On behalf of the editorial team, we’re pleased to bring you these Executive Statements from across the ag equipment industry — a special compilation you can turn to time and again as you evaluate your many choices in our vibrant agricultural equipment industry.

This unique compilation is intended to help you better “get to know” 29 of our industry’s key suppliers who continue to help our industry advance. As you’ll see, we’ve assembled a unique collection of both household names as well as some “up-and-comers” to watch. 

You’ll find these Executive Statements useful, not only as a primer on current and potential business partners and what they can offer you as a dealer, but also to gain perspective on company “bloodlines” and the foundation from which they’re built. As our readers have told us, all of this is helpful to understanding the type of relationship you can expect by partnering with these suppliers. 

We hope you find this compilation as interesting as we did in pulling it together for you. 

— Kim Schmidt, Executive Editor kschmidt@lessitermedia.com

Resilience of Our People: A&I Products

A&I Products continues to be the leading solution for you as a lower cost, quality supplier of replacement parts for all makes and models of ag, turf and industrial equipment. There is a proven true testament to the resilience of our people.

A&I Products’ hometown of Rock Valley, Iowa, saw record flooding in July 2024. This disastrous flood surpassed the previous record by 5 feet, nearly 12 feet above flood stage. Though the waters did not reach the A&I office, warehouse or manufacturing facility, the impact on the community and A&I Products employees has been significant. As of writing, it is estimated 540 homes were significantly impacted. As many as 120 homes are a complete loss. More than 1,500 people have been displaced, around 35% of the population of this small agricultural town nestled in Northwest Iowa.

Through this event, A&I Products was able to continue to operate with limited staff and worked diligently to support our dealers and resellers with products, returning to normal capacity on July 8. The volunteer efforts and support from offsite employees and field team members were pivotal in this time. For all of A&I’s valued dealers and resellers, we hope you were able to bear with us during the time we needed to operate with limited staff. In times like this, our people have been our priority, and Rock Valley will be back stronger than before.

— Nate Regnerus, Marketing Manager, A&I Products 

Meet Vi: Your Dealership’s AI Service Assistant

Introducing Vi by visorPRO®️, the AI-powered equipment service assistant of choice. visorPRO is transforming how dealerships leverage knowledge to serve their customers. Amid increasing economic pressures. AI strategy is critical to achieve higher margins within dealership operations.

visorPRO’s service assistant, Vi, helps service teams plan jobs with confidence and execute on them efficiently. Valuable time is saved for technicians, and front-line staff can answer customer questions within the first interaction. With visorPRO, dealers are achieving better training outcomes for new team members, improving their job mastery and overall work satisfaction. visorPRO’s “dealer brain” is quickly becoming a valuable knowledge asset for dealerships. This enables dealers to unlock value from their service history, elevate their customer care and create more consistency across their complex.

With the recent addition of John Schmeiser to the leadership team, visorPRO is forging ahead with building deep connections in the dealer community. John brings a wealth of expertise to visorPRO, having recently served as the president and chief operating officer of the North American Equipment Dealers Assn. (NAEDA). His depth of industry expertise will further enhance the mission to increase profitability and decrease burnout in dealership operations.

As dealers navigate today’s competitive market, the strategic implementation of AI tools is crucial. Committed to a dealer-centric approach, visorPRO not only puts dealers’ AI strategy into their own hands, independent of their OEMs, but also prides itself on being shortline friendly, ensuring access to all equipment lines. Dealers are leveraging their institutional data today to create a competitive advantage.

Ready to see how visorPRO can work in your dealership? Book a demo with Vi today!

— John Schmeiser, Industry Consultant (left) Robert Saik, Founder & CEO (center)Brock Moir, CPO (right) 

RhinoAg Invests in New Products & Markets

RhinoAg is one company with two excellent brands; Rhino and Dixie Chopper. Our businesses have seen extraordinary change in the last five years since the acquisition of Dixie Chopper in August 2019.

We have expanded our product portfolio for both businesses substantially in the last couple years. On the Rhino side of the business, we’ve introduced the 4125, a brand-new 12.5-foot heavy-duty flex-wing capable of cutting materials up to 4-inches in diameter. This product is perfect for the most demanding rural property management, orchards, commercial application and roadside maintenance.

We are also expanding our customer reach into new markets including golf, turf and sod. We introduced our new X Series, a range of gear-driven roller mower products. Our X Series includes rigid deck implements of 6- and 8-feet, and a diverse selection of wide area rotary mowers featuring a 10-, 14-, 18-, 20- and 24-foot options. For the turf managers who maintain areas with anything but flat grass, we have introduced the R Series. The R126 is a contouring roller mower perfect for uneven terrain. The X-Blade cutting system on these mowers provides precise cut-quality by using 4 blades per rotor.

The RhinoAg sales team is heavily focused on adding new dealers to our excellent network of dealers and joining the family. We believe we offer a truly impressive product line, high-quality service from our sales and customer care teams, and unmatched access to the company’s key executives. For more information on becoming a new dealer, please scan the QR code, or visit our website at www.rhinoag.com/become-a-dealer.

