History of JLG Forklift Trucks

History of JLG Forklift Trucks

In the late 1960′s John L. Grove, with his wife Cora set out on a cross country excursion in their RV. Recently retired, after spending several years working with his brother to manufacture their crane business into an industry leader, John had no idea that momentous trip would allow JLG Industries, Inc to emerge. The world leader of mobile aerial work platforms and precision material handling equipment was the end consequence of a road expedition.

All through their trip, John reacquainted himself with former business associates along the way. In combination with these conversations and a noteworthy event; two workers were unfortunately electrocuted on scaffolding when the Groves were passing through the Hoover Dam. John discovered a vast market for a product that could quickly and securely lift individuals in the air to accomplish maintenance and other building services.  

Upon returning from their travels, John formed a partnership with two friends and obtained a metal fabrication company in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania. In 1970, starting operations with a crew of twenty workers, they created and sold the first JLG aerial work platform. The business incorporates many of the basic design essentials of that original lift into existing models.

Since then, JLG Forklifts have come a long way from when Mr. John L. Grove returned from his fatefull cross-country trip and since the first JLG aerial platform entered the market. As of today, the company has expanded itself into several global marketplaces and continues to cultivate new equipment to ensure that clients are able to become safer and more resourceful within their workplace.