CROWN OPENED a plant in Roding, Bavaria in 1986, and the site is now a major production facility for the group.

“40 years in Roding means 40 years of continuous progress, from local innovation and modern manufacturing processes to solutions for a global market. This is where Crown delivers quality customers around the world can count on,” said Ken Dufford, vice president Europe at Crown.

One of the key factors behind Crown’s success is the close collaboration between its product development and engineering teams and its customers. In addition, as part of its integrated manufacturing process, Crown produces up to 85% of its forklift components, laying the foundation for precise control over quality, cost and service performance.

In 2014, Crown marked another historic milestone in Roding with the opening of a second production facility that meets all the requirements of modern manufacturing technology. While components continue to be manufactured at the original plant, final assembly takes place in the spacious new assembly hall. At the centre is a test area featuring a 20-metre-high glass tower, where new vehicles undergo comprehensive testing before leaving the plant.

Crown is also committed to investing in its employees. Opened in 2025, the Crown Training and Development Centre (TDC) offers hands-on training in forklift and crane operation, as well as advanced manufacturing techniques. The company also provides professional development programmes to prepare apprentices and new employees for their roles.

This year, Crown recognised 32 employees in Roding for 25 years or more of service.