good practice looks like across the end-to-end process of acting on a client’s behalf within the customs system.

It sits alongside the well-established Authorised Economic Operator programme, which is an internationally recognised quality mark indicating that a business’s role in the international supply chain is secure, and its customs controls and procedures are highly compliant.

Parker adds: “While the AEO programme offers a recognised framework for organisations involved in international trade, PAS 41201:2026 establishes a specification specifically for customs intermediaries, defining what good practice looks like for the industry.”

BIFA believes that adoption of the PAS 41201:2026 will benefit both customs intermediaries and their customers by fostering greater confidence and consistency in customs processes.

Parker added: “We encourage all BIFA members to review and adopt the specification as a basis for good practice within their businesses. Wider adoption will help to raise standards across the sector and support the delivery of high-quality customs services to the trading community.”

Further information on PAS 41201:2026 and guidance on its implementation is available at the following website:

https://knowledge.bsigroup.com/products/customs-intermediaries-preparation-and-submission-of-customs-declarations-specification

Across the weekend, teams worked around the clock to help create safe, controlled environments for thousands of fans through barriers, crowd-control infrastructure, temporary power, generators, route management and operational support.

On Saturday 30^th May, more than 37,000 fans attended Emirates Stadium for the Champions League Final screening. Sunbelt Rentals delivered barriers, access control infrastructure, power and crowd-management solutions designed to help fans move safely and efficiently around the stadium before and after the match.

Attention then turned to Sunday’s Premier League parade, as Arsenal celebrated their first league title in 22 years. With road closures in place from 4am, the teams worked through the early hours installing barriers, securing access points and route-control infrastructure ahead of the four open-top buses leaving the stadium at 2pm.

As thousands of supporters lined the streets of London to celebrate the title-winning season, operational teams remained on-site throughout the live event supporting route management, crowd flow and phased derig operations once the parade had finished.

The project highlighted the scale of planning, coordination and operational expertise required to deliver major public events safely and efficiently in busy city environments. It also showcased continued investment in stronger, safer and more professional event infrastructure, including the deployment of new barrier systems used across the weekend.

Mark Fisher, Director of Barriers & Fencing at Sunbelt Rentals, said:
“Being involved in two events of this scale across one weekend was a brilliant opportunity for our teams. While fans were celebrating in the stadium and across the streets of London, there was a huge amount of planning and operational delivery happening behind the scenes to help keep the events running safely and smoothly. I’m incredibly proud of the teams involved and the way they delivered across the entire weekend.”

The operation forms part of the company’s wider event infrastructure capability, supporting major sporting, entertainment and public events across the UK and Ireland through specialist equipment, nationwide coverage and operational expertise.

With the establishment of HD Hyundai XiteSolution in 2023, the HD Hyundai Group has made the forklift and warehouse technology business one of its key strategic pillars. As an intermediate holding company, HD Hyundai XiteSolution integrates the companies HD Hyundai Construction Equipment and HD Hyundai Infracore (formerly Doosan Infracore) and promotes group-wide synergies in the areas of development, production and sales.

The appointment of DJ Lee, former head of global sales at headquarters, as head of the European division, underscores the strategic importance of the European market. The experienced manager has more than 25 years of international leadership experience within the Hyundai Group.

“With the establishment of HD Hyundai XiteSolution, the Industrial Vehicles division has been strategically repositioned to operate more independently and competitively on a global scale,” explains DJ Lee. “Our aim is to establish Hyundai Material Handling in Europe as a premium supplier with a high degree of vertical integration and particularly short delivery times.”

Focus on electrification and market expansion

The European growth strategy centres on several key measures:

• Expansion of the dealer and sales network in Europe, particularly in Central Europe
• Expansion of the portfolio of electric forklift trucks
• Introduction of new high-voltage electric forklifts in the heavy-duty segment from 10 to 18 tonnes by Q3 2026
• Increasing spare parts availability to 97%
• Expansion of attractive financing programmes for dealers and end customers
• Strengthening of service and support structures in Europe

Hyundai is placing particular emphasis on the electrification of its product range. Following the successful launch of the high-voltage B-X series in the 4 to 9-tonne range, the company plans to unveil new electric heavy-duty forklifts with load capacities of 10 to 18-tonnes in September 2026.

