The History of the Materials Handling Engineers Association
A Comprehensive Historical Review of the Materials Handling Engineers Association (MHEA)
The Materials Handling Engineers Association (MHEA) stands as a pillar of excellence in the materials handling sector, widely recognised for its unwavering commitment to advocacy, innovation and the advancement of industry standards. For more than eighty years, the MHEA has played a transformative role, championing best practices, fostering collaboration, and driving technological progress. Its legacy is one of resilience, adaptability, and an enduring pursuit of excellence.
Yet, despite its esteemed reputation, much of the association’s rich history its origins, formative years, and the visionaries who shaped it has remained largely unexplored. To bridge this gap, we have undertaken an extensive research initiative, delving into historical archives, including meticulously preserved meeting minutes, industry correspondence, and foundational documents. Through this deep dive into the past, we present a compelling and comprehensive account of the MHEA’s inception, its evolution through changing times, and the lasting impact it continues to make on the materials handling industry.
This journey through history not only celebrates the MHEA’s achievements but also highlights the dedication of those who contributed to its growth, ensuring that its legacy of innovation and leadership remains a guiding force for future generations.
The Foundations of the MHEA: A Vision Takes Shape
The Materials Handling Engineers Association (MHEA) traces its origins to 1938, a pivotal year when Frank Lonsdale, an ambitious and forward-thinking leader, laid the groundwork for an institution that would shape the future of materials handling. At the time, the mechanical handling sector was on the rise, driven by industrial expansion and technological advancements. Yet, despite its rapid growth, the sector lacked a central body to unify professionals, address common challenges, and promote collaboration.
Recognising this critical gap, Lonsdale took decisive action, founding what was originally called the Mechanical Handling Engineers Association (MHEA). His vision was clear: to create a dynamic platform where engineers, manufacturers, and industry pioneers could exchange ideas, refine best practices, and drive innovation in mechanical handling technologies. Under his leadership, the association quickly gained traction, attracting experts eager to share knowledge and push the boundaries of what was possible in engineering and materials movement.
Initially, the MHEA concentrated on fostering technical excellence within the UK, providing a space for professionals to develop solutions for an industry undergoing rapid mechanisation. However, its influence soon transcended national borders. By the mid-20th century, the association had evolved into an international hub of expertise, with professionals from across Europe and beyond seeking its guidance and participating in its initiatives. This expansion was a testament to both Lonsdale’s leadership and the dedication of the MHEA’s growing membership, who were united in their mission to elevate the industry.
For nearly six decades, the association proudly carried the name “Mechanical Handling Engineers Association,” a title that reflected its roots. However, as industries evolved and the scope of materials handling broadened, so too did the MHEA’s focus. In 1996, under the leadership of Mr. Rob Drohan, a director at Ace Conveyor Equipment and Materials Handling Products Ltd., the organisation underwent a landmark transformation. Drohan spearheaded the decision to rebrand the association as the Materials Handling Engineers Association, a change that signified a new era of innovation and adaptability.
This rebranding was more than just a name change it was a strategic move that acknowledged the shifting landscape of materials handling. With new technologies emerging, automation revolutionising logistics, and global supply chains becoming more intricate, the MHEA sought to ensure that it remained at the forefront of industry progress. The updated name reflected its wider industry focus, encompassing not just mechanical handling but also automated systems, bulk materials movement, and cutting-edge transport solutions.
From its inception in 1938 to the present day, the MHEA has continued to champion excellence, drive innovation, and support professionals across the materials handling spectrum. Its journey from a pioneering national organisation to an internationally respected authority stands as a testament to the vision, resilience, and commitment of those who have shaped its history.
MHEA on the Global Stage: Establishing Influence in International Engineering
By the mid-20th century, the Materials Handling Engineers Association (MHEA) had firmly positioned itself as a key player in the international engineering landscape. Recognised for its expertise and leadership in materials handling, the MHEA represented the United Kingdom in the prestigious Federation of European De La Manutention (FEM), a significant body that shaped industry regulations and best practices across Europe. This role underscored the Association’s influence and its commitment to raising engineering standards on an international scale.
