Tipton-based Narrow Aisle Ltd, which manufactures the Flexi range of articulated fork-lift trucks, is set to expand its factory and significantly ramp up production over the next three years.

The extra capacity is required to meet the growing demand for Flexi trucks from a wide range of industry sectors — both in the UK and world-wide.

Commercial director John Maguire (www.flexi.co.uk) said: “There are several factors driving the strong demand for Flexi products.

"For example, continued growth in the e-commerce-based retail market is leading to further investment in high-density product storage; as Flexis can work efficiently and safely in the narrowest aisles without the need for fixed guidance systems, they are an attractive proposition at sites where space is at a premium.

“In addition, the on-going shortage of modern warehouse facilities is forcing many companies to refurbish and reconfigure their existing building stock, in an effort to maximise the amount of storage space they have available and free up areas for ‘pick and pack’ and product returns processing.

"At the same time, many companies are taking the opportunity to introduce new intralogistics technology and handling techniques to create a more cost-effective operation.”

Narrow Aisle began making warehouse trucks in Great Bridge, Tipton, in the late 1970s.

Its current Victorian-era site was previously used for the production of industrial railway engines and steam-powered narrow boats.

The planned refurbishment work will retain many of the building’s original structural features, while providing a modern factory that will optimise the company’s quality and production processes.

The project will also overhaul the site’s spare parts operation, increasing its capacity to provide same-day dispatch of parts to UK and overseas distributors.