AB Equipment's Material Handling business to join Toyota Material Handling New Zealand
AB Equipment's Material Handling business will become part of Toyota Material Handling New Zealand, supporting long-term growth in New Zealand's material handling market
New Zealand's materials handling industry is set for a significant new chapter, with AB Equipment's Material Handling business to join Toyota Material Handling New Zealand (TMHNZ).
AB Equipment's Material Handling business will become part of Toyota Material Handling New Zealand, supporting long-term growth in New Zealand's material handling market.
For New Zealand customers, the launch of Toyota Material Handling New Zealand means direct access to the innovation, investment and global capability of Toyota Industries Corporation, delivered by the local team and relationships they already know and trust.
Comment from Peter Dudson, Chief Executive Officer of AB Equipment
AB Equipment Chief Executive Officer Peter Dudson said the announcement represented a defining moment for both organisations and the wider industry.
“This isn't simply a change of ownership.”
“That sends a powerful message about the quality of our people, the strength of our business and the future potential of this market.”
“For our customers, it's the best of both worlds. They will continue working with the people they know and trust, now backed directly by one of the world's most respected industrial organisations.”
“At the same time, AB Equipment becomes an even more focused business, accelerating investment in our construction, forestry, municipal and ground support equipment businesses.”
“Together, we're creating two stronger organisations with a long-term partnership built around customer success.”
Approximately 130 employees will join Toyota Material Handling New Zealand when the business is expected to officially commence operations on 1 September 2026. Customers will continue to receive nationwide support through existing teams, backed by a long-term strategic partnership between TMHNZ and AB Equipment that ensures continuity of service and relationships.
Comment from Hitoshi Matsuoka, President of Toyota Material Handling International
Hitoshi Matsuoka, President of Toyota Material Handling International, said the decision represented a significant milestone for both Toyota Industries Corporation and New Zealand.
“Around the world, Toyota Industries Corporation invests for the long term in markets where we see opportunity, strong customer partnerships and talented people.”
“New Zealand is one of those markets.”
“We're excited to establish Toyota Material Handling New Zealand and bring the full strength of our global organisation directly to local customers.”
“This investment enables us to work even more closely with customers as they embrace advanced material handling equipment, attentive after-sales support, automation, digital technologies and more sustainable supply chains.”
Toyota Material Handling New Zealand will combine Toyota Industries Corporation's global manufacturing, engineering excellence and innovation capability with one of New Zealand's most experienced materials handling teams.
The business will continue supporting customers nationwide while unlocking access to Toyota's worldwide expertise in material handling solutions, automation, connected equipment and future technologies.
Comment from Niall Farrell, incoming President & Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Material Handling New Zealand
Incoming Toyota Material Handling New Zealand President & Chief Executive Officer Niall Farrell said the launch marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
“We're bringing together decades of local experience with the scale, innovation and capability of a global leader.”
“As New Zealand businesses look to improve productivity and build smarter, more resilient supply chains, Toyota Material Handling New Zealand will be uniquely positioned to help them succeed.”
“This is an investment in New Zealand, in our customers and in our people—and it's only the beginning.”
The establishment of Toyota Material Handling New Zealand reinforces Toyota Industries Corporation's long-term commitment to New Zealand and positions the business to play a leading role in the future of logistics, warehousing and materials handling.