Company History
Komatsu was founded in 1921 in the Japanese city of Komatsu (Ishikawa Prefecture), initially as a machine tool manufacturer. The company entered the construction equipment business in 1931. Today, with headquarters in Tokyo, Komatsu is the world's second-largest construction equipment manufacturer after Caterpillar.
Business Segments
The core business comprises construction, mining, and utility equipment — including hydraulic excavators, wheel loaders, articulated dump trucks, and dozers. The Industrial Machinery division also manufactures large presses for the automotive industry and excimer lasers for semiconductor manufacturing.
Financial Key Figures
In fiscal year 2025 (ending March 2025), Komatsu achieved revenue of 4.104 billion yen (approximately 27 billion USD), an increase of 6.2% compared to the previous year. The workforce comprises approximately 65,700 employees worldwide. The mining segment in particular contributed to growth.
SMARTCONSTRUCTION
Komatsu is recognized as a pioneer in construction site digitalization. The SMARTCONSTRUCTION platform integrates construction equipment, drones, and planning software into a unified digital ecosystem. The goal is to map the entire construction process from surveying to handover digitally, thereby increasing productivity and safety.
Market Position Europe
In Europe, Komatsu is particularly strong in hydraulic excavators of medium and heavy classes. The European manufacturing facility in Birtley (England) and the development center in Hanover underscore the strategic importance of the European market.