Digger maker reveals jobs ambition after plant expansion

An excavator maker has pledged to create jobs following a factory expansion.

Hitachi Construction Machinery UK says it will bolster staff numbers after increasing its South Tyneside footprint.

The business has moved into a former delivery company depot next to its Hebburn headquarters, on Monkton Business Park, with bosses saying the space – which will bolster machine production and technology work – providing capacity to add to a recruitment drive that has taken its workforce to nearly 300.

Dave Roberts, chief executive, said: “We are constantly looking for the right talent to fill roles across the business, and the expansion will enable us to continue this growth.

“We are keen to recruit locally, and 2023 will see the launch of our apprentice scheme.”

The company also recently signed up to the Better Health at Work programme, with support from South Tyneside Council.

Dave added: “We’re looking forward to helping our economy prosper.”

Councillor Tracey Dixon, leader of South Tyneside Council and chair of South Tyneside Partnership, added: “Hitachi’s expansion will be fantastic for the area and its economic growth, helping bring jobs and prosperity.

“We are delighted such a well-represented business has pledged to support the growth of South Tyneside, and we are excited to see it expand further.”