Market position

The KION Group is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial trucks. Measured in terms of units sold, it consolidated its position as the number one in Europe and the number two worldwide in the year under review. Based on the sales figures for 2013, the KION Group’s market share was 14.1 per cent worldwide and 35.3 per cent in western Europe. The KION Group is ranked third in China behind two domestic manufacturers, making it the largest foreign producer. It is one of the leading manufacturers in Brazil – the largest individual market in South America – and is the market leader for electric forklift trucks and warehouse trucks. The Company is also among the leading providers in eastern Europe and India.

The product portfolio includes counterbalance trucks powered by an internal combustion engine or electric drive, warehouse technology (ride-on and hand-operated industrial trucks) and towing vehicles for industrial applications. It covers all load capacities, from 1 tonne to 18.0 tonnes.

Revenue from the high-margin service business stabilises consolidated revenue and reduces dependency on market cycles. The KION Group makes use of its own sales and service network and, in some countries, draws on the services of external dealers.

The industrial trucks are manufactured in strategically favourable locations within the global network. Owing to the particular requirements of its business, the KION Group manufactures major components itself – notably lift masts, axles, counterweights and safety equipment – in order to ensure security of supply and the availability of spare parts for critical components. Other components – such as electronic components, rechargeable batteries, engine components and industrial tyres – are purchased through the KION Group’s global procurement organisation. Long-term supply agreements for hydraulic components have also been signed with Weichai Power and its controlling interest Linde Hydraulics GmbH & Co. KG (referred to below as Linde Hydraulics), in which the KION Group holds a 30.0 per cent stake as a strategic investment. The KION Group operates a total of 14 production facilities in eight countries. >> Table 011