Our History

The Slingsby business began in 1893 when the family firm of Wholesale Bottlers invented labour saving trucks and trolleys to move loads around the factory. Today we’re one of the UK's market leaders in the supply of industrial and commercial equipment.

We manufacture and distribute over 45,000 high-quality products, covering everything you need for the workplace: from handling and lifting products, to premises equipment and office supplies. We also offer a bespoke product service to meet unique customer specifications.

We’re committed to providing quality and choice. That’s why we offer an extensive product range, outstanding customer service, and FREE next-day delivery on all stocked lines.* Our price match challenge and 12-month warranty give you complete peace of mind, along with the option of an instant credit account to allow easier purchasing and invoicing.

1893

Our founder Harry Crowther Slingsby obtained his first orders for trucks.

1894

H.C Slingsby obtains his first patent for the Slingsby Sliding Wheel Truck.

1898

The world's first truck shop is opened at 30 Grays Inn Road, London.

1901

The largest truck establishment in the world is opened at Old Street, London. At this time, Slingsby also became the first international truck builder.

1932

Slingsby become the first company in the world to export trucks by air. In the photograph, you can see the trucks being dismantled for transport.

1943

After working for over 50 years in the business, founder H.C Slingsby dies on 15th June 1943.

1961

HC Slingsby PLC is floated on the Stock Exchange and the manufacture of the Hydraulic Pallet Trucks commences in the UK.

1991

A new rotational moulding plant commences operation.

2002

The Slingsby catalogue count surpasses 1,000 pages worth of products, further supplying the needs of organisations.

2006

Slingsby purchases a new premises: A state-of-the-art, 5-acre advanced warehousing and distribution facility to meet the growing demand for our products.