In addition, from November 2026, Hyundai will introduce a new range of three-wheeled electric forklifts in the entry-level segment, from 1.5 to 2-tonnes. By 2028, the entire electric range in the 1.5 to 5-tonne category is set to be comprehensively modernised and expanded.

Expansion of the European dealer network

At the same time, Hyundai is investing in the expansion of its European sales organisation. In the first quarter of 2026 alone, nine new dealer agreements were signed in France, Italy and the Baltic region. A further 20 sales partners are set to join by the end of the year. The network expansion is focusing in particular on Germany, Spain and the UK.

“Competent and financially stable sales partners are a key factor for success,” emphasises Lee. “Furthermore, our customers benefit from extremely competitive delivery times. Once an order is received, we deliver vehicles to Europe within approximately 3.5 to 5 months. In addition, we keep a wide range of models in stock, directly at our European warehouse, ensuring that selected vehicles are available at short notice.”

High vertical integration as a competitive advantage

A key competitive advantage lies in the high level of vertical integration within the group. By incorporating the component expertise of HD Hyundai Infracore, Hyundai has in-house know-how in the areas of engines, transmissions and hydraulic systems.

Against the backdrop of global supply chain risks and volatile raw material markets, Hyundai is specifically strengthening the stability of its production. The main production site remains Ulsan in South Korea, with an annual capacity of around 25,000 industrial trucks.

Hyundai also focuses on customer-oriented solutions in the area of warranties. Models manufactured in Korea come with a standard warranty of three years or 4,000 operating hours on spare parts. The drive batteries are covered for five years or 10,000 operating hours. In addition, Hyundai guarantees 85% of the battery’s remaining capacity after five years.

Ambitious growth targets in Europe

With a broad product portfolio, high delivery reliability, a growing dealer network and a consistent electrification strategy, Hyundai Material Handling is pursuing ambitious goals: within the next five years, it aims to achieve a market share of 4-5% in the European counterbalanced forklift market.

Still in operation after 28 years at J.G. Kelly Supplies in Monaghan, Ireland, the original multi-directional forklift has helped transform the company’s handling of long loads, improving safety, increasing efficiency, and proving that purpose-built equipment can deliver exceptional returns for decades.

Before the company started operating a Combilift, traditional forklift methods created significant operational and safety challenges.

Long PVC stillages measuring up to six metres had to be moved through a doorway only four metres wide. Conventional counterbalance forklifts could not handle the task safely or efficiently.

Operator Tony McManus explains: “Before, we just used to use counterbalance trucks. We had to reverse a lorry in here and were on a main busy road in the town.” He adds: “But now, it just pulls up in the loading bay. We can offload it safely, both sides if needed, with minimal obstruction to traffic.”

The C-Series’ multi-directional capability provided the ideal solution, allowing operators to move long loads sideways with greater control and stability, while navigating tight spaces and narrow doorways safely and efficiently.

For nearly three decades, the C-Series has transformed the site operations and the way the company used to handle long loads. And the benefits extend beyond traffic disruption.  It has also shortened unloading times and significantly improved safety for operators, pedestrians, and passing vehicles.

McManus continues: “With the C-Series, it’s less labour intensive than it used to be. It would take a lot of people to offload containers before, but now, one operator can offload a container in a short space of time compared to before.”

An additional safety feature is the forklift’s integrated platform, which has further enhanced load stability when handling such long products. Operators can now safely support lengthy stillages during transport, reducing the risks associated with moving oversized loads and making the entire process more controlled and efficient.

McManus adds: “We know that it’s a lot safer, once you get the load on the platform, you can sort of relax almost. You’ve got that stability of it being on the rest beds.”

Safety on site has been greatly improved by the introduction of the C-Series, but equally remarkable is the machine’s longevity.

Managing Director Paul Kelly highlights: “I never expected we’d still be using the same forklift nearly three decades later. But it’s a testament to the build quality of the machine as it’s still running after 28 years.”

While multiple conventional forklifts have come and gone over the same period, the original C-Series remains in operation. Its continued performance is attributed to robust engineering, regular preventative maintenance, and responsive local support.

McManus mentions: “It doesn’t really take much maintenance. We have changed filters or timing belts over the years, but it’s still got the original engine from when it arrived here.”

Routine checks of oil, coolant, hydraulics, tyres, and greasing have helped keep the machine operating reliably, while major repairs have been rare throughout its 28-year lifespan.

