Europe Forklift Market Size & Share 2026-2035

Europe Forklift Market Size

The Europe Forklift market was estimated at USD 19.8 billion in 2025. The market is expected to grow from USD 20.7 billion in 2026 to USD 32.6 billion in 2035, at a CAGR of 5.2% according to latest report published by Global Market Insights Inc.

As industrial activities in Europe continue to modernize, the forklift market is evolving at a steady pace, with improvements being made to warehouses, logistics hubs, and manufacturing facilities. Forklifts are playing a vital role in providing more efficient, effective, and safer operations as they are becoming the foundation upon which better workflow is built in businesses and thereby giving rise to a circular economy in Europe.

Changing emissions regulations and an increase in public demand to have cleaner, quieter equipment for indoor use has encouraged businesses to change their preference for electric over traditional forklifts; therefore, electric forklifts are now more prevalent than ever before. Many businesses are also making significant investments into smarter technologies by integrating their forklifts into automated systems that leverage digital tracking, enhance safety features, and combine fleet management solutions to maximize productivity through reduced downtime and improved routine performance.

The influence of ecommerce on the European forklift market continues to build, as higher order quantities are increasing demand for faster order fulfilment and require reaching hubs throughout their supply chain. Businesses are becoming more interested in choosing both multi-purpose and highly maneuverable forklifts to accommodate the ever-changing dynamics of performance in warehouses and manufacturing plants, businesses are also looking for highly specific task-oriented forklifts that can be used in specific applications (such as automotive assembly) or industries (such as grocery distribution). Also, due to the strong manufacturing bases in the region, suppliers are being prompted to offer forklifts that will facilitate changing operational styles and comply with ever-evolving regulatory standards. As businesses modernize their material handling systems, they are increasingly turning to rental options as a means of obtaining access to equipment on demand without having to commit to owning the equipment long-term.

Europe Forklift Market Trends

The Europe market is undergoing significant transformation, driven by evolving warehousing demands, technological advancements, and a heightened focus on operational efficiency and sustainability. Here are business trends shaping the Europe market:

• Transition from ICE to Electric Forklifts: Surpassing ICE forklift usage, electric forklifts have gained traction due to tighter emissions regulations, less operating cost from fuel usage, and being quieter, which helps to meet environmental objectives and enhances air quality in warehouses and establishments.
• Automation and Robotics Adoption: As AGV's and autonomous lift trucks are becoming more popular in the industry to drive performance & efficiencies while reducing payroll. Moreover, as an intelligent machine, these systems complete repetitive tasks, route optimization, and have 24/7 capability to allow for seamless integration with warehouse management systems to create more efficient logistics systems.
• Telematics and IoT Connectivity: Forklifts are mostly installed with telematics systems and have IoT connectivity to allow real-time data collection about the performance and usage of the forklift, as well as assisting in identifying what maintenance is needed. This assists with predictive maintenance, optimizes fleet management and sender behavior tracking, and provides insights for organizations to enhance overall productivity and safety within their fleets.
• Growing Propensity to Rent/Lease Forklifts: More organizations at this point are choosing to rent/lease forklifts rather than to purchase them. Reasons for doing this include greater flexibility; lower initial capital outlay; ability to obtain latest technology; and ability for service/maintenance of the equipment to be handled by the vendor thus enabling organizations to be more responsive to variable workloads.

Europe Forklift Market Analysis

• The superiority of counterbalance forklifts continues to be established by their uncomplicated operation, stability and ability to fulfil a wide range of job requirements. Because of their simplicity of design, which does not require use of outriggers or complicated steering mechanisms, counterbalance forklifts may be used indoors or outdoors by companies in many industries, including construction, logistics and manufacturing.
• The adaptability of counterbalance forklifts allows companies to use them for a variety of lifting and handling tasks, further solidifying the counterbalance forklift's position as the preferred option to handle material handling tasks. The strength of the counterbalance forklift category is due in part to its ability to handle a variety of load sizes and operate in highly open work areas, allowing it to be an all-purpose, dependable solution.
• As the demand for improved space utilization and the increase of high-density storage facilities continues, the growth of narrow aisle forklifts has also increased at an accelerated rate. As the e-commerce industry continues to gain popularity and the cost of storage increases, businesses are redesigning their warehouses to fit as many products as possible without having to build additional warehouse space.
• While allowing for efficient operation and safe operation in taking advantage of dense warehousing, narrow aisle forklifts can also turn tight corners. With the enhanced movement, lower prices and automated systems of most narrow aisle forklifts, the demand for narrow aisle forklifts is expected to continue increasing as more companies look at automation and electric material handling equipment to reach Europe's sustainability goals by adding to their storage capacity.

