Vermeer celebrating 75 years
By Adam Freill
Construction EquipmentCompany looks to the future as it reflects on the legacy of innovations that have shaped the industries it serves.
(Image courtesy of Vermeer Corporation)
Built on company founder Gary Vermeer’s legacy of finding a better way, Vermeer Corporation says its past 75 years of impacting people and the world for the better set the path forward as the company looks to the future under the leadership of third-generation family member, president and CEO Jason Andringa.
“What started as a small machine shop to meet the needs of local farmers in and around our hometown of Pella, Iowa, soon became the ground floor for my grandfather, Gary, to open Vermeer Manufacturing in 1948,” said Andringa. “With the guiding principle of treating other people how you’d want to be treated yourself, we’ve created a culture over the last 75 years of making a real impact on the way work gets done that continues to drive our company forward. Ultimately, it’s a commitment that is part of every interaction we have among ourselves, suppliers, dealers, customers and the communities we live and work in.”
(Image courtesy of Vermeer Corporation)
Today, Vermeer has expanded from its modest beginnings to an organization of more than 4,000 team members worldwide. The company was recently recognized by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Midsize Employers. Operating eight facilities in six continents and offering service and support in more than 60 countries, the iconic yellow iron equipment is distributed through a global network of more than 600 dealers.
From Vermeer’s first invention of the wagon hoist, to the invention of the hydraulic horizontal directional drill, large round baler, stump cutter, and other technologies, the company says it is committed to developing high-quality equipment that addresses the challenges its customers face. New innovations Vermeer plans to bring to market will include expanding digital product offerings, developing next-generation machines and introducing new equipment.
(Image courtesy of Vermeer Corporation)
“As we look to the future, we are committed to carrying on the legacy of innovation and continuous improvement to make a lasting impact around the world,” Andringa explained. “We understand the important work our customers and equipment are doing, and we support them, wherever they are. Together, we are equipped to do more.”
