Visit to JCB Report
On Monday, 26th October, 30 members and guests went to the JCB factory at Rocester for a factory tour.
We were first treated to tea/coffee and biscuits and kitted out with wireless headsets, safety glasses and hi-vis vests. Following this we went into a very plush theatre where we had a visual/audio safety presentation.
Then the tour began. The factory building, which is of course relatively modern,is huge. This is where the Backhoe Loader is made,which can be found all over the world. We followed the production process from the first sheets of bare steel, through the forming of the various components ,the paint shop, the assembly line , then to the final inspection. JCB make virtually all the components in one of their factories, of which there are a number in the UK, including the engines and power trains. Very few components are sourced from outside suppliers. I think that we all found that very heartening in this day and age that JCB are actually manufacturers, not just an assembly plant.
Following the tour, we then visited the museum, to view the very first hydraulic tipping trailer that Mr.Bamford produced, and where the story began, early backhoe loaders and other equipment leading up to the present day.
Having walked around 2.5 miles, we boarded the coach for home, after a most enjoyable and very informative day.
