Combilift, a global innovator in material handling solutions, has achieved dual recognition at this year’s UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024, securing two highly prestigious awards.
Design Team of the Year
The ‘Design Team of the Year’ award was presented to Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Team for their exceptional work on the groundbreaking 12-wheel “Combi-LC Blade.” This cutting-edge machine has been specifically engineered to handle offshore wind turbine blades, reaching up to 115 meters in length and weighing as much as 70 tonnes. The design significantly enhances the ability to transport these large, non-uniform loads safely and efficiently from manufacturing sites to storage and deployment locations.
This innovative solution addresses the growing needs of the renewable energy sector, where the demand for efficient logistics systems is increasing as the size and scale of offshore wind turbines continue to grow. Before the development of the Combi-LC Blade, existing transportation methods were often inadequate and posed logistical challenges. Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Design Team drew upon their extensive experience in engineering complex transport systems, previously creating the renowned Combi-SC Straddle Carrier and Combi-MG Mobile Gantry ranges.
In collaboration with Siemens Gamesa, one of the world’s largest offshore wind turbine technology suppliers, Combilift designed a transport system that offers unparalleled stability and safety when moving these massive turbine blades. The Combi-LC Blade has now been successfully deployed at manufacturing sites across the globe, demonstrating its effectiveness and transforming how wind turbine blades are handled and transported. Combilift is renowned for its customer-centric approach and ability to develop customized material handling solutions tailored to meet customers’ needs. This award, sponsored by *Eureka Magazine*, recognizes the team’s exceptional skill, collaboration, and dedication to solving one of the most pressing challenges in renewable energy logistics but also highlights the company’s commitment to providing innovative customer-led solutions.
Industry Leader Award
In addition to this remarkable team achievement, Combilift’s co-founder and CEO, Martin McVicar, received the coveted ‘Industry Leader Award’, sponsored by *Menzies*. This accolade honors McVicar’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation, which have played a pivotal role in transforming Combilift from a small Irish manufacturer into a global leader in the material handling sector.
Martin McVicar’s leadership has been instrumental in Combilift’s success. Since co-founding the company, McVicar has overseen its rapid growth, transforming it into one of Ireland’s top exporters, with a projected turnover of €500 million this year. His approach to leadership combines technical expertise with a hands-on, inclusive management style. Known for his engineering prowess, McVicar has a background as Chief Engineer at Moffett Engineering, a role he held at 19.
Under his guidance, Combilift has become synonymous with innovative problem-solving in material handling, consistently delivering tailored solutions for complex logistical challenges. The judges highlighted McVicar’s ability to navigate the company through a range of external challenges, from the impacts of the pandemic to global supply chain disruptions, while maintaining a forward-thinking approach that identifies opportunities for growth and transformation.
Beyond business success, McVicar is deeply committed to fostering a strong corporate culture. Combilift’s headquarters, the largest factory under one roof in Ireland, serves as a manufacturing hub and an ambassador for corporate social responsibility. The company regularly hosts apprenticeship schemes, charity events, family days, and educational visits, further solidifying its role within the local community. Combilift also sponsors the local Ladies GAA team, demonstrating McVicar’s commitment to supporting gender equality in sports.
Combilift’s double win at the UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024 is a testament to its innovative spirit and visionary leadership, reinforcing its position as a global leader in the material handling industry.
