Kent-based farm levels up, unveiling fifteen new forklifts and six power pallet trucks as part of efforts to maximise storage efficiency and safety
Major UK fruit grower and packer Mansfields has invested in a new materials handling fleet as part of a long-term investment in the development of the business.
The new fleet comprises 15 Hyster forklift trucks (FLTs) and six power pallet trucks (PPTs), enabling the company to make more efficient use of space across its warehouses and packhouses.
The investment forms part of continued investment in Mansfields since the business became part of the greosn group in October 2025, as the business looks to strengthen its position in the fruit sector.
The trucks have been selected to maximise vertical storage. Two out of the 15 trucks feature 5.5 metre mast heights, while the rest are fitted with 4.6 metre mast heights.
Powered by lithium-ion technology and capable of lifting loads of up to 2,000kg, the electric forklifts feature a tight turning radius, which provides greater manoeuvrability within busy packhouse and warehouse environments, where effective use of space is essential.
The six power pallet trucks have been selected to provide greater flexibility across the operation, particularly when working in tighter or more restricted areas.
Safety was also a key consideration in selecting the new fleet, with technology and design features incorporated to provide greater protection for operators, colleagues and pedestrians.
Pedestrian awareness technology is capable of detecting pedestrians up to five metres away across a 110-degree field of view, and will alert the operator to their presence. Improved mirrors also provide greater visibility.
Geoff Buckenham, MHE officer at Mansfields, said: “We wanted a fleet that would give us the performance and flexibility we need, but safety was equally important.
“The new fleet also enables us to make better use of the space we already have. The different mast heights give us the ability to maximise our vertical storage capacity, while the flexibility of the power pallet trucks will support our teams across different areas of the operation,” he added.
The investment forms part of greosn’s wider approach to building stronger, more efficient and resilient business through targeted investment in people, infrastructure, technology and operational capabilities.
James Miller, managing director at Mansfields, said: “This investment is an important step forward for Mansfields and will make a real difference to how we operate every day.
“Investing in the right equipment and technology is fundamental to maintaining the high standards we set ourselves. This new fleet will help us operate more safely and efficiently, make better use of our existing facilities and give our teams the equipment they need to do their jobs effectively,” he added.
