John Deere and Stihl Announce Marketing Agreement

Aug. 1, 2008
John Deere’s Worldwide Commercial & Consumer Equipment Division last week announced Stihl Inc. and Stihl Ltd. as the preferred supplier of gas-powered and corded handheld power equipment in the United States and Canada. The announcement unites two premium brands within the outdoor power equipment industry and provides residential and commercial customers shopping at John Deere dealers the best of both worlds.

John Deere’s Worldwide Commercial & Consumer Equipment Division last week announced Stihl Inc. and Stihl Ltd. as the preferred supplier of gas-powered and corded handheld power equipment in the United States and Canada. The announcement unites two premium brands within the outdoor power equipment industry and provides residential and commercial customers shopping at John Deere dealers the best of both worlds.

“For over 170 years, John Deere has remained committed to providing its customers an exemplary experience in the form of durable, high-quality products and service solutions,” said Bob Barbour, group director, marketing operations and customer support for the Worldwide Commercial & Consumer Equipment Division. “Partnering with Stihl, a recognized brand that shares a proven quality record within the powered handheld equipment industry, enables us to provide our customers a complete portfolio of outdoor product solutions.”

The existing John Deere-branded handheld power equipment will soon be substituted with the Stihl portfolio at qualifying John Deere servicing dealers across North America. Joint marketing efforts will take place between John Deere and Stihl to increase awareness of both brands’ product offerings at qualifying John Deere dealer locations.

“John Deere’s reputation for manufacturing quality products and providing outstanding service at the dealer level aligns with our long-standing commitment to product quality and top-notch service,” said Fred Whyte, Stihl president. “There are already more than 500 John Deere dealers that currently sell our products throughout the U.S. and Canada, so this is a natural extension of our business model.”

Stihl manufactures chain saws and produces a full line of handheld outdoor power equipment for homeowners and professional users.

John Deere is a leading manufacturer of agricultural and forestry equipment; a leading supplier of equipment used in lawn, grounds and turf care; and a major manufacturer of construction equipment.