According to a John Deere statement, the company – which manufactures agricultural, construction and forestry machinery – plans to “maintain the Wirtgen Group's existing brands, management, manufacturing footprint, employees and distribution network”.
"The acquisition of the Wirtgen Group aligns with our long-term strategy to expand in both of John Deere's global growth businesses of agriculture and construction," Deere chairman and chief executive officer Samuel Allen said in the statement.
{{image2-a:r-w:200}}Wirtgen managing director Jürgen Wirtgen echoed similar sentiments. "Our company's strength and success comes from dedicated employees who are focused on helping customers succeed in the road construction industry,” he said. “We believe this transaction allows the company to be successful well into the future – independent of our family ownership."
Commenting on the acquisition, a Deere spokesperson said in a company media release that the addition of Wirtgen will enhance Deere's existing construction equipment offering and establish the company as a “leader” in the construction sector.
With 8000 employees and a presence in more than 100 countries, Wirtgen holds the distribution rights for six brands – Wirtgen, Vogele, Hamm, Kleemann, Benninghoven and Ciber. Wirtgen Australia’s head office is in Western Australia, with other service centres and offices in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.
Established in 1837, John Deere is headquartered in Illinois, US with a current offering including tractors, excavators, loaders and graders.
More reading
Global suppliers team up for plant innovation
Australian celebrates 50 years at John Deere