John Deere

Corporate Headquarters: Cary, North Carolina

Website: http://www.deere.com

Category: Turf & Course Suppliers

LEADERSHIP

John May – Chairman & CEO

Manny Gan – Director, Global Golf & Sports Turf

David Thorne – Vice President, Turf and Compact Utility Business

Dave Anderson – Product Manager

Company Overview

Founded in 1837 by a blacksmith of the same name, John Deere has evolved from manufacturing plows for farmers to becoming a global leader in the delivery of agricultural, turf, construction, and forestry equipment. The company’s presence in the golf industry is particularly notable through its Golf and Sports division, which provides comprehensive equipment solutions from tee to green.

“By integrating the capabilities of our cutting-edge technology into the Operations Center, we’re providing our customers with a more tailored and efficient tool to manage their operations,” said Dave Anderson, Product Manager at John Deere. “This not only ensures the improvement of day-to-day activities but also enhances the overall sustainability and profitability of their courses.”

Business Innovation

In 2024, John Deere launched the John Deere Operations Center PRO Golf, a revolutionary license-based remote management system that integrates comprehensive labor and fleet management capabilities. This adaptive web-based platform allows golf course professionals to manage their operations remotely from any internet-enabled device, promoting better work-life balance while enhancing efficiency and decision-making.

The company’s commitment to technology-enabled products extends across its entire portfolio, including autonomous solutions, GPS-enabled sprayers, and connected solutions that help meet the increasing demands of modern golf course management.

Industry Engagement & Partnerships

John Deere maintains strong relationships within the golf industry through various partnerships and sponsorships. The company is a PGA TOUR Marketing Partner and has been the title sponsor of the John Deere Classic since 1998, with the tournament being played at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois.

In 2024, John Deere strengthened its commitment to growing women’s golf by extending its partnership with the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) as the Official Golf Course Equipment Supplier. Additionally, the company renewed its partnership with First Tee as a trustee-level partner, supporting educational programs including the First Tee Scholars’ program and an annual all-female academy.

Product Portfolio

John Deere offers an extensive range of golf course maintenance equipment, including:

• Comprehensive mower solutions for fairways, greens, rough, trim, and surrounds
• Specialty equipment including aeration equipment, bunker rakes, and turf sprayers
• Technology solutions featuring GPS sprayers and connected management systems
• Utility vehicles and tractors, with a particularly strong market position in the tractor category

Growth & Future Focus

Looking ahead, John Deere continues to focus on digital innovation and sustainability in golf course management. The company’s integration of advanced technology solutions, such as the Operations Center PRO Golf platform, demonstrates its commitment to transforming golf course operations through digital innovation while maintaining its leadership position in traditional turf maintenance equipment.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

John Deere remains a dominant force in golf course maintenance equipment, offering a comprehensive suite of products and solutions that cover every aspect of course care. The company’s strategic focus on technological innovation, particularly in digital management solutions, combined with its strong industry partnerships and commitment to sustainability, positions it well for continued leadership in the golf industry. With reported net income of $7.1 billion for fiscal 2024 and significant investments in both innovation and community support, John Deere continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing the golf industry while maintaining strong financial performance.