The company has sold backhoes in 120 countries

JCB marked a major milestone with the production of its one millionth backhoe loader, a testament to the machine’s enduring global popularity since its debut in 1953.

The first JCB backhoe, the Mark One, introduced hydraulic power to construction equipment. Initially, only 35 units were built in 1954, with the first 50,000 taking over two decades to produce, according to a Jan. 30 JCB release. The company made half a million backhoes in 59 years, but the latest half million took just 13 years.

JCB manufactures backhoe loaders in the UK, India, and Brazil, with the model remaining the world’s fourth most popular piece of construction machinery, according to the release. Employees at JCB’s headquarters celebrated the milestone with a parade of 16 backhoes spanning decades, from a 1954 Mark I to the latest 2025 3CX model.

JCB has continuously innovated its backhoe range, with major advancements including the 1980 launch of the 3CX and the introduction of JCB Dieselmax engines, which improve fuel efficiency by up to 11%, according to the release. The latest 3CX Pro model is the fastest backhoe loader in the world, reaching speeds of 50 kph.

The company has sold backhoes in 120 countries and received six Queen’s Awards for manufacturing excellence, according to the release. The one-millionth backhoe, a JCB 4CX, was custom-decorated by London artist Dave Smith and presented to JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford during the celebrations.