Gunter Fritzsche - one of the forklift truck industry's best known personalities - recently celebrated forty years with Jungheinrich.

Gunter, who joined the Jungheinrich Group as a trainee in Germany before moving to the UK, has held a number of positions with the company but is perhaps best known for his role in establishing Jungheinrich (UK) Ltd's Automated Systems Division at Wythenshawe, near Manchester.

The Jungheinrich (UK) Ltd Automated Systems Division that Gunter helped to found, now accounts for a significant proportion of Jungheinrich's UK turnover and Gunter's business development, sales and project management skills have been a key to the success of the operation.

Hans Herbert-Schultz, Managing Director of Jungheinrich (UK) Ltd, says of Gunter: "Quite simply Gunter Fritzsche has helped to shape the VNA product market over the last 40 years. During his career he has been – and continues to be – a key member of teams involved with the development of new and innovative products.

"Furthermore, he has personally trained so many people – many of whom have gone on to have extremely successful careers themselves within the forklift truck industry – and his knowledge and experience have ensured the success of projects throughout the world."

Gunter Fritzsche commented: "It is perhaps a cliché, but I have thoroughly enjoyed my four decades with Jungheinrich. It is an excellent company to work for and I am delighted to have played a role in the Group's success both in the UK and abroad."