Caterpillar said it intends to invest approximately $1 billion in North Carolina to expand manufacturing capacity for products that support its Cat Compact business.
The investment includes plans for a new modern manufacturing facility in Sanford, North Carolina, designed to increase production of compact track loaders and telehandlers—machines used across construction, landscaping, agriculture and material handling applications.
The project supports Caterpillar's Cat Compact strategy, which is focused on delivering a more streamlined and convenient experience for small contractors and growing businesses.
The facility is expected to incorporate advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, digital production systems and integrated logistics capabilities to create a more connected and efficient operation.
A company spokesperson told IEN that Caterpillar has already hired more than 600 new workers this year to support increased demand at its existing Sanford facility. The company doesn't expect to increase its workforce for the new facility. Rather, the existing workforce will be upskilled to operate in "a more technology-enabled manufacturing environment."
The company expects the project to create opportunities for advanced manufacturing careers while helping employees develop skills in areas such as automation, robotics, digital manufacturing and advanced production systems.
Caterpillar said it picked North Carolina due to its longstanding presence in the state, the strength of the local workforce, and the opportunity to build on existing manufacturing expertise and operations in Sanford. Caterpillar opened its current Sanford plant in 1998.
The project remains in the planning phase. Subject to final approvals and project conditions, Caterpillar expects construction to begin in late 2026, the spokesperson added. The facility is expected to begin providing incremental production capacity in 2028.
Caterpillar
