VISIONS Magazine (September 2026 Edition)
A Milestone Built on Partnership: Linder and Komatsu Mark the 60,000th U.S.-Built Excavator
A new excavator delivery is routine at Linder Industrial Machinery, a SCOA Group Company. The 60,000th excavator built at Komatsu’s Chattanooga Manufacturing Operation is another thing entirely. The milestone machine, a specially configured PC490LC-11, went through Linder to D.H. Griffin. For Linder, it is a chance to recognize the relationships that built the company, including its connection to Sumitomo Corporation of Americas, and how they support what comes next.
“It is a great honor for Linder to be part of the delivery of the 60,000th excavator produced at Komatsu’s Chattanooga facility,” said Travis A. Mullins, Chief Executive Officer of Linder. “This momentous occasion represents not only Komatsu’s manufacturing excellence and commitment to quality, but also the strong customer relationships and business foundation that Linder has built throughout the markets we serve.”
That foundation spans construction, demolition, infrastructure, and data center development. The PC490LC-11 shows it in practice: D.H. Griffin needed a machine configured for its work, and Linder’s job was to develop the solution with the customer and Komatsu.
“This specially configured PC490LC-11 is an excellent example of how Linder works to understand a customer’s unique needs and provide the right solution,” said Michael Moore, Sales Representative & Material Handling Specialist at Linder. “We do not see ourselves as simply selling equipment. Our goal is to understand our customers’ operations, challenges, and business objectives, and then help improve productivity, safety, and profitability.”
Moore coordinates sales and maintenance partnerships with major regional contractors such as D.H. Griffin. The Komatsu relationship, Mullins said, runs through the full equipment life cycle.
Pictured left to right: Linder CEO & President Travis Mullins, Komatsu North America CEO Rod Bull, and Linder Sales Representative Michael Moore (far right) were proud to present the ceremonial key to David Griffin, President of DH Griffin, for a specially customized PC490LC-11 built to tackle the toughest demolition jobs.
“Komatsu delivers world-class products, while Linder provides local market knowledge, sales expertise, and aftermarket support,” Mullins said. “Together, we create a seamless experience for customers and help them succeed throughout the life cycle of their equipment. Our close collaboration also allows us to respond quickly to changing market needs, identify new opportunities, and continuously improve the solutions we provide to our customers.”
Being a Sumitomo Corporation of Americas group company adds another dimension. Linder keeps its local knowledge and customer relationships, while SCOA delivers the resources of a global organization, according to Masaki Hieda, Chief Strategy Officer of Linder Industrial Machinery Company.
“Linder benefits from being part of a global organization with a strong heritage, extensive business networks, and long-term strategic perspective,” Hieda said. “The broader Sumitomo network provides valuable resources, industry expertise, and relationships that support our business in many ways.”
“Whether it is sharing best practices, advancing digital transformation initiatives, developing talent, or exploring future growth opportunities, being part of SCOA strengthens our ability to serve customers and invest in the future,” Hieda said. “Most importantly, Sumitomo’s long-term commitment to sustainable growth aligns well with Linder’s vision for the future.”
The delivery marks an achievement, but Linder’s leaders are eager for that future.
“While the delivery of the 60,000th excavator is an opportunity to celebrate past achievements, it is equally a reminder of the opportunities that lie ahead,” Mullins said. “We see exciting opportunities in technology-enabled construction solutions, digital services, and aftermarket support.”
Mullins continued, “Our focus will continue to be helping customers succeed while building a stronger, more innovative company for the future.”
For Komatsu, the 60,000th excavator is a manufacturing milestone. For Linder, its significance is what surrounds the machine: a strong customer, a longstanding manufacturing partner, and the support of SCOA and the global Sumitomo Corporation network.