— Lisa Tubbs, President, RhinoAg

The Benefits of Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) Membership 

As president & CEO of Associated Equipment Distributors (AED), I am proud to highlight the significant benefits of AED membership. Since 1919, AED has supported companies involved in the sale, service, rental and support of equipment across industries including agriculture, construction, mining, forestry, power generation and industrial applications.

AED members gain access to a wealth of resources designed to enhance success and profitability. Our services include:

• Industry Education & Career Development: We offer comprehensive education programs, from leadership development to technical training, equipping your workforce to meet today’s competitive challenges.
• Industry Research & Analysis: Members receive exclusive access to in-depth research and market analysis, providing insights that help you make informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition.
• Networking & Conferences: AED organizes events that connect industry leaders, decision-makers and innovators, offering opportunities to forge valuable connections and explore new business opportunities.
• Public Policy Advocacy: AED is your voice in Washington, D.C., ensuring your interests are represented in legislative and regulatory discussions that impact your business.

Joining AED means becoming part of a dynamic community of industry professionals dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement. Together, we are shaping the future of the equipment industry and ensuring our members thrive in an ever-changing global marketplace.

— Brian P McGuire, President & CEO, Associated Equipment Distributors

AW Dynamometer Introduces Two New High-Tech Products

AW Dynamometer recently received a U.S. Patent for a PTO Dynamometer featuring a totally new design — a dual quad power stator. This design maximizes the coefficient of friction at the kinetic point of energy by utilizing a stator consisting of 8 torque pistons (dual quad) equally spaced over the length of a rotor and applying uniform pressure to a hydraulic pressure equalizer plate. The amount of pressure applied by the stator to the rotor is the same over all the area of the rotor resulting in increased torque while running smoothly. The new dual quad stator is housed in a large single drum making this dynamometer very efficient. Tests done at an outside facility resulted in powerful findings of 6,000 foot-pounds of torque at 1,000 rpm yielding 1,150 horsepower. AW uses its’ electronic computerized load system to control rpm and horsepower. This system allows the operator a wide variety of power set points and the ability to control the load from the cab of the tractor. The new dynamometer will be the highest horsepower PTO dyno on the market and is named the AG.MAX.

AW recently launched a new product to test implements, combines, planters, and more — the “Virtual Tractor.” The model VT.1X features a 10 hp electric motor powering a 3,000 psi hydraulic system with PTO and 6 sets of quick disconnect hydraulic couplers, an ISOBUS 11783-2 system with an independent 60 amp power supply and a SAE J560 light test system. All of the systems are remotely controlled by an HMI touch screen tablet “The Commander” using a powerful Wi-Fi system with over a 100-foot control radius. The VT.1X has successfully tested John Deere S Series combines at low and high speeds along with other tests of implements. The operator has direct control of increasing or decreasing an RPM set point. The new product will be the most advanced system on the market.

— Del Robinson, President, AW Dynamometer Inc. (A Veteran Owned Company)

Innovating for the Farm of the Future 

Emerging technology is revolutionizing the compact equipment industry and transforming the way work is accomplished.

Three key areas are changing equipment today for the jobsite of the future:

1. Connectivity. At Bobcat, operator and machine connectivity is top-of-mind. With advancements in telematics, like Bobcat Machine IQ, owners can track equipment performance and operator productivity.

Remote operation is another form of connectivity supporting productivity on many farms and job sites today. Bobcat MaxControl allows for remote operation of a compatible loader using an app on an iOS device. This remote operating system allows for two-person jobs to be handled by one person.

2. Alternative Energy. Producing no emissions, electric machines can tackle tough jobs on environmentally sensitive worksites or indoor applications — like in a dairy barn — where exhaust is restricted.

Alternative energy solutions will continue to be developed alongside advancements in diesel-power technology. As long as customers have varying needs, manufacturers will develop a variety of solutions.

3. Autonomy. As technology progresses, fleet owners can take advantage of autonomous equipment to complete repetitive tasks while reserving skilled operators for more complex tasks. Bobcat is piloting an autonomous zero-turn mower concept, perfect for mowing acres around the farm.

Bobcat recently introduced its concept collision warning and avoidance system to assist operators’ worksite awareness. The technology tracks an objects’ position, direction and speed relative to the machine.

More than ever, customers expect emerging technology to enhance productivity and efficiency. Bobcat is committed to innovating today for the farm or worksite of tomorrow.

— Joel Honeyman, Vice President of Global Innovation, Doosan Bobcat

Haul Ag Equipment Your Way

The Brandt H450 heavy haul trailer is customizable so you can haul ag equipment easier.

Today’s ag equipment is larger, heavier and longer, and when hauling it, safety and efficiency are crucial. You need to know your trailer will move the equipment without failing, but hiring out larger loads for hauling can get costly.

Brandt tackles these concerns head on with their H450 Heavy Haul trailer. You can customize this trailer to suit all your needs. Adjust well space, add rear winches and more — whatever you need to safely haul your ag equipment.

