Celebrating 40 Years of Innovation
In May, we welcomed over 300 guests to Niftylift’s Shenley Wood HQ and Whittlebury Hall to mark our 40th Anniversary with two days of innovation, partnership, and celebration.
Friday 13 June 2025
A Celebration Four Decades in the Making
On May 22nd and 23rd, we welcomed over 300 guests to join us in celebrating 40 years of Niftylift innovation and partnership. From exclusive product reveals and hands-on machine demonstrations to a heartfelt Gala Dinner celebration, the two-day event was a fitting tribute to the people and progress that have shaped Niftylift since 1985.
Held across our Shenley Wood world headquarters and Whittlebury Hall Hotel, the event brought together more than 130 suppliers and over 200 customers from across the UK and around the world.
Innovation on Display
The Shenley Wood open days showcased the full Niftylift product range, including world-first looks at several new machines. A new Diesel-powered version of the HR12 4x4 made its global debut, joining the Gen2 Hybrid model to give customers even more choice.
We also unveiled the HR12NEX – an enhanced version of the HR12NE with a larger cage for extra capacity – along with the HR12NEXR, which includes a range-extending diesel engine.
Guests had the opportunity to try out the new models for themselves, explore our demonstration and static display zones, and enjoy hospitality throughout both days.
Factory Tours Led by Future Talent
Our apprentices once again took centre stage as they guided guests through our state-of-the-art production facilities. Their energy and expertise left a lasting impression:
“From the moment I arrived, I was impressed—particularly by the factory tour led by two of your apprentices, who were an absolute credit to the company. Their enthusiasm, passion, and drive for the Niftylift product were truly inspiring.”
— Phil Leahy, Sunbelt Rentals
Gala Dinner: A Night to Remember
The evening of May 22nd saw VIP guests gather at Whittlebury Hall for a Gala Dinner hosted by radio and TV presenter Daisie-Belle Downer. After a champagne reception, guests enjoyed a three-course meal, live music and entertainment, and a free bar that kept the celebrations going into the early hours.
A standout moment came as our founder, Roger Bowden, and MD John Keely took to the stage together to thank guests and reflect on the journey that brought us here.
A Shared Journey
As Martin Kirby, MD of Johnson Arabia, shared:
“I feel very special as a client. I think they look after me and my business on an individual basis. It’s not just all about business…”
This sense of partnership has defined Niftylift for 40 years – and will continue to guide us as we look ahead to the future.
Thank You
To everyone who joined us in person – and to those who support us every day – thank you. This celebration was for you.
We hope you enjoy this short highlights video capturing some of our favourite moments from the event: