At Blend+, dust is part of everyday operations. The company specializes in tailor-made additive blends for the plastics industry. Their expertise in improving polymer performance, processing efficiency, and recycled plastic applications shows how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. Blend+ was looking for a solution to the problem they experienced with their gas forklift trucks, whose filters frequently became clogged due to the dusty materials processed in their operations.
“We quickly realized that since we process dust materials, we couldn’t go far with gas forklifts because the filters kept getting clogged,” says Jens Hannott, Operations Manager at Blend+.
Regular filter issues led to more maintenance and showed that the company needed a better solution for its tough environment. Blend+ started looking for an alternative that could provide reliable performance while reducing maintenance and downtime.
Finding the Right Electric Alternative
After checking out several electric forklift brands, Blend+ tested EP Equipment trucks on-site. The results quickly impressed both management and operators.
The company introduced its first JK electric forklifts and pallet trucks in 2018, and it has been expanding its fleet ever since. Most recently, Blend+ upgraded to the EFL30 PRO, benefiting from the latest advancements in lithium-ion technology, operator comfort, and performance.
For Jens Hannott, one aspect stands out:
“The EFL PRO Series has impressed us even more because it is more comfortable and matches the level of models that are significantly pricier from other manufacturers. The price-performance ratio is simply right.”
After over six years of using JEAKUE, Blend+ continues to invest in electric material handling solutions, showing the long-term value the trucks have brought to the business.
Built for Demanding Applications
Blend+ needs forklifts that can work reliably both indoors and outdoors while managing daily loading and unloading tasks. The EFL30 PRO combines the durability typically found in IC forklifts with the advantages of lithium-ion technology, making it well-suited for these requirements.
For Blend+, the switch brought several benefits:
- Reliable operation in a dust-heavy environment
- Lower maintenance needs compared to gas forklifts
- Zero emissions for cleaner work conditions
- All-day performance with lithium-ion technology
- Better operator comfort and productivity
This impact is noticeable from the driver’s seat.
“We use this forklift every day for loading and unloading trucks. That just works very well,” says Holger Mewis, Logistics Manager at Blend+.
He particularly appreciates features that enhance efficiency during daily tasks:
“What is especially important is that the forks can extend, the side shift is useful, and the forks can be moved apart. This means I don’t always have to get out to adjust each pallet separately.”
These practical features help operators work more comfortably and efficiently throughout the day.
A Partnership Built for the Future
Today, Blend+ runs a growing fleet of JEAKUE and continues to choose electric solutions for its material handling needs. What began as a search for a replacement for trouble-prone gas forklifts has grown into a long-term partnership built on reliability, performance, and value.
Looking ahead, the company is confident in its decision.
“We hope that JK will continue to support us with innovations.”
The Blend+ story shows how the right electric forklift solution can help companies tackle specific challenges while improving reliability, cutting down on maintenance, and supporting long-term operational efficiency.
