Garnalex invests in Combilifts for maximum manufacturing efficiency

Garnalex has invested in three Combilift multidirectional forklift trucks to achieve maximum efficiency in its state-of-the-art aluminium extrusion factory in Nether Heage, Derbyshire. The factory is now fully operational and extruding for trade extrusion customers. Its next major milestone is producing components for the launch of the breakthrough Sheerline window and door systems.

The three Combilifts support the integration of the factory with seamless synchronisation enabled by GarnerSys. Developed by Garnalex’ in-house software team, this bespoke management and tracking system is designed to seamlessly integrate all elements of the extrusion and manufacturing process, and the Garnalex back-end ERP system (SAP). The Combilifts are universal trucks that can be used both inside and outside to provide a high level of operational flexibility in all areas of this advanced factory. Garnalex ordered two C4000 C-Series models, with four-ton lift capacities, and one Combi-CB model, with 2,500kg capacity, in late 2018. Painted in the special Garnalex livery colour and logo, the two C4000 models are fitted with a 5.5m triplex mast enabling them to pass under low doorways, and lift goods to high storage bays when extended. All three Combilifts have multidirectional capability, enabling safe, space-saving handling and storage for long loads.

Roger Hartshorn, Garnalex CEO, comments on the latest investment: “I’ve been using Combilifts for over 20 years, and they’re instrumental in the smooth running of a factory. Our factory is 100,000 ft2, so ensuring it’s designed to supply a full end-to-end service at all points of the process requires a co-ordinated approach. It’s important for us to know exactly where our products are at all times, and with our new Combilifts and GarnerSys to integrate them into the operation of the factory we do!”

Combilift CEO and co-founder, Martin McVicar, adds: “Roger was one of the first customers in the UK to recognise the qualities and benefits of our Combilift handling solutions when we launched our initial C-Series. We are very pleased that he has once again chosen products from our now much extended range. We wish him all the best for this new venture, which, knowing Roger, will no doubt be a great success.”