FLTA Awards 2018: Everyone’s a winner

FLTA chief executive Peter Harvey MBE explains: “When we first conceived the Awards, its primary objective was to recognise and reward excellence, in the hopes of encouraging others to follow suit.

“Twenty-five years may have passed, but that aim is just as important now… if not more so. Each year, we are impressed by the high quality of entries and, above all else, the innovative thinking that is driving our industry forward.

“As readers will discover in the next issue, this year is no exception. We’ve had an exceptionally good turn-out for entries. Alongside some interesting and exciting product innovations, we’ve had some great entries for Dealer Member of the Year and Safe Site.”

Winners will be revealed on Saturday 24^th February 2018 at the International Centre in Telford – in front of a crowd of more than 400 of the industry’s leading figures. 

While they say there’s nothing quite like winning an Archie, the event is about much more than winning. According to its organisers, the event is the ideal opportunity for individuals and companies alike to position themselves and, of course, their products, in a crowded marketplace.

Peter explains: “An event of this calibre brings together those committed to driving our industry forward and holds a light up to them.

“Simply being named a Finalist unlocks months of promotion and publicity and, for those taking home a hotly-contested Archie on the night, it lasts much longer.  

“However, it doesn’t stop there. Staging an event of this magnitude is only possible through the participation and support of the industry. That’s why the Awards celebrates all involved: from our Sponsors and Supporters right through to our jury and guests.”

Power of sponsorship

Sponsorship offers a cost-effective way of putting companies at the very heart of the action. 

Peter expands: “The Awards is the pinnacle of achievement for our industry. Associating with it offers the very best kind of brand value.  Our audience is aware enough to appreciate your investment in and commitment to our industry’s broader future.”

The premier way to do this is as a Full Award Sponsor. Doing so sees a company join the ranks of companies including: B & B Attachments, Combilift, Doosan Industrial Vehicle (UK) Ltd, Investec Asset Finance, ECOBAT Battery Technologies, Mentor FLT Training, Toyota Material Handling, Trelleborg Wheel Systems and Yale Europe Materials Handling. 

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Since committing to sponsoring in 2009, Trelleborg Wheel Systems hasn’t looked back, as its Marketing Communications Director James Pick explains. 

“Sponsoring an Archie allows us to give something back to the materials handling industry by encouraging those companies and individuals that are striving to raise the bar by making operations safer, smarter and friendlier for operators and the environment. 

“Without a doubt, the most exciting (and perhaps slightly nerve-racking) aspect of being a Sponsor is – quite literally – taking centre stage on the big night and presenting an Archie to a well-deserving winner. 

“But Sponsoring the Awards is about much more than the event itself. Like winning an Archie, our contribution is celebrated all year long.”

There are opportunities to suit every budget. (Ed: To find out more, call Peter Harvey on 01635 277577 in the first instance.)

Jury duty

Last year, the Fork Lift Truck Association introduced a jury of materials handling experts to select the best new products and services.

This group of 12, which includes HSS editor Simon Duddy, will meet in just a few weeks to decide who will be taking home an Archie on the big night. 

Peter Harvey comments: “This year’s jury is very well-rounded and represents the voices of end users, dealers, ancillary equipment suppliers, trainers, manufacturers and distributors. I expect the deliberations will be insightful…”

The jury includes representatives from the event’s media partner (Western Business Publishing), Gs Fresh, Vitacress Herbs, Eastern Forklifts, NDLT Corby, Acclaim Handling, Trelleborg Wheel Systems, Mentor FLT Training, JCB, Red Diamond Distribution and STILL.

Peter adds: “Serving as a Juror is a great way for individuals to get involved in the Awards and – with their in-depth understanding of fork lift truck operations and experiences – we value their insights.

“And for those involved, serving on the jury and working in close partnership with the Association enhances their profile in the industry.”

Be there

Simply attending the event can open up a world of networking opportunities, according to organisers. 

Peter explains: “If you haven’t attended, then do ask someone who has. You will be hard pushed to find anyone who wasn’t impressed, inspired and – above all – richly entertained by the experience. 

“And, if you are one of the many who attend each year, you will already know that it’s the unmissable night of the industry’s social and business calendar… and that’s all the more reason to make sure you book your place quickly.

“As well as a professionally-staged awards ceremony, the programme features a mix of music, dancing, lavish food and drink, excitement and laughter – all in the company of like-minded people who are lively to say the least.

“Meeting up with old friends and colleagues, making new contacts and getting to know people better is another important part of the evening’s appeal.  

“Whether that leads to new business or, just as valuably, starting or building friendships, you will certainly gain something from this unique networking opportunity.”

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