Demand for materials handling equipment forecast to grow 4% annually through 2016

摘要

Global demand for materials handling products is forecast to climb 4% annually through 2016 to $123.6 billion, according to "World Material Handling Products," a recent study by The Freedonia Group. According to the report, opportunities will be best for sales of advanced equipment such as automated conveyors and automatic guided vehicles. Automated products reduce the required labor input in operating machinery, helping to curtail labor costs. Energy efficient products, such as electric lift trucks, will also see solid gains as end users seek to reduce costs. The rising importance of e-commerce will also fuel demand for automated equipment, as business is increasingly conducted in large, lightly staffed warehouses.