Bunnings, Australia’s leading home improvement and outdoor living retailer, operates one of the country’s largest forklift fleets. The company does not manufacture forklifts but relies on a long‑standing partnership with Combilift, an Irish material‑handling manufacturer, to equip its warehouses and distribution centres with specialised multidirectional and electric forklifts.
The Combilift Partnership – Two Decades of Collaboration
Bunnings was one of the first Australian businesses to adopt Combilift’s multidirectional technology, purchasing one of the first ten units ever imported into the country. Today, the retailer operates a substantial national fleet, and its operational requirements have directly influenced Combilift’s product development.
In 2011, Bunnings’ feedback became the catalyst for Combilift to develop the Combi‑WR pedestrian‑operated Walkie Reach – a machine designed to lift long or awkward loads more safely in tight retail environments.
The Milestone – 100,001st Forklift Delivered to Bunnings
In December 2025, Combilift celebrated the production of its 100,000th forklift at its manufacturing facility in Monaghan, Ireland. Australia played a symbolic role in the milestone, with Bunnings taking delivery of the 100,001st unit – a CBE3000 electric multidirectional forklift – at its Mentone, Victoria warehouse.
The handover was made in person by Combilift CEO and Co‑Founder Martin McVicar, Australia Country Manager Chris Littlewood, and long‑standing Australian partner Adaptalift.
The CBE3000 Electric Multidirectional Forklift
The CBE3000 delivered to Bunnings reflects a broader industry shift toward electric fleets, driven by:
Lower emissions and reduced operating costs
Improved indoor air quality and lower noise levels
Reduced maintenance requirements
Electric multidirectional forklifts can create up to 50 per cent more storage space through narrow‑aisle design and side loading, while offering improved load stability for long or bulky goods and reducing collision risk.
Bunnings’ Role in Combilift’s Growth
Australia is now Combilift’s fifth‑largest global market, with more than 6,000 units operating nationwide. Electric and multidirectional models have recorded double‑digit growth, driven by space constraints, emissions targets, and safety priorities across manufacturing, agriculture, warehousing, and retail.
Darren Dyer, Head of Procurement and Supply at Bunnings, said: “Combilift has been a trusted partner for over 20 years, helping us improve safety, efficiency and sustainability through our supply chain. From our early 4‑Way reach truck investments, through to the Combi‑WR and now our shift to electric fleets, their innovations meet the unique needs of Australian retail.”
Forklift Operations at Bunnings
Bunnings employs forklift operators across its store network and distribution centres. Roles involve moving products throughout stores, loading and unloading, inventory management, and supporting customer service. Operators are required to hold a current valid forklift licence.
Toy Forklift – Collectable Merchandise
In addition to its industrial fleet, Bunnings offers a die‑cast toy forklift with a pull‑back mechanism as part of its memorabilia range for children and collectors.
Conclusion
Bunnings does not manufacture forklifts but operates one of Australia’s largest fleets through its exclusive, two‑decade‑long partnership with Combilift. The retailer’s operational feedback has shaped Combilift’s product development, most notably the Combi‑WR Walkie Reach. The delivery of the 100,001st CBE3000 electric multidirectional forklift in 2025 marks a milestone in this collaboration and underscores Bunnings’ commitment to smarter, safer, and more sustainable material handling.