Latest Trends in Material Handling and forklifts
In this article we look at the key trends in the complex world of the material handling industry. Keep up to date with the latest forklift truck trends.
The forklift industry in UK and worldwide is seeing a number of innovations. The drive towards electrification and automation is gathering pace, but we believe automation will take time and will be expensive for smaller companies, which will slow down implementation.
The key trends in the forklift industry for 2026 include:
- The increasing sales of electric forklift truck will continue. The dominance of internal combustion engine forklift is shifting as electric powered trucks become more capable of handling heavy loads and outdoor environments. Advances in lithium-ion batteries have made all-day operations possible. The benefits of electric forklift truck include zero emissions and lower operating costs including less maintenance.
- Safety is a key priority as around 1300 people a year are involved in forklift truck related accidents each year, several of them are fatal according to the British Safety Council. The companies should ensure that the forklift trucks are fit for the tasks they perform, fitted with key safety systems and operated by trained staff. Technologies such as automatic parking brakes, anti-collision sensors and pedestrian awareness lights are becoming standard on forklift trucks. Forklift truck accidents not only cause injuries but also disrupts production. Serious cases will involve Health and Safety Executive(HSE) and the fines could be hefty.
- Flexibility in the forklift truck fleet is another growing trend. Unpredictable market conditions and coping with peak periods mean companies will prioritise agility — scaling fleets up or down quickly without tying up capital. This is driving demand for flexible leasing options.
- Skilled, well-trained operators are key to productivity, safety and staff retention. As a result, companies are expected to increase investment in training and wellbeing programmes that enhance safety awareness and promote continuous improvement. To increase flexibility, Wallace Forklift Training London are offering to train operators on combined Counterbalance, Reach and Pivot Steer/ Flexi/ Bendi trucks.
- Telematics, automation, and intelligent forklift truck fleet software are becoming mainstream in larger organisations, enabling managers to monitor equipment remotely, optimise resources, and anticipate maintenance needs that reduce downtime.
In the complex world of material handling industry, keeping up with the latest forklift truck trends will generate enormous benefits, including saving costs, minimise accidents, lower carbon footprint and improve efficiency.
Key Links:
https://www.mhwmagazine.co.uk/news/seven-trends-set-to-shape-material-handling-in-2026_102066.html
https://www.phl.co.uk/blog/the-future-of-forklifts-trends-in-automation-and-electric-technology