Forklift truck, Heavy duty, Series II by Matbro (Mathew Brothers) of Wallington, Surrey. (ca.1954)

This machine is representative of the type of industrial machinery made by Matbro. Matbro Limited was a manufacturer of industrial handling machinery that was founded in 1949 by the Mathew brothers in Surrey. Matbro was well-known for its forklift trucks, which gained an international reputation as being a reliable machine in difficult and arduous conditions, especially over rough terrain. These forklifts were crucial to Matbro’s growth from a small family-run business to a large company employing 500 people.

This particular forklift had a three-point suspension system with 4-wheel ground contact that increased stability. It could reach 12 to 15 mph with maximum load. The truck featured a Fordson Major power unit, overhead mast tilting mechanism enabling greater control and a split ‘chassis’ design which allowed easy access to the engine and transmission.

The engine and transmission components were standard automotive parts which reduced maintenance costs and ensured rapid replacement through a worldwide spares service.