#USA #Toyota #Columbus #TMHNA #Forklifts

Toyota Material Handling North America Unveils Next-Generation Forklift Manufacturing Facility

Toyota Material Handling North America (TMHNA) has officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Columbus, Indiana, designed to produce electric forklifts for its brands, Toyota and Raymond. Held on August 5, 2026, the event marks a significant milestone for TMHNA, which leads the industry in forklift sales.

The newly opened facility spans 295,000 square feet, expanding TMHNA's total footprint in Columbus to 1.9 million square feet. With this new addition, the company is set to add approximately 140 job opportunities to the local economy. This $100 million investment represents TMHNA's most considerable commitment to expanding its manufacturing capacity, enabling the company to meet the increasing demand for electric forklifts anticipated over the next several years.

Brett Wood, President and CEO of TMHNA, shared insights into the current market trends. In 2023, electric-powered lift trucks accounted for 66% of all sales in North America, with projections suggesting that this figure could reach as high as 80% by 2035. Wood emphasized that this new facility not only reflects TMHNA's ambitions of being at the forefront of the material handling industry but also showcases the collaborative efforts of the Toyota team and local officials in establishing Columbus as a hub for electric forklift innovation.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured dignitaries such as Governor Mike Braun and local city officials, showcasing the factory's significance not just for TMHNA but for Indiana's manufacturing landscape. TMHNA's collaboration with its subsidiaries, The Raymond Corporation and Toyota Material Handling Inc., highlights the modern approach the company is taking, focusing primarily on electric forklifts.

One of the first products to come out of this new facility is the electric Class 1 Stand-Up Counterbalanced Forklift. Previously produced in Greene, New York, the production shift to the Columbus facility allows the Greene location to pivot its focus to manufacturing reach trucks and order pickers, thus maximizing efficiency across its operations.

Tony Miller, TMHNA's Chief Supply Officer, remarked on the investment made in the new facility: “This facility is the result of thinking beyond today. Years ago, we made the decision to invest in our future. Today, that investment is strengthening our manufacturing network, expanding our capacity, and positioning us to better serve our customers for years to come.” The incorporation of automation and human talents within the manufacturing process will facilitate adaptability to changing customer needs and demands.

Sustainability is another central theme of this new facility, showcasing TMHNA's commitment to environmentally friendly practices. Features such as the zero-VOC powder coat process and plans for future solar energy installations underscore the company's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

Safety isn’t overlooked either; the workspace is climate-controlled, with ergonomic assembly processes and reduced noise levels designed to enhance the work environment for employees. With a focus on utilizing real-time insights for monitoring quality and productivity, TMHNA ensures a consistent and secure manufacturing process.

Construction of the factory commenced in June 2024, ramping up production by July 2026. As TMHNA continues to stake its claim in the electric forklift arena, this ambitious facility marks a strategic leap towards meeting the demands of an increasingly electric future in material handling.

About TMHNA

Toyota Material Handling North America is the leading player in the forklift industry, marketing products under the Toyota and Raymond brands. Producing over 1,900 forklifts weekly, and maintaining four manufacturing sites across North America, TMHNA plays a crucial role in the overall productivity of numerous industries. The company boasts annual revenues exceeding $7 billion and provides vital solutions and support to its extensive customer base throughout North America.