July 16, 2023
Vermeer, Pella, Iowa, is celebrating 75 years in business. As the company looks to the future, third-generation family member, president and CEO Jason Andringa said the next 75 years will continue to aim for the same purpose.
“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,” Andringa said. “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.”
Today, Vermeer has expanded to more than 4,000 employees worldwide, recently having been 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 yellow iron equipment is distributed through a global network of more than 600 industrial and forage dealers.
From founder Gary Vermeer’s first invention of the wagon hoist followed more innovative equipment, including the hydraulic horizontal directional drill, large round baler and stump cutter. The company said it plans to expand digital product offerings, develop next-generation machines and introduce new equipment.
“As we look to the future, we are committed to carrying on the legacy of innovation and continuous improvement to making a lasting impact around the world,” Andringa said. “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.”