The H450 is renowned for its safety and toughness. It has load securement everywhere you need it. The suspension and deck interface are formed instead of welded, giving maximum durability. This is a trailer you can trust for the long haul.

Tyson Anderson, owner and president of Valley Equipment and Irrigation in Blackfoot, Idaho, pictured, chose the H450 for these reasons.

Anderson, who is also a Brandt Agriculture dealer, says, “Their equipment is built to last, and Brandt has always been there when we’ve needed them.”

He particularly appreciates the H450’s ease of use.

“Just about anybody, even if they’re unfamiliar with the trailer, can unhook it and hook it up really simply and easily,” Anderson adds.

If the trailer itself isn’t reason enough to buy, Brandt also offers flexible, low-rate financing and the fastest delivery in the business, making it easier to get you the trailer you need.

For more information about the H450 and how it can help your dealership, contact Brandt today.

— Brandt Industries USA Limited, Heavy Haul Trailers 

Busatis, Your Expert Partner for High-Performance Cutting Components

For over 135 years, we have been your expert partner for mowing and cutting technology in agriculture, construction and forestry. This tradition forms the basis of our innovation, which dates back to when Busatis was founded in 1888 in Purgstall, Austria.

Made from the toughest materials on earth, we create high-performance cutting components and hardfacing technologies for your professional use. Our core area of expertise involves technologies for wear-protection coatings (as Busa®CLAD or BusaDUR®), partial heat treatment, cold and hot working, punching processes, grinding and mechanical machining on CNC centers.

We have been developing and innovating these coating technologies against abrasion, erosion and impact stress for more than 40 years, enabling solutions by customer request for wear parts used in high-performance machinery.

Busatis is a full-range manufacturer. Production processes and coating technologies are performed in-house. We provide cutting and wear parts for self-propelled forage harvesters, combines, balers, feed mixers, cultivators and self-loading wagons.

We pride ourselves on our historic company culture, continuing a voluntary company fire brigade since 1940, a company orchestra since 1935 and an apprenticeship program in Austria. For the last several years, we have had a number of Busatis apprentices complete the program with distinction and be honored at Lower Autria’s annual celebration.

Our North American distribution facility, Busatis Inc. is located in Montgomery, Ill.

Please visit our website www.busatis.com to learn more.

­— Stephen S. PeckPresident, Busatis Inc.

Delivering Exceptional Performance & Reliability in Demanding Conditions

Bush Hog proudly introduces the new 3112 12-foot Flex-Wing mower. This versatile, heavy-duty machine continues the legacy of our larger commercial-grade Flex-Wings, engineered to handle a wide range of tasks. Whether it’s routine pasture and orchard mowing or challenging roadside maintenance, the 3112 is built to cut heavy grasses and brush up to 3 ½ inches in diameter, making it ideal for virtually any mowing environment.

Rob Jarman, Bush Hog product manager, underscores the mower’s strengths: “The 3112 continues our tradition of excellence, taking design cues from our 4115 model. It’s specifically crafted to deliver outstanding performance and reliability in the toughest conditions.”

Emphasizing durability and cutting precision, the 3112 boasts a robust construction with 10-gauge decks, ¼-inch sidebands, 7-gauge round blade pans, and ½-inch x 4-inch blades featuring an 8-inch overlap. These features ensure superior cut quality and longevity. The mower’s dual EZ-adjust leveling rods and ½-inch thick replaceable cast wing skids enhance durability, while custom shock-absorbing isolators in each axle arm provide smoother operation and reduce shock loads, contributing to a more comfortable experience for operators.

Standard features like the Adjustable Driveline Assist for easier PTO attachment, the Perma-Level+ Hitch for simplified drawbar hookups, and ergonomic aluminum hydraulic hose handles further enhance the 3112’s reliability and user-friendliness.

“Proudly made in the USA, our 3112 Flex-Wing comes with a 10-year gearbox limited warranty, ensuring that this mower meets your toughest demands with lasting performance and peace of mind,” Jarman concluded.

­— Rob Jarman,Product Manager, Bush Hog

Strong Dealer & Customer Connections Support Diversified Sales Strategy

I know I’m biased, but I believe CLAAS has the best dealers in the industry. Many of them have grown up alongside us. As our product line has expanded from hay and forage equipment to combines and now tractors, lots of dealers have expanded their businesses to accommodate the new opportunities we’ve been able to provide.

Due to the diverse range of dealerships in the channel, there tends to be overlap. Dealers who sell hay and forage equipment, may not sell combines. Some sell tractors, while others do not. It’s not the way anyone drew it up, but it comes in handy when there is any sort of dealer turnover.

We lean heavily on our third-party distribution partners to provide our customers with what they need. Case in point: When Ohio Ag Equipment opted out of the ag equipment business, CLAAS was able to fill in with 5 nearby dealers by expanding their lines or expanding their territories. While the dealers required some impromptu technical training and expedited parts deliveries, the CLAAS dealer network was more than ready to handle this fast transition.

Even when Ziegler parted ways with CLAAS, an agreement was made to continue to provide parts and services while CLAAS established new dealerships. We’ve also been working through existing dealer relationships in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa to have machines on the ground. Through a recently established third FARMPOINTTM location in Le Mars, Iowa, CLAAS was able to add combines in western Iowa to help fill in.

We go to great lengths to take care of customers, not only the end users, but our dealers. We know where every machine is located down to the address, and we try to coordinate a time of response from when a customer calls in to how soon we can have parts or service to their location. We ensure our team arrives within a reasonable amount of time and takes care of a problem the customer might have. In anticipation, we will place parts boxes at farmers’ locations, and through our dealers or through us, we will do inventories, restocks and seasonal payment plans.

It’s less about integrating people into your culture; it’s having a culture that brings all those people along, and creating something people believe in, that they’re excited to get up in the morning and get to work. At the end of the day, we hire great people and great dealers and get out of their way.

— Eric Raby, Senior Vice President — Americas Region, CLAAS

Cummins: A Trusted Name in Agriculture for Over 100 years

Since 1919 Cummins has been powering agriculture. With nearly one million Cummins engines sold into agricultural machines across the world. From the farm to the field, to the future Cummins delivers the right power for your farm.

We are acutely aware of the increasing demand global agriculture will face and what that means for farmers. In pursuit of these challenges in agriculture and other markets, Cummins is making unprecedented investments in research and development, fostering in-house component technologies such as turbocharging, air-handling, combustion, electronic controls, filtration and exhaust aftertreatment. This concerted effort ensures that Cummins provides the right power solution, engineered and integrated specifically for each unique application.

We’ve worked to ensure this research goes into providing the right power solutions for farmers. The L9 Harvest engine and F4.5 engine are examples of two Cummins solutions which are designed specifically for combine harvesters and small to medium tractors respectively. As part of the Performance Series range, these engines do more with less, offering higher power output and torque for improved machine capability in a smaller, lighter package that is cheaper to run than larger equivalents.

We are excited to have products that are designed specifically for agriculture. As part of our broad Performance Series engine range, they deliver more machine capability and substantial productivity benefits for farmers who operate Cummins powered equipment. To learn more about Cummins engines for Agriculture applications, please visit www.cummins.com/agriculture.

— Philip Dawson, General Manager, Global Ag Business, Cummins

Collaboration Yields Tremendous Results in New Deep Tillage Line

Our goal at Degelman when it comes to designing equipment is to innovate rather than imitate, so we continue to collaborate with several of our most influential customers, dealers and team members to focus on the performance of our industry leading high performance tillage products.

During these conversations with growers, especially in high tillage areas in the United States, two things became clear. As equipment has increased in size and weight, so has the soil compaction issues robbing farmers of yield.

As we dove deeper into the negative side effects because of soil compaction, we found that there was a real lack of high-performance deep tillage options for our customers. Because of this, we set out to develop what would become the HDSR Series of Heavy Duty Staggered Rippers.

The HDSR features a staggered two-row layout. We found that a staggered row setup features better trash flow and lower draft than an in-line ripper. It also offers a shorter implement contour length, easier transport, and better compaction shattering ability than a V-ripper.

We are excited to launch two categories within the HDSR Series in 2024.

A large-wing machine compatible with 15 shanks on 20-inch spacing, or 11 shanks on 30-inch spacing and a mid-wing machine compatible with 13 shanks on 20-inch spacing, or 9 shanks on 30-inch spacing. Sizes range from 22- to 27-foot 5-inches.

Built and designed in a truly unique Degelman way, we think that the HDSR Series of Staggered Rippers will be a game changer for your farming operation.

— Derek Molnar, Director of Marketing, Degelman

Dixie Chopper Expands Product Portfolio

Dixie Chopper is proud to be part of RhinoAg and the Alamo Group family of businesses. Since the acquisition by RhinoAg in 2019, we continue to invest in our core product line of high-quality zero-turn mowers, but always looking for new markets for our dealers to sell into. Our two new products; the Talon RC and Talon MS are gaining popularity and attention in the market.

The Talon RC is a remote-controlled hillside mower capable of mowing inclines up to 55 degrees to provide a safer mowing solution to operators who need to maintain terrain that would be impossible with zero-turn mowers or tractor mounted implements. The bi-directional cutting deck improves operator efficiency and reduces turf damage. The Talon MS is a heavy-duty mini-skid-steer with a wide array of industry applications including commercial landscapers, municipalities, forestry, irrigation, and more. The Talon MS features an expandable track to allow the operator to contract the tracks to 34.5-inches to fit through narrow areas including gates, and the ability to expand the tracks for greater stability in operation.

The Dixie Chopper sales team is heavily focused on adding new dealers to our excellent network of dealers and joining the family. We believe we offer a truly impressive product line for both brands, high-quality service from our sales and customer care teams, and unmatched access to the company’s key executives. For more information on becoming a new dealer, please visit our website at www.dixiechopper.com/become-a-dealer.

