At Windsor Materials Handling, we take pride in supporting our customers with tailored solutions that drive productivity and safety. Our long-standing partnership with Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation is a prime example of this commitment. Working closely with our Sleaford branch, Polypipe has recently expanded its equipment fleet with a suite of cutting-edge access machinery designed to meet the ever-evolving demands of their industry.
Polypipe, a leader in sustainable drainage and water management solutions, identified a need to replace its ageing JLG fleet. The goal was not just to update equipment but to optimize operations with reliable, efficient, and versatile machinery that aligns with their rigorous safety and performance standards.
After a detailed consultation led by Danielle Neilson, Polypipe opted for an impressive range of Haulotte equipment, including:
These machines are more than upgrades — they represent a step-change in capability, enabling Polypipe to address the dynamic requirements of their operations with confidence.
Polypipe’s decision to transition their fleet through Windsor Materials Handling was guided by our unparalleled customer service and expertise. Engineering Manager Stacey Whitworth shared their experience:
“Our decision to replace our access fleet with these models was driven by the exceptional service and backup we continuously receive from Windsor Sleaford. The in-depth proposal and dedicated account management Danielle Neilson provided has been invaluable, ensuring we receive equipment that perfectly meets our needs. We are delighted with this new equipment and look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with Windsor Materials Handling.”
The new fleet is already making a tangible impact:
This successful fleet transformation underscores the strength of the relationship between Polypipe and Windsor Materials Handling. As industry leaders in materials handling and access solutions, Windsor is committed to providing innovative equipment backed by exceptional service.
We’re thrilled to support Polypipe’s journey toward greater efficiency and safety and look forward to many more successful projects together.
We’re thrilled to announce that customer, Nutrel Products Ltd, has just added the brand-new Bobcat 4T Diesel Counterbalance, Still FMX 14N and the UN 2.5T Li-ion V Series to their existing fleet!
Founded in 1986, Nutrel Products Ltd has grown from supplying farmers in Lincolnshire to becoming a UK leader in the development, manufacture, and marketing of fertilisers and associated products for agriculture, horticulture, forestry, amenities, and landscaping. Over the years, Nutrel has built a reputation for innovation, quality, and reliability, consistently meeting the evolving needs of the agricultural industry.
The partnership between Nutrel Products Ltd and Windsor was born from our consultative approach and multi-brand offering. This approach enables us to tailor our equipment solutions to meet the specific requirements of each operation, ensuring maximum efficiency and productivity. The addition of the Bobcat 4T Diesel Counterbalance, Still FMX 14N and the UN 2.5T V Series is a testament to our commitment to providing top-of-the-line equipment that enhances operational capabilities.
The Bobcat 4T Diesel Counterbalance is known for its robust performance and versatility, making it an excellent addition to Nutrel’s fleet. This machine will assist in handling heavier loads with ease, contributing to smoother and more efficient operations. Meanwhile, the UN 2.5T Li-ion V Series is renowned for its reliability and precision, offering exceptional manoeuvrability and control, which is crucial for Nutrel’s diverse range of applications.
We look forward to seeing the positive impact these additions will have on Nutrel Products Ltd’s operations and are proud to support their continued growth and success.
Windsor Materials Handling has been a pivotal partner for Premier Modular for almost two decades, providing operational critical materials handling equipment and maintenance services throughout their growth towards becoming one of the UK’s leading offsite modular building specialists.
Based in the UK and Europe, Premier Modular provides permanent and temporary solutions to organisations in multiple sectors including healthcare, education, commercial and industrial, and infrastructure. The modular specialist forms part of Premier Modular Group alongside sister companies Net Zero Buildings and Net Zero Panels.
Recognising the increasing importance of sustainability, Premier Modular has been proactive in reducing their environmental impact. In 2021, they implemented a comprehensive carbon reduction plan aiming to achieve net zero emissions by 2035. This initiative underscores their leadership in the modular construction industry and commitment to energy-efficient practices that benefit customers, investors, and communities.
