The consultants on Machinery Advisors Consortium (MAC) have a unique window into the Vanderloop Equipment (VE) operation. From former a competitor within the state to former OEM execs who know their involvement with an AGCO initiative, the MAC team had specific context to lend about VE and its leadership.

“The Spearhead Panel was commissioned by AGCO to seek credible input and dialog with their most thoughtful dealers with specific input on dealer development to support their overall transformation strategy. It is unlike a MAC or Spader Group. Our role is to ensure constructive dialog between the OEM and its dealers. It is a tribute to Robb to be asked to be on the panel.” 

— George Russell

“Robb is an energetic and innovative leader. He appears to be a risk taker that has paid off for he and his family. While being a progressive dealer, he leads a team that in many ways is ‘old school.’ One example of that is when they face out of stock or discontinued parts availability, they manufacture it. That’s old fashioned customer service that doesn’t happen much anymore. 

— Leo Johnson, retired dealer-principal, Johnson Tractor, Janesville, Wis., Machinery Advisors Consortium

“In addition to their service commitment, I’d add a different element from being around Robb the past few years. Their strength was built upon 2 products, and Claas and Fendt both have significant appeal to the local market and the Wisconsin Dairy segment. The Vanderloops took both products on when they were in their infancy in North American. Both products are seen in the market as European and high-tech. They took a leap of faith on both products during the timing and consolidation of the dairy market; their foresight was significant. Their continued success has been influenced by partnering with the right brands, in the right market, at the right time and with the right people. That takes vision and a leap of faith.They also invest heavily to ensure they have the right resources to serve the evolving segments they serve.” 

— Zach Hetterick 

“With technology, there are three adapters: early, lagging and late. The Vanderloop family has been at the cutting edge of new technology or product applications from the start. I was first introduced to VE while leading Claas, as they were a pioneer of the Claas forage harvester business. Early adopters of the self-propelled forage harvesting equipment will testify that, while Claas at the time an ‘unknown shortline,’ it was one of the best financial investments in an OEM relationship that they ever made. Innovators tend to identify with other innovators.

“Claas was not the only early adaptation of the Vanderloops, but they have frequently been the first to align with new product technologies from Europe to better serve their customers’ success. VE’s performance in this area is inspiring.

“The organization does not dwell on the past, and has always been quick to stretch the envelope, take a risk, and seek innovations for their customers.” 

— Russ Green