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Caterpillar Expands Sanford, North Carolina, Manufacturing Operations

10/03/2026
Construction equipment manufacturer Caterpillar Inc. plans to expand its operations in Sanford, North Carolina. The approximately $1 billion project is expected to create at least 1,950 jobs.

The investment will include the construction of a new manufacturing facility designed to increase production of compact track loaders and telehandlers.

“As demand for compact equipment continues to increase, we're investing to better serve this growing segment of customers,” said Caterpillar Construction Industries Group President Rod Shurman. “This investment is another way we are solving our customers’ toughest challenges by expanding access to the products, solutions and services they need to work more efficiently. We appreciate the partnership and support of the State of North Carolina, Lee County and the City of Sanford as we continue investing in the future of manufacturing and the customers we serve,.”

To support the project, the Lee County Board of Commissioners approved up to $46 million in tax rebates and the Sanford City Council approved an incentive plan valued at up to $39.5 million. The incentives, totaling up to $85.5 million, are contingent on Caterpillar meeting investment and employment commitments. The state’s Industrial Development Fund Utility Account also committed $2.6 million, and the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Rail Division committed $500,000.

“Caterpillar’s billion-dollar investment in North Carolina is putting down even deeper roots in Sanford,” noted North Carolina Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Their investment is a powerful reflection of the manufacturing excellence, innovation, and opportunity that have become synonymous with North Carolina.”

Caterpillar is a manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. The company specializes in the development and manufacturing of heavy machinery, engines, power systems, and related equipment for construction, mining, energy, transportation, and industrial markets.

“A project of this magnitude and dramatic economic impact is highly competitive, with strong competition from other communities around the country,” added Sanford Area Growth Alliance Chief Executive Jimmy Randolph.

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