— Adam Smith, National Sales Manager, Dixie Chopper

Building Strong Dealer Partnerships One Mower at a Time

Great dealers and great dealer partnerships are the backbone of Mean Green. Since 2009, Mean Green has been 100% focused on building the best commercial-grade electric mowers available while cultivating solid partnerships with dealers nationwide. We actively partner with our dealer network to provide their commercial customers with the best sales and service experience possible. This past year, we expanded our reach and resources through strategic partnerships with three of North America’s most prolific OEM distributors, CADCO, Oscar-Wilson and Equipments ESF. We are proud to offer our full range of products to more dealers in more places while ensuring that all our dealers have access to the industry’s best support and highest level of service.

In addition to expanding Mean Green’s dealer network, we introduced the EVO 96, the world’s largest electric zero-turn mower. This innovative commercial machine boasts an available 44 kWh battery capable of continuous mowing for up to 8 hours and a massive 96” deck that folds up to 72.5-inches so for easy trailering to and from any job site. The EVO 96 also hosts the same patented technology featured in all our commercial mowers, including our patented Heavy-Duty Impulse Drive System™, SmartDeck™ controls, and patented battery location for unparalleled hillside stability.

Our dedication to serving our dealer partners and drive for innovation in commercial electric mowing have always set Mean Green apart from the competition. To learn more about becoming a Mean Green dealer, visit www.meangreenproducts.com/become-a-dealer.

— Mike Hoban, Vice President — Sales & Distribution, Mean Green Mowers

Strategic Expansion Through Rebuilding & Innovation

Duo Lift Manufacturing, a leader in agricultural and fertilizer trailer innovation, is built on a legacy grounded in dependability and practicality that aligns with the evolving needs of today’s agricultural and commercial operators. Our extensive network of sales distributors and representatives spans the continental U.S. and Canada, ensuring that our solutions are readily accessible to our valued customers.

As we look ahead to 2025, Duo Lift is focused on strategic expansion. We are excited to announce the addition of a new 15,000-square-foot fabrication facility expansion, which features advanced state-of-art laser technology to enhance manufacturing efficiency and a new cold storage area. This expansion project overshadows recent challenges we’ve faced as a business, including the significant damage to our main office building earlier this year. Our commitment to rebuilding and advancing our operations highlights our dedication to continuous improvement.  

In line with our growth strategy, we are thrilled to introduce the LA1750 Liquid Applicator, a groundbreaking addition to the liquid applicator market for 2025. The LA1750 features an innovative design that facilitates efficient and effortless liquid fertilizer application. Its versatile design with a high lift toolbar expands the window for side-dress application, promoting healthy crop growth and optimizing production.

Furthermore, we are proud to unveil the new Duo Lift ST2-68K-SSA and ST3-80K-SSA Step Deck Semi Liquid Tender Trailers. These models are engineered for precise towing, versatile configurations and enhanced safety. Built to be heavy-duty and road-ready, the ST2-68K-SSA and ST3-80K-SSA offer robust liquid transport capabilities. The step deck design accommodates multiple tank configurations and plumbing options. Safety features, including bottom deck stairway access, come standard to ensure secure and efficient operation.

Duo Lift remains committed to delivering innovative solutions that meet the highest standards of performance and safety. As we expand our capabilities and product offerings, we look forward to continuing our partnership with the agricultural community and contributing to our customers success.

— Ben Hellbusch, Co-Owner, Duo Lift Mfg. Co. Inc.

Cover Replacement Needs with Creative Financing

In today’s farm machinery market, high interest rates, increased input costs and lower commodity prices are contributing to one consistent theme: farmers are sharpening their pencils on payments as they plan for equipment purchases.

Across the country, many producers are carefully evaluating the cost-effectiveness of repairing existing equipment versus upgrading to newer models. Interest rates have stabilized; however, some producers are opting to delay trade-ins to preserve lower rates on equipment they have financed over the last 3-5 years.

Regionally, there have been fewer cash buyers in parts of the Midwest in response to declining commodity prices. In other areas, such as the Great Lakes, there’s been a shift toward more cash purchases and a slight uptick in leasing activity as tightening margins put pressure on profitability.

Creative financing will be key to lowering payments and providing a little bit of rate relief. Leasing products, longer financing terms and other financing strategies will play a much bigger role in equipment sales going forward; and dealers and equipment lenders will continue to be an important source in helping customers cover their replacement needs.

As a nationwide equipment financing program,
 AgDirect is acutely aware of the challenges and opportunities equipment dealers and ag producers are navigating. With our knowledge and dedication to serving agriculture, both can be confident in AgDirect as a trusted financial partner.

— Brian Legried, Senior VP, AgDirect

AgDirect is an equipment financing program offered by Farm Credit Services of America and other lenders, including participating Farm Credit System Institutions.

FEMA ­­— A Resource & Advocate

For nearly 75 years, the Farm Equipment Manufacturers Assn. has provided farm implement industry leadership to enhance business opportunities and profitability for its growing 700 member companies in the U.S. and Canada.

