We've been watching the convergence of materials handling and logistics for some time, and Toyota's establishment of a logistics solutions division is further evidence that the market is changing.
It's clear that while forklift manufacturing is here to stay, long-time survival will require a broader approach.
Already, we have seen KION buy Belgian automation specialist Egemin Group and then go on to snap up automation and supply chain optimisation specialist Dematic.
The move by Toyota is further proof that integration is the key as materials handling and logistics become closely intertwined. Toyota is banking on clients preferring solutions from single suppliers rather than having to mix and match in an increasingly complex and cluttered supply market.
So, all eyes are now on the other big players to see which will move first - and who they will target in their efforts to tap the market for unified solutions.