The global stacker market, valued at $2,033.1 million in 2018, is projected to reach $3,136.2 million by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2019 to 2026. Stackers, essential material handling machines, utilize hydraulic and electric technologies and are employed in shop floors, factories, warehouses, transportation hubs, and construction sites. They come in various designs with different lifting capacities, catering to logistics, manufacturing, and maintenance applications.
The rising popularity of compact material handling equipment, such as stackers, stems from their ease of maintenance, mobility, and comparable performance to heavier machinery. Unlike heavy equipment, stackers don’t require certified operators, are user-friendly, and are more cost-effective, making them highly favored across industries. The surge in global infrastructure projects, particularly in emerging economies like China, India, Bangladesh, and African nations, further drives market growth. For instance, in 2018, China approved 27 infrastructure projects worth $219 billion to stimulate its economy. This increase in residential complexes, road construction, and infrastructure development fuels demand for stackers. However, competition from forklifts may restrain market expansion.
By type, the electric stacker segment is expected to exhibit significant growth due to its efficiency in handling double pallets and horizontal transport. Battery-operated stackers are gaining traction for their robust construction, smooth operation, and durability. In May 2019, Raymond Corporation, a Toyota subsidiary, introduced the Raymond Courier 3030, an automated stacker with a 2,500-pound lifting capacity and a 72-inch lift height. By end-user, the retail and wholesale segment dominated in 2018, driven by high demand for efficient material handling.
Regionally, Asia-Pacific held the largest market share in 2018 and is expected to grow at the highest rate, propelled by rapid economic growth in countries like China, India, and Malaysia, alongside booming construction sectors. The market is segmented into electric, manual/hydraulic, and semi-electric types, with end-users spanning retail, logistics, automotive, food and beverage, and others. North America, Europe, and LAMEA also contribute to the market.
Key players, including CLARK Material Handling, Crown Equipment, Toyota Industries, and Jungheinrich AG, focus on product innovation. For example, Hyster Europe launched the S1.6IL model in 2017, offering a 6-meter reach height, while Crown introduced the DS 3040 double stacker in 2019, with a 2-ton capacity. These developments enhance market competitiveness, ensuring sustained growth through 2026.