Combi-LC Blade
Combilift, the world's largest manufacturer of multi-directional forklifts, has received a double award at this year's UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024: with the «Combi-LC Blade» as «Design of the Year» and with CEO Martin McVicar at the helm, the coveted «Industry Leader Award».
The "Design Team of the Year" award was presented to Combilift's Heavy Equipment Team for their exceptional work on the groundbreaking 12-wheel "Combi-LC Blade," which also garnered significant media attention. This state-of-the-art transporter was specifically designed for handling rotor blades from offshore wind turbines, which can reach lengths of up to 115 meters and weigh up to 70 tons. The design, it is said, significantly improves the ability to transport these large, uneven loads safely and efficiently from production sites to storage and deployment locations.
Leader of the Year: CEO M.Vicar. Photos: Combilift
This innovative solution meets the growing demands of the renewable energy sector, where the need for efficient logistics systems is increasing as the size and dimensions of offshore wind turbines continue to grow. Prior to the development of the Combi-LC Blade, existing transport methods were often inadequate and presented logistical challenges. Combilift's Heavy Equipment Design team drew upon its extensive experience in developing complex transport systems, having previously developed the renowned Combi-SC Straddle Carrier and Combi-MG Mobile Gantry product lines.
Award as industry leader
The Combi-LC Blade has now been successfully deployed at production sites around the world, proving its effectiveness and transforming how wind turbine rotor blades are handled and transported. The award, sponsored by the science magazine Eureka, not only recognizes the team's exceptional skills, collaboration, and dedication in addressing one of the most pressing challenges in renewable energy logistics, but also underscores the company's commitment to delivering innovative, customer-centric solutions.
Additionally, co-founder and Combilift CEO Martin McVicar received the prestigious Industry Leader Award, sponsored by air freight ground handling provider Menzies. This award acknowledges McVicar's visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation, which have been instrumental in transforming Combilift from a small Irish manufacturer into a global leader in the material handling sector.
The Heavy Equipment Team
Since co-founding the company, the jury stated, McVicar has spearheaded its rapid growth, transforming it into one of Ireland's largest exporters with projected sales of €500 million this year. His leadership approach combines technical expertise with a hands-on, inclusive management style. Known for his technical prowess, McVicar previously served as Chief Engineer at Moffett Engineering, a position he held from the age of 19.
Under his leadership, Combilift has become synonymous with innovative problem-solving in material handling, delivering bespoke solutions to complex logistical challenges far beyond Europe, reaching as far as the USA and Australia. The jury highlighted McVicar's ability to steer the company through a range of external challenges, from the impact of the pandemic to global supply chain disruptions, while maintaining a forward-looking approach that has implemented growth and transformation opportunities.
Firmly rooted in local life.
Beyond its business success, McVicar is deeply committed to fostering a strong corporate culture. Combilift's headquarters serves not only as a production center but also as an ambassador for social responsibility. The company regularly hosts apprenticeship programs, charity events, family days, and educational visits, thus strengthening its role within the local community. Combilift also sponsors the local Ladies GAA (Ladies Gaelic Football) team, demonstrating McVicar's commitment to supporting gender equality in sports.
www.combilift.com
www.engineeringmanufacturingawards.com
