European lifting equipment market forecast to grow 5% through 2026

The European lifting equipment market is forecast to grow at approximately 5% annually through 2026, according to industry analysis from a leading materials handling research group. The growth is being driven by a combination of rising automation investment in manufacturing and logistics, large-scale infrastructure and energy projects, and evolving safety requirements introduced under the EU Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230.

Electric chain hoists are identified as one of the fastest-growing segments within the broader lifting equipment category, with demand rising particularly strongly in automotive manufacturing, renewable energy installation and e-commerce fulfilment. The integration of digital monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities — such as load cycle counters, motor temperature sensors and CAN-bus data logging — is accelerating adoption among larger fleet operators looking to reduce unplanned downtime.

For manufacturers like VERLINDE, the market tailwinds present both an opportunity and a challenge. Meeting growing demand while maintaining product quality, short lead times and competitive pricing requires continuous investment in manufacturing capacity and supply chain resilience. VERLINDE's recent product investments — including the Eurochain VX and VX VARIO platforms — position it well to capture this demand across its international distribution network.