Material-handling manufacturer Combilift has reached a major global production milestone, completing its 100,000th forklift at the company’s manufacturing facility in Co. Monaghan, Ireland.
Australia played a key role in the celebration, with Bunnings receiving the 100,001st unit, a CBE3000 electric multidirectional forklift, at its Mentone site.
The handover was made by Combilift CEO and Co-Founder Martin McVicar and Australia Country Manager Chris Littlewood, alongside long-standing Australian partner Adaptalift. McVicar said the milestone reflects the contribution of Australian customers, noting the market’s strong focus on safety, performance in demanding conditions and sustainability requirements.
Bunnings’ relationship with Combilift spans more than two decades, having been one of the first Australian companies to adopt the technology. The retailer now operates a large national fleet and was influential in the development of the Combi-WR pedestrian-operated Walkie Reach in 2011.
Darren Dyer, Head of Procurement and Supply at Bunnings, said the partnership has delivered improvements in safety, efficiency and sustainability across the company’s supply chain.
“Combilift has been a trusted partner for over 20 years, helping us improve safety, efficiency and sustainability through our supply chain,” he said. “Initially starting with the purchase of the 4-Way Combi reach truck, through to the innovative Combi WR pedestrian walkie reach and now our shift to electric fleets, their innovations meet the unique needs of Australian retail. We’re excited to receive the 100,001st unit at our Mentone Warehouse, which is a proud milestone in our shared commitment to smarter, safer material handling.”
Australia is now Combilift’s fifth-largest global market, with more than 6,000 units operating nationwide. Electric and multidirectional models have recorded double-digit growth, driven by space constraints, emissions targets and safety priorities across manufacturing, agriculture, warehousing and retail.
Littlewood said Australian operations are facing increasing pressure on space, labour and emissions, with forklifts offering solutions.
“Multidirectional and electric forklifts address all three challenges simultaneously, by improving safety in tight aisles, cutting operating emissions and unlocking significant floor space,” he said. “That’s why adoption has accelerated across manufacturing, timber, agriculture, warehousing and DIY retail.”
The CBE3000 delivered to Bunnings reflects rising demand for electric fleets, supported by lower emissions, reduced operating costs, improved indoor air quality and reduced maintenance requirements.
To mark the milestone, Combilift has launched a global competition to win the 100,000th unit, a special-edition 3-tonne electric forklift, with proceeds benefiting UNICEF Ireland’s Children’s Emergency Fund. Further details are available at combilift.com.
