Kubota Corporation’s recent acquisition of Great Plains Manufacturing Inc., will expand the company’s alliance with Land Pride and include multiple facilities in Kansas and a manufacturing plant in Sleaford, England.
Since 2007, Kubota has worked closely with Land Pride to provide equipment to its dealers and customers across Canada and the U.S.
“Through our Canadian marketing alliance, we’ve learned that Land Pride products are a great fit for our tractors, our dealers, and our brand here in Canada,” said Kubota Canada Ltd., president, Bob Hickey. “This acquisition will strengthen our ability to deliver high quality products to our customers and continue our strategic growth into new markets.”
As part of the acquisition, all five of Great Plains’ divisions will continue to operate as they have with their infrastructure, distinct brands, trademarks, and operational strengths remaining intact.
“My plan is to play a significant role in helping Great Plains become a vital part of the Kubota family,” said Great Plains’ founder and chairman Roy Applequist, who will remain on the leadership team to help guide the operations and facilitate a seamless transition.
Linda Salem, president of Great Plains Manufacturing will partner with Applequist to oversee and manage the transition.
“I’ve worked alongside Roy for 26 years, and I intend to carry forward the entrepreneurial and successful legacy he has created at Great Plains,” said Salem. “I’ve also worked collaboratively with Kubota for over 10 years, which has allowed us to create a foundation for a strong working relationship that we will continue to build as we move forward.”
The partnership further builds on Kubota’s presence in Kansas where the company recently established its North American distribution centre.