Linde takes stock of a successful three-week "World of Material Handling" trade fair

Between 5 and 23 May, Linde Material Handling (LMH) showcased its comprehensive range of products and services as well as current trends and visions for the future of internal material flow in an exhibition space measuring around 20,000 square metres at the Mainz trade fair centre as part of the "World of Material Handling" trade fair. Around 6000 customers, interested parties, journalists and colleagues from over 40 countries accepted the invitation and attended expert presentations, technical exhibitions and product demonstrations, and even had the opportunity to sit on a forklift truck or operate the tiller of a warehouse truck. They were also able to glean valuable information from the stands of 18 Linde partners in the exhibition area, including Volkswagen Drive Systems, Wemag and Continental.

"We are delighted with the success of the "World of Material Handling". The trade fair more than exceeded our expectations, in particular with regard to the number and prestige of the visitors", says Theodor Maurer, Chairman of the Management Board of Linde MH, in summary of the event. International interest was noticeably high, with guests from overseas making up around 60% of the visitors. In this respect, the new concept from Europe's market leader was given the seal of approval. "The event has significantly contributed to our strategic goal of customer focus. Logistics managers want to experience products in person and put them to the test directly against one another", says Maurer. "We also addressed current topics, such as sustainability, safety, data networking and automation through presentations and live demonstrations, and offered corresponding solutions".

Linde MH used ten product innovations to demonstrate how internal material flow will be more energy-efficient, safer, more productive and easier to service in the future. The highlight of the "World of Material Handling" was the launch of the Linde Safety Pilot, a globally unique driver assistance system for trucks. The functionality of the system was demonstrated by means of a show, in which a forklift truck driver performed critical manoeuvres supported by a protective framework. Without the Linde Safety Pilot, the truck tipped over onto the protective framework when driving with a raised load. But with the Linde Safety Pilot, the truck reduced its speed and the lift mast could not be extended further than permitted. In a purpose-built storage area with high racks, visitors were able to load and unload stacks.

Outside, a range of counterbalance trucks were available for use on a test course. The visitors experienced pure dynamics on the kart track, burning rubber on the Linde E2 electrical go-kart equipped with a drive from truck series production.