Strategic Partnership with Windsor Materials Handling
Following a thorough review of their environmental impact and carbon footprint, Premier Modular have been refining their procurement strategy to align with their sustainability goals. A significant milestone in this strategy was the introduction of electric forklift trucks into their manufacturing site operations, facilitated by their long-term partner, Windsor Materials Handling. This step marks substantial progress toward their net zero objectives.
The recent strategic move, Premier Modular replaced two diesel forklifts with two UN V Series Li-ion powered trucks. Alongside the environmental objectives being met, this switch offers several benefits from an operational perspective.
Not only do the UN V Series trucks provide longer operational life, faster charging times, and require less maintenance compared to IC forklifts, leading to improved productivity and reduced downtime they also provide extensive lifetime cost savings. Over time, the lower operating costs and reduced fuel consumption translate to significant cost savings in the region of up to 75% in running costs for Premier Modular.
“Our partnership with Windsor Materials Handling has been instrumental in our journey towards sustainability and operational excellence. Over the past decade, Windsor has consistently provided exceptional service and maintenance for our materials handling equipment. Their team is always there when we need them, ensuring minimal downtime and keeping our operations running smoothly.
Windsor’s responsiveness and expertise have been particularly evident in our recent transition to UN V Series Li-ion powered trucks. The seamless integration and ongoing support have allowed us to reap the benefits of this new technology without any disruptions. We value Windsor not just as a service provider, but as a trusted partner committed to our success and sustainability goals. Their dedication and reliability make them an indispensable part of our operations.” says Chris Brighton, Manufacturing Director from Premier Modular.
The partnership between Windsor Materials Handling and Premier Modular exemplifies how strategic collaboration can drive industry-leading sustainability initiatives. By leveraging Windsor’s expertise in materials handling and maintenance, Premier Modular continues to innovate in the offsite construction sector, delivering high-quality, energy-efficient modular buildings. The recent switch to UN V Series Li-ion powered trucks highlights Premier Modular’s dedication to advancing their sustainability goals and achieving net zero emissions. This case study highlights the critical role of long-term partnerships in achieving ambitious environmental goals and fostering sustainable growth.
Introducing the UN 5t Mini Li-Ion Powered Forklift: A Sustainable Step Forward for Clarke Chapman and Washington Branch Customers
At Clarke Chapman, sustainability is woven into the fabric of every business decision. Recognizing the critical role energy plays in daily operations and its broader environmental impact, the company is committed to embracing cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions. This month, in alignment with this mission, Clarke Chapman proudly introduces the new UN 5-ton Mini Li-Ion Powered Forklift, a groundbreaking addition designed to support both environmental goals and operational efficiency.
Dan Johnson, Clarke Chapman’s leading project manager for the Washington branch, recently presented this innovative technology to one of the branch’s key customers. With features tailored to enhance both performance and safety, the UN 5t Mini Li-Ion forklift offers users the advantage of opportunity charging, allowing operators to recharge during breaks and maintain steady power output. This capability supports demanding operations that require consistent mid-weight lifting, ensuring optimal performance in various working conditions.
Safety is at the core of the UN 5t forklift’s design. The stability of the lithium-ion battery system eliminates the risk of spills and leaks commonly associated with lead-acid batteries, removing hazardous elements from the workspace. This increased reliability and reduced exposure to harmful materials contribute to an overall safer work environment, a priority for Clarke Chapman and their customers.
Moreover, the lithium-ion technology incorporated into the UN 5t forklift offers significant savings on maintenance and operating costs. With fewer components requiring routine checks and a longer lifespan, the forklift reduces the frequency of upkeep, leading to cost-effective operation over its life. For customers focused on long-term savings, the reduction in maintenance demands represents a tangible benefit that supports Clarke Chapman’s emphasis on high-quality, efficient solutions.
