Q&A with… Klaus Pirpamer, Managing Director, Baumann Sideloaders

Q The past year has seen major changes at Baumann. What’s driving this new phase of development?

A Our guiding principle has always been to think long term. Over the past few years, we have consolidated all manufacturing and service operations on one site, expanded production space, and brought key processes such as mast manufacturing back in-house. The goal is simple: more control, greater resilience, and even higher product integrity. By strengthening our own capability, we can manage supply, quality, and delivery much more effectively.

Q Why was bringing mast production in-house such a priority?

A The mast is the heart of a sideloader. Unlike a forklift mast, it must handle not just vertical but also heavy lateral forces. That demands extraordinary precision in structure, welds, and tolerances.

Producing them ourselves means we can monitor every stage, optimise designs faster, and tailor solutions to customer needs. It is not about cutting suppliers out; it is about deepening our expertise and keeping quality where it belongs: in our own hands.

Q How does this move fit into Baumann’s wider manufacturing strategy?

A We have made significant investments in people and technology, including robotic welding, CNC machining, automated storage, and pre-assembly lines. Our new facility next to the main factory now houses Baumann Services and cabin production. These steps help us reduce lead times, improve throughput, and create opportunities for our teams to develop new skills.

Q What does this mean for your customers?

A It means reliability, consistency, and better communication. Many of our customers have worked with us for decades. They trust that when they buy a Baumann sideloader, every part is built to last and backed by a team that understands their application. When a customer recently challenged us with an extreme, long-load operation, we were able to design a stronger, more durable mast almost immediately because we had that capability in-house.

Q Innovation is clearly important to Baumann. Where do you see the biggest advances?

A Electrification and safety. Our new EXL electric sideloader, which was nominated in the UKMHA Awards for Innovation, combines compact design with a powerful 120-volt system, swappable batteries, and a 21 kW (63 A) fast charger. It is built around the operator, with an ergonomic cabin and excellent visibility. Safety is also a major focus.

Our SafeLoad Assistance Active+ system proactively monitors load weight, mast height, and outreach, intervening automatically to prevent unsafe conditions.

Q You often speak about “building strength from within.” What does that mean for Baumann’s culture?

A It is about people as much as products. We are investing in developing the next generation of specialists, young engineers, technicians, and team leaders who can grow with us. The knowledge that our workforce builds every day is just as valuable as any machine we produce.

Q Looking ahead, what can the industry expect from Baumann?

A More of the same values that have carried us this far: precision, patience, and partnership, expressed through modern technology. We will continue refining electric systems, enhancing safety intelligence, and expanding globally, especially in markets such as Germany, the UK, and Asia-Pacific.

Our future is built the same way our machines are built: carefully, consistently, and always with our customers at the centre.

BAUMANN SIDELOADERS

Aldwarke Business Park, 49 Waddington Way, Rotherham, S65 3SH

Tel: 01709 242506

Web: www.baumann-sideloaders.com

Read the full Logistics Matters Annual Guide here.