We serve as a resource and advocate for the shortline farm equipment industry. The association represents manufacturers of specialized agricultural equipment, their suppliers and their distributors. Led by a 16-person Board of Directors, the association maintains member companies representing each link in the farm equipment supply chain: manufacturers, providers of component parts and services to those manufacturers and equipment marketers.

From large corporations to small multi-generational, family-owned businesses, we understand the distinct needs of this niche group and work hard to support you as dealers so you can do what you do best: bring choice, value and innovation to agriculture. We provide a forum for marketing equipment through networking, communications and technology by creating opportunities for members to connect and learn from one another. Our Dealer Relations Committee works to better understand the needs of the dealers and how we can improve our relationship with them.

Each spring our manufacturing members meet with current or potential suppliers to offer unique opportunities to build business relationships. Meanwhile, each fall, our manufacturing members meet with marketers and wholesalers in conjunction with the Equipment Marketer and Distribution Assn. to have members meet with companies that will help market their products.

Our success is driven by keeping our members informed on the news that matters most, providing customized educational opportunities at conventions and building a body of exclusive and essential information online.

— Randy Reinke, President, FEMA

A Business Built on Relationships

GBGI Inc. was founded 30 years ago. The basics boil down to providing shortline tillage and seeding equipment manufacturers with a better solution to fit their needs.

GBGI prides itself in manufacturing cast products 100% in the U.S. and assembling at our facility giving our customers a superior design that eliminates variables that cause costly downtime in the field.

Our business is built on relationships and working together with our customers to provide them with a superior solution. We have now taken this concept to aftermarket for Precision Planting Premier dealers focusing solely on the wear parts for planter row units.

All designs are engineered in house and beta tested closely with our dealers across the country giving us the data needed to manufacturer products that take care of major wear points growers must typically deal with while in the heat of planting season.

We have grown the dealer networks from a few to a couple hundred.

We are proud to work with dealers such as Planting Solutions and Jay Horst in Leola, Pa., bringing new products to market and increasing growers ROI thru Precision Planting. It is this relationship that has given GBGI growth and would not be possible without our OEMs and dealer network. We greatly appreciate their business.

— Peter Casamento, President, GBGI Inc.

Oxbo and H&S: A Year of Transformation and Innovation

The past year has been a thrilling year of transformation for the H&S brand. In June 2023, Oxbo acquired H&S, bolstering its capacity to cater to the dairy and forage sectors. The Marshfield, Wis., facility now operates as the Oxbo Forage Division, proudly manufacturing both Oxbo and H&S brands.

Today, as the Oxbo Forage division, we’re at the forefront of cutting-edge agricultural technologies.

This past year, we have released the H&S PS6138 PowerSpread. This is the newest model in our series of Live bottom / Vertical Beater manure spreaders. As with all of our vertical beater spreaders, it has our patented reverse flighting to give you the best spread pattern possible.

In addition, we have also released the H&S UF6136 36-foot Merger, featuring the largest head pickup and largest belt size in the industry. With its patented soft shoe technology and steering system, this is the merger you have been waiting for.

We look forward to the future and will remain committed to designing and building the most robust and reliable farm equipment tailored to farms of all sizes.

— Craig Harthoorn,President, Oxbo Forage Division

Help Your Customers Thrive, Become a JLG Agriculture Dealer

In the heart of American agriculture, where the land represents generations of hard work, helping hands are making a positive impact.

Farmers and ranchers need reliable equipment to keep their operations thriving, and JLG Agriculture is proud to support their work. An Oshkosh Corp. business, JLG Ag Telehandlers are designed, built and supported in the U.S.

Born from a legacy of innovation and crafted with precision, JLG’s Ag Telehandlers are the ultimate tools for any job.

But our telehandlers are not just machines; they are the extra set of hands needed on the farm. Designed to transform the way farmers and ranchers handle a wide range of tasks; our equipment is saving valuable time and increasing productivity.

To cover more acres, we’re building a nationwide dealer network. Our telehandlers are designed to meet and exceed the diverse needs of any agricultural operation and we’re looking for the same characteristics in our dealers.

As our dealer network expands, we invite you to be part of this growing legacy. By joining the JLG family, you’ll not only offer your customers top-tier equipment but also stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the farmers and ranchers who keep our country running.

With JLG Ag Telehandlers, we’ll elevate productivity and enrich lives, one farm at a time. Partner with us and we’ll get it done, together.

For more information on becoming a JLG Agriculture dealer, please go to www.jlgagriculture.com/
 become-a-dealer.

— Jamey Patla, Vice President & General Manager, JLG Agriculture

The Most Trusted Name in No-Till

Thank you for considering our products. We feel honored to be able to serve your needs. As farmers ourselves, we know the frustration that unforeseen obstacles can bring, especially inclement weather. While we can’t do anything about untimely rains or droughts, we can help equip your customers’ planter to allow for more time spent planting and less time waiting to get seed in the ground. Our customers believe that Martin-Till️ row cleaners, UMO’s, closing wheels and 2 stage closing systems provide an excellent return on their investment.

