Big Joe Forklifts, a North American manufacturer of lithium-ion forklifts, warehouse equipment and autonomous material handling systems, is celebrating its 75th anniversary, marking more than seven decades of delivering equipment designed to improve efficiency, safety and productivity across warehouses and distribution operations.
Established in 1951 by the Kiefus and Levine families in Chicago, the company has evolved from a regional manufacturer of warehouse equipment into a recognized supplier of electric and autonomous material handling solutions. Over the years, Big Joe has played an important role in the industry’s transition from internal combustion-powered equipment to battery-powered and automated technologies.
Reflecting on the milestone, Dan Rosskamm, President and Chief Executive Officer of Big Joe Forklifts, said, “Reaching 75 years is an incredible milestone, but what excites us most is the opportunity ahead. Our history has been defined by challenging conventions and finding better ways to solve customer problems. As warehouses and supply chains continue to evolve, Big Joe is uniquely positioned to lead the electrification movement, providing purpose-built, integrated lithium solutions as a direct replacement for propane and diesel powered forklifts. We are also emerging as a disrupter in the autonomous space, offering approachable solutions that simply work. The foundation built over the last 75 years is our launch pad for the next 75.”
Big Joe’s first product, the In Between Handling (IBH) manual straddle stacker, was introduced in 1951 and continues to be manufactured at the company’s Wisconsin facility. The continued production of the original equipment reflects the company’s emphasis on durable, practical solutions tailored to warehouse operations.
Throughout its history, Big Joe has introduced a range of material handling products, including power-drive pallet trucks, compact powered stackers and the E30 Electric Pallet Truck, which helped establish the ITA Class 3.1 equipment category. More recently, the company has expanded its portfolio with integrated lithium-ion forklifts and autonomous material handling technologies designed to simplify warehouse automation.
Martin Boyd, Chief Marketing Officer of Big Joe Forklifts, said the anniversary recognises the company’s employees, customers, dealers and partners who have contributed to its long-term success. He noted that the milestone also reflects Big Joe’s continued commitment to developing technologies that improve warehouse operations while supporting the industry’s transition toward electric and automated equipment.
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, Big Joe serves customers across North America through a direct sales organisation and an extensive dealer network. Since joining the EP Equipment family in 2009, the company has increased investment in lithium-ion battery technology, electrification and automation, helping customers modernise material handling operations while improving productivity and sustainability.
