News

200-strong team begins production of ‘most advanced’ excavator

Manufacturing specialist, Komatsu Europe, has reached a major milestone at its UK facility, with more than 200 employees now involved in the most advanced production at the site. 

The first UK-built PC220 machine has now been produced at Komatsu UK (KUK), marking a significant step for the site as it approaches its 40-year anniversary. The new production line supports hundreds of skilled roles and apprenticeships, underlining the manufacturer's commitment to high-value engineering.

With a 200-strong team, including 21 apprentices, working on the start of UK production of its most advanced crawler excavator, the PC220, Komatsu is further demonstrating its long-term commitment to the region and its skilled workforce.

The new excavator is Komatsu’s most technologically advanced model to date and has been designed to enhance performance, safety and operator comfort. Its manufacture in the UK strengthens Komatsu’s European supply capability while bringing production closer to customers.

Paul Dickinson, Crawler Excavator Product Manager at Komatsu Europe, said: “This milestone demonstrates Komatsu’s ongoing confidence in the North East and the capabilities of our people. Producing our most advanced machine here highlights the quality, expertise and commitment that exists within our UK workforce.

“At Komatsu UK, our customers and distributors value the advantages of local European production. By manufacturing closer to our markets, we not only shorten supply lead times but also significantly reduce product mileage and associated CO₂ emissions. Our UK facility amplifies Komatsu’s unwavering commitment to quality and reliability, while reinforcing our core principle of creating value together with our customers.”

To support delivery of the new model, Komatsu UK has introduced advanced manufacturing technology at the site, including precision scanning equipment in fabrication and laser-based systems in assembly. Employees have also been trained in new digital tools to support the increasingly software-driven nature of modern machinery.

The start of this UK production represents a significant chapter for Komatsu in the North East, reinforcing its long-term presence in the region and its role in supporting skilled manufacturing jobs for the future. 

This is also reflected in the manufacturer’s recent announcement, transitioning its UK distribution operations from Marubeni-Komatsu Ltd. (MKL) to McHale Plant Sales Ltd.

Tell us your news story: News@EarthmoversMagazine.co.uk