Prepare your forklifts for the busiest Christmas in a decade 

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Leading materials handling specialist, Briggs Equipment UK, is helping businesses gear up for what could be the best Christmas for retailers since the recession began nearly a decade ago.

Statistics from market research specialist, Verdict, predict a 2.2 per cent rise in spending over the seasonal period, when compared to last year, due to the improvement of the UK economy, the recovery of the housing market and Payment Protection Insurance payouts.

With such a busy time ahead, Briggs Equipment is reminding businesses of the importance of preparing both people and equipment for seasonal rush, as planning ahead can save thousands of pounds.

Allan Parsons, Short-Term Rental Manager for Briggs Equipment, explained:"Consumers are predicted to spend an extra £1.95 billion this Christmas and the spending rush could present a supply chain headache for retailers and wholesalers as they try to keep up with demand.

"Warehouse equipment and electric counterbalance trucks are heavily in demand and booking early is critical at this time of year.

"By investing and preparing for the busy season, businesses can safeguard themselves against these risks and unexpected costs.

Allan offers five top tips for ensuring businesses are prepared for Christmas:

1. Ensure you have the right equipment for the busy period- Make sure you have the right materials handling equipment not only to meet demand but to be able to perform efficiently outdoors in winter weather. Seek support from your materials handling provider who will be able to advice on the best solution.

2. Safeguard your site- Ensure you have snow ploughs to remove snow and ice from areas where equipment will be working and any other necessary attachments or accessories to help reduce downtime and minimise accidents.

3. Ensure your staff are prepared- Increased pressure can cause operators to rush which increases the risk of accidents and damage. Ensure they are fully trained on the latest health and safety regulations.

4. Ensure temporary staff are prepared- If you're hiring temporary staff, ensure they are fully aware of your health and safety procedures and they have had the necessary driver training.

5. Work closely with your materials handling provider- You may need to reconsider your service and maintenance contracts to safeguard your business against breakdowns and repairs. It will be imperative to keep your machines working efficiently and maintain high productivity levels.

Allan continued: "It is easy to lose sight in the preparation, particularly as businesses get busier. However, taking the time to plan ahead will reap benefits in the long run."

Briggs Equipment has recently launched its Winter Catalogue providing special offers on all the latest parts and accessories. These can also be found online at the Briggs Storewww.briggsstore.co.uk. If you would like help preparing for Christmas or would like more information, contact Briggs Equipment on03301 23 98 14.

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Editor's Notes

Briggs Equipment UK

Briggs Equipment UK Ltd is a leading materials handling service provider and sole distributor of Yale Europe Materials Handling in Great Britain and exclusive Hyster products in the United Kingdom.  Providing a wide range of equipment for a broad customer base, Briggs provides innovative, tailored and cost effective solutions on a nationwide basis. With its headquarters and national support centre in Cannock, Briggs people assist and advise in the delivery of long term solutions that enable customers to develop more efficient and results driven businesses.

View all of Briggs Equipment's latest news on theBriggs online media centre.

Media contact:

Tiffany Clowes

CHANGEWORKS Communications
t:  + 44 (0) 1785 247588
e: tclowes@changeworkscom.co.uk

Company Contact:

Scott Bullock
Briggs Equipment
Orbital Way
Cannock
WS11 8XW
T: 01543 430 455
W: www.briggsequipment.co.uk
E:scott.bullock@briggsequipment.co.uk