In 1964, representation in the FEM transitioned to the British Materials Handling Federation (BMHF), allowing the MHEA to expand its global footprint in other ways. One of its most impactful contributions came through its active participation in the ISO General Assembly, where MHEA delegations traveled the world to contribute to the development of international engineering standards. These efforts not only reinforced the Association’s standing but also ensured that British expertise played a pivotal role in shaping global materials handling practices.
Post-Lonsdale Leadership and the Evolution of MHEA (1946–1957)
Following the impactful leadership of Frank Lonsdale, the presidency of the MHEA passed to Mr. L. Shaw-Davis in 1946, marking the beginning of a new era for the organisation. Under his guidance, the MHEA introduced a rotational leadership system, implementing one-year presidential terms a structure that remained in place until 1999. This practice fostered a constant influx of fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, ensuring that the Association stayed adaptable and forward-thinking in response to the evolving materials handling sector.
During this transformative period, the MHEA flourished, not only in the United Kingdom but also across Europe. It became a respected knowledge hub, bringing together leading engineers, industrialists, and academics. The frequent change in leadership reinforced the Association’s dynamism and ensured that it reflected the diversity of its membership.
The following distinguished figures successfully led the MHEA after Shaw-Davis, each contributing to the Association’s growth and reputation:
- 1949–1950: B. C. Morton
- 1951–1952: W. Ralph Purnell
- 1953–1954: D. Cherry Paterson (David Cherry Paterson, 1888–1969) – A renowned figure in the engineering world, Paterson’s presidency embodied his deep commitment to innovation, research, and cross-industry collaboration.
- 1955–1956: H. F. Shields
- 1957–1958: Mr. I. Hey
- 1959–1960: Mr. W. G. Picton
Each of these individuals played an instrumental role in shaping the MHEA’s policies, expanding its reach, and ensuring its continued relevance in the fast-changing industrial landscape.
Prestigious Conference Participation: MHEA’s Thought Leadership in the 1950s
Throughout the 1950s, the MHEA cemented its reputation as a leading voice in materials handling by actively participating in international conferences. These events provided an opportunity for the Association to engage with global experts, exchange knowledge, and pioneer new advancements in the industry.
Some of the most notable conferences attended by MHEA delegations included:
- Zurich (July 1957) – A landmark gathering focusing on the role of automation and mechanical handling in post-war industrial recovery.
- Vienna (October 1957) – Hosted in Austria’s historic capital, this conference emphasised the modernisation of industrial handling techniques in the face of a rapidly changing economic landscape.
- Wiesbaden (June 1956) Held in the tranquil setting of this German spa town, the event served as a crucial forum for discussing emerging technical innovations.
- Ostend (October 1958) With its picturesque coastal backdrop, this Belgian conference tackled the complexities of bulk materials handling and transportation logistics.
- Cross-Continental Conference in London (May 1958) A prestigious three-day summit featuring renowned industry experts, hosted across multiple iconic venues in the British capital. This event solidified London’s status as a global hub for materials handling discourse.
The MHEA’s participation in these influential gatherings reinforced its standing as an authority in the field. Its delegates were frequently sought after for insights, research contributions, and policy recommendations, ensuring that the Association played a proactive role in shaping international materials handling practices.
Iconic Venues: The Backdrop for MHEA’s High-Level Meetings
During this period of unprecedented growth, the MHEA’s Executive Committee meetings (held quarterly) took place in some of the most illustrious venues of the era. These locations were not merely meeting spaces they were symbols of prestige, influence, and professional excellence.