Perhaps most notably, the zero-emission design of the UN 5t Mini Li-Ion forklift aligns perfectly with Clarke Chapman’s sustainability goals. Without exhaust emissions, the forklift fosters a cleaner, healthier work environment and contributes to a reduced carbon footprint. This environmentally responsible technology not only enhances air quality for employees but also reinforces Clarke Chapman’s and its customers’ commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Dan Johnson shared, “Our customers are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact without compromising efficiency. With the UN 5t Mini Li-Ion Forklift, we are helping them make substantial strides toward sustainable operations.”
As Clarke Chapman continues to bring eco-friendly innovations to its fleet, the company looks forward to partnering with customers on a shared journey toward a sustainable future. The UN 5t Mini Li-Ion Powered Forklift represents just one of many steps Clarke Chapman is taking to reduce environmental impact while enhancing customer satisfaction and operational excellence.
Join Clarke Chapman in celebrating this important milestone, as they lead the way in sustainability and prove that environmentally conscious solutions can be powerful, reliable, and cost-effective.
One of the UK’s most innovative shoring specialists – National Trench Safety Ltd (UK) – partner with Windsor Materials Handling to upgrade their diesel-powered forklifts as they undertook a strategic transition from diesel to electric-powered forklifts in pursuit of their commitment to moving towards a “net zero” carbon footprint.
This along with the rising costs of diesel, NTS have been considering equipment upgrades that align with improved operational efficiencies, cost savings and reduced environmental impact and as such have been working with Kieran Douglas, sales manager at our Wakefield branch, to achieve their strategic obligations.
“Without question, adaptation made within operations like NTS are based on three core decision making principles that don’t come without their challenges. It was important that the appropriate due diligence was conducted before any change was implemented, and Windsor’s approach wholly supported this”; comments Patrick Flannery.
Technological advancements in both lead acid and lithium powered equipment have led to a significant shift in consumers opting for the electric powered alternative to the historically favoured IC counterpart. To this end, due to demanding site conditions, NTS could not compromise on shift run times, reliability or durability so these were all important considerations when going through the varying options available to them.
Once we have identified that operational efficiencies can be maintained, if not improved, we then look to cost implications to see if running costs and total cost of ownership can be reduced.
Kieran Douglas comments; “Initial conversations took place with Patrick Flannery and Karl Clayton where the introduction of electric was first muted. Working with the team, we collated information regarding the trucks runtime & carried out a site survey, where from here we provided a fuel calculation along with total cost of ownership which showed big cost savings.”
Once this had been identified, the next step was to look at both lead acid and lithium options and given the requirements of this truck, lead acid was the preferred choice; with a lower upfront cost, the ability to withstand their operational requirement along with a well-established recycling infrastructure.
Kieran goes onto say; “At Windsor, we are fortunate enough to have access to demo equipment across our entire core product range which allows customers to see whether or not there will be an operational impact when making the switch. After a successful demo of a STILL RX60-80 paired with a Fronius charger it was found that the truck was more than capable of handling the sites runtime & the truck could withstand the challenging site conditions.”
“The demo was so successful that it was decided that two trucks would be ordered with the second truck being utilised at their new Coventry facility. We provided short-term electric options to operate on site until the new units were delivered.”
The STILL RX60-80 delivers powerful acceleration and lifting capabilities, ensuring optimal efficiency in material handling operations. Constructed with robust materials, the forklift excels in challenging environments, providing a long-lasting and reliable performance.
Advanced safety features, including stability control and ergonomic design, contribute to a secure working environment for operators. The forklift’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications that are demanded in this fast-paced business.
Complementing the electric forklifts, Windsor Materials Handling recommended the Fronius battery charger for its efficiency, reliability, and advanced charging technology. Fronius chargers are renowned for their robust construction, ensuring durability in demanding industrial environments.
The charger is designed to be energy-efficient, contributing to reduced operational costs over time. They also utilise intelligent charging algorithms, optimising the charging process and extending the overall lifespan of the batteries. With an intuitive interface simplifies operation, enhancing the overall charging experience for NTS operators.
The collaboration between Windsor and NTS resulted in a successful transition from diesel to electric forklifts, achieving substantial fuel savings and cost reductions. The adoption of the STILL RX60-80 and Fronius charger actively supports NTS in their mission to achieve net-zero emissions, showcasing Windsor Materials Handling’s commitment to delivering sustainable and high-performance materials handling solutions.
