KUBOTA ACCELERATE LARGE TRACTOR BUSINESS

The Kubota Corporation has announced this week its decision to utilise the development and production capabilities of Buhler Industries Inc. who are headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, for a new series of tractors.

Buhler Industries is the manufacturer of machinery distributed under the Versatile and Farm King brands. They have entered into an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) agreement with Kubota Corp. to develop and produce a new tractor platform in the mid-range front-wheel assist segment.

This new agreement enables Kubota to add tractors in a horsepower range greater than that of its currently largest 170-horsepower line to accelerate its large tractor business in the North American market. Commentators in the States see this as another step for Kubota into the 'big ag' arena.

In a report in the U.S Farm Equipment magazine, they say, "Under the terms of this long term agreement, Buhler Industries will manufacture this tractor at the factory in Winnipeg, Man.. This will enhance the product line currently offered by Kubota as the largest tractor available. This will increase overall production at the Versatile facility at 1260 Clarence Avenue in Winnipeg, which will reduce overhead and increase efficiency."

Grant Adolph, chief operating officer of Buhler Industries is quoted as saying, “This agreement is exciting for both companies. The Versatile brand has a global reputation in agriculture for building high horsepower tractors that are reliable and well-built. As Kubota Corp. expands their presence in the farm machinery industry, these brand qualities are in line with their core values."

Adolph continued, “The result of this agreement is an increase in production at the factory in Winnipeg which will bring additional stability to the supply chain and employees. Buhler Industries is committed to continuous quality and efficiency improvements.”

Development of this new tractor platform began nearly 5 years ago and production will begin immediately.

It is believed that the tractors will be launched in the U.S. and Canada in the second half of 2019.