Based on the fuel type, the forklift market is segmented into electric, diesel, gasoline, LPG/CNG. In 2025, electric held a major market share of 53%, generating revenue of USD 10.5 billion.

• The electric forklift market is leading the market through Europe’s commitment to increase the efficiency, cleanliness, and safety of industrial processes. The stringent emissions regulations that exist throughout Europe are forcing many companies to switch to non-combustion alternatives. As such, electric forklifts are now the preferred option for enterprises to meet their emission requirements.
• Electric forklifts are a better option for use in enclosed buildings since there is no exhaust produced when using an electric lift truck, thereby making it more comfortable for employees to work. Electric lift trucks also operate at much lower decibel levels than an internal combustion forklift does, requiring far less maintenance and utilizing far less energy, which makes them more appealing to warehouse and manufacturing operations looking to reduce their long-term operating expenses.
• With the increase in automation in today's world, electric forklifts represent the fastest-growing segment of the current material handling industry. As many logistics and e-commerce operations continue to grow throughout Europe, those enterprises demand that they have equipment that can seamlessly integrate with their digital systems, telematics, and safety automation, which electric forklifts currently do.
• The ongoing evolution of warehouses and the move toward extremely efficient layouts allows electric powered lift trucks to integrate with existing and future automated technologies. As regional economic growth continues due to the legislation and funding of sustainability initiatives, electric fleets will be introduced at an accelerated pace over time; the combined factors will make electric lift trucks the leading.

Based on the distribution channel, the forklift market is segmented into direct and indirect sales. In 2025, direct sales held a major market share of 64.7% and will continue to grow during the forecast period from 2026 to 2035.

• In Europe, the way forklift trucks are sold has undergone a dramatic change since more fleet customers prefer a direct relationship with manufacturers as part of their overall supply chain strategy over traditional wholesaler/dealer networks to achieve customized equipment, faster support and improved service agreements for the long term.
• Europe already has established market structures where the largest fleet buyers will be purchasing directly from manufacturers and have access to dealer networks that are currently supporting their fleets. As a result, there will be an opportunity to simplify and optimize one-on-one communications with customers, customized equipment packages for individual fleets, and more efficient procurement processes for fleets.
• With the recent transition towards advanced technologies such as electric forklifts, automated fleet systems, and integrated digital platforms has created opportunities for enhanced functions of the direct selling channel, as fleet buyers require more direct contact with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for the successful configuration of technology stacks, compatible software systems, and on-going service after sale. Manufacturers have reacted to these changes by increasing their direct sales presence to manage their customer relationships more effectively; provide training to fleet owners and operators; perform digital integration tasks; and provide continued support throughout a fleet's modernization program.
• Digital transformation of distribution channels will continue to evolve how OEMs operate by introducing hybrid models of selling that utilize both digital and direct sales teams, enabling fleet customers to receive timely access to technical support and parts, schedule maintenance, and receive remote assistance from OEMs, while providing a foundation upon which the direct sales channel will remain a strong and viable presence in the evolving landscape of material handling within Europe.

Europe Forklift Market

• Germany dominates the European forklift market because it has the region’s most advanced industrial base, a dense network of manufacturing facilities, and a highly developed logistics infrastructure. These factors create a consistently high and stable demand for forklifts across sectors such as automotive, machinery, warehousing, and construction. Germany holds the largest share in the region, supported by strong industrial activity and extensive investments in modern logistics systems that rely heavily on efficient material‑handling equipment.
• Spain and the Nordic countries continue to grow rapidly due to rising warehouse expansion, increasing e‑commerce penetration, and accelerated logistics modernization. Spain benefits from the expansion of logistics hubs around ports, airports, and major transport corridors, along with the country’s fast‑growing warehouse footprint driven by surging online shopping and retail activity.
• The Nordics, meanwhile, are growing quickly because their economies prioritize technological advancement, electrification, sustainability, and high‑efficiency warehouse automation. These regions also benefit from strong regulatory support for environmentally friendly equipment and advanced digital logistics, which fuels rapid adoption of modern forklift fleets.

Europe Forklift Market Share

KION Group is leading with 12% market share. KION Group, Jungheinrich, Toyota Material Handling, Crown Equipment, and Hyster-Yale Materials Handling collectively hold around 40% indicating moderately fragmented market concentration. These prominent players are proactively involved in strategic endeavors, such as mergers & acquisitions, facility expansions & collaborations, to expand their product portfolios, extend their reach to a broad customer base, and strengthen their market position.

