Machinery News: U.S. Tractor Sales Spike, Heraud Departs Deere, Ag on the Mall Info
For the second straight month, sales of 100+ horsepower ag tractors increased in the U.S., according to new data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM). March sales jumped 3.2% compared to last year, following February’s increase of 2.8% compared to 2023.
Sales of 100+ horsepower tractor sales also grew in Canada, rising 2.7% in March compared to 2023.
However, total year-to-date sales of ag tractors and combines are below 2023’s pace. Tractors are down 13.3% while combines fell 20.4%.
“Seeing the continued growth in 100+ horsepower tractor sales is a welcome sight as 2024 progresses, despite the softness in other tractor sizes” said AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades. “As we start the planting season, we remain optimistic for the future of the ag equipment market.”
Stay up to date on AEM's monthly sales reports here.
Deere Departure
Ag Funder News was first to report former Blue River Technologies founder and CEO Jorge Heraud has left John Deere and joined the board of weed fighting startup Rootwave.
Rootwave uses high-frequency, high voltages of electricity to "burn up" small weeds before they become big problems for farmers. Heraud told Ag Funder News that he believes Rootwave’s approach is superior to laser weeding.
Heraud also shared the motivation behind this move, stating his "desire to return to the startup world." Heraud was contractually obligated to remain at John Deere for four years (he was there for seven).
Best of luck to Jorge in the new role.
Machinery on the Mall
John Deere announced its intention to exhibit large ag equipment and precision ag technologies during AEM's "Ag on the Mall – The Future of Food and Farming" celebration in our nations' capital, May 6-8, 2024.
This is the second year John Deere has joined AEM at the educational and advocacy event. Deere will feature its 8R Autonomous Tractor, S7 900 Combine, See & Spray Ultimate Sprayer and GUSS Autonomous Sprayer technologies, as well as exhibits showcasing Deere's tech stack of precision ag technologies.
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