Deere announces new U.S. initiatives after year of significant layoffs

Following much of the recent backlash John Deere has faced after layoffs and Mexican production moves, the company known for its green tractors has announced initiatives that it says are intended to support consumers and hometown communities. 

In Strafford, Missouri, John Deere announced a $13.5 million expansion of its Reman Core Center, adding 120,000 square feet by 2026. “This shows John Deere’s commitment to the Reman business and to the local community,” said Kevin Schrag, manager of John Deere Reman.

Meanwhile, the Waterloo, Iowa, facility recently introduced a 9RX High-Horse Power (HHP) tractor assembly line to enhance U.S. food production.

“This tractor is important for U.S. food production because it’s equipped with HHP our customers need as well as precision technology to help farmers do more with less,” explained Fabio Castro, vice president and factory manager.

In East Moline, Illinois, John Deere invested $48 million to renovate Harvester Works for the X9 Combine and an additional $101 million for advanced equipment and robotics, improving production quality and employee ergonomics. “These investments deliver cutting-edge process technology and increased levels of quality control,” said factory engineering manager Miles Musick.

Des Moines, Iowa, saw a more than $40 million expansion of the sprayer facility, adding 138,000 square feet for advanced assembly and testing of See & Spray technology. Factory manager Rosalind Fox called it a “transformative step” to enhance efficiency and prepare for future innovations.

In Moline, Illinois, a $10 million-plus upgrade modernized the seeding facility with a 60,000-square-foot expansion and enhanced workspaces.

“Innovative common areas have been designed to foster collaboration and creativity among employees,” shared factory manager Brad Russman.

Finally, in Kernersville, North Carolina, John Deere invested $70 million to build a new 380,000-square-foot factory for small excavator production, expected to add 150 jobs.

“This new factory represents a significant investment in our future and the future of our employees,” noted Steve Brewer, general manager.

All of these additions and expansions may come as a surprise to customers, stakeholders, and onlookers, who have been critical of Deere in 2024 over the company’s plans to move some production to Mexico by 2026. The company has announced thousands of layoffs, with some former employees even exploring wrongful termination lawsuits, referencing age discrimination cases.