Takeuchi celebrates

6 September 2021

Takeuchi is commemorating a major manufacturing milestone.

Back in 1968, Mr. Akio Takeuchi, the founder of Takeuchi Manufacturing, was approached by a business partner and builder to design and make a machine that would reduce the requirement for manual labour and effectively replace pickaxes and shovels. 

This request set in motion a project that would result in what the manufacturer claims to have been the world’s first compact excavator, the TB300. 

In 1971, Takeuchi Manufacturing introduced the TB1000, pictured above, a 360-degree compact excavator.  With an operating weight of 1000kg and a maximum dig depth of 1800mm, the machine was designed and built for small job sites with restricted work space.

The company is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the TB1000's launch this month.

Initially, mini excavators were viewed with some scepticism as people doubted their capabilities. Since then, of course, the doubters have been proved wrong. Such machines have become construction workhorses and staple items in many hire fleets. 

Also celebrating in 2021 is Takeuchi Mfg (UK), which opened for business to serve customers in this country 25 years ago. 

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