The British company has been a commercial vehicle manufacturer since 1896 and welcomed over 4,500 employees, family, friends and suppliers for a family fun day.
At the Lancashire headquarters, vehicle displays, live performances as well as charity fundraising activities by the company’s Helping Hand charity marked the celebration of the huge milestone.
Based in Leyland, the business employs around 1,000 people and produces roughly 15,000 trucks each year.
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Phil Jones, managing director of Leyland Trucks, said: “Reaching 130 years is an incredible achievement and one that very few manufacturers have the privilege of celebrating.
“What makes this milestone so special isn’t simply our history – it’s our ability to continually evolve. From steam-powered vehicles to today’s battery electric trucks, we’ve never stood still.
“We’ve continued to innovate, invest in our people and adapt to meet the changing needs of our customers and our industry.
“The Family Fun Day was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate with our employees and their families who drive our success
“We are incredibly proud of the commitment, talent and passion shown by our colleagues, past and present.
“As we look to the future, we’re continuing to invest in advanced manufacturing, zero-emission technologies and the next generation of skilled engineers, ensuring Leyland Trucks remains at the forefront of commercial vehicle manufacturing for decades to come.”
Originally named the Lancashire Steam Motor Company, Leyland Trucks has evolved over the years to now produce the newest DAF battery electric vehicles.
Senior MPS Co-ordinator Mick Colclough has been a part of Leyland Trucks for 44 years.
He said: “Leyland Trucks has been a huge part of my family’s story,
“Two of my three sons have completed the apprenticeship scheme here, my wife worked in HR in the early 2000s and even my mum was the plant nurse back in the 1960s.
“It’s a family connection we’re all incredibly proud of.
“”I joined as a Craft Apprentice in 1982 because I loved vehicles and enjoyed fixing and making things.
“Over the years I’ve worked across most departments, taken on new challenges and now help shape production decisions for the business.
“People don’t stay with companies for this long unless it’s somewhere special. It’s the people, the opportunities, the variety and the sense of purpose that have kept me here.
“It may be one company, but it’s been a journey through many different careers and opportunities.
“I genuinely couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.”
Leyland trucks have played a huge part in the UK’s automotive industry which includes supporting Britain through both World Wars.
This includes producing over 6,000 vehicles during the First World War, and continued support for the Armed Forces to this day.
People are also supported by the company through 77 currently employed apprentices and over 200 trained in the last decade.
