JCB will build a 720,000-square-foot factory in San Antonio, Texas, to build equipment “largely” for customers in North America, according to the company. Construction will begin next year on a 400-acre site.
The company did not say what products would be manufactured there, but the move signified the UK-based company’s commitment to the North American market.
“North America is integral to the growth and success of JCB’s business in the future, and the time is now right for JCB to expand its manufacturing presence there,” said Graeme Macdonald, CEO, in a statement. “Texas is a vibrant and growing economy, and the State offers great advantages in terms of a central location, as well as good highway and port access. The city of San Antonio also has a well-established skills base, which makes it a very attractive place to set up a factory.”
“]CB has come a long way since selling its first machine to the U.S. market in 1964,” said Lord Bamford, chairman, in a statement. “This new investment is good news for our North American customers and is a fantastic platform on which ICB can build.”
Said Richard Fox-Marrs, president/CEO for JCB North America, in a statement:
“The growth we’ve experienced in the past few years in North America has been extensive and demand for our products continues to grow. The decision to expand our manufacturing footprint will bring us even closer to our customers and will allow us to further capitalize on market opportunities in North America.”
Source: JCB