• KION Group is a global leader in industrial trucks, warehouse technology, and supply chain solutions, owning brands like Linde and STILL. They hold a significant position in Europe due to their comprehensive product portfolio, strong dealer network, and focus on innovation including automation and digitalization. Their diverse offerings cater to a wide range of customer needs across various industries, ensuring robust market penetration.
• Jungheinrich is a leading global provider of intralogistics solutions, including forklifts, warehousing equipment, and automated systems. Their strong market presence in Europe is built on German engineering quality, extensive direct sales and service networks, and continuous innovation in energy efficiency and ergonomics. They offer tailored solutions for efficient material flow, cementing their position as a key player.
• Toyota Material Handling, part of Toyota Industries Corporation, offers a wide range of forklifts, warehouse equipment, and automation solutions. Their significant position in Europe stems from their renowned reliability, strong emphasis on safety and quality, and extensive dealer network across the continent. Leveraging Toyota's manufacturing excellence, they provide robust and dependable solutions to diverse European industrial sectors.

Europe Forklift Market Companies

Major players operating in the Europe forklift industry are:

• Clark Material Handling
• Combilift
• Crown Equipment
• Doosan Bobcat
• Hangcha Group
• HELI (Anhui Heli)
• Hyster-Yale
• Jungheinrich
• KION Group
• Komatsu
• Konecranes
• Manitou Group
• Mitsubishi Logisnext
• Palfinger
• Toyota Material Handling

Crown Equipment is one of the world's largest manufacturers of electric lift trucks, offering a broad portfolio of forklifts, automation systems, and fleet management technology. Their strong presence in Europe is characterized by their vertical integration, allowing tight control over quality and innovation, and a reputation for durable, operator-friendly, and technologically advanced products. This secures their standing in demanding warehouse environments.

Hyster-Yale designs, engineers, manufactures, sells, and services a comprehensive line of lift trucks and aftermarket parts under the Hyster and Yale brands. Their significant European footprint is supported by a wide product range, catering to various capacities and applications, and a strong network of independent dealers. They focus on delivering robust, productive, and cost-effective solutions for challenging operational demands across the region.

Europe Forklift Industry News

• In March 2026, Toyota Material Handling Europe launched the Traigo80 heavy-duty electric counterbalance forklift, new Tracto tow tractors, and an automated stacker at LogiMAT. This helps the company strengthen its position in electrification and warehouse automation while addressing sustainability demands across European markets.
• In January 2026, the EU Commission approved Japan Industrial Partners' acquisition of sole control of Mitsubishi Logisnext under the EU Merger Regulation. This enables JIP to consolidate ownership of the forklift manufacturer and pursue operational synergies in the European logistics equipment market.
• In May 2025, KION Group opened a €90 million highly automated spare parts distribution center in Kahl am Main, Germany, with 110,000 storage locations. This improves spare parts supply speed and reliability for Germany and Central European markets while enhancing service quality and supply chain resilience.
• In March 2025, PALFINGER premiered its middle-seat truck-mounted forklift at bauma 2025, featuring 360° visibility and electric drive options for EMEA markets. This positions PALFINGER as the sole provider offering truck-mounted forklifts across all categories while addressing electrification and operator safety trends.
• In March 2025, Clark Europe launched the Crossover electric forklift series at LogiMAT 2025, designed to replace combustion engines with lithium-ion batteries for indoor-outdoor applications. This helps the company capture the transition from diesel to electric forklifts in demanding European applications requiring robust outdoor performance.

The Europe forklift market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Billion) and volume (Thousand Units) from 2022 to 2035, for the following segments:

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Market, By Product Type

• Counterbalance forklifts
• Narrow aisle forklifts
• Hand trucks & walkie forklifts
• Rough terrain forklifts
• Others

Market, Fuel Type

• Electric
• Diesel
• Gasoline
• LPG/CNG

Market, By Load Capacity

• Small (Up to 11,000 lbs (≤5.5 tons)
• Medium (11,001-36,000 lbs (5.5-18 tons))
• Large (Above 36,000 lbs (>18 tons))

Market, By End-Use

• Logistics & warehousing
• Retail & e-commerce
• Manufacturing & industrial
• Food & beverages
• Chemical & pharmaceutical
• Construction & mining
• Others

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Direct sales
• Indirect sales

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• Germany
• UK
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Russia
• Nordics