Trends and challenges in the internal transportation market

The internal transport market is constantly changing. Fortunately, Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks knows how to deal with it. Service Director Dennis Visser explains how their services distinguish themselves from the competition: "Nowadays, everyone offers high-quality products. We aim to distinguish ourselves through first-class service and service, with which we want to make a difference for both the customer and the labor market."

Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks, part of Mitsubishi Logisnext Europe, has extensive knowledge of internal transport solutions. Not only do they supply forklifts and warehouse trucks, but they also think along about complete warehouse equipment and offer warehouse consultancy. Whereas the transport company previously carried different brands, it is now an integral part of Mitsubishi Logisnext Europe. As a result, the entire product range is in the recognizable Mitsubishi green.

"That offers huge advantages," Visser says. "Mitsubishi is a strong and well-known brand name, and you really notice that we are now part of a major global player. Mitsubishi is a wealthy organization with a strong focus on research and development. Developments follow each other at lightning speed, and we benefit from that."

Logisnext Benelux's customer base is very diverse. "We serve both large distribution centers and small companies. At Schiphol Airport, for example, we have our own workshop where a permanent team works every day. But at some customers we only come once a year for maintenance and inspection. This makes the work very dynamic for our mechanics. They are active everywhere, and that is precisely the nice thing about our sector." 

Customer Service as a Unique Selling Point

Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks cherishes all of its customers, large and small. "What sets us apart is our service," Visser says. "We strive to build strong relationships with all of our customers. This starts with listening carefully to their needs and then proactively supporting, thinking along with and advising them. Our mechanics are always quickly on site to perform repairs and other work, so customers can use their fleets worry-free."

This commitment to good service is confirmed by customer satisfaction surveys Visser commissions every two years. "Our mechanics are particularly appreciated, and I'm very proud of that. I work hard to keep it that way."

Visser is also proud of the company culture. "We are a no-nonsense company, both for customers and employees. This is reflected not only in the high customer satisfaction, but also in the long tenures. People love working with us, and I think that's wonderful to see."

Challenges in finding good staff

Finding qualified personnel remains a major challenge, especially in the internal transport industry. "It is becoming increasingly difficult to find well-trained technical personnel," Visser explains. "Therefore, we are continuously exploring new opportunities to still attract the right people in this rapidly changing market. For example, we focus heavily on training employees internally who may not yet have the right technical background. This means that our experienced mechanics guide and coach new employees. And we do that with quite a lot of success. It's great to see that even in this changing market we can respond well to challenges."

30 years of experience in automation

One notable trend Visser observes is the increasing demand for automation, especially through the deployment of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs). "Automation is moving at lightning speed in this market. Fortunately, we have almost 30 years of experience in this field. In recent years, however, demand has increased tremendously. More and more customers want their warehouse processes to work autonomously. Whereas this need used to be driven primarily by efficiency, nowadays it's more about safety and labor shortages. A business case for this can be calculated relatively quickly."

In addition, customers are becoming increasingly demanding, often forced by their own clients and macroeconomic trends. "They want contact with only one party that takes care of them completely. Some customers prefer leasing to buying, and we also offer the option of renting trucks for short periods. We respond well to this with our extensive service department."

Visser sees a bright future. "As part of Mitsubishi Logisnext Europe, we can grow even further. Our brand awareness has increased tremendously, not only among customers, but also in the labor market. This will allow us to continue to expand our market share and become an even more professional and bigger player than we already are."