The AEM Manufacturing Express has journeyed all across the country to capture the stories of America’s equipment manufacturers. Today’s visit to Takeuchi in Moore, South Carolina, will definitely stand out– it’s our first Manufacturing Express event on an active factory floor. Surrounded by bustling aisles of equipment and skilled workers, we were immersed in the pulse of innovation that never slows down, as we joined Takeuchi in celebrating a major milestone.
The Moore facility, which only opened its doors in 2022, celebrated the production of their 10,000th compact track loader at today’s event. The Manufacturing Express was honored to have the opportunity to celebrate this accomplishment for the company, which has firmly cemented its legacy as a leader among South Carolina’s equipment manufacturers. But while Takeuchi may be masters in building compact track loaders, what they are really building extends far beyond their product line. The driving force behind Takeuchi’s success in South Carolina is undoubtedly the dedication and camaraderie of their people. At the Manufacturing Express event, employees shared personal stories of growth and the support they’ve found within the company and among their colleagues. This is a culture more than 60 years in the making—a culture built on service, activism, and a deep sense of community. “What makes me happier than anything else is that we support each other from 6 AM to 4:30 PM, and beyond,” said Takeuchi President Jeff Stewart. “Our team members are driven, they care about their communities, they take care of their families, and they are present and active in the world around them.”
The team here is a blend of seasoned veterans and enthusiastic newcomers. Everyone we meet has an infectious passion for the industry and their work. Starting with just 14 employees when the facility opened in 2022, the workforce has rapidly grown to support over 150 in less than two years.
Takeuchi made a name for itself in the compact equipment market, primarily for inventing the world’s first compact excavator in 1971. After years serving the Asian and European markets, they opened their North American headquarters in Atlanta, GA in 1985. This move marked the start of a new era of the company expanding into the North American market, including the construction of Takeuchi’s first U.S. manufacturing plant here in Moore, South Carolina.
As the Manufacturing Express wrapped up our visit to Takeuchi’s Moore facility , it’s impossible not to feel a deep sense of admiration for what this company represents. In such a short time, they have accomplished what others spend years working toward. The enthusiasm and dedication of the team here makes it clear there is much more coming down the line.