This case study exemplifies Windsor Materials Handling’s ability to understand and address the unique needs of our clients, providing not only reliable equipment but also contributing to their broader sustainability objectives. We are proud to be part of National Trench Safety’s journey toward a greener and more sustainable future.
The largest family-owned processor of peanuts and tree nuts in the UK, processing circa 27,000mt per year from their state-of-the-art BRC AA rated factory in Heckington Lincolnshire continue to partner with Windsor Materials Handling to upgrade their 12-strong forklift truck fleet.
Working with our Sleaford branch since 2015, Windsor has proudly partnered with The Roasting Company to supply them with their ongoing materials handling equipment needs, providing them with a first-class product consultancy and ongoing maintenance support.
Offering industry leading processing rates can only be achieved if the forklift truck operation can support the workload and suit the environment that it is intended for. Windsor was appointed over eight years ago due to their ability to cope with the growing business demands of The Roasting Company and their infamous reputation for service and stability.
Sales manager, Danielle Neilson talks through some of the considerations The Roasting Company went through when selecting the right equipment for their operation.
“In a food production environment, it is important to be able to offer a range of equipment that is suitable for the job being undertaken. Currently there is a mixed fleet where LPGs run the outdoor operations and electric manage movement inside the warehouse.”
“Load capacities and speed of operation allowed for the switch so the important factors here were ensuring run times would suffice on a battery charge and that the dimensions of the trucks would fit the space that they are moving in without interruption.”
The fact that Windsor has a multi-brand product portfolio, we know that many customers we work with are looking for local dealers and service providers who can offer prompt support and maintenance to minimise downtime.
“One of the key reasons for using Windsor is their continuity of people within the branch – we have worked with Murray branch manager for almost nine years and Danielle has been our point of contact for over three now. Their approach to call-outs and customer service is what appeals to businesses like ours – the engineers are prompt on call-outs, persistent with their fixes and always reliable which can’t always be said for service providers” says warehouse manager, Kevin Massam.
True to our heritage, we have developed the experience and expertise to supply and maintain all manner of equipment – providing a true materials handling consultancy service. As well as superb advice, we also offer the highest levels of support and the best value for money, and to ensure that they are always close at hand, we have developed highly skilled teams of locally based, manufacturer trained engineers. It’s all part of our ‘Local Partnerships’ approach.
Based in Hull, Commercial Scaffolding Limited was formed February 1990 by Alan, Jean and Alex Lilley and over that time have built their customer base up at an impressive rate.
Working on some of the region’s most significant scaffolding projects, they have a similar approach in how they do business as do Windsor – through developing relationships and creating partnerships and operating to the highest of standards.
“Paul Williams – Windsor’s longest serving sales manager – has a tenacious approach to how he works with customers and Commercial Scaffolding Ltd have respected that attention since we first started working together in 1997 when we took delivery of our first Komatsu”
“Conversations with Paul arose due to our recent investment into renewable energy sources, namely solar panels. We were fortunate enough to take advantage of the green funding available for SMEs through the local government initiative.” says Alan Lilley.
Paul presented the new range of lithium-ion powered forklifts, manufactured by UN Forklift, to Commercial Scaffolding in a move to transition from their IC equivalent. It was important that they invested into a truck that enabled a smooth transition for the operator as without doubt there is a change of habit required when choosing electric.
The NL Series uses the same chassis as it’s IC counterpart so the operator is uncompromised. A full handover of the truck and charger demonstrated to the customer how to keep optimal run times throughout operational hours.
For traditional IC truck users, moving to lead-acid battery trucks is arguably a bigger change, as it involves battery maintenance. They must be refilled regularly with distilled water to function properly and stay healthy, which in turn brings added implication to health and safety procedures.
