Heavy machine manufacturer and supplier JCB has revealed its plans to construct a new factory in San Antonio, Texas, US.

The project will see the development of a 720,000ft² facility on a 400-acre site in south San Antonio. The plant will primarily produce equipment for JCB's clients in North America.

The site is expected to generate approximately 1,500 new jobs over the next five years, with construction scheduled to commence early next year.

JCB CEO Graeme Macdonald said: “North America is integral to the growth and success of JCB’s business in the future and the time is now right for JCB to expand its manufacturing presence there.

“Texas is a vibrant and growing economy, and the state offers great advantages in terms of a central location, as well as good highway and port access, The city of San Antonio also has a well-established skills base, which makes it a very attractive place to set up a factory.”

The new plant will be JCB’s second in North America, following its previous one in Savannah, Georgia, which began production in 2001.

The company operates 22 factories across the globe, with 11 in the UK and the remaining units located across India, Brazil, and China.

JCB North America president and CEO Richard Fox-Marrs added: “The growth we’ve experienced in the past few years in North America has been extensive and demand for our products continues to grow.

“The decision to expand our manufacturing footprint will bring us even closer to our customers and will allow us to further capitalise on market opportunities in North America.”