— The Martin Family

Learn more about how Martin Industries overcame adversity and executed their big idea in this episode of the “How We Did It” Docuseries.

Download The No-Till Revolution TImeline.

Expand With Us — Looking for Dealers: Transplanters, Harvesters and Cutter Wagons

Ohio Valley Lavender LLC is committed to importing technologically advanced and unique farm equipment to the American farmer. Bonino and Sapperi represent the highest quality machines in the European market and continue to innovate with each model. We began importing machines manufactured by both companies in 2020, and by virtue of an exponential increase in sales and customer inquiries, we have decided to seek dealerships to carry these products. My wife and I are lavender farmers, and we discovered these companies while searching for a lavender harvester. Having visited both factories and conducting in-person meetings in Italy, we can personally affirm the quality and craftsmanship of both companies.

Bonino is introducing its Zero Graze machines into the U.S. dairy market. The Zero Graze machines allow dairy farmers to feed their cattle more effectively and efficiently by utilizing fresh grass/alfalfa/hay instead of continuous silage feeding. The machines cut the grass, stack clippings in the trailer and distribute to the cattle; all without leaving the seat of the tractor. You can view all Bonino products at www.boninoitaly.com.

Spapperi is an innovative company that develops and improves transplanters for all types of plants including vegetables, tobacco, vineyards, tree farms and medicinal herbs. While transplanters have been in the U.S. for a significant amount of time, Spapperi has redesigned standard transplanters to fit the needs of the 21st century farmer. You can view and request information about Spapperi products at www.spapperi.com.

Please visit the manufactures’ websites for a full listing and description of equipment. Give us a call or send us an email to discuss the possibility of becoming a dealer. We can be reached at 513-266-4481 (please leave a message), or contact@ohiovalleylavender.com.

— John and Katie Staker, Owners

An Opportunity to Improve Service During an Industry Downturn

Farm equipment dealers have experienced financial stress due to less demand for new farm equipment. This decrease in demand has been affected by several factors such as higher interest rates, lower commodity prices, inflation, equipment surpluses, and weather related impact.

While new equipment isn’t selling like it was in the past, the aftermarket side of the dealership is presented with a growth opportunity. This is due to the increase in required service and parts replacement due to producers keeping equipment longer. One area that Shop Dog Industries (“SDI”) is seeing dealerships increase aftermarket sales is by improving inspection programs.

Since 2013, SDI has been helping dealers rethink and implement new ways of looking at the inspection process. Our current and future product offerings are fully designed around increasing efficiency, quality of service and safety during the inspection and repair process on farm equipment. By utilizing products by SDI, dealerships will increase parts sales due to more thorough inspections while also selling more service hours replacing those parts resulting in increased uptime for the customer.

During stressful times, it can be hard to know what is the best way to invest in growing or protecting your business. SDI can help you invest in affordable service solutions that will ultimately lead to increases in aftermarket sales when new equipment sales are scarce.

Contact Brendan Leep at (406) 209-1430 or brendanleep@shopdogindustries.com to learn more about what SDI can offer you. Visit our website at
 ShopDogIndustries.com.

— Brendan Leep,Co-Owner & Account Manager,Shop Dog Industries

Stronger Than Ever Over 40 Years Later

SITREX has been present in the U.S. for over 40 years.

Our company has conquered the market thanks to the quality of our products, innovation and reliability. Today, it covers the entire U.S. territory with a vast network of distributors and 4 SITREX USA warehouses.

We supply a full haymaking range from small machines to the most advanced products that represent the future of large crops areas in North America.

Our brand is known worldwide in the haymaking industry, and we are proud of this success and growth for over four decades. SITREX also added the diet mixers production to the line 15 years ago.

Nowadays, modern harvesting technologies have provided a need to improve the efficient use of machines and equipment. It is necessary to take into account the features in relation to the type of customer and the maturity of the market, such as that of farmers in North America.

Our distributors provide great support for our dealers and farmers by being present and assisting the end user directly. Our relationship with our dealers and distributors is always evolving. We place a high value on the professionalism of our dealers and efforts they take in training both their personnel and the customers on the use of more complex machines. Customers are increasingly informed about the products and welcome the news and innovation.

Our company history is long and stable, without changes in the structure. Therefore, the quality of our products is recognized by the market, and the perception of this value is understood by the users of SITREX machines.

— Giovanni Signorelli,President, SITREX

Preserving a Legacy: Superior Finishes Inc. — A Tradition of Excellence in Paint Manufacturing

We are JP, Jacqueline, Jamie and Jea Guertin, and we’re proud to continue the legacy our father, Tony Guertin Jr., began in 1992 with Superior Finishes Inc. As a family-owned and operated liquid industrial paint manufacturing company, we represent the fourth generation in paint manufacturing, committed to the principles of quality, weatherability and trust that have been our foundation from day one.

Our company’s strength lies in the expertise passed down through generations, supported by our state-of-the-art research and development lab. With a talented team of chemists, including multiple PhDs, and a group of dedicated long-term employees, we’ve been able to consistently deliver high-quality products to our customers across North America.

