Martin McVicar is the CEO and Co-founder of Combilift Ltd., a manufacturer of materials handling solutions, with its global HQ based in Co. Monaghan, Ireland. Starting with just a handful of employees in 1998 when Martin established Combilift with Technical Director Robert Moffett, he now heads up a workforce of around 700 and the company exports to more than 85 countries.
Combilift’s unparalleled growth and success in the handling sector is down to the drive, energy and innovation that underpins the company’s – and Martin’s philosophy. Continual investment of 7% of turnover in research and development has enabled Combilift to become the fastest growing global forklift manufacturer, and to always be one step ahead when it comes to designing and supplying safer, space saving, productive and more cost-effective ways to lift and store long and awkward products, palletised loads, containers and oversized goods.
Martin’s career in engineering began when he was just a teenager and his skill and insight over the years in identifying exactly what customers need from handling equipment has resulted in the customised approach to the company’s range of products, over 65,000 of which are now in operation. In spite of the recent constraints of the pandemic, Martin has succeeded in spearheading the company to further growth, with 2021 being the best ever year for sales and orders on record.