Jungheinrich AG and Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift America Inc. (MCFA) have entered into a manufacturing and distribution agreement for the North American market. Under the agreement, MCFA will be the exclusive distributor of Jungheinrich-branded warehouse products in the United States, Canada and Mexico beginning in 2010.
Also, Jungheinrich will design new products for the North American market to be manufactured by MCFA. Additionally, Jungheinrich will supply some Class 1 products for sale under the Cat® lift trucks brand and Class 3 products for sale under the Mitsubishi forklift trucks brand.
“Sales of Jungheinrich products through the MCFA distribution network opens up wonderful opportunities to the Jungheinrich brand in North America and strengthens our competitive position, with MCFA benefiting from our warehousing expertise in exchange," says Hans-Georg Frey, chairman of the board of management of Jungheinrich AG.
The Cat lift trucks product line, known for its durability in a wide range of industrial applications, will now focus on sit-down Class 1, 4 and 5 counterbalanced products. The Jungheinrich line will be offered for narrow aisle Class 2 and 3 products as well as some select Class 1 models typically used in warehousing and distribution applications. The Mitsubishi forklift trucks product range offered through North American dealers will not change.
“Bringing Cat® lift trucks and Jungheinrich products together through one distribution network gives our customers the best of both worlds,” said Jeff Rufener, vice president of marketing, MCFA. “Cat Lift Trucks and Jungheinrich are global leaders in their product categories. Our customers can now pick one or both of the brands to serve their needs, delivered and supported by MCFA dealers; the industry’s best distribution network.”
As part of the agreement, Jungheinrich will establish a design center on MCFA’s Houston, Texas, campus. The Houston Design Center (HDC) will focus on development of a new range of warehouse products designed for and manufactured in North America. The HDC will be staffed with Jungheinrich personnel. The current Jungheinrich sales and service operations will cease effective December 31, 2009. The Jungheinrich facility in Richmond, Va., will close in 2010. MCFA exclusive distribution of Jungheinrich products, including sales and service support from its Houston, Texas, headquarters, will commence in January 2010.
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