Lean manufacturing practices have been integral to our operations, allowing us to maintain efficiency and reliability. We take great pride in our track record, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, when we ensured that none of our customers ran out of paint. As we approach an 8-year record of no backorders and consistent, on-time deliveries for stocked products, we remain committed to upholding the standards that our customers have come to trust.

At Superior Finishes, we work closely with our customers to identify areas for improvement and to develop new technologies that enhance their production lines. This hands-on, collaborative approach has been key to our long-term success, and we look forward to continuing to serve our customers with the same dedication and excellence that has defined Superior Finishes for over three decades.

— JP, Jacqueline, Jamie and Jea Guertin

Low Sidewall Technology Proven Again to Provide Significant Fuel Savings & Power to the Ground

The article from Dan Crummett in Farm Equipment and No-Till Farmer is excellent news for farmers.

When you look at Dan’s information from the farmers in Canada, the tractors have dual LSW900R46 and dual 800R38 setups. Everyone should know that duals only get 80% combined surface area. An 800R38 dual setup does not give you 1,600 square-inches of surface area; it is 80% or 1,280 square-inches footprint. So, an LSW1400R46 gives you a bigger surface area.

Dan found that the LSW1400R46 super single option saved 1/3 gallon of fuel per acre vs. the dual LSW900R46. That is a big savings! But it’s not just the 30%+ fuel savings per acre; they also found that the yield is more per acre. With their front tires at 15 psi and the rear at 12 psi, the slippage maxed out at 4%. But remember, the transmission can control the slippage.  After all these years, farmers should examine carefully how they use equipment (tires) to deliver power to the ground.  

With the potential for 1/3 gallon per acre fuel savings, the cost-effectiveness of LSW super singles becomes clear. While some farmers may prefer tracks, the benefit of LSW tires are undeniable. They offer lower costs, less compaction and a smoother ride, making them a superior choice for operations worldwide.

Titan offers LSW800R to LSW1400R Deep Drop (DD) 54-inch tires and  produces LSW tires for tractors, combines, sprayers, grain carts and other heavy equipment. Find a dealer near you by visiting www.titan-intl.com.

Thank you!

— Morry Taylor, Chairman of the Board, Titan International Inc.

Strengthening Agriculture Through Dealer Partnerships

At Vermeer Forage Solutions, we understand that farmers’ success is closely tied to their strong relationships with local equipment dealers. Dealers are more than just business partners; they’re trusted advisors, problem-solvers and often friends to the farming community. Their deep understanding of local conditions and challenges makes them invaluable in helping farmers choose the right solutions for their unique needs.

Recognizing this crucial role, Vermeer is deeply committed to supporting our dealer network. We invest heavily in providing our dealers with the tools, training and resources they need to offer unparalleled service to farmers. This commitment goes beyond supplying quality equipment; it extends to comprehensive parts availability, responsive technical support and continuous education on the latest agricultural innovations.

Our approach to innovation is guided by feedback from both farmers and dealers. This collaborative process helps ensure that we’re not just creating new technologies but developing practical solutions that address real-world challenges in the field. By fostering strong relationships between farmers, dealers and our own team, we create a powerful ecosystem of support and innovation.

Looking ahead, we’re excited about the opportunities to strengthen these partnerships further. As agriculture continues to evolve, dealers’ role in providing localized expertise and support will only grow in importance. At Vermeer, we’re dedicated to empowering our dealers to meet these future challenges and ensuring that farmers have access to the best possible support for their operations.

With our dealers, we’re building a stronger, more resilient agricultural community.

— Shane Rourke, Managing Director, Vermeer Forage Solutions

Walinga Celebrates 70 Years

Walinga Inc., established in 1954, has grown from a small blacksmith shop in rural Ontario to a leading manufacturer of specialized agricultural and feed transportation equipment. The company was founded by Cornelius Walinga and John Medemblik, Dutch immigrants with a passion for craftsmanship and innovation. Their initial motto was “build any body for anybody” and they quickly recognized the need for custom-built solutions in the agricultural sector.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Walinga expanded its product line, introducing innovative pneumatic conveying systems and grain vacuums that revolutionized the handling and transportation of agricultural products. These innovations established Walinga as a trusted name in the industry, known for durable, efficient and reliable equipment.

In the decades that followed, Walinga continued to grow, opening additional manufacturing facilities in Canada and the U.S. The company’s commitment to quality and customer service, combined with its ability to adapt to the evolving needs of its customers, has enabled it to remain at the forefront of the industry for seven decades.

Today, Walinga serves a global market, offering a wide range of products, including bulk feed bodies, grain vacs, and pneumatic conveying systems. Despite its growth, Walinga remains a family-owned business, upholding the values of integrity, innovation, and excellence that were instilled by its founder. The company’s 70-year legacy is a testament to its enduring commitment to quality and its ability to innovate in response to changing market demands.

— Jonathan Medemblik, Marketing Manager, Walinga Inc.