Deere & Company
Deere & Company, commonly known as John Deere, is an American corporation that specializes in the manufacture of agricultural machinery, heavy equipment, forestry machinery, diesel engines, and drivetrains including axles, transmissions, and gearboxes used in heavy equipment and lawn care equipment. The company is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DE.
Historical Background
The company was founded in 1837 by John Deere, a blacksmith and inventor who developed a steel plow that greatly improved the efficiency of farming in the tough prairie soil of the American Midwest. His innovation laid the foundation for what would become one of the world's largest and most recognized agricultural machinery companies.
Evolution and Growth
Deere & Company expanded its range to include tractors, with its first tractor emerging in 1918. In 1963, the company introduced the John Deere 4010, which was pivotal in transforming the company's reputation in the tractor industry. Over the years, the company continued to innovate, maintaining a robust position in the market with products like combines, harvesters, and other farming machinery.
By 2018, Deere & Company had approximately 67,000 employees globally, half of whom are based in the United States and Canada. The company has become a symbol of American manufacturing and agricultural prowess.
Corporate Identity
Deere & Company's slogan, "Nothing Runs Like a Deere," is emblematic of its commitment to quality and durability. The company logo, a leaping deer with the words "John Deere," has been in use for over 155 years, making it one of the most recognizable corporate logos worldwide.
Headquarters
The John Deere World Headquarters is located in Moline, Illinois. This site serves as the administrative and executive center for the company and is a significant landmark in the city.
Leadership and Legacy
Leadership at Deere & Company has seen significant figures such as William Alexander Hewitt, who was the last of the Deere family to run the company, and Robert W. Lane, who served as CEO from 2000 to 2009. Their leadership periods marked critical phases of growth and technological advancement.
Impact and Contributions
Deere & Company's contributions to the agricultural sector have been profound, with innovations that have dramatically enhanced farming efficiency and productivity. The original plow design by John Deere was recognized by the Smithsonian Museum as one of the objects that changed American history.