It's difficult to know what shareholders thought about Deere and Company's first, virtual annual meeting. But they're probably satisfied with record, first quarter earnings and an 18% increase in the dividend.
Jen Hartmann, Director of Strategic Public Relations, says the online meeting started with Deere Chair and CEO John May's remarks about how consequential the past year has been for the 184-year-old company.
During the pandemic, many Deere factories were only shut down a short time, if at all. And the company has been working very hard to make sure customers and dealers have the parts and services they need, when they need them.
Hundreds of Deere employees have been working from home for nearly a year. Hartmann says the company gives them a lot of flexibility to manage their work. But this spring, it's planning for a return to the office.
During the virtual meeting, Deere shareholders voted overwhelmingly to elect the board of directors. And the board increased the company's dividend to $0.90 per share, up from $0.76.