Having a machine out of action can have a major impact on day-to-day operations. However, according to McManus, that has rarely been an issue.

“In 28 years, it’s very rarely had to be taken away for repairs,” he says. “Any issues we’ve had have usually been fixed on site, and quickly. That’s the main thing, because if the machine is out of action for any length of time, we’re in trouble.”

The success of the original C-Series led J.G. Kelly Supplies to expand its fleet with additional Combilift products, including other Combilift models, such as the pedestrian Combi-CS and an Aisle Master in their Limerick warehouse. The company continues to value Combilift’s ability to tailor equipment to specific operational requirements rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution.

Kelly highlights: “Combilift are very good at having a look at what you need and then they can tailor the product to suit you. We had the height of the mast and weight limit tailored to what we needed in our Combi-CS”

Today, the first-ever multidirectional C-Series stands as a powerful example of how investing in the right material handling solution delivers lasting returns.

Nearly three decades after it was manufactured and operated for the first time, the forklift continues to enhance operations, driving productivity, improving safety and maximising storage space while proving that quality engineering and preventative maintenance can stand the test of time.

Hear the whole story here: YouTube Link

A Strategic Step in International Growth

The opening of the new facility represents a significant milestone for PRN Group, establishing local manufacturing capabilities in the United States. By producing mezzanine floor systems closer to its customers, the group can offer shorter lead times, greater flexibility, and enhanced support for the rapidly expanding American market.

As global demand for warehouse capacity and storage optimisation continues to grow, this investment strengthens PRN Group’s ability to serve customers more efficiently while maintaining the high standards of quality, reliability, and service for which it is recognised. The new facility also reinforces the group’s long-term commitment to supporting businesses with innovative storage solutions and responsive local expertise.

One Group, Local Expertise

With decades of experience in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of mezzanine floors, PRN Group has established a strong international presence through its specialist companies, including John Scott Works in the United Kingdom, Profielnorm in the Netherlands, Profielnorm EAST in Poland, and Profielnorm USA in the United States.

While each company serves its local market, all operate according to the same core principles of quality, innovation, and customer-focused service. This blend of local expertise and shared knowledge enables the group to deliver tailored solutions that meet specific market needs while drawing on the strength, experience, and resources of an international organisation.

“Seeing Profielnorm USA officially open its doors is a proud moment for everyone across PRN Group. The new facility demonstrates our long-term commitment to growth and to serving customers with local expertise backed by international experience. It is an important investment that strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality mezzanine solutions on a global scale.”

Jon Lewis, Managing Director John Scott Works

Supporting the American Market

The new Michigan facility combines advanced manufacturing capabilities with the expertise and experience developed across the wider group. By producing solutions locally, we are able to provide customers throughout the United States with high-quality products backed by extensive industry knowledge.

Established to support long-term growth, the facility strengthens our ability to serve customers seeking efficient, reliable, and scalable warehouse solutions. It also enables closer collaboration with our customers, helping us respond more effectively to their evolving operational needs.

Celebrating a Major Milestone

The official opening was celebrated with employees, customers, suppliers, and business partners, recognising the collective effort behind the successful launch of the facility. The event highlighted the strong partnerships and shared commitment that continue to drive the group’s growth.

For John Scott Works and the wider PRN Group, the opening demonstrates the value of combining global expertise with a strong local presence. The launch of Profielnorm USA is not only an important milestone for the organisation, but also a solid foundation for continued growth and customer support across America and beyond.

Global Expertise, Local Presence

With the support of PRN Group and a growing international manufacturing network, John Scott Works continues to help businesses maximise their available space and prepare for future growth. Whether you are expanding, optimising, or reconfiguring your facility, our team is ready to deliver a mezzanine solution tailored to your operation.

To find out how we can support your next project, visit our website and contact us: https://www.johnscottworks.co.uk.

The awards honor select independent dealers and Crown Lift Trucks retail locations for exceptional performance, customer commitment and contributions to Crown’s continued growth. Recipients were recognized during Crown’s annual awards program.

NorthWest Handling Systems in Seattle, Washington and the Crown Lift Trucks sales and service operation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania received both the James F. Dicke Pioneer Award and the Summit Award. The James F. Dicke Pioneer Award is presented each year to the top dealer and Crown Lift Trucks location and honors operations that have led the way in performance and achievement. The Summit Award recognizes top performers across Crown’s extensive sales and service network.

