Caterpillar last week celebrated the grand opening of its expanded Compact Construction Equipment operations in Sanford, N.C. The addition of the 270,000-square-foot building allows for increased logistics and fabrications capacity required to meet growing global demand for the skid steer, compact track and multi-terrain loaders currently produced in Sanford.

“This strategic investment is part of Caterpillar’s long-term strategy to deliver the highest quality, best value building construction machines in the industry,” said Mary Bell, Caterpillar vice president with responsibility for the Building Construction Products Division. “We are pleased to expand our North Carolina operations and appreciate the continued support of the state and our local partners.”

When the expansion is fully operational and at full capacity, it is anticipated Caterpillar will add approximately 325 workers over a five-year period.

In addition to the Sanford expansion, the company previously announced construction of a lower powertrain components facility in Winston-Salem, N.C., that is expected to employ approximately 400 workers once fully operational and at full capacity.

Caterpillar Inc., Peoria, Ill., is a leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services.