REGIONAL REPORT


XCMG’s container reach stacker XCS4531E.


in EU ports is increasing, as is the gross weight of goods handled. And with greater demand on shipping comes higher throughput. “Although some larger terminals are exploring


more crane handling to deal with volumes, we also see more smaller ‘hub’ terminals appearing in some regions to help keep goods flowing,” says Robroek. “However, dependability and durability of equipment remain a high priority when selecting container handling equipment. That’s in our DNA and is one of the reasons why Hyster continues to be the first choice, even as the shipping industry evolves.”


Little differences


While dockside lifting and handling is a global industry, CM Labs sees several characteristics that are more pronounced in this region. “There are some regions in which we


operate where the objective is really to maximise productivity and safety,” says Van de Kletersteeg. “But in Europe, you have a very strong emphasis on the safety and sustainability of the ports rather than strictly on productivity.” He cites the French regulations, CACEs (Certificat d’Aptitude à la Conduite d’Engins, a recommended training certification for operating material handling equipment). CM Labs has made sure that what is required for CACEs is included within its training packs. “The other thing about Europe is that the level of investment is quite substantial,” he adds. “We want to make sure that we’re staying aligned with our customers and their present and future training needs.” Many customers purchase these training solutions before their equipment arrives. With a new STS or RTG crane often coming with long lead times,


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operators want to ensure that their workforce is fully trained before it arrives. In addition, the continent remains at the


forefront when it comes to tackling the big questions facing the industry. “Europe is the thought leader on some of the key issues facing ports,” says Van de Klestersteeg. XCMG also believes in adapting to local values. “XCMG respects the culture and operation habit in Europe,” says Zhao. “We have been organising powerful local teams to execute this work.” The company has designed and delivered six-high container reach stackers to Greece and Serbia, plus electric reach stackers and terminal trucks to its partner in the Netherlands. It has also established distributors in France, Spain and Italy.


Key trends


Two issues still at the top of every operator’s agenda are improving productivity and addressing sustainability. “Momentum keeps growing for port electrification, whether driven by corporate initiatives or government targets,” says Robroek. “These deadlines aren’t immediate but shifting away from the ICE technology operations have depended on for quite some time requires taking a deliberate, thorough approach and doing your homework.” He believes that Hyster’s new series of high-capacity electric forklifts represents a step forward for ports looking to go green. However, battery-electric forklifts are just one of the many ways that Hyster is helping operations to optimise their efficiency and power. “We continue to closely collaborate with customers to develop a range of advanced,


energy-efficient electric equipment,” he says. “Together, we’re aiming to create solutions that deliver the performance that intense industries demand, and the brighter tomorrow that our communities deserve.” Chinese manufacturer SANY will celebrate the 15th anniversary of its European facilities next year. “The European market has always been strategically important to SANY since it opened the European facilities in 2011,” says Janko Weiss, product manager for mobile port equipment. Since the launch of its electrification strategy


by introducing the first electric reach stacker in 2023, SANY has steadily widened its portfolio of electrified machinery. The latest addition to the portfolio is the newly developed heavy-duty forklifts, with capacities from 10t to 35t. “Thanks to the strong commitment to green


technologies and ambitious environmental targets, the European region finds itself as a driver of decarbonisation through electrification,” says Weiss. “SANY continues to align with this trend and helps with Europe’s sustainability goals with the delivery of high performing and efficient equipment.” Meanwhile, Flanagan explains how


increased competition has driven the adoption of advanced technologies to improve operational efficiency. Many European terminals have also integrated some element of automation tools, not only to streamline processes but also to empower their workforce. Kaleris recently held a workshop in Europe where participants earned certification in automation expertise, fostering regional access to the best-qualified experts and underscoring the region’s focus on creating a tech-savvy workforce prepared for the future.


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