NorthWest Handling Systems, Inc., a Seattle, Wash.-based lift truck dealer for Crown Equipment Corp., New Bremen, Ohio, opened a new facility in Union Gap, Wash., to meet the growing needs of new and existing customers. The facility, NorthWest’s sixth in the Pacific Northwest, strengthens Crown’s service and support of customers in this region.

“The Yakima Valley, which is known for its vibrant agriculture base, has also been gradually growing into a strong supply hub with a number of distribution centers now calling the region home,” says Kevin Martin, branch manager. “Our agriculture and supply chain customers need durable equipment and advanced technology that helps them accomplish business goals and provide a flexible platform for continued growth.”

The facility will provide customers with a complete selection of material handling technologies, products and services, including forklifts, warehouse design solutions, Integrity Parts and Service System, automation technology and Crown’s InfoLink fleet and operator management system. The location also offers a training area where customers can participate in Crown’s Demonstrated Performance TrainSafe train-the-trainer training.

“NorthWest Handling Systems has been a dependable Crown partner for many years. They’ve grown into a strong brand ambassador for our company and an even stronger proponent for our customer’s evolving needs,” says Jim Mozer, senior vice president, Crown Equipment. “We recognized president Jim Franck and his team numerous times with Crown’s highest honor, the James F. Dicke Pioneer Award, for outstanding achievements in sales and customer satisfaction. They have demonstrated a commitment to providing customers with the right material handling equipment and technology to help control costs, improve safety and enhance energy efficiency.”