John Deere is making significant strides in U.S. manufacturing, reaffirming its commitment to local communities, customers, and employees through a series of ambitious investments. The company recently announced plans to expand its Reman Core Center in Strafford, Missouri, by an impressive 120,000 square feet. This $13.5 million project, set to break ground in mid-2025 and complete in 2026, will enhance the facility’s total footprint to 400,000 square feet. Kevin Schrag, Manager of John Deere Reman, emphasized that this expansion not only reflects the company’s dedication to the remanufacturing business but also its investment in the local community and the hardworking employees who drive its success.
In Waterloo, Iowa, John Deere is taking its manufacturing capabilities to new heights with the introduction of a new assembly line for the 9RX High-Horse Power (HHP) tractor. This addition is crucial for U.S. food production, as it combines high horsepower with precision technology, enabling farmers to maximize efficiency. Fabio Castro, VP and Factory Manager, noted that these advancements are essential for meeting the demands of modern agriculture.
The company’s commitment to innovation is further exemplified by its $149 million investment at Harvester Works in East Moline, Illinois, where the X9 combine is being produced. This extensive renovation of 385,000 square feet of manufacturing space incorporates cutting-edge technology, including robotics and laser welding, to enhance production quality and improve workplace ergonomics. Miles Musick, factory engineering manager, highlighted that these upgrades not only enhance safety and efficiency for employees but also ensure that customers receive the high-quality products they expect from John Deere.
In Des Moines, Iowa, John Deere’s large sprayer facility underwent a transformation that culminated in a 138,000 square foot expansion, completed in July 2024, with an investment exceeding $40 million. This expansion brings advanced assembly and testing capabilities for the innovative See & Spray technology, aiming to elevate safety and quality standards. Rosalind Fox, factory manager, described this investment as a transformative step that will streamline operations and support the company’s future product portfolio.
The Seeding facility in Moline, Illinois, has also seen a significant upgrade, receiving a 60,000 square foot expansion costing over $10 million. This renovation not only improves the infrastructure but also fosters collaboration among employees with new meeting spaces and a welcoming front lobby. Factory manager Brad Russman emphasized the importance of these changes in enhancing the overall work environment and celebrating the company’s legacy.
Lastly, John Deere’s investment of $70 million in a new 380,000-square-foot factory in Kernersville, North Carolina, signifies a commitment to expanding its product offerings and creating job opportunities. The factory will produce small excavators, adding over 150 new jobs to the local economy. General manager Steve Brewer remarked on the importance of this investment for both the company and its dedicated workforce, who have been producing quality excavators in the region since 1988.
Through these strategic investments, John Deere not only strengthens its manufacturing capabilities but also underlines its commitment to the communities it serves and the employees it values. As the company continues to innovate and expand, it positions itself as a leader in the agricultural sector, ready to meet the growing demands of food production and infrastructure development.
