UNITED KINGDOM / AGILITYPR.NEWS / September 15, 2025 / The UK warehousing sector is heading towards an energy efficiency crisis, with new regulations set to render much of the country’s storage space unusable within the next decade. Midland Pallet Trucks - a trusted supplier of hand pallet trucks, stacker trucks and lift tables - is urging businesses to act now, not only to meet incoming standards but also to safeguard operational resilience and efficiency.

Since April 2023, all commercial leases must comply with a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) grade of E. By 2027, that bar will rise to grade C, before reaching grade B in 2030. Industry data paints a troubling picture: 18% of current storage space could be deemed unusable by 2027, and by 2030, 60% of warehouses risk being unlettable if upgrades are not made.

The challenge is particularly acute given that 82% of UK warehouses were built before 2000, often lacking the insulation, heating, and modern design required to meet the demands of today’s energy efficiency standards. With warehouse vacancy rates standing at just 3.3% in 2022, there is little room for operators to absorb the impact of facilities being taken offline.

Against this backdrop, businesses are being encouraged to think more strategically about their operations, investing not only in retrofitting buildings but also in the equipment that supports energy and efficiency goals. Modern manual handling solutions, such as those supplied by Midland Pallet Trucks, offer an important step towards leaner, greener warehouse practices. High-quality manual equipment require minimal maintenance, are built for longevity, and support productivity without the energy demands of more power-intensive alternatives.

Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said, “The EPC compliance timeline is a wake-up call for the entire sector. Warehouses that don’t meet the new standards will be left behind, and businesses cannot afford to lose capacity in such a tight market. Failing to plan means planning to fail, and reliable, efficient handling equipment is part of the solution. By investing in durable tools that maximise productivity without unnecessary energy costs, operators can take a proactive step towards sustainability while easing the pressure on ageing facilities.”

For more information on Midland Pallet Trucks’ range of products, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com.