JCB officially marked its 65th anniversary by presenting thousands of employees around the world with gifts to mark the occasion. The celebration took place June 21st to coincide with the 95th anniversary of the birth of JCB’s Founder, the late Joseph Cyril Bamford.
JCB Chairman Sir Anthony Bamford said, “In 65 years we’ve gone from one man in a garage in Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, to a major global brand renowned for its pioneering spirit. All of this is down to our people. JCB is on the threshold of even greater success and it’s our employees who will help drive our future.”
JCB also reported that in 2010 earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) reached $376 million ($151.2 million – 2009). In 2010 JCB sold 51,600 machines (2009 – 36,000 machines).
“2011 has also started well for the JCB Group but we are still mindful of economic concerns which could hold back the recovery,” Bamford said. “We continue to invest in our manufacturing facilities, notably this year in India and Brazil and, of course, in new products, with 13 new machines launched so far in 2011.”
In 2011 JCB will be investing more than £20 million in modernizing and increasing capacity at its 11 UK plants. The company is also investing in a new 350,000 sq ft factory in Sao Paulo, Brazil, for the manufacture of backhoe loaders and tracked excavators. The plant will become operational in early 2012. The company has also opened an engine manufacturing plant in India, which went into production this year.