Waco, TX-based K-D Manitou has announced a distribution agreement between its parent company, Manitou BF of France, and OmniQuip, a division of Textron Inc.

OmniQuip will become the exclusive distributor within the United States for three models of compact telescopic toolhandlers: the 526, 732 and 932.

K-D Manitou will continue to market through its U.S. dealer network, the rest of the rest of the Manitou product line, which includes a range of Manitou masted forklifts from 4,000 to 15,000 lbs. (1,814 to 6,803 kgs); a range of Maniscopic telescopic handlers from 5,000 to 35,000 lbs. (2,268 to 15,875 kg); a range of MRT rotating telescopic handlers from 46 to 69 ft. (14 to 21 m); and a range of Manitransit truck-mounted telescopic forklifts.

"This is a great opportunity for OmniQuip and Manitou to develop the presence of the Manitou brand in the U.S. market, representing the latest in technology and performance," said Serge Bosche, president of K-D Manitou.

K-D Manitou Inc. is the North American subsidiary of Manitou BF, a worldwide manufacturer of rough-terrain forklifts and telescopic handlers.

For more information, call 254/799-0232 or visit www.kdmanitou.com