In a genuine example of innovating globally but acting locally, Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has revolutionised the way it does business in France by switching from an importer-based operation to one that puts local dealers in direct communication with the parent company’s European base at Almere in the Netherlands. As a result, dealers will now be able to order trucks, parts and finance directly – through high-speed online systems.

Even with the smartest systems though, the dealers in France will need the support of a local company that understands the market, the specific requirements of the French customer and the need to be there to respond swiftly to any issues as they arise. With this in mind, Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has set up a new company, based in Lyon, to fulfil this role in France from 1st January 2010.

Dedicated exclusively to the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks brand, it will be known as “Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks France”. The move will allow a much closer and more effective working relationship between the European headquarters and its network of French authorised dealers.

Making the announcement, Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks’ European President Mr Shimma said: “By making this change we are creating a more direct route to the market, which will help our dealers in France to compete more effectively. We will expand our network of dealers in France, whilst streamlining the way that we deal with them to provide even better levels of service to their customers.”

Olivier Clerc, General Manager of the French operation, states: “We have big advantages that we can now offer our customers. For example, our online parts system guarantees 97% ‘first pick’ availability – which is leading the industry. In addition, together with our partner De Lage Landen we can quickly make arrangements for financial solutions to meet specific customer requirements. However, most of all, our traditionally friendly and responsive local dealers will now have much more access to the factory support they need.”

Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks France will have its own independent sales and support centre, with its own technical staff. The Lyon operation will have almost 1,000 square metres of office and workshop space available to it. It will also be home to a fleet of demonstration trucks, as well as acting as the national training centre for the company’s dealer network.

The award-winning Mitsubishi range comprises more than 100 different models, including electric, LP gas and diesel forklift trucks as well as a full range of warehouse equipment including power pallet trucks, reach and multi-way trucks, stackers, low and high level order pickers, and tow trucks.