“Recognizing these award winners is one of the most meaningful parts of the year because they represent the best of Crown’s retail network,” said Jim Mozer, senior vice president, Crown Equipment. “Their performance reflects the hard work, customer focus and commitment to service that enable customers to count on Crown.”

In addition to the Summit Awards presented to NorthWest Handling Systems-Seattle and Crown Lift Trucks-Pittsburgh, Crown also presented Summit Awards to Action Lift, Inc., Pittston, Pennsylvania; Lift Inc., Mountville, Pennsylvania; Hugg & Hall Equipment, Little Rock, Arkansas; and Crown Lift Trucks locations in Dayton and Columbus/New Albany, Ohio and in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Those earning Ascent Awards include Material Handling Supply, Pennsauken, New Jersey; Maybury Material Handling, East Longmeadow, Massachusetts; NorthWest Handling Systems, Portland, Oregon; OMNILIFT, Inc., Warminster, Pennsylvania; and Crown Lift Trucks locations in Portland, Maine; Salt Lake City, Utah; Boise, Idaho; Belleville, Ontario; Sacramento, California; Tampa, Florida; and Reno, Nevada.

Featuring an ultra-slim profile and new easy-to-read color display, the line of HR Series business band portable 2-way radios provides advanced capabilities at a cost-effective price. Easy to interpret channel operation and battery status – helps to reduce confusion and supports confident day-to-day operation in the field.

The HR Series delivers a loud 1-Watt, clear and easy-to-hear audio even in noisy environments, a 1200mAH Lithium-Ion long battery life for demanding shifts, and a rugged, weather-resistant design and environmental (IP68) rating. It’s lightweight and compact, making it comfortable to wear all day using the included screw-on spring-action belt clip, and its simple controls and programmable function buttons help it adapt to a wide range of system requirements.

Used in manufacturing, warehousing, hospitality facilities, construction sites, or at schools, the HR Series 2-way radio is built to keep people connected with simple, instant, and reliable 2-way radio communication.

Models available include:

• HR-220M: Analog, Simplex Only, License-Free Business, VHF MURS, 2 Watt TX
• HR-330: Analog/DMR Digital Tier-2 Conventional, License-Required, VHF, 136-174MHz, 2 Watt/5 Watt TX
• HR-550: Analog/DMR DigitalTier-2 Conventional, License-Required, UHF, 402-470MHz, 2 Watt/4 Watt TX

View the HR-220M Brochure
View the HR-330 & HR-550 Brochure

For more information and to purchase, contact Ritron at 1(800) 872-1872 or email us at ritron@ritron.com

The Supply Chain Disruption Radar integrates with Yusen Vantage Performance, the company’s supply chain visibility platform, delivering concise alerts and customer-ready insights.

The AI-powered analysis identifies events, maps their impact on shipments and provides actionable guidance to help customers navigate disruption with speed, confidence and foresight.

By delivering predictive intelligence tied directly to shipments, Supply Chain Disruption Radar empowers customers to anticipate emerging risks, implement mitigation strategies and make agile, proactive decisions with confidence. With supply chain risks growing more frequent and complex, predictive intelligence and proactive decision-making are increasingly critical to building resilience.

Irene Tung, Head of Yusen Logistics’ Supply Chain Solutions Unit, said: “As we’ve stood alongside our customers through some of the most challenging times, one thing has become crystal clear – businesses don’t just need more data, they need actionable intelligence that enables confident decision-making.

“Supply Chain Disruption Radar was shaped by those real-world experiences. By combining AI with our vast operational network spanning 46 countries and regions, it transforms complexity into clarity and equips our customers with practical strategies to stay resilient and ahead of the curve.”

With the Supply Chain Disruption Radar, Yusen Logistics reaffirms its commitment to standing beside customers in challenging times. By ensuring business continuity, highlighting critical risks, and enabling proactive responses, the solution turns disruption into opportunity and resilience into a lasting competitive advantage.

For more information, see https://www.yusen-logistics.com.

NFSD is one of the industry’s leading safety initiatives, promoting best practice in the operation, maintenance and management of forklift trucks. This year’s NFSD highlights the essential contribution engineers and service technicians make to maintaining safe and efficient equipment, whilst raising awareness of the risks they face in the workplace.

