Yale was founded in 1844 when Linus Yale Jr. of Connecticut , USA , invented the pin-tumbler cylinder lock and gave his name to a range of engineered products synonymous with quality and durability. In 1868 Linus Yale was introduced to Henry R. Towne and together they formed the Yale Lock Manufacturing Company, (later to become Yale and Towne Manufacturing Co.), before broadening their scope from locks to materials handling in 1875.
In 1920 Yale and Towne launched a new battery powered low lift platform truck quickly followed by a range of both load and high lift platform trucks, tow tractors and one of the first lifting trucks with tilting forks. Seven years later, Yale and Towne acquired Boge and Kasten, Solingen manufacturers of BKS lift trucks in Germany . The brand continued to be manufactured by Yale and Towne until 1977.
Innovation
Yale expanded throughout the 1930's and 1940's through the acquisition of competitors, whilst developing innovations such as power steering, centre-control trucks and caster steering. The division also became the first to employ high heat-resistant Class H silicon insulation in electric motors, still considered the industry's finest today.
In 1950, Yale added gas, LP gas and diesel powered trucks to its range, with production of the first counterbalance trucks following two years later. In 1964, there was further innovation when Yale introduced the first Silicone Controlled Rectifier (SCR) - controlled electric forklift truck.
Global expansion
Having traded in Japan for many years, Yale forged a partnership with Sumitomo Ltd in 1969 to produce Yale lift trucks under license, later to be named the Sumitomo-Yale Co Ltd.
In 1984, there was further expansion when the Yale Materials Handling Corporation was formed following the acquisition of the company by North American Coal Corporation (NACCO).
Continued development and growth of Yale Materials Handling Ltd in the UK was recognised in 1990 with the Queen's Award for Export Achievement being presented to the company. Then in 1992, Yale Europe Materials Handling was formed to market Yale forklift trucks to Europe, Africa and the Middle East . Yale's parent company, NACCO Materials Handling Group became the largest manufacturer of lift trucks in 1994, shipping over 70, 000 units world wide during the year.
1999 saw the results of a $40 million investment programme, which included the LJ/MJ range.
Yale's continuous investment in it's products led to the company becoming one of the major players in the Warehouse equipment market during the early 21st century. Advancements in design, performance and technology have resulted in the introduction of a number of new and enhanced products including the MS Stacker range, featuring the unique family tiller head, the MP Pedestrian Pallet range, the MR reach truck and the jewel in the crown of the Yale Warehouse Range, the new VNA Turret Truck.
The 21st Century
Yale has one of the most comprehensive ranges of electric and engine powered lift trucks. AC technology electric trucks are innovative, versatile and provide unparalleled productivity, while the Veracitor VX engine powered range features leading ergonomic design and innovative styling, with lowest cost of operation, outstanding productivity, market leading serviceability and highly dependable performance.
The Yale Distributor network has expanded to over 350 dealers in over 62 countries as new dealers are attracted by Yale's unique blend of product excellence and customer commitment, qualities with which Yale will continue to lead the way in the materials handling industry.
LANGUAGE
