For Bowman International, a leading supplier, manufacturer, and distributor of plain bearings and sintered parts, success had created storage problems. Determined to make the most of its existing Abingdon facilities, the company turned to Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks' warehousing specialists for a solution.
“Our specific requests were quite unique,” explains Bowman International Managing Director, Paul Mitchell. “We needed to use our cubic capacity to its full advantage. The problem was that by continuing to use our existing stacker with its limited lift height, we would be wasting valuable space. The alternatives were to either acquire an additional building or replace the stacker with an articulated forklift — both at considerable cost. Making that change also posed the risk of disruption because staff would be unfamiliar with how the equipment works.
“That’s when we called in Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks.”
After carefully assessing the situation, Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks came up with a cost-effective combination involving new racking and a bespoke stacker capable of working in very tight, 2.4m aisles and reaching heights of more than 7m. In doing so, this innovative solution maximised the potential storage space and freed up additional space for offices.
Rebecca Foggin, Sales Executive at the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks distributor takes up the story. “Our engineers were able to configure a stacker with an exceptionally compact junior chassis. Importantly, the AXiA truck we recommended features a lithium-ion battery which not only cuts running costs but can be opportunity charged during breaks, ensuring non-stop availability.”
Summing up, Paul Mitchell said, “The change has proved extremely successful. We were initially concerned that the transition to the new model might slow down our operations, but the opposite was true. The new truck was an immediate success with operators, who love the smooth handling and highly responsive performance.
“Indeed, the solution delivered by Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has been a success in every way, saving us the cost of acquiring an additional building plus all the associated overheads that would have been incurred.
“I’ve also been impressed by the ongoing support shown by the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks team, who have arranged six-monthly visits to inspect the stacker and also provide any additional advice and assistance.”
For more information on what Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks can do for your operations, call the Greenline 0845 371 3048, contact info@mitsubishi-forklift.co.uk or visit www.mitsubishi-forklift.co.uk.