Brandt announces plan to add major manufacturing capacity in Illinois

REGINA, SK, Dec. 1, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - The Brandt Group of Companies has announced the acquisition of the US manufacturing plant and equipment of Kongskilde Industries A/S. The state-of-the-art 200,000sq/ft facility, located in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, was previously employed in the manufacture of agricultural equipment for the American market.

"We are very excited at the prospect of saving this plant from closure," says Brandt President, Shaun Semple. "This is a world-class manufacturing facility and we are delighted to have the opportunity to make a tangible contribution to the growth of the American economy."

The facility is situated on 40 acres of land and is fully equipped with the latest tooling, including a modern powder-coat paint line. It will be used by Brandt to produce agricultural equipment for the American corn and soybean markets. Production is expected to start in the first quarter of 2018, with employment planned to hit 300 within five years.

Brandt has maintained a strong and growing presence on the Canadian manufacturing scene since 1932 and currently sells its products in over 20 countries around the world. This acquisition represents the company's first manufacturing venture in the United States.

The deal with Kongskilde is expected to close December 15, 2017.

About the Brandt Group of Companies

The Brandt Group of Companies - headquartered in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada - is comprised of Brandt Agricultural Products, Brandt Engineered Products, Brandt Equipment Solutions, Brandt Road Rail, Brandt Developments, and Brandt Tractor - the world's largest privately held John Deere construction and forestry equipment dealer. Brandt has 50 locations in Canada and the US, nearly 2000 employees and a growing international audience; serving the agriculture, forestry, rail, mining, construction, and tube & pipe industries with unique custom products. Brandt is one of Canada's largest privately owned companies and is among an elite group of Platinum Members of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies.

SOURCE Brandt Tractor Ltd.