Some of the most noteworthy venues included:
1 Birdcage Walk (London)
Situated in the heart of Westminster, 1 Birdcage Walk is the esteemed headquarters of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). This address has long been associated with engineering excellence, making it a fitting venue for MHEA deliberations. It is widely believed that several key policy decisions and strategic initiatives were formulated within its historic halls.
The Piccadilly Hotel
A beacon of Edwardian elegance, the Piccadilly Hotel provided an upscale, state-of-the-art setting for MHEA discussions. Its central London location made it easily accessible for industry leaders, policymakers, and international guests.
The Savoy Hotel
Synonymous with luxury and sophistication, The Savoy was not just a venue it was an experience. Located along the Thames, its grand dining halls and opulent meeting rooms provided the perfect setting for high-stakes industry discussions. In 1958, the MHEA hosted its annual Gala Dinner at the Savoy, featuring a five-star meal, live music, and cabaret entertainment. The event was attended by 64 members and 59 ladies—presumably their wives and partners—reflecting the social prestige of the occasion.
Café Royal
A historic venue on Regent Street, the Café Royal was a favored spot for intellectual debate and cultural exchange. It served as the venue for a significant 1959 meeting between the Associated Press and the MHEA, where progress on ISO General Assembly initiatives was discussed. Its storied past and refined ambiance made it a prestigious setting for MHEA engagements.
The Majestic Hotel (Harrogate)
Nestled in North Yorkshire, the Majestic Hotel was a grand Victorian establishment, celebrated for its breathtaking architecture and historical significance. Designed by George Dennis Martin, it had been a cornerstone of Harrogate’s social and business scene since its opening in 1900. Its stately conference halls made it an ideal location for strategic planning sessions.
These legendary venues were far more than meeting spaces they represented the stature, ambition, and forward-thinking ethos of the MHEA. The meticulous planning that went into hosting these events was widely praised by members and guests alike, ensuring that MHEA engagements were not only productive but also memorable.
A Legacy of Excellence and Influence
From its early international representation to its involvement in setting global engineering standards, from its influential leadership rotation to its participation in industry-defining conferences, the MHEA’s mid-20th-century journey was one of extraordinary impact.
Through its prestigious venues, strategic collaborations, and commitment to innovation, the Association solidified its reputation as a guiding force in materials handling engineering. Today, its legacy of excellence continues to inspire new generations of professionals, ensuring that the MHEA remains a driving force in shaping the future of the industry.
The MHEA’s Growing Influence: Shaping the Future of Materials Handling
The years 1946–1957 marked a transformative era for the Materials Handling Engineers Association (MHEA). This period solidified the Association’s position as a cornerstone of the materials handling sector, thanks to a powerful combination of visionary leadership, international engagement, and strategic use of prestigious venues.
By actively fostering dialogue among engineers, policymakers, governments, and business leaders, the MHEA became a hub for innovation and professional excellence. It was during these years that the Association set the stage for the modern materials handling industry, ensuring its members remained at the cutting edge of technological advancements.
Pioneering Industry Standards and Global Influence
Beyond being a forum for knowledge exchange, the MHEA played an instrumental role in shaping international engineering practices. Its involvement in the ISO General Assembly and representation in the Federation of European De La Manutention (FEM) ensured that British expertise was not only recognised but actively sought after in developing global industry standards.
At home, the MHEA worked tirelessly to bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that the next generation of engineers was well-prepared to drive forward materials handling innovations.
A Legacy of Resilience and Collaboration
The enduring success of the MHEA was built on its ability to adapt, collaborate, and lead. Its members navigated the post-war industrial landscape, ushering in a new age of efficiency, mechanisation, and global connectivity.
Even today, this legacy remains at the heart of the MHEA’s mission to champion technological progress, foster industry partnerships, and support the professional development of engineers on a global scale.
Modern Contributions: Education and Industry Advancement
Throughout its history, the MHEA has been unwavering in its commitment to professional development and technical education. Recognising that investment in talent is an investment in the future, the Association launched one of its most significant initiatives the Education Prize Scheme in 1958.
