Matbro

Matbro TS270 with flat 8 bale grab

Matbro was a British company known for its pioneering development and manufacture of rough terrain handling equipment. Founded in the early 20th century, Matbro's name became synonymous with durable and reliable telescopic handlers, forklifts, and loaders that were widely used in agriculture, construction, and industry. The company's innovative approach to design and engineering led to the creation of machines that significantly improved productivity and safety in various working environments.

History

The origins of Matbro can be traced back to a small engineering workshop in England, where the company initially focused on producing agricultural equipment. Over the years, Matbro expanded its product range to include more specialized machinery, eventually becoming a leader in the rough terrain handling market. The introduction of the telescopic handler in the 1970s was a major milestone for Matbro, setting new standards for versatility and efficiency in material handling.

Products

Matbro's product line was diverse, covering several key areas of material handling:

• Telescopic Handlers: Matbro was at the forefront of developing telescopic handlers, which became one of their most popular and enduring products. These machines were valued for their ability to reach higher and further than traditional forklifts, making them indispensable in many sectors.
• Articulated Loaders: The company also produced a range of articulated loaders suitable for a variety of tasks, from farming to construction. Their compact size and maneuverability made them a favorite among operators.
• Forklifts: Matbro developed both rough terrain and industrial forklifts, designed to operate in challenging environments where standard forklifts could not.
• Attachments: A wide range of attachments was available for Matbro machines, enhancing their versatility and application across different industries.

Innovation and Legacy

Matbro's commitment to innovation was evident in their continuous improvement of machinery design and functionality. The company was among the first to integrate computer-aided design (CAD) into their development process, leading to more sophisticated and reliable machines. Matbro's legacy in the field of material handling is marked by its contributions to enhancing operational efficiency and safety standards.

Acquisition and Brand Discontinuation

In the late 1990s, Matbro's business faced challenges, leading to its acquisition by Terex, a global manufacturer of heavy equipment. Following the acquisition, the Matbro brand was eventually phased out, and its product lines were integrated into the Terex portfolio. Despite this, the Matbro name remains respected in the industry, with many of its machines still in use today.

See Also

• Telescopic handler
• Loader (equipment)
• Forklift
• Agricultural machinery
• Construction equipment