Mike Romano

Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO) has created a new business division to manage North American activities in the area of logistics solutions named Toyota Advanced Logistics Solutions (TALS).

TALS will be operated separately from the forklift business, except for coordination in strategic areas as appropriate.

The move recognises the changing dynamics in the North American materials handling market related to e-commerce, labour cost and productivity requirements, which have created a permanent demand for new forms of logistics solutions, beyond forklifts.

As part of the new approach, TICO has announced the acquisition of Bastian Solutions, LLC, a leading systems integrator with regional US operations and presence in strategically significant international markets. Bastian Solutions will be the first group company in the TALS operative structure, until further plans for strategic growth are announced.

The new unit has also revealed some key personnel appointments, including the naming of Mike Romano as president and CEO of Toyota Advanced Logistics Solutions. Romano has 30 years of management experience, including leadership as president and CEO of Associated Integrated Supply Chain Solutions, a leading industry supplier in the Chicago area.

"TICO chose Bastian Solutions as its first acquisition in this space because Bastian Solutions is a highly respected, solutions-oriented systems integrator, positioned as a trusted advisor to the world's most demanding customers," Romano points out. "TICO's current strength in materials handling and its long-term strategic vision, combined with Bastian Solutions' prominence as an innovation leader, will position TALS to address customers' mission critical needs in ways that are unmatched in the industry."

Bill Bastian II is expected to remain CEO of Bastian Solutions, which has a history dating back to 1952. No management changes at the company are planned as a result of the deal.

"TMHNA affirms its commitment to the forklift business and intends to accelerate investments toward future growth," says TMHNA president and CEO Brett Wood. "Toyota and Raymond brand forklift dealers and their customers will benefit from the creation of TALS, and TICO's growing focus in the area of advanced logistics technology."

The acquisition of Bastian Solutions is subject to regulatory approvals, with a target closing in April 2017.