The Education Prize Scheme: Investing in the Future
This program was designed to incentivise academic achievement among employees of MHEA member companies, providing financial rewards for those who reached key educational milestones. The scheme not only encouraged individuals to pursue higher qualifications but also ensured that the industry benefited from a workforce that was both highly skilled and technically proficient.
Award Structure:
- A pass in the Ordinary National Certificate (ONC) was rewarded with £2 2s.
- A pass in the Higher National Certificate (HNC) earned a substantial £20.
- Employees who were elected as associate members of prestigious institutions such as the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) or the Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEE) also received £20.
A Meaningful Investment in Workforce Development
To put these figures into perspective, the average weekly wage in 1958 was approximately £7 10s making these awards significant financial incentives for professionals seeking to advance their careers.
By introducing this scheme, the MHEA demonstrated its forward-thinking approach to industry development. It understood that an educated workforce was not only beneficial to individual companies but was also critical to the long-term success of the materials handling sector as a whole.
Lasting Impact and Continued Commitment
The introduction of the Education Prize Scheme reflected the MHEA’s core belief that knowledge and expertise are the driving forces behind industry innovation and economic progress.
Over the decades, the MHEA has continued to expand its educational initiatives, working in collaboration with universities, technical colleges, and industry bodies to ensure that cutting-edge knowledge and best practices are shared across the sector.
This enduring dedication to learning, professional development, and workforce advancement remains a cornerstone of the MHEA’s mission a mission that continues to shape the future of materials handling engineering today.
Subscription by Turnover: A Progressive Funding Model
From its inception in 1938 until 1960, the Materials Handling Engineers Association (MHEA) operated under a structured financial model designed to sustain its administration and operational costs. This system, known as “Subscription by Turnover,” was a progressive and equitable approach to membership fees, ensuring that companies contributed proportionally to their financial capacity.
How It Worked
Rather than imposing a flat membership fee, which could have disproportionately impacted smaller firms, the Subscription by Turnover model calculated contributions based on a company’s annual revenue from contracts. Specifically, member companies were required to pay 0.4% on contracts exceeding £1,000.
To put this into perspective, an average contract in the 1960s was valued at approximately £30,000, which would generate a fee of £120 for the Association. Meanwhile, a large contract worth £300,000 would yield £1,200 a significant contribution. Adjusted for inflation, this would be the equivalent of around £35,000 in today’s money.
A Fair and Sustainable Approach
This model was not unique to the MHEA; many professional associations, trade organisations, and industry groups adopted similar frameworks to ensure financial fairness among members. Companies that benefited the most from industry advancements and networking opportunities naturally contributed more, while smaller firms were not overburdened with fees they could not afford.
The Subscription by Turnover system allowed the MHEA to thrive, funding educational initiatives, conferences, research, and industry advocacy while maintaining an inclusive and scalable membership structure.
Legacy and Evolution
While this funding model remained in place for more than two decades, the evolving economic landscape and changing needs of the industry eventually led to new financial structures. However, the principles of fairness, proportional contributions, and support for industry-wide growth have remained at the heart of the MHEA’s financial policies ever since.
This innovative approach to funding helped solidify the MHEA’s influence in the materials handling sector, ensuring that it had the necessary resources to support its members, drive innovation, and shape the future of engineering standards.
A Legacy of Knowledge and Innovation: The MHEA’s Tradition of Seminars and Conferences
For many decades, the (MHEA) has upheld a proud tradition of advancing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and shaping the progress of the bulk materials handling industry. From its earliest days, the Association recognised that the dissemination of technical expertise and the sharing of industry advancements were essential to the development of efficient, safe, and innovative bulk handling practices.
