Editor's Note: Ongoing updates to this story can be found on Ag Equipment Intelligence. 

• LATEST UPDATE: As a follow-up to the impact the John Deere/UAW strike had on dealers, a survey from Ag Equipment Intelligence conducted from Jan. 5-7, 2022, asked dealers of all brands how the strike had impacted their business, what they learned and what the strike might change in the industry.

Deere failed to reach an agreement with its workers and the UAW on a new labor agreement, resulting in 10,000 workers going on strike — the first time Deere employees have gone on strike in 30 years. Depending on how long the strike lasts, it could exacerbate the inventory challenges dealers are facing.  

One dealer noted that impact could range from insignificant to substantial, depending on how long the strike lasts and how Deere potentially uses other employees to keep things moving. Multiple dealers noted that Deere was bringing in salaried employees from other regions to help.

After 90% of union members rejected the proposed contract agreement the parties had until Oct. 13 at 11:59 p.m. to reach an agreement. 

The details on the rejected agreement, posted on UAW's website, mention maintained healthcare copays, improved pensions and retirement and wage increases as summary points.

“Our members at John Deere strike for the ability to earn a decent living, retire with dignity and establish fair work rules,” said Chuck Browning, Vice President and director of the UAW’s Agricultural Implement Department. “We stay committed to bargaining until our members' goals are achieved”

UAW President Ray Curry, said “the almost one million UAW retirees and active members stand in solidarity with the striking UAW members at John Deere.”

Curry noted that, “UAW John Deere members have worked through the pandemic after the company deemed them essential, to produce the equipment that feeds America, builds America and powers the American economy. These essential UAW workers are showing us all that through the power of a strong united union voice on the picket line they can make a difference for working families here and throughout the country.”

Over 10,000 members at John Deere locations set up pickets. ”Pickets have been set up and our members are organized and ready to hold out and fight for a contract they believe meets their needs,” said Ron McInroy, director of UAW Region 4. “Our members and their families appreciate the community support they have already gotten. Strikes are not easy, but some things are worth fighting for.”

“These are skilled, tedious jobs that UAW members take pride in every day,” said Mitchell Smith, UAW Region 8 director. “Strikes are never easy on workers or their families but John Deere workers believe they deserve a better share of the pie, a safer workplace, and adequate benefits.”

The rejected agreement would have provided an immediate 5-6% raise for most workers, according to UAW vice president Chuck Browning. Workers said the pay raises were inadequate given that John Deere is expected to make nearly $6 billion in profits this year, according to a report by The Hill. Union members also disapproved of how the pay hikes would be offset by pension cuts for new hires.

According to an earlier report from Deere, the facilities involved include In Iowa, the facilities are Davenport Works, Des Moines Works, Dubuque Works, Ottumwa Works and Waterloo Works, including Tractor and Cab Assembly, Engine Works and the Foundry. In Illinois, the facilities are Harvester Works in East Moline, North American Parts Distribution Center in Milan and the Seeding Group and Cylinder Division in Moline. In Kansas, there is one facility, Coffeyville Works. 

One dealer noted that for 12 of their locations, they currently have 2,800 line items on back order from Deere. Those parts are all serviced from the Milan distribution center. Some of those orders go back a few months, and with the strike he now fears increased back orders and delayed deliveries.

"John Deere is committed to a favorable outcome for our employees, our communities, and everyone involved," said Brad Morris, vice president of labor relations for Deere & Company. "We are determined to reach an agreement with the UAW that would put every employee in a better economic position and continue to make them the highest paid employees in the agriculture and construction industries. We will keep working day and night to understand our employees' priorities and resolve this strike, while also keeping our operations running for the benefit of all those we serve."

Deere & Company does not currently have an estimate of when employees affected by the strike will resume activities or the timing for completion of negotiations with the UAW.

Farm Equipment will continue to monitor the news and update as more information becomes available.