Caterpillar Plots $1B Manufacturing Facility in North Carolina

Caterpillar Inc. plans to invest approximately $1 billion in North Carolina to expand manufacturing capacity for compact construction equipment, including through a new manufacturing facility in Sanford.

The project will increase Caterpillar's capacity to produce compact track loaders and telehandlers as the company expands its Cat Compact business and responds to growing demand for smaller machines used across construction, landscaping, agriculture, and material handling.

Caterpillar announced the investment on September 30, 2026. The company said the planned Sanford facility will use advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, digital production systems, and integrated logistics capabilities.