The Foundation of Learning and Exchange
Since its founding, the MHEA has provided a vital forum where engineers, manufacturers, and industry leaders convene to discuss the prevailing challenges of their time. As industries expanded and technology evolved, so too did the need for structured platforms of knowledge exchange. In response, the Association established a programme of technical seminars, lectures, and conferences such as Bulkex, each designed to enhance the expertise of those working within ports, power stations, mining operations, steelworks, cement plants, and beyond.
Through these gatherings, the MHEA cemented its role as a guiding force in the industry, ensuring that best practices were not merely discussed but actively refined and adopted by its members.
The MHEA Conference: A Pillar of Industry Advancement
Among the most esteemed of the Association’s endeavours is the MHEA Bulkex Conference, a distinguished event that has, for many years, attracted the finest minds in bulk materials handling. These meetings have served as an intellectual crossroads, where pioneering engineers, industry pioneers, and key decision-makers have exchanged ideas that would go on to shape the future of material transport and storage.
From the earliest gatherings, topics of discussion have reflected the technological progress and concerns of their respective eras. Themes have ranged from the mechanical intricacies of bulk transport systems to matters of environmental responsibility, automation, and safety each subject reflecting the challenges of the time and the relentless pursuit of progress.
The MHEA’s Evolution: Innovation, Leadership, and a Lasting Legacy
Forging a Legacy in the Late 20th Century
By the latter half of the 20th century, the MHEA had firmly established itself as a cornerstone of the engineering community. Its reputation for technical excellence and industry leadership was undisputed, and in 1997, Mr. Bill Reading of Birtley Engineering Ltd. took the helm as President.
At the time, Birtley Engineering stood as the UK’s largest bulk handling contractor, having recently partnered with Balfour Beatty in 1991 to construct the Port of Bristol Bulk Handling Terminal, a landmark project in materials transportation. Reading’s leadership brought invaluable insight to the MHEA, drawing from his extensive experience with large-scale projects. Under his stewardship, the Association further strengthened its influence, fostering collaboration between leading industry players and continuing its mission of driving progress in bulk materials handling.
As the new millennium approached, the MHEA remained steadfast in adapting to an ever-changing industry. With technology rapidly evolving, the Association positioned itself at the cutting edge of innovation providing members with access to advanced resources, professional development initiatives, and a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange.
A Hub for Innovation and Networking
Throughout the years, the MHEA’s annual exhibitions, conferences, and networking events have remained central to its mission. These gatherings serve as more than just industry meetings they are hubs of innovation where professionals convene to discuss emerging technologies, tackle industry challenges, and forge new partnerships.
By fostering this sense of community and collaboration, the Association has ensured that its members remain at the forefront of technological and operational advancements in bulk materials handling. The MHEA’s dedication to knowledge-sharing and industry excellence continues to resonate, reinforcing its role as a guiding force in the sector.
The MHEA in the 21st Century (2000 – Present)
Embracing the Digital Age
Recognising the growing importance of digital connectivity, the MHEA took a bold step forward in 1999 by establishing its first website a visionary move that would lay the foundation for future growth. The project was entrusted to Mr. Steve Clewley, an Executive Committee Member and future President, whose web design was so well-executed that several companies sought permission to model their own sites after it.
As technology advanced, so did the MHEA’s online presence. In 2001, Mr. David Wright, son of the esteemed Harold Wright, undertook a major website redesign. This update introduced dedicated member pages, allowing each company to showcase its logo and corporate biography a pioneering feature at the time, and one that remains a staple of the MHEA’s digital presence today. Remarkably, the entire site operated on a mere 20MB of storage.
By 2003, the MHEA had fully embraced the digital revolution, incorporating email communications and introducing internet banking to streamline financial transactions. Experimentation with other digital platforms followed, including www.bulk2004.co.uk but it soon became apparent that future conferences could be seamlessly integrated into the main MHEA website.
The cost of maintaining an online presence was initially steep £1,000 annually in 2007 but as technology became more accessible, expenses decreased significantly. A major website overhaul in 2020 introduced interactive maps for member locations, online payments, and digital form submissions, cementing the MHEA’s commitment to a seamless and modern user experience. Today, the website is fully managed by the Secretariat, ensuring it remains an invaluable resource for industry professionals.