The campaign is underpinned by UKMHA workplace injury data, which identifies several key safety concerns:

• Between 2019 and 2025, UK forklift suppliers lost, on average, more than 1,000 working days annually due to workplace injuries.
• 85 per cent of recorded incidents involved technicians working at customer premises.
• Nearly 40 per cent of incidents were caused by poor manual handling or simple slips and trips.
• More than 20 per cent of injuries resulting in time off work were linked to manual handling issues.
• One third of incidents occurred when technicians were not actively working on the material handling equipment itself.

Speaking about the NFSD launch, David Goss, Technical Director of UKMHA, said: “Every year in the UK material handling industry, one in every 80 people suffers a serious injury, and many of these incidents are entirely preventable.”

He continued: “We have published the technician accident data on the National Forklift Safety Day website. The figures show that lost-time injuries result in an average of more than two weeks off work. More importantly, behind every statistic is a person, and a moment that could have been avoided.”

The stated long-term objective of UKMHA is to reduce the number of safety incidents and accidents involving material handling equipment (MHE) by improving working practices on common activities through a combination of guidance, training and greater industry awareness.

As part of this initiative, the association has developed a series of bite-sized toolbox talks covering common workplace risks and practical safety measures. Topics include manual handling techniques, safe access and egress from equipment, and LPG cylinder handling.

When working on the customer’s site, the association stressed that technician safety is a shared responsibility between employers and customers. To support this, UKMHA provides a Site Induction Checklist and will continue to encourage businesses to sign up to the UKMHA Safe Working Area Charter. The initiative promotes safer site conditions for visiting technicians and greater collaboration between service providers and end users.

Now in its 12th year, National Forklift Safety Day once again demonstrates the material handling industry’s collective commitment to improving workplace safety, with UKMHA members and supporting organisations actively sharing safety messages, resources and best practice across their businesses and social media channels.

Whilst the second Tuesday in June has traditionally hosted NFSD, UKMHA emphasises that the campaign’s ambition is to make every day national forklift safety day.

Further information, campaign materials and safety resources are available at the National Forklift Safety Day website: https://nationalforkliftsafetyday.co.uk/

Taking effect on 1st June 2026, the acquisition integrates WSS’s 30 years of manual pallet truck servicing expertise into SHS under the SHS Handling Solutions name. The move expands SHS’s existing engineering footprint, increasing engineer density and reducing response times across the North of England.

Key Benefits for Customers:

• Increased Engineer Coverage: More “boots on the ground” in the North to minimise operational downtime.
• Unified Service Support:WSS clients transition to SHS’s centralised customer service desk in Buckingham for fast, streamlined scheduling.
• End-to-End Asset Care:A single partner for the entire “Design, Supply and Maintain” lifecycle.

Management Quote: Yarl Dunn, Managing Director of SHS Handling Solutions, commented: “WSS has built an outstanding reputation over three decades for technical expertise. Our priority is to protect that legacy while giving the team the scale and resources to grow further. This acquisition strengthens our footprint while deepening our commitment to keeping British industry moving.”

Seamless Transition

Customer contacts and onsite engineering teams remain unchanged. From 1st June 2026, the legal trading entity will become SHS Handling Solutions Ltd. Existing clients have been contacted directly.

The Cold Chain Federation (CCF) today launched a major new white paper at an event in Westminster, warning that growing pressures on the UK’s cold chain are increasing risks to food security, public health and economic resilience. The report, The Critical Link: A Resilience Strategy for Protecting UK Food Supply Against Growing Threats to the Cold Chain, highlights how risks including energy instability, cyber-attacks, climate impacts, labour shortages and global supply chain disruption are placing increasing pressure on critical food supply infrastructure.

Without stronger resilience planning and recognition of the cold chain’s essential role, the report warns that disruptions to the food supply could significantly affect food availability, affordability, and access to essential products, particularly for vulnerable communities.

Published by the Cold Chain Federation, the white paper sets out ten urgent recommendations designed to strengthen the resilience of the UK’s cold chain and help protect citizen access to essential food during periods of disruption, including recognising the cold chain as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI).

