Bobcat is a well-known brand that produces compact construction equipment, including skid-steer loaders, compact track loaders, and compact excavators. The company has a long and interesting history, starting with its founding in the 1950s and continuing through its many acquisitions and innovations.
The company was founded in 1958 by Edwin G. Huston and Cyrus C. Feichtel in Gwinner, North Dakota. Huston and Feichtel saw the need for a compact and versatile construction machine that could handle a variety of tasks, and they set out to create the first skid-steer loader. The first Bobcat skid-steer loader was produced in 1960, and it quickly became a popular choice for contractors and farmers due to its versatility and affordability.
In the 1970s, Bobcat expanded its product line to include compact track loaders, which offered improved traction and stability on uneven terrain. The company also began to focus on international expansion, establishing a presence in Europe, Asia, and South America.
In the 1980s, Bobcat continued to grow and innovate, introducing new features and attachments for its equipment. The company also acquired a number of other companies, including the M-B Companies, which produced asphalt pavers and milling machines, and the Melroe Company, which produced the popular Melroe Bobcat skid-steer loader.
In the 1990s, Bobcat continued to expand its product line, introducing a number of new models of skid-steer loaders and compact track loaders. The company also entered the compact excavator market, producing a line of small and lightweight excavators that were ideal for tight spaces and limited access jobs.
In the 2000s, Bobcat continued to innovate and expand its product line, introducing new features and attachments for its equipment. The company also made a number of strategic acquisitions, including the Takeuchi Manufacturing Company, which produced compact track loaders and compact excavators, and the Gehl Company, which produced compact construction equipment.
Today, Bobcat is a leading manufacturer of compact construction equipment, with a global presence in more than 100 countries. The company continues to innovate and expand its product line, introducing new models and features that meet the needs of contractors and construction professionals around the world.
Throughout its history, Bobcat has been known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The company has a strong reputation for producing durable and reliable equipment, and it has a dedicated team of service professionals who are available to support customers and help them get the most out of their equipment.
In conclusion, Bobcat is a well-known and respected brand that has a long and rich history in the construction industry. From its humble beginnings in the 1950s, the company has grown and evolved to become a global leader in the production of compact construction equipment. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Bobcat continues to be a top choice for contractors and construction professionals around the world.