The MHEA’s Modern Era: Leadership and Legacy
Few figures have left as profound a mark on the MHEA as Dr. Harold Wright, PhD, BSc, CEng, MIMechE, Mem ASME. A distinguished engineer, Harold’s career began at Ashmore Benson/Davy Ashmore, the UK’s leading plant design contractor at the time. Over the next decade, he honed his expertise in plant engineering, eventually earning a PhD from the University of Bradford in 1970 for his groundbreaking research on bunker and silo design a field pioneered by Dr. Andrew Jenike.
His journey led him to British Steel, where he spent 17 years as a specialist plant engineer, gaining invaluable industry knowledge. Transitioning into consultancy in 1983, Harold became a prolific thought leader, publishing over 40 technical papers and assuming influential roles, including Chairman of the IMechE’s Bulk Materials Handling Committee and Vice Chairman of the IMechE’s Process Industries Board.
Revitalising the MHEA
By April 2002, the MHEA faced a decline in membership a challenge that Harold was determined to overcome. Taking on the role of Secretariat, he identified the root cause: a lack of leadership that truly understood the needs of industry professionals. Leveraging his vast network of engineers, managing directors, and OEMs, Harold breathed new life into the Association, ensuring its relevance and growth.
At the 2006 Annual Conference, another defining moment in the MHEA’s history took place. Mr. Roy Dobson, a director at Fairport Engineering, introduced Harold to a promising colleague with a bold declaration:
“I want you to teach this person everything you know about running this Association because one day, they will be the Secretariat of the MHEA and carry your vision forward.”
That individual was Linda White—a dynamic force who would go on to break new ground as the first woman to be voted onto the Executive Committee and later, the first female Vice President. Today, she serves as the Association’s Secretariat, fulfilling Roy Dobson’s prediction and continuing the legacy of mentorship and leadership set forth by Harold Wright.
A Legacy of Innovation and Collaboration
From its founding in 1938 to its present-day role as an industry leader, the MHEA’s journey has been one of resilience, adaptation, and unwavering commitment to progress. At its core are the principles established by Frank Lonsdale and upheld by generations of visionaries:
- Innovation – Pioneering new technologies and methodologies in bulk materials handling
- Collaboration – Fostering a network of engineers, suppliers, and industry leaders
- Excellence – Setting the highest standards for knowledge, safety, and operational efficiency
As the MHEA looks to the future, it remains deeply rooted in its rich history while embracing the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving global economy. Through its continued dedication to education, networking, and technological advancement, the Association ensures that the materials handling sector remains a driving force of industrial progress.
With a legacy built on expertise, leadership, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence, the MHEA stands stronger than ever—ready to shape the next era of the industry.
Preserving the Legacy of the MHEA
The History of the MHEA has been meticulously compiled with great care and attention to detail, drawing upon extensive records, first-hand accounts, and archival materials. We believe this to be a true and accurate representation of the Association’s journey from its founding to its present-day influence on the bulk materials handling industry.
However, history is a living record, shaped by the perspectives and experiences of those who have been part of it. If any member, past or present, discovers any discrepancies, omissions, or inaccuracies, we warmly invite you to share your insights with us. Your contributions will help ensure that the legacy of the MHEA remains as precise, comprehensive, and authentic as possible.
We deeply value the collective knowledge and expertise of our community and are committed to preserving the integrity of our history. Should any corrections be necessary, we will make every effort to update our records promptly and accurately.
If you have additional information, documents, or personal recollections that could enrich this historical account, we encourage you to reach out. Every story, every milestone, and every individual contribution plays a vital role in shaping the rich tapestry of the MHEA’s legacy.
Together, we continue to honour the past, celebrate the present, and build for the future.
Kieron White. MHEA Historian.