The report highlights that the cold chain contributes £14bn to the UK economy annually, supports 184,000 jobs and contributes £3.7bn in tax revenue each year, while underpinning food supply across supermarkets, restaurants, schools, foodbanks, hospitals and home deliveries. The recommendations focus on strengthening preparedness and response planning, embedding cold chain considerations into future food security policy, and ensuring the sector is properly recognised within national resilience planning.

The launch event featured opening remarks from Phil Pluck, CEO of the CCF, and Tom Southall, Deputy CEO, who presented the report’s key findings, recommendations and the growing pressures facing the cold chain sector. A panel discussion chaired by Tom Southall also brought together Phil Pluck, Professor Tim Lang, Professor Emeritus of Food Policy at City St George’s, University of London, and Kristopher Gibbon-Walsh, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of FareShare and The Felix Project, to discuss the critical role of the cold chain in future food security and resilience planning.

“By failing to act on food resilience planning in the UK, the government are failing to protect life essential food supplies to the UK public. The world is growing more and more unstable, and with that instability comes very real risks to food supplies from both the UK and globally. 

The UK cold chain stores and distributes over 50% of all the food consumed in this country. In the absence of government leadership on this vital issue, the Cold Chain Federation have created a food resilience strategy to protect the UK public from the continuing threat of food disruption and supply. 

Having created the strategy, now is the time for the government to act, and fast.”

Phil Pluck, CEO, Cold Chain Federation

“The role of the cold chain is shamefully undervalued in UK food security and resilience policy. With threats to food supply increasing at a terrifying rate and other countries around the world looking at stockpiling essential products to keep citizens fed in an increasingly volatile world, there is a need for urgent action to recognise the role cold chain plays in society. The industry must be supported to manage future crises and to grow sustainably to meet the needs of a changing food system”

Tom Southall, Deputy CEO, Cold Chain Federation

The Cold Chain Federation is encouraging policymakers, industry stakeholders and the wider food sector to engage with the report and its recommendations.

The full whitepaper can be read here.

The CCF is available for media interviews and further comment on the report and its findings:

Phil Pluck
CEO, Cold Chain Federation
phil.pluck@coldchainfed.org.uk
07392 452150

CLICK HERE to read the eBook

Returnable transit packaging, delivered through reusable and returnable plastic solutions, provides a clear pathway toward more sustainable supply chains. Products such as plastic pallets, plastic pallet boxes, plastic containers and reusable plastic crates are specifically designed for longevity, consistency and repeated use. By replacing single-use or short-life packaging, these solutions significantly reduce waste, limit resource consumption and lower the overall carbon footprint associated with the movement of goods.

The benefits extend well beyond environmental performance alone. Reusable plastic transit packaging offers predictable quality, improved hygiene standards and enhanced durability, all of which contribute to operational efficiency and product protection. Unlike traditional alternatives, plastic solutions maintain consistent dimensions and performance throughout their lifecycle, making them ideally suited to automated systems and high-volume distribution environments. When deployed within closed-loop systems, they become a cornerstone of resilient, cost-effective and sustainable logistics.

At Exporta, sustainability is embedded into both our strategy and our accountability. In 2023, we became a certified carbon neutral business, a milestone that reflects our long-term commitment to reducing emissions across our entire value chain. This achievement was not reached through offsetting alone, but through careful measurement, ongoing reduction initiatives, and responsible sourcing decisions. It is a commitment that continues to shape how we operate and how we support our customers.

Our experience spans six industries where performance, compliance and reliability are essential. We support businesses operating in Food, Manufacturing, Pharmaceutical, Automotive, Retail, and 3PL and Distribution environments, each with its own regulatory pressures and operational demands. Across all six sectors, reusable plastic transit packaging consistently proves its value, helping organisations meet sustainability targets without compromising efficiency or safety.

Becoming carbon neutral has strengthened our responsibility as a supplier. Customers increasingly expect their partners to demonstrate credible environmental leadership, not simply make aspirational claims. As a carbon neutral supplier, Exporta is focused on enabling practical change, providing solutions that deliver measurable environmental benefits today while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

Sustainable transit packaging is not about sacrificing performance in pursuit of environmental ideals. It is about making informed, responsible choices that align commercial success with environmental stewardship. Reusable and returnable plastic packaging delivers on both fronts, and its role in building lower-carbon, future-ready supply chains will only continue to grow.