With the purchase of an Iowa company, John Deere has added something new to its product line. Tuesday, the company announced the purchase of Hagie Manufacturing, based in Clarion, Iowa, which makes self-propelled sprayers.
Hagie spokeswoman Amber Kohlhaas says the company was founded in 1947 by Ray Hagie, who invented the first self-propelled sprayer. It now has 400 employees.
She says Hagie sprayers are known for their front-mounted booms and high clearance.
Kohlhaas says until Tuesday the company was led by President and third-generation family member Alan Hagie. He will step aside, but continue to do research and development for the company. And the new president comes from Deere, Kent Klemme, most recently the manager of Seeding and Tilling Program Management.
The purchase by Deere is referred to officially as a "joint venture," and the equipment made in Clarion will continue to carry the Hagie brand, while sales and service will be gradually integrated into Deere's global network.
