Q&A with… Stephen Burton, Managing Director, Windsor Materials Handling

Q Stephen, congratulations on being the first ever winner of the UKMHA Industry Leader award. What does it mean to you and to Windsor?

A Thank you. It’s a huge honour, one that really reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone at Windsor rather than me alone. We’ve built something quite special over the years: a genuinely independent business that combines national reach with the personal service of a local provider. Receiving this award from the UKMHA is recognition of that approach, of putting customers first, investing in people, and continuously driving innovation.

Q You’ve spoken before about not taking risks with your supplier. Why is that message so important?

A Because too many businesses learn the hard way. The materials handling sector underpins everything from logistics to retail, so reliability is essential. If your supplier lets you down, it’s not just inconvenient, it can stop your operation entirely. That’s why we say: don’t take risks with your supplier. Work with an established independent like Windsor. Independence means we aren’t tied to a single manufacturer, so our advice is objective, our portfolio broad, and our focus always on what’s right for the customer. With 13 branches, 238 staff and 117 service engineers, we deliver national strength with genuine local support. Customers know they can reach a real person who understands their trucks and their business, not a call, centre queue.

Q The industry is changing fast. How can companies keep up safely and efficiently?

A The biggest challenge is integrating technology without creating new risks. You can’t afford to take chances with your operation or your people. That’s where smart safety systems come in. We’re helping customers fit AI, powered cameras, proximity sensors, and advanced lighting systems to prevent incidents before they happen. These tools give operators 360, degree awareness and automatically flag potential hazards. Combined with robust training and regular servicing, they create a safer, more efficient workplace. We can retrofit most systems to existing fleets, so improving safety doesn’t always mean starting from scratch.

Q How does Windsor maintain such a strong reputation for service and reliability?

A It comes down to consistency and accountability. We’ve been operating since 1977, and many of our customers have stayed with us for decades. We invest heavily in our engineers, who are manufacturer, trained and supported through our in-house teams. Technology also plays a key role, remote diagnostics, digital service records, and customer portals help us keep fleets running at peak performance. But ultimately, it’s about people. Our team genuinely cares about keeping our customers moving, and that passion shows in every interaction.

Q What does the future look like for Windsor and the wider sector?

A Sustainability and data are reshaping everything. We’re leading the transition to lithium-ion power and more energy, efficient equipment, while using analytics to predict maintenance needs and reduce downtime. The goal is simple, to help businesses operate smarter, safer, and greener. Winning the Industry Leader Award reinforces that we’re on the right path, but it’s also a reminder that leadership isn’t about standing still. It’s about continuing to adapt, support customers, and set new standards for our industry.

About Windsor Materials Handling

Windsor Materials Handling is the UK’s leading independent MHE provider, offering sales, hire, finance, maintenance, and safety solutions across 13 branches nationwide

WINDSOR MATERIALS HANDLING

8 Beacon Way, Hull, HU3 4AE

Tel: 01482 329996

Web: windsor-mh.co.uk

Read the full Logistics Matters Annual Guide here.