Crowds are flocking to JCB’s lakeside headquarters in Staffordshire to see a unique display marking the company’s 80th anniversary: a full-sized JCB 3CX Sitemaster backhoe loader presented as if it were a collector’s scale model.
The “Backhoe in a Box” installation features an eight-tonne backhoe loader packaged in the style of the 1:32 scale JCB models beloved by enthusiasts worldwide. Standing nearly 15 feet tall and almost 25 feet wide, the exhibit is illuminated at night, creating a striking spectacle for visitors of all ages beside the JCB lake in Rocester. The installation will remain on display until January 2026.
The display also celebrates a major milestone in JCB’s history: the company has produced over one million replica models of its machines under TOMY’s Britains brand, a collaboration that began in 1970 with the first 1:32 scale 5C excavator. Over more than 55 years, JCB and Britains have launched more than 80 different replica models, with the backhoe loader emerging as the most popular among collectors. Earlier this year, JCB marked the production of its one millionth full-sized backhoe loader.
George Bamford, JCB Deputy Chairman, said: “Scale models of our iconic machines have been part of the JCB family for as long as I can remember. The ‘Backhoe in a Box’ at JCB’s World HQ is an amazing tribute to our market-leading backhoe and is a truly spectacular sight.”
Mary Wood, Managing Director of TOMY Europe, added: “The backhoe loader is the most successful Britains JCB replica model, so we’re delighted to see it in the form of this giant model displayed at JCB’s World Headquarters. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate nearly six decades of our partnership with JCB.”
