JCB Names George Bamford Co-Chairman, Ending Succession Saga at UK Manufacturer

JCB appointed George Bamford, 45, as co-chairman on September 28, 2026, elevating him from deputy chairman and ending a prolonged succession dispute at the UK construction equipment maker. It is the first leadership change at JCB in more than 50 years. Lord Bamford, who turns 81 next month, chose his youngest son over elder son Joseph Bamford, 48, the presumed heir. Joseph, who owns bus manufacturer Wrightbus and founded hydrogen producers Ryze and Hygen Energy, said George has his "full support." JCB reported flat sales of £5.7bn last year, with profits down 7% amid a machine sales slump. CEO Graeme Macdonald expects moderate growth in 2026 despite geopolitical uncertainty. The company, which employs 20,000 worldwide, is investing £100m at its Rocester headquarters and opening a $1bn factory in San Antonio, Texas, next month.