2023 was an eventful year for VETTER, Europe's largest fork manufacturer. Numerous trade fairs and events, multiple investments both in Europe and the US, major renovations measures at the headquarters in Burbach, Germany, and continuous improvements to work processes have accompanied the entire team. New products were introduced which help to make the day-to-day work of forklift drivers easier and safer.

Trade Shows even more important

A major highlight for VETTER was their participation in LogiMAT 2023 in Stuttgart, Germany. The trade fair once again reflected its leading role as the hot spot for the material handling industry in Europe. Three exciting days for the entire VETTER Team, a constantly busy booth and many positive talks to customers and suppliers. VETTER will again be represented at LogiMAT in 2024 in Hall 10, Stand A11.

Positive feedback was also received during ProMat in Chicago, USA, Logistics & Automation in Madrid, Spain, and Préventica in Paris, France.

A company in constant change – Sustainability as a booster for business

As a family-run company for 134 years, it’s in VETTER’s DNA to think in generations. For decades VETTER has been taking care of sustainability: heat recovery, water-based colors, photovoltaic power generation, multi-use packaging, reduction of plastics, rail transport, circular systems for scrap recycling and much more have been standard for many years. Currently, VETTER generates more than 60% of its electricity supply through renewable sources and is striving to reduce the carbon footprint of steel supplies significantly. It's obvious that all this requires additional investments and increases costs, but in the long term there is a benefit for all stakeholders. With the new ESG criteria, VETTER is determined to implement the ISO 27001 certification in the short term. In combination with the existing ISO 9001, 14001 and 50001 certifications the basis is excellent to cover the market requirements for a sustainable future.

It‘s VETTER's ambition to establish the climate-neutral GreenFork!

Customer service first!

VETTER's customer-oriented philosophy has continued to shape the focus in 2023, with customer satisfaction as the main focus. However, the strengths are not only a reliable customer service, competent employees and quick feedback, but also a constant improvement and flexible adaptation to customer needs. 

Particular emphasis is placed on high product quality and innovative solutionsto meet customer expectations. State-of-the-art robot technology and production processes are used for this purpose and ultimately guarantee a high-quality standard for customers.

Focus on innovation - new products set standards

Like no other, VETTER is totally focused on forks. From standard forks and customized forks to integrated camera and sensor technology solutions - VETTER probably has the most comprehensive product portfolio. Thanks to high flexibility and competence, almost all projects can be realized, no matter whether the forks need to be small, large or “intelligent”. The most diverse types of suspension are available. 

In keeping pace, a new product of the CleverHelpers product family, the LIZZARD, was launched this year. The LIZZARD is a retrofittable solution for forklift trucks and is quickly and easily hooked into the fork carriage between the two forks. Equipped with a green cross laser, the LIZZARD enables precise targeting of the load carrier and thus safe pick-up. Alternatively, the LIZZARD is also available as a camera version. The forklift driver is provided with an optimum view on the goods, even at great heights. 

Apart from this, the SmartFork family from VETTER has also been expanded. Thanks to the latest digital camera technology, person recognition can now be integrated. Both FrontCam and SideCam detect possible hazards such as individuals at an early stage. The tilt sensor enables the horizontal alignment of the forks to ensure a safer load handling for the truck driver and less damage to goods and racks. Of course, the new functions can be combined with all existing SmartFork functions, such as the line laser for targeting load carriers or FrontCam and SideCam for optimum visibility at all times. 

In 2024 there are multiple innovations in the pipeline to make forklift operation safer, more efficient and sustainable!