JCB goes for growth via dealer network

JCB chairman and managing director Sir Anthony Bamford reaffirmed that the company would not move into plant hire, which he sees as competing with its customers.

Instead, his target is to be a preferred supplier to the rental companies via its dealer network. Speaking at Intermat, Sir Anthony said JCB increased volume by 10% last year to take a 7.5% share of the world market and it will focus on organic growth to strengthen its global position.

He said JCB is number one in Europe in terms of volume, world leader in medium-size equipment, UK market leader for excavators and has the largest range of compact products in the industry.

"JCB remains one of the few profitable companies in this market," he said, and added that the global market is cyclical and would recover from its current position.

The company has recently opened a factory in Brazil and will be developing the Indian business (now fully owned) as an export hub for south-east Asia.

Its strategy is to lead through customer support and product innovation. The company invests 4% of sales into new product development, said Sir Anthony, adding that the new 722 ADT and the new generation of excavator mark its commitment to be a key player in the larger end of the market with its heavy line range.