UNITED KINGDOM / AGILITYPR.NEWS / April 25, 2025 / With warmer weather and longer days, more Brits are reporting a boost in mood: according to the latest YouGov tracker, happiness is on the rise across the UK. As consumer sentiment improves, industry experts are forecasting a potential surge in discretionary spending, leading to a stronger-than-expected April and May for retailers.

Pallet Truck Shop, the UK’s largest supplier of pallet and sack trucks, is highlighting the need for warehouses and distribution centres to be properly equipped to handle this anticipated uplift. With sales volumes likely to climb, the importance of keeping supply chains running smoothly - including returns processing - has never been more critical.

Managing Director Phil Chesworth believes the change in consumer confidence is a positive signal for the sector, but warns that without the right preparation, fulfilment operations could be left struggling.

“Retailers and their logistics partners need to prepare for more than just a standard spring uplift,” Chesworth said. 

“If spending accelerates as expected, warehouses could find themselves under great pressure to meet short delivery windows and manage the increased volume of returns that comes with impulse shopping. Manual handling equipment like pallet trucks, lift tables and platform trucks can help ensure the warehouse floor doesn’t become the bottleneck.”

Returns are a particular area of concern, as a rise in spur-of-the-moment purchases typically brings with it a higher rate of product being sent back. For already stretched fulfilment teams, efficient handling of returned goods is crucial to maintaining customer satisfaction and keeping stock moving.

Pallet Truck Shop has seen growing demand across its product lines this spring, which it believes is directly linked to retailers and logistics providers preparing for busier months ahead.

“With April showing early signs of stronger trading, it’s essential for warehouses to make sure their teams are supported with reliable, ergonomic equipment such as heavy duty pallet trucks, lift tables and scissor lifts,” Chesworth added. “Having the right tools not only boosts productivity but helps reduce the risk of worker fatigue and injury, especially when order volumes ramp up unexpectedly.”

As consumer confidence blooms with the season, the message from Pallet Truck Shop is clear: be ready to handle the momentum - from order fulfilment right through to returns.

To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk