UNITED KINGDOM / AGILITYPR.NEWS / September 02, 2025 / Artificial intelligence and automation may continue to dominate headlines in the logistics sector, but on the ground it's another story altogether. Pallet Truck Shop, the UK’s largest supplier of pallet and sack trucks, knows a vital truth: while robots may be grabbing attention, manual handling equipment such as pallet trucks, stackers and table trucks keep grabbing goods - and remain the quiet workhorses keeping Britain’s warehouses running.

Automation is undoubtedly reshaping the way goods are stored and moved, with large operators investing heavily in robotics and AI-driven systems. Yet for thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and for the growing network of last-mile facilities that feed the e-commerce economy, simple manual tools still deliver the best balance of cost, flexibility, and reliability.

Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Pallet Truck Shop, warns that an over-reliance on automated systems can leave companies exposed to high maintenance costs, technology failures, and long implementation timelines. By contrast, manual handling equipment provides immediate, scalable solutions that keep goods moving without the need for multimillion-pound investments.

“Not every warehouse can afford or even needs high-tech automation,” Chesworth said. “There’s a risk in believing that robots alone are the future. For many businesses, human-powered equipment like pallet trucks, sack trucks, and lift tables remains the backbone of operations. They’re cost-effective, versatile, and, crucially, they allow staff to adapt quickly when demand spikes or supply chain pressures changes.”

This is especially true in last-mile warehousing, where flexibility is paramount. With urban logistics hubs handling smaller but more frequent consignments, the ability to move products quickly and safely often depends on robust, easy-to-use equipment rather than complex robotics.

“Automation and AI are fantastic tools when deployed in the right context, but they’re not a silver bullet,” Chesworth added. “What we see across our customer base is that the most resilient warehouses are hybrid ones, combining smart technology with reliable manual kit. That balance is what keeps businesses nimble, safe, and cost-efficient; it is often the simplest tools often deliver the biggest returns."

To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk.