Combilift, a global innovator in material handling solutions, has achieved recognition at this year’s UK Materials Handling Association Awards, and the UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024, securing four highly prestigious awards.

Design Team of the Year

The ‘Design Team of the Year’ award was presented to Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Team for their work on the 12-Wheel “Combi-LC Blade.” This machine has been specifically engineered to handle offshore wind turbine blades, which can reach up to 115 meters and weigh as much as 70 tons. The design significantly enhances the ability to transport these large, non-uniform loads safely and efficiently from manufacturing sites to storage and deployment locations.

This innovative solution addresses the growing needs of the renewable energy sector, where the demand for efficient logistics systems is increasing as the size and scale of offshore wind turbines continue to grow. Before the development of the Combi-LC Blade, existing transportation methods were often inadequate and posed logistical challenges. Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Design Team drew upon their extensive experience in engineering complex transport systems, previously creating the renowned Combi-SC Straddle Carrier and Combi-MG Mobile Gantry ranges.

Industry Leader Award

In addition to this remarkable team achievement, Combilift’s co-founder and CEO, Martin McVicar, received the coveted ‘Industry Leader Award’, sponsored by Menzies. This accolade honors McVicar’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation, which have played a pivotal role in transforming Combilift from a small Irish manufacturer into a global leader in the material handling sector.

Manufacturer Product Innovation of the Year

Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Design Team worked hand in hand with Siemens Gamesa, a supplier of offshore wind turbines, the LC Blade ensures unparalleled stability and safety during transport. Now implemented in manufacturing sites across the world, Combilift has transformed the logistics of handling wind turbine blades and set a new industry standard.

Ergonomic Innovation of the Year 

The Combi-CB70E was celebrated for its ergonomic design. The 7-ton electric-powered, multidirectional counterbalance forklift is the shortest 7-ton capacity truck on the market, making it highly efficient with long loads in tight spaces. The truck’s surprisingly spacious cab, with floor-to-ceiling panoramic glass, provides operators with excellent visibility and enhanced safety.

"We are more than delighted to have won not just one, but two prestigious accolades at this year's Archies 2024, making this our 12th Archies to date," Combilift CEO and co-founder Martin McVicar said. "Competing against such high-caliber competitors highlights what a fantastic team we have, which is willing to push the boundaries of the material handling industry."