Silver milestone COMMENT
November/December 2026 Issue 277 I
n this issue, we celebrate 25 years of Hoist. When the magazine first branched out from our sister publication Cranes Today, our mission was clear: focus on the smaller, yet vital, overhead lifting equipment within the industrial and construction sectors. Over the past two and a half decades, Hoist has expanded its coverage to encompass
complex lifting projects, installations and technological advances worldwide, featuring insights from leaders across the sector as we chart the industry’s evolving landscape. The lifting sector has transformed dramatically over the past 25 years, shifting from largely mechanical equipment to
integrated, safety-first, digital systems. Sustained demand across manufacturing, mining, logistics and infrastructure – coupled with rising expectations for reliability, efficiency and compliance – has accelerated automation. Electric hoists, variable-speed drives, remote monitoring and predictive maintenance are now standard operational requirements. In turn, OEMs have shifted focus towards aftermarket support, system modernisation and full life cycle management. Recent pressures, including supply chain volatility, skilled labour shortages, industrial reshoring and warehouse automation, have reinforced the necessity of dependable equipment and integrated service contracts. During the past 12 months, growth has been driven by investment in data centres, semiconductor plants, electric vehicle and battery facilities and energy infrastructure. Across these sites, contractors increasingly favour flexible rental agreements, turnkey installation and maintenance, as well as synchronised lifting systems, choosing suppliers that guarantee high uptime, digital monitoring and custom-engineered lifting solutions over standalone equipment sales. In the last issue of the year, we examine how lifting equipment supports the expanding nuclear power sector (page 20) and evaluate the industry’s transition towards digital training programmes and the range of training courses available (page 30). We also speak to René Schlieker, vice president at Demag Distribution, who reflects on his leadership journey and the changes across the company and sector over the past 25 years on page 12. Finally, we preview the upcoming LiftEx 2026 this November, hosted by the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) – turn to page 41 for a full preview of what to expect. Over the years, Hoist has remained committed to connecting industry professionals with technical insights and operational developments. I hope you enjoy the latest edition as we mark 25 years of Hoist.
Phoebe Galbraith, editor
www.hoistmagazine.com | November/December 2026 | 5
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