“Typically, switching to lithium is a change of mindset for a diesel counterbalance user,” says Paul. “Whereas you can get on a lithium UN truck and it will feel very similar in its setup – and we can adjust the programme settings so it operates like a hydrostat or like a traditional torque convertor IC truck which gives the operator a like-for-like drive making it a no-brainer for lower use yard work.”
With this equipment solution presented to the customer at a critical point in their movement towards becoming carbon neutral, Windsor were able to offer the right product for the job with no interruption to business.
With a now reduced maintenance expenditure moving forward and cost savings made through the draw-down of electric via solar panels, along with the wider global environmental issues, it is clear to see why businesses are seeking for greener alternatives and with schemes in place to help businesses make the switch we are proud to be able to offer our customers a solution for any materials handling requirement.
Bring who is proudly positioned as one of the largest mail and logistics operators in the Nordic Region apply their progressive and developmental approach to their service offering placing them as one of the most forward-looking companies of their type in the world.
Materials handling is a critical element of their operational success and their local site in Immingham – where they have access a fleet of over 450 trailers delivering across the UK, Europe & Scandinavia – has depended on local Windsor Materials Handling branch for 10 years.
Brings latest investment has been into the replacement of their diesel-powered fleet of forklift trucks, with their electric Doosan counterparts which – after they took delivery of their first two trucks – was deemed a ‘no brainer’.
Managing director Bob Tutass says: “As a global business we are committed to efficient environmental solutions with a strategic goal in place that aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 40% by 2030.
“In recent years, therefore, as a group, we have implemented a number of measures to reduce our impact on the environment. This includes, among other things, a focus on environmentally-friendly vehicles and fuel, and over 1000 of our vehicles are electric, meaning eco-friendly postal deliveries.”
The operation at Bring has been reaping the benefits of renewable energy sources for almost a decade, with the installation of solar panels being the first
Terminal manager Patrick Hewson: “With the rise in fuel duty that we saw last year, and the savings we’re seeing already with the replacement of our IC fleet for 8 electric Doosan’s we couldn’t be more delighted with our decision.”
“Our Windsor point of contact, Steve Austin, has been able to source the equipment we need to keep operations moving at a rate that exceeded our expectations. This has meant that we have been able to expedite our transition to electric from what we predicted to be around six years into just two.”
The investment has meant massive savings for this operation, fuel costs have more than halved and the electricity source is almost solely drawn down from the solar panels. Maintenance and ongoing service costs have dropped, tyre-wear has improved dramatically.
There is a notable improvement to the indoor atmosphere that is cleaner and cooler, with the additional investment into a Nilfisk ride-on sweeper too – operators are now working within an environment which is much more comfortable.
“Not only have Bring seen significant savings on multiple levels, by opting to invest in the Fronius charger they will see an extended battery life from a guaranteed five years to more like seven on the usage the operation runs at;” says Steve Austin.
Through careful consultation around the operational requirements alongside the calculations made on cost savings, we have worked closely together to make sure that product met requirement which can only happen when customer and MHE supplier work in partnership. That coupled with two businesses that have a quick decision-making process means that solutions can be agreed and implemented at pace.
Windsor Materials Handling Chelmsford see the UN NL Series Li-ion powered forklift delivered into Sky Studios, Elstree following a successful pitch to new customer Mitie Technical Facilities Management.
The newest product in our range met all of the green credentials needed to secure the deal – zero emissions alongside the ability to opportunity charge offering longer run times with maintenance support from a branch local to them made Windsor the supplier of choice.
The price point of the UN Forklift is competitively placed and is not dissimilar to that of an IC truck, but it is the total cost of ownership savings that are turning heads of our customers, not to mention that the cost of electricity is around 20% that of diesel.
Built on the rugged IC engine chassis with unrivalled derated lift capacities at height, comfort and ergonomics with floating cab makes this a sensible choice for those considering the switch from diesel to electric.
Sales Manager at the Chelmsford branch said: “The UN NL range of lithium counterbalance forklifts is a great replacement for diesel trucks. We’re delighted that we can offer customers a sustainable alternative to their materials handling IC fleet without them having to compromise on key features and working with Mitie on behalf of such a prestigious client is a huge opportunity for us at Windsor.”
“By being able to offer such wide range of products we are able to pitch solutions to customers that are right for their operation. That along with our service offering makes us unique and as conversations with customers are being driven more and more by the move to net zero, this new addition to our portfolio is an attractive proposition.”
Caunton Engineering is one of the UK’s leading fully automated structural steelwork contractors and a world leader in Just-In-Time manufacture. Designing, fabricating, painting and erecting structural steelwork for the construction industry, the Nottinghamshire business employs over 250 people and has annual turnover in excess of £64m.
Designing, fabricating, painting and erecting structural steelwork for the construction industry, the Nottinghamshire business employs over 250 people and has annual turnover in excess of £64m.
Over two thirds of Caunton’s projects are design and build, and the company has an impressive line-up of experienced structural engineers, most of whom are graduates or Chartered.
Supplying around 26,000 tonnes of steelwork annually, the company places great store in its ability to remain flexible, specialising in both primary and secondary steelwork, and covering the full gamut of services from designing and fabrication, painting and erecting.
Maintaining that flexibility means working with the right MHE partner. One that is able to support the business when needed and advise on new ways of working. Windsor has itself spent a great deal of time focussing on providing customers with exceptional service and support, something which Caunton can attest to.
“We’ve worked with Windsor for almost a decade,” says production director, Mark White, who has been with the company for over 25 years.
“We rely on their support to ensure we keep working. If a vital machine goes down, it can have a knock-on effect across the different parts of the business, so it’s important to know that we’ve got the response there. Good response times are critical.”
Tyres, service, maintenance and of course, new equipment is all part of Windsor’s remit. Multi-directional machines, powered pallet trucks, 5 tonne capacity counterbalance, access equipment, telehandlers and a £300K investment in a bespoke straddle carrier is proof of Caunton and Windsor’s partnership approach.
“Service and repair times are good and reasonable, but the help and advice on projects has been incredibly useful,” adds Mark.
The latest additions to the fleet are three GX80L Baumann sideloaders, a machine known for its durability and high build quality, and an essential cog in the operation. Sideloaders are a proven way to handle long loads safely and productively, particularly over longer distances.
The Baumann sideloaders come complete with the award winning Archimedes outreach system, ensuring fine control for the operator. Hydraulic cylinders traditionally drive a sideloader outreach system (the method by which the forks reach out to the load and return it to the load bed) by applying pressure to opposing rollers that slide along their respective channels, in a pantograph-style mechanical linkage.
The new Baumann GX Series utilises the direct drive Archimedes screw to extend the fork carriage, whilst preventing horizontal movements and eliminating unnecessary stresses.
The system is low in maintenance and simple in design, with a high level of engineering and durability to ensure greater safety, and perfectly synchronised outreach for highly accurate, smooth, efficient load control.
The whole outreach system works in unison, which means ideal results each time, and maximum working speeds. It’s a great feature and a good fit for the site, say’s Windsor’s Andy Lane.
“It’s a heavy industry,” says Andy, “heavy loads, over long hours, often in an atmosphere that can prove harmful to most engines. Where there’s contact between a truck and steel, the steel wins, so we are keen to ensure that the visibility is good and that the best kit gets the best possible service.”
Both Andy and Mark know the value of the equipment. Windsor previously provided a different sideloaders brand which demanded a great deal of work to maintain.
“ The Baumanns are more robust and operator-friendly and offer much better build quality. You can see that the operators are a lot more in tune with the machine. The door interlock is a good safety feature, preventing operations without the doors being closed, the masts are better, the operator cabin is excellent, even down to the lights being solid LEDs that don’t fall to pieces.”
With the business split over different sites, a breakdown would have the capability of stopping other parts of the business, but now that’s no longer the case.
“We’ve added greater flexibility,” adds Andy, “but ultimately it’s about doing the simple things well and keeping on top of the maintenance regime. We have a great working relationship with Mark and the team, and that only happens if you work together to solve issues as they arise and recognise that we are in it together.”
