Yale is a brand name for a full range of forklifts and is a part of the NACCO Materials Handling Group (NMHG). Yale forklifts are well-known for their quality and are distributed globally through authorized dealers. With 223 licensed dealers, Yale has over 80 years of experience in developing lifts and forklifts.

History

Yale started as a small company, far from the globally recognized forklift manufacturers it is today. It has evolved and developed over the years. The company's initial product was the pin-tumbler cylinder lock, invented by Linus Yale Jr. in 1844. In 1868, the first factory was established by Linus Yale and Henry Towne in Stamford, Connecticut. It was named Yale Lock Manufacturing Co. Founder Linus Yale retired in the early years of the company's operation, and Mr. Towne took over leadership of the organization. In 1875, Yale introduced the first hand-operated chain hoist after receiving the design from a Western-style block and tackle. In 1883, Yale became a leading manufacturer of hoists in the country, maintaining its position as a top hoist manufacturer by incorporating gears and electric hoists.

In 1920, Yale and Towne expanded their partnership by acquiring CW Hunt Co. Ltd. in Staten Island, just a year before The Hunt Co. Ltd. introduced a new battery-powered forklift. The integration of Hunt Co. Ltd. allowed Yale and Towne the opportunity to invest in their first forklift in 1923. Additionally, they received credit for producing the first electric forklift with lifting and tilting capabilities.

In 1929, the company consolidated trucks designed by Hunt under the Yale brand and introduced a new battery-powered forklift with features for both low and high platforms. This included non-tilting tow tractors, low-lift trucks, and forklifts with clamps. In 1931, the company relocated its headquarters to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, consolidating the production of forklifts and all equipment under one factory.

Merger with Eaton

In 1963, Yale and Towne had the opportunity to merge operations with the international company Eaton Manufacturing Co. Ltd., which operated in the forklift industry. Under the collaborative operations of Eaton, Yale continued to grow rapidly and later changed its name to Eaton Corp.

Cooperation with Sumitomo

In 1971, Yale sold the trucks manufactured in Japan throughout North America and Europe, leading to a joint venture agreement with Sumitomo under the name Sumitomo-Yale Co. Ltd.

Yale Materials Handling

In 1984, Yale Materials Handling Corp. was established, leading to a restructuring of the company. In 1992, Yale Europe Materials Handling was founded to manage the forklifts in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.

NACCO Acquired The Yale Brand.

In 1985, NACCO acquired Yale Materials Handling Corp, becoming the new owner of Yale and transforming it into the world's largest forklift truck manufacturer. They sold over 70,000 forklifts globally in 1994.

Company Today

The Yale brand is globally distributed and marketed as part of the NACCO Materials Handling Group. Currently, NACCO is the largest lift truck manufacturer in the United States and ranks third globally, generating approximately $1.5 billion in revenue annually.