"We want to help give a stage to people who are otherwise not in the spotlight, but who are indispensable for smooth logistics and thus a functioning everyday life for each of us," says Matthias Engelhardt, Head of Marketing and Sales for the German market at Continental Commercial Specialty Tires. Almost everyone in this country regularly has parcels sent to them and takes well-stocked shelves in the supermarket for granted. But most people are unaware of everything that goes on in the background and how much planning, coordination and discipline is required for flawless logistics. "The StaplerCup is a great opportunity to take a look behind the scenes of the logistics industry in the most exciting and entertaining way possible. And to draw attention to the importance of safety and good training for employees in warehouses and logistics companies. We are delighted to extend our long-standing partnership with the StaplerCup for another two years as a presenting partner. Both the event itself and the atmosphere surrounding it are simply unique."

Continental tires for maximum safety

On October 30, the final of the StaplerCup 2021 will take place in the f.a.n. frankenstolz arena in Aschaffenburg. All forklift models used are traditionally equipped with Continental tires. The Continental CS20 model will be used for this year's competitions. This has already proven its worth in 2019, as Engelhardt reports. "We developed it specifically for forklift trucks." In addition to excellent traction, the CS20 impresses with its exceptionally smooth running and high level of comfort in the driver's cab. Vibrations are virtually eliminated. "In this way, we are helping to protect the forklift drivers in the competitions and helping them to transport elements safely from A to B. And that under extreme conditions. And under extreme conditions." As the 2021 forklift duels are being held indoors for the first time, the CS20 will be fitted in the clean version to avoid visible tire marks and soiling on the surface.

Looking back on the partnership between event organizer Linde Material Handling and sponsor Continental, which began in 2005, it is no longer possible to pinpoint the spark that ignited it. What is certain, however, is that the renowned companies sought and found each other. Both have always been committed to safety when driving vehicles and are leaders in their respective industries in Europe. The long-standing liaison began with an accompanying information stand as an exhibitor on the fringes of the competitions. It has been expanded year after year. "It's great to see how the StaplerCup grows a little every year - and its protagonists with it," says Engelhardt. "At the StaplerCup 2018, we set a world record for changing tires on a forklift truck together with the Linde trainees - using Continental tires, of course: a real goosebump moment. In 2019, we even had our own Continental grandstand. We always find something new that is fun for everyone involved." In 2021, the Continental tires will be put in the spotlight as part